REI Flash 18 Pack Gear Review

The REI Flash 18 Pack is a really interesting pack, it’s genius in form and function but does not follow some of the standard   or conventions. It has little to no padding, super lightweight shoulder straps, converts into a stuff sack, is hydration compatible and top loading with a drawcord. At first glance, I thought it was a little weak, figuring I would have little use for such a pack that seemed flimsy missing some of the bells and whistles I have become used to. Little did I realize that those were the very reasons that I would end up really enjoying this pack, as it is amazing for the traveler on the go.

My first outing with this pack was to Lassen Volcanic National Park while I was on a road trip a couple weekends ago. When packing for this trip, I was debating what to bring for the hike. We had plans to hit a few hikes while in Northern California, but I really did not want to throw a normal day pack into my duffel and / or worry about having to lug it around. I had overlooked the REI Flash 18 Pack that I had picked up the month before with a gift card and when I saw it knew that I needed to give it a go. I turned it inside out, rolled it up, put it in my backpack and it was ready to go. Day of the hike I took it out, unrolled it, turned it right side out and packed it with my stuff and away we went. I was highly impressed, it’s very lightweight, handled a decent day hike load, was comfortable and kept my gear organized and at the ready. My recommendation, if you are doing some traveling and don’t want to pack a normal day pack, pick up an REI Flash 18, it will not let you down.

Rating

http://www.rei.com/product/778466/rei-flash-18-pack
Specification:    Description
Best use:    Hiking
Frame type:    Frameless
Ultralight:    Yes
Gear capacity (cu. in.):    1,100 cubic inches
Gear capacity (L):    18 liters
Average weight:    10 ounces
Adjustable torso:    No
Fits torso:    17 – 19 inches
Material(s):    Ripstop nylon
Pack loading:    Top
Pack access:    Top
Number of exterior pockets:    1 main compartment
Dimensions:    18 x 9.5 x 8 inches
Gender:    Unisex
Weight (g):    280 grams

About Zac

My name is Zac and some of my interests include technology, the web, social media, religion, books, the outdoors and running. I am an avid hiker, runner, mountain biker, gear junkie and outdoor adventurer. I love Southern California, the beaches or the mountains, the summer or the winter. I work for the Gordian Project which runs eCommerce websites PlumberSurplus.com, Remodelr.com and OutdoorPros.com and I am part of the OutdoorPros.com Adventure Team. I also collect knives and enjoy testing out new adventure gear of all sorts.

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