5 Outdoor Gear Deals: Backpacks, Fishing Rods, Tents, Oh My!

The spate of super-warm weather that's lighting up the Midwest and Northeast this month has no doubt whetted the appetites of outdoorsy types from Maine to Montana. Hey, it was so warm that even the indoorsy types may be itching to get out and enjoy the balmy early spring. And to make the most of this weather, we've rounded up deals on outdoor goods that run the gamut from backpacks to tents. We supply the gear, you supply the good times — and here's hoping Mother Nature continues to keep dishing that awesome warmth, especially with summer waiting in the wings. If you can't find the outdoor stuffs you're looking for, be sure to check out our sports and camping deals.

1. REI Flash 65 Backpack
   Vendor: REI-OUTLET
   Price: $105.93 with free shipping
   Lowest By: $19

   Is It Worth It?: REI is a beloved brand known for great outdoor gear, and the REI Men's Flash 65 Backpack (pictured) and REI Women's Flash 65 Backpack are the necessary packs for any camping trip. These bags are minimalist in configuration, but don't skimp on features: a hip belt, aluminum stays, mesh side pockets, water-resistant zippers, hydration sleeve, and hanging clip make this the perfect pack for multi-day adventures.

   But if you're looking for a more versatile backpack, the REI Men's Flash 50 Backpack or the REI Women's Flash 50 Backpack weighs only 2 lbs. and will set you back just $99.93. What's more, REI members can apply coupon code "REWARDS20" to cut the Flash 65 Pack from $105.93 to $84.74 or the Flash 50 Pack from $99.93 to $79.94.

2. Classic Accessories Colorado 9-Foot Pontoon Boat
   Vendor: Walmart
   Price: $329 with $1.97 s&h
   Lowest By: $101

   Is It Worth It?: Here's a deal you'll want to take to the water as soon as possible. This pontoon boat features 20 pockets, two insulated cup holders, padded seat, motor mount, anchor system, two aluminum oars, 400-lb. weight limit, and more.

3. Detours Teeco Single Pannier
   Vendor: REI
   Price: $19.93 with free shipping
   Lowest By: $35

   Is It Worth It?: Down from $55, this bicycle basket comes in eight colors and features exterior plastic clips for attaching the bag to a bike rack, a rubber bathtub bottom, a shoulder carrying straps, drawcord closure, and more. Made from climbing-rope carry bags, it's built to last.

4. Columbia Bugaboo II 5-Person Tent
   Vendor: djsboardshop via eBay
   Price: $99.95 with free shipping
   Lowest by: $40

   Is It Worth It?: Whether you're a campsite-camper, or a middle-of-the-woods camper, this tent is perfect. It features a camp port, venting system, expandable zippered gusset, internal pockets, cupholders, gear loft, three windows, and more. S'mores not included.

5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik Spinning Fishing Rod and Reel
   Vendor: Poor Fish via eBay
   Price: $24.99 with free shipping
   Lowest By: $5

   Is It Worth It?: It's a rod and reel with a funny name, but the Ugly Stik has a beautiful price thanks to vendor Poor Fish. This 6-foot long spinning rod comes with a size 35 graphite spinning reel. It's also stocked with an 8-lb. test fishing line. A fisherman's delight, now you can supply all the stories you want about the record catch that got away. We hear there's a surplus going 'round.

Front page photo credit: Cosa Rica Outwardbound

Lou Carlozo is a dealnews contributing writer. He covers personal finance for Reuters Wealth, and was most recently the managing editor of WalletPop.com, and before that a veteran columnist at the Chicago Tribune.

Follow @dealnewsfeature on Twitter for the latest roundups, price trend info, and stories. You can also sign up for an email alert for all dealnews features.