4 hours and a mere $108

Today was the REI garage sale in which members were able to browse and purchase merchandise previously owned, used, and returned to the REI store. The doors opened promptly at 10, which was exactly when we arrived. Unfortunately several other people had been there waiting since, well, the night before. Yes, people camped out for this event. Considering the target audience of REI, this is not surprising.
One obtained a ticket at the door and the entrance to the discounted warehouse was allowed when the numbers were called out. Unfortunatly there were atleast 250 people ahead of us in line. This meant a very long wait. This also meant that everyone else was hanging about the store. There were people shopping, trying on clothing, reading to their children, and "testing" the camp chairs. Myself, I found a book about Ernest Shackleton, a small foldable chair and a quiet corner. After 4 hours and a trip to the neighboring book store, we were admitted.
I was quite under-impressed. The "warehouse" was about the size of my apartment (if you've never seen my place, imagine a very large closet). Most items there were definately "previously owned/worn". They were dirty, used, and most things were broken. Every watch there was busted, all remaining shoes were coming undone from their soles. It was a very sorry site. After waiting all that time it seemed a waste.
However, I did find one item that caught my eye; a small camelback-style hydration pack. While missing the water bladder itself, the small pack would be day-pack worthy. It was ideal to take skiing, and for very low-impact hiking.









Then upon further inspection of a large crate I found several laundry-bag-sized bundles. inside each was a sleeping bag. Most were rental sleeping bags from another REI store. They were 20 degree bags which were in good condition still. For the low, low price of $40, you couldn't go wrong.






The second item in the crates was a lone REI nooksack 35 degree bag. Bright yellow and black it caught my eye. It would be perfect for a summer pack. Although it was synthetic and slightly heavier than an ideal down bag, I almost prefer it for potential rainy days. I don't want to be stuck with a useless down bag in a downpour.








I approached the help desk to inquire about prices.
The poor guy at the counter making anouncements previously stated that all prices are negotiable. I felt that this was very reasonable considering some of the items that they had. I asked "how negotiable?" He replied, "It depends on how delerious I am". Apparently he had been there a bit too long. My $40 sleeping bag became $10 instantaneously.

I obtained a perfectly new hydration pack, and 2 sleeping bags for the low, low price of $108.