6 REI Products That I’m Excited To Try Out In Florida This Year

It should be said that I'm very particular about the type of gear I purchase for my adventures in Florida. Not only do I have to factor a lot of humidity and weather into the mix, but I'm also just mindful of what I buy and if I'll use it more than once. Quality reigns supreme for me, and I prioritize a well-made product that is a bit more expensive to something that will fall apart in a few uses just to save a few bucks. That's why REI is one of my favorite brands. Here is my personally curated list of the best REI products I'm excited to try out in Florida this year.

1. Slowtide Dylan Beach Blanket

Personally, I can never have too many beach blankets in Florida. I frequent the beach often and one of my favorite items to bring is an oversized blanket. This lightweight beach blanket is made of 100% Turkish chambray cotton and measures 66" x 80" by 74" x 89". It's huge and perfect for a day in the sun.

2. YETI Sidekick Dry Gear Case

You never know what type of adventures you'll get into in Florida and you have to be prepared on a whim. Have you ever been invited on an impromptu boat trip? How about some last-minute kayaking? I love this YETI dry gear case because it is designed to keep all of your essentials dry for on-the-water adventures.

3. Sunday Afternoons Sunset Hat - Women's

I've been itching to buy a sun hat for ages now, to protect myself from Florida's harsh rays. Not only does this Sunset Hat by Sunday Afternoons have incredible reviews, but it also looks stylishly cool. With up to UPS 50+ ultraviolet protection, a Grosgrain sweatband, and an adjustable chin strap, this hat will be invited on all of my upcoming excursions.

4. Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag - 20L

I love kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding - you name it, I'll try it. But what I hate is when I'm done and my clothes are soaked. Who wants to grab a beer after an outdoor excursion and be soaking wet? The Big River Dry Bag is big enough to fit all of your belongings, a fresh change of clothes, some extra sandals, and more. Keep everything dry while you are out on the water.

5. Yeti Roadie 24 Cooler

I've been eyeing a YETI cooler for months now, not just for my beach day adventures, but also for road trips. The YETI Roadie 24 is an ideal road trip cooler, fitting up to 33 cans, with an easy-hauling design and RockSolid™ Strength. With Permafrost™ insulation, it is capable of keeping ice cold for days. Time to test this one in the Florida sun!

6. Neso Grande Sunshade

I'm thinking you see a theme here now...more REI gear for beach day fun! Heading out to the beach and getting a sunburn within the hour is not fun. When I go to the beach, I want to spend at least a few hours and make a dent in my book. That's why this Neso Grande Sunshade is the perfect beach grab. It comes in fun colors, plus it can fit up to seven people underneath. No stakes are required, which is a win in my book.

Do you live in Florida? How many of these fun REI products caught your eye? I know I can't wait for my adventures this year!