Outdoor Gear Essentials Class

Outdoor Gear Essentials: The Basics

Hosted at REI Manhattan Beach | Taught by Way Out Wild

Ready to feel more confident about your outdoor gear?

Join Way Out Wild for a welcoming, beginner-friendly introduction to the essentials of camping and light backcountry gear. In this one-hour session, we’ll break down the core systems that make outdoor experiences comfortable and safe. This includes shelter, sleep, cooking, layering, and footwear.

You’ll learn how to:

• Understand the purpose of the “big three” systems: shelter, sleep, and cooking

• Dress for comfort using smart layering strategies

• Choose gear intentionally instead of feeling overwhelmed

• Care for and maintain your gear so it lasts

  
  

This is not a technical lecture. It’s an approachable, hands-on conversation designed to help you feel empowered and informed, whether you’re planning your first overnight or simply want to better understand what you already own.

If you’ve ever stood in the gear aisle wondering what you actually need, this session is for you.

Class Information

Please show up 15mins early to check-in!

• Date: Saturday, March 14

• Duration: 11:00am - 1:00pm

• Location: REI Manhattan Beach

Who Is This For?

This course is coed and open to everyone.

It’s perfect for:

• First-time campers

• Outdoor-curious beginners

• Anyone feeling overwhelmed by gear options

• Anyone who wants to simply understand how any outdoor gear actually works

• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to feel more confident in their setup

About Way Out Wild

Way Out Wild is a women-led outdoor education and adventure organization dedicated to building confidence, safety, and connection in the outdoors. Through guided hikes, camping trips, backpacking programs, and skill-based workshops, WOW creates inclusive and supportive spaces for women and underrepresented communities to grow their outdoor knowledge and experience.

Our mission is simple: knowledge builds confidence, and confidence creates lifelong relationships with nature.

How to Register

Registration is hosted directly through REI.

To secure your spot, please click the registration link below and complete your sign-up through REI’s event page:

👉 https://www.rei.com/events/gtkg/way-out-wild-presents-get-to-know-your-gear

Spots may be limited, so we recommend registering early.