REI Affiliate Program: In-Depth Review, Pros, and Cons

The REI Affiliate Program offers an enticing opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and content creators. In 2023, REI reported $3.76 billion in revenue, with over 53% of sales coming from sustainable products. The program pays affiliates up to 5% commission, and its 15-day cookie period allows for earnings on a wide range of outdoor, camping, and sporting goods.

REI's 24 million members and strong customer loyalty make this a valuable affiliate program, especially in the outdoor niche. However, the program's shorter cookie duration and reliance on the Avantlink network are potential downsides.

‍

What is the REI Affiliate Program?

The REI Affiliate Program allows individuals and businesses to earn commissions by promoting REI’s extensive range of outdoor gear, clothing, and sporting goods. Affiliates earn up to 5% commission on sales generated through their referral links, with a 15-day cookie period for tracking purchases. The program is managed through the Avantlink network, making it an appealing option for those in the outdoor or adventure niche.

‍

What Do You Get As A REI Affiliate Partner?

As an REI affiliate partner, you receive the following benefits:

• Commission Rate: Earn up to 5% on qualifying sales.
• Cookie Duration: A 15-day cookie period to track conversions from your referrals.
• Access to REI’s Product Range: Promote a broad selection of trusted outdoor gear and apparel.
• Customer Base: REI has a loyal membership of over 20 million people.
• Conversion Boosters: REI’s 100% satisfaction guarantee and free shipping to local stores help drive conversions.‍
• Affiliate Network: Managed via the Avantlink platform for real-time tracking and performance reporting.

‍

What Are The Benefits Of The REI Affiliate Program?

The REI Affiliate Program offers a range of perks that make it an attractive choice for affiliates promoting outdoor gear and apparel. These perks go beyond just commissions, offering tools and benefits that help affiliates succeed:

Strong Brand Reputation

REI is known as the largest online outdoor store, offering trusted gear and expert advice. This strong brand recognition makes it easier for affiliates to attract customers, as REI has built trust with over 20 million loyal members​.

High Conversion Rates

REI's 100% satisfaction guarantee and free shipping to local stores help to convert visitors into customers. These incentives provide peace of mind to potential buyers, encouraging them to complete purchases​.

Diverse Product Range

Affiliates can promote a broad selection of outdoor gear, apparel, and expert advice from a well-curated catalogue. This diverse offering allows affiliates to target a wide audience, from casual campers to seasoned adventurers.

Exclusive Membership Benefits

With REI’s popular Co-op membership program, affiliates can promote unique membership perks like annual dividends and special pricing, adding further incentive for customers to join​.

‍

How To Become A REI Affiliate Partner

Becoming a REI affiliate partner is a straightforward process that involves a few key steps. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

Step 1: Sign Up on AvantLink

First, visit the AvantLink website (https://www.avantlink.com/programs/10248/rei-com-affiliate-program/) , as REI’s affiliate program is managed through this network. You will need to create an account if you don’t already have one.

Step 2: Apply for the REI Affiliate Program

After signing up on AvantLink, complete the application specifically for REI’s program. Ensure that your website aligns with the outdoor and lifestyle niche, as these are the types of sites REI typically partners with.

Step 3: Add REI Links to Your Website

Once approved, you’ll have access to links for REI.com and the REI Outlet. Post these affiliate links on your site, blogs, or social media platforms where they’ll resonate with your audience.

Step 4: Earn Commissions

As customers click on your links and make purchases, you’ll earn commissions through the AvantLink platform. You’ll receive up to 8% for each completed sale.

Step 5: Track Your Performance

Use the AvantLink dashboard to monitor your clicks, conversions, and commissions. The platform provides detailed tracking so you can optimize your efforts and maximize earnings.

‍‍‍

Best Options To Sign Up For the REI Affiliate Program

‍

REI Affiliate Program via AvantLink

• Commission Rate: Up to 5% on qualifying sales.
• Cookie Duration: 15-day cookie period.
• Availability: Accessible for affiliates in the United States and internationally, depending on AvantLink’s country reach.
• Sign Up URL: https://www.avantlink.com

REI Affiliate Program via Impact

• Commission Rate: 5% on sales.
• Cookie Duration: 15-day cookie period.
• Availability: Globally.
• Sign Up URL: https://linkclicky.com/affiliate-program/rei/

REI Affiliate Program via FlexOffers

• Commission Rate: 8% on sales.
• Cookie Duration: 15-day cookie period.
• Availability: Globally.
• Sign Up URL: https://publisherprobeta.flexoffers.com/signup/accountInfo?RID=1266046&aid=226443&utm_source=getlasso

‍

What Are The Requirements Of Becoming A REI Affiliate Partner?

To become a REI affiliate partner, there are a few key requirements to meet before joining the program:

1. AvantLink Account: You must sign up for an account with AvantLink, the network managing REI’s affiliate program.
2. Relevant Website or Platform: Your website or blog should align with REI’s niche, focusing on outdoor activities, camping, sports, or similar topics. REI typically partners with blogs, editorial publications, and media sites related to the outdoors​.
3. Approval Process: After applying, AvantLink will review your application to ensure your site meets their quality and content standards. Approval is based on your site’s relevance and engagement level with the target audience.‍
4. Country Restrictions: While primarily targeting the U.S. market, international affiliates may apply depending on AvantLink’s country reach​.

‍

REI Affiliate Program vs Other Brands

When comparing the REI affiliate program to other major brands in the outdoor and sporting goods category, key factors such as commission rates, cookie duration, and product offerings stand out.

1. REI vs. L.L. Bean

• Commission Rate: REI offers up to 5%, while L.L. Bean provides a slightly higher rate of 3-10%, depending on product category.
• Cookie Duration: REI has a 15-day cookie period, whereas L.L. Bean offers a longer 30-day cookie window.
• Product Range: Both brands are strong in outdoor gear, but L.L. Bean also includes a broader selection of home goods, giving it a slight edge in versatility.

2. REI vs. Backcountry

• Commission Rate: Backcountry offers commissions between 5-12%, which can surpass REI’s 5%.
• Cookie Duration: Backcountry provides a 30-day cookie window, compared to REI’s 15 days.
• Product Focus: While both brands offer outdoor gear, Backcountry focuses more on specialized products for activities like skiing and biking, giving affiliates access to niche markets.

3. REI vs. Bass Pro Shops

• Commission Rate: Both have 5% commission rate.
• Cookie Duration: Bass Pro Shops matches REI’s 15-day cookie window.
• Target Audience: REI covers a wider range of outdoor activities, while Bass Pro Shops specializes in fishing, hunting, and boating, making it more niche.

4. REI vs. Cabela’s

• Commission Rate: Cabela’s offers lower commissions, ranging from 3-6%, compared to REI’s 8%.
• Cookie Duration: Both programs offer a 15-day cookie period.
• Product Focus: Like Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s targets a more niche audience focused on hunting and fishing, while REI appeals to a broader outdoor lifestyle market.

‍

What Are The Drawbacks Of REI’s Affiliate Program Compared To Other Similar Programs?

• Lower Commission Rates (Compared to Some Competitors): REI offers up to 5% commission while other programs offer higher commission rates.
• Short Cookie Duration: REI provides a 15-day cookie duration, while other brands offer 30-day or more.
• Limited Affiliate Network: REI operates through a few affiliate networks.‍
• High Competition: As one of the most popular outdoor retailers, many affiliates promote REI, increasing competition. This may make it harder to stand out compared to promoting smaller, more niche brands like Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops​.

‍

Final Takeaways On the REI Affiliate Program

The REI Affiliate Program offers affiliates the opportunity to promote a trusted outdoor brand with up to 5% commission on sales and a 15-day cookie duration. While REI’s strong reputation and diverse product range make it an appealing choice, its shorter cookie window and exclusive reliance on the AvantLink network are potential drawbacks compared to competitors like Backcountry or L.L. Bean. However, REI’s loyal customer base and commitment to sustainability can help drive conversions, making it a solid option for outdoor-focused affiliates​