REI is Awesome. Yes the prices are a little more spendy than other places you can buy outdoor'ish products. But honestly if you are looking for quality products as well as friendly & knowledgeable staff look no further!
This visit I was sent to pick-up two cots (REI Comfort Cot) that my parents purchased. Wow, these cots are insanely comfortable. I am not a camper really but i would consider going if i could sleep on one of these things while braving the wilderness.
I look at it this way, you get what you pay for. If you want quality products, they come at a premium. This place has beginner to expert equipment and covers hiking to snow gear and everything in between. Because of the wide variety and excellent staff I will keep coming back here for years to come.