REI Flash 18, 22 Packs

**K0RPL** · 05-16-2013, 21:54

Anyone have, or have used one of the REI Flash 18, or 22 Packs? They appear to be fairly light weight. I would love a ULA OHM 2.0, or a Gossamer Gear Gorilla, but don't have those funds just laying around. Have a 50.00 REI Gift card to use, and they have the Flash 18 for 23 bucks, or the Flash 22 for 33 Bucks on sale starting tomorrow.

REI has the if you don't like it return it policy, so that may be used, if it doesn't work well.

From the reviews People seem to like them.

Any hints, or Suggestions?

**NMardin** · 05-16-2013, 22:06

My fiancé and I have the Flash 18s and they're good for a daypack. You could squeeze in an overnight with one if you pack strategically. I like it a lot, took the waist strap off, they weight 8 oz, we use them for our bike rides a lot. Pack the hammocks and slack line and take off, stop somewhere to hang for a while and ride back.

And if you're an REI member, you can't beat the return policy on their gear.

**goobie** · 05-16-2013, 22:12

Don't have one.....yet. Seems to me they would be a great pack for around town, the zoo, etc. My experience with their packs is that they're a great value.

These are closer to the capacity of the Ohm or Gorilla for about half the price, and not much out of your pocket
http://www.rei.com/product/847925/re...13-special-buy
http://www.rei.com/product/830582/re...ck-special-buy

I'd go with this, suspended mesh backpanels are awesome!!Not much heavier than the other two, you'll appreciate the venting in hot weather.
http://www.rei.com/product/830582/re...ck-special-buy

REI makes good gear at great prices, but you get what you pay for. I had an REI Crestrail for a bit, great pack that was well made and had some really nice features. I don't see why these would be any different.

**steinerj** · 05-16-2013, 22:17

I have both the Flash 18 and 22. They have about a 1/3 of the capacity of the ULA Ohm 2.0. They are great for a day or summit pack but you will need to have SUL type gear for any kind of overnight type trip. I would not strap any heavy gear on the daisy chains either. . .

**Sidewinder** · 05-16-2013, 22:17

I have the Flash 18 and 22. They are not in the same league as the GG or ULA packs. First off, you are comparing significantly different pack volumes. The Gorilla is a 46 l and the OHM is over 60l.

That said the flash packs are nice packs for their designed use. Neither the 18 or 22 have much in the way of a hip belt. More like a hip strap. All of the weight will be resting on your shoulders. The shoulder strap padding is pretty meager on the 18 and 22 as well. I would not load the 18 with more than 10 pounds. I would not load the 22 with more than 15 pounds. So if you are really Ultra lite the 22 might work for you. The Flash 22 does somehow manage to fit a lot of gear, way more than you would want to carry. So how much are you going to carry?

I also have the Flash 45 which would in my opinion be a better comparison to the OHM and Gorilla. The Flash 45 has nice padding on the shoulder straps and has a real hip belt. Still not as nice as the OHM or Gorilla. If funds are tight and you want to spend your Rei gift card, the Flash 45 is what I recommend.

S

**K0RPL** · 05-16-2013, 22:18

Thanks guys for the ideas, and thoughts.

I have never had any issues with REI Stuff. I have an REI Val Halla Pack, I beleive it is. It's and older one, but has worked out well for me. I have several other pack's so mainly looking for a Light Daypack, to chuch the hammock in, and an alcohol stove, and some foods stuffs for day trips, and one that I can roll up, and put in the larger pack when on multi day trips.

Goobie, where you from in SE WI? I live in Green Bay, but spend alot of time in Fort Atkinson.

**K0RPL** · 05-16-2013, 22:26

Sidewinder, thanks for the insight on the packs. Yes, I do know the volume differences between the Gorilla, OHM, and the Flash's Someday, I will have a OHM. I just like that pack. I have a few other backpacks, and am mainly looking for a small Daypack. Wouldn't be doing any over night stuff with it. I do a Trip up to Rock Island State park in Door County, WI Every year, and mainly want a pack that I can throw my alcohol stove, the hammock, and suspension, and take a 6-7 Mile Hike, hang the hammock in the Trees by the beach, and relax before hiking back to camp. I wouldn't imagin putting more than about 8 pounds or so in the pack. Will still be having a Regulary size backpack, a kelty Commanche 6500, and I beleive the Flash will roll up nicely, and fit in there.

Appreciate all the suggestions.

**Flounder** · 05-16-2013, 22:29

I originally purchased a Flash 18 for use as a daypack, but found myself running out of space pretty quick in the fall and winter. Part of it is my be prepared mentality and wanting to take along a handful of "just in case" items. 500 miles on The AT this year taught me what was truly necessary. I just used my REI dividend to pick up this pack: http://www.rei.com/product/827116/re...t-40-pack-mens

I'm not sure if you were looking for strictly a daypack or a weekend, 2 to 3 day trip pack, but this is what the above pack is going to serve as for me. For me at least, it is the perfect size to get enough food and gear for a 3 to 4 day trip for me. It is comfortable and has enough zippers and pockets for gear and organization.

**goobie** · 05-16-2013, 22:31

That's pretty much my thoughts on the Flash packs. Should work out well for ya, let me know as I plan to get one sometime soon

I'm a couple hours south of you in Racine. I think Fort Atkinson is about an hour away from me as are the Southern Kettles, where I spend a good deal of time hiking. There's at least one good shelter on the Ice Age Trail there that's hammock friendly.

**sunny** · 05-16-2013, 22:31

I have the Flash 50. I love mine. It's a good size without being huge (just the right size to meet carry on limits for the airlines - no need to check luggage). It's a good pack for the dollar and works well for what it is. I am looking to modify it just a bit. The lid holds quite a bit. I plan on adding some clips to allow me to carry it on the front of the pack for a couple of reasons. 1. It will help balance the load and 2. it gives me a place to put the stuff I need /want access to without pulling off my pack. I went with it after researching quite a bit. It had a ton of great reviews.

Sunny