REI Co-op
REI Co-op Flash 22
The Flash 22 is REI's cult-classic minimalist daypack — 14 ounces, $60, and endlessly recommended as the summit pack, travel stuffable, and errand bag that happens to hike well. The removable back pad doubles as a sit pad.
Specifications
Features
Pros
- ✓The perennial budget answer on Reddit — nothing under $75 comes close to its weight, comfort, and durability combination.
- ✓At 14 ounces it stuffs into luggage as a bonus pack, which is how half its owners use it.
- ✓The removable foam back sheet doubles as a trailhead sit pad.
- ✓Simple top-loader with a drawcord and cinch — nothing to break, and owners report years of abuse.
- ✓The side stretch pockets fit Nalgenes and stay reachable while wearing it.
- ✓Frequent sales drop it to $40, at which point it's essentially free gear.
- ✓Light enough that runners and fastpackers use it for mellow efforts.
- ✓REI's return policy removes all purchase risk.
Cons
- ✗Frameless with webbing hip straps means loads past 12-15 lbs sag onto shoulders quickly.
- ✗The unpadded back telegraphs poorly packed contents into your spine — pack soft layers against the panel.
- ✗No hipbelt pockets or organization beyond one zip pocket.
- ✗The thin fabric, while tougher than it looks, will lose to granite and thorns eventually.
- ✗One-size fit runs short for tall torsos.
- ✗No raincover and the fabric wets through in sustained rain.
- ✗The drawcord closure isn't secure enough for transit-crowd travel.
- ✗It's a daypack, full stop — owners who try overnights with it regret the hip straps.
Compare the REI Co-op Flash 22
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