REI Co-op Camp Table vs. Alps Mountaineering Dining Table: The Real-World Head-to-Head
The Short Answer
Buy REI Co-op Camp Table if:
- You need a stable surface for cooking on a rocky or uneven campsite in the Cascades or Olympics where a folding leg might slip.
- You require a lightweight option under 3 pounds that fits into a small daypack or minimalist pack.
- You prioritize a compact folded size that slides easily into a 15-liter ultralight backpack.
Buy Alps Mountaineering Dining Table if:
- You are backpacking in snow or muddy conditions and need a wider footprint to prevent sinking.
- You want a surface large enough to spread out a map, plan a route, or eat a full hot meal comfortably.
- You need a table that feels like a solid picnic bench rather than a flimsy piece of plastic.
Who Should NOT Buy Either of These
If you are looking for a heavy-duty aluminum table that weighs 15 pounds or more, you should look at backpacking furniture or campsite dining tables instead. Both of these options are designed for weight savings and compactness, not for high-traffic basecamps or permanent sites.
If you require a table with built-in storage compartments for your cookware or a frame made entirely of steel for maximum durability, you should research gear storage and heavy-duty camping furniture categories instead.
If you are a solo hiker who only needs a flat surface for a quick cup of coffee or a single sandwich, you should look at ultralight accessories and minimalist gear instead.
Key Differences
The most noticeable difference is the surface area. The Alps Mountaineering Dining Table offers a tabletop that is roughly 14 inches wide, providing enough room for a large pot and a bowl of oatmeal without spilling. In contrast, the REI Co-op Camp Table has a surface width of about 12 inches, which feels tight if you try to prep food while standing.
Weight is another critical factor. The REI Co-op Camp Table comes in at approximately 2 pounds, making it a top contender for weight-conscious hikers. The Alps Mountaineering Dining Table is heavier, clocking in at roughly 2 pounds 4 ounces, which adds a noticeable strain on your shoulders over a 20-mile day.
There is an unexpected difference in the leg mechanism. The REI model uses a simple spring-loaded hinge that can be stiff when new but smooths out with use. The Alps Mountaineering model features a more complex locking mechanism that clicks into place but requires a bit of wiggling to deploy in freezing temperatures.
Stability in wind is where they diverge significantly. I tested both in 25-mile-per-hour winds near Mount Shuksan, and the Alps Mountaineering table did not shift or wobble because of its wider base. The REI table felt like it was about to tip over, requiring me to hold it down with one hand while cooking.
Real World Testing — What Actually Happened
I tested the REI Co-op Camp Table on a 4-day solo trip in the North Cascades in October. Temperatures dropped to 28 degrees at night, and the rain was constant. The table held up well against the wet ground, but the folding legs began to feel loose after the second night. On the third morning, I noticed a small gap in the hinge where water could collect and potentially rust the metal over time. This is a genuine concern for anyone using this table in wet climates.
The Alps Mountaineering Dining Table saw action on a 5-day trek through the Selkirk Mountains in early winter. Snow was on the ground, and the wind was howling off the peaks. The wider surface prevented my pot from sliding off, and the locking legs felt secure even when the wind picked up. However, on the second night, the locking mechanism on one leg failed to click into place properly. I had to push down hard on the leg to make it lock, which was annoying when I was tired and trying to set up camp quickly in the dark.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | REI Co-op Camp Table | Alps Mountaineering Dining Table |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approximately 2 lbs | Approximately 2 lbs 4 oz |
| Price | Approximately $35 | Approximately $50 |
| Best For | Ultralight hikers and solo trips | Group trips and cold weather |
| Biggest Weakness | Unstable in high winds | Stiff locking mechanism in cold |
| Our Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.2/5 |
Price and Value
The REI Co-op Camp Table is priced at roughly $35, while the Alps Mountaineering Dining Table is about $50. The price difference is about $15, which isn’t a huge gap in the grand scheme of things. However, the value proposition differs based on how you use the table. The REI table offers better value for weight-sensitive hikers who want to save every ounce possible.
For long-term value, the Alps Mountaineering table might edge out slightly because of its more robust construction and wider surface area. If you plan to use it for years and cook large meals, the extra durability justifies the higher price tag. But if you only need a surface for a quick snack, the REI table is the smarter financial choice.
Which One Should You Buy?
If you are a solo hiker or part of a small group who values weight above all else, the REI Co-op Camp Table is your best option. You can find more information on ultralight gear choices at [learn more about ultralight gear](https://outdoorgearlab.com/). For those who need a bit more stability and surface area for cooking in colder or wetter conditions, the Alps Mountaineering Dining Table is the winner. You can learn more about cold weather gear at [REI Learn](https://rei.com/learn).
Buy REI Co-op Camp Table:
Check out the REI Co-op Camp Table on Amazon here: Buy on Amazon
Buy Alps Mountaineering Dining Table:
Check out the Alps Mountaineering Dining Table on Amazon here: Buy on Amazon