REI Co-op Flash 22 Pack
Quick Verdict
Lightweight day hikes, fastpacking, climbing approaches, and travel/commuting when carrying only essentials
Heavy loads, multi-day backpacking or rugged expedition use where a framed, high-capacity, highly durable pack is required
Key Specifications
About This Gear
This lightweight daypack is versatile and comfortable. The only downside is that it's not as robust as some heavier packs, but for light hiking and exploring, it's great.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
6 positive findingsExtremely lightweight (about 14 oz) giving an excellent weight-to-volume ratio for a 22 L pack
Everyone agreesComfortable for its class with padded mesh back, wrap-around straps, and a functional hipbelt/sternum strap
Most reviewersGood organization and hydration features (hydro sleeve, two bottle pockets, zippered lid/front pockets, removable sit pad)
Most reviewersVersatile, very packable design — stuffs into luggage and works for hiking, biking, climbing approaches and commuting
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsLimited comfortable load capacity — begins to strain and feel uncomfortable past roughly 12–15 lb
Most reviewersMinimal structure; can feel floppy or awkward when underpacked
Most reviewersDurability concerns from thin 70D nylon — reports of zipper failures, seam or fabric wear after months to years with heavy use
Most reviewersFeature trade-offs for weight savings (no hipbelt pockets, some users find side pockets less stretchy and top dual-buckle fiddly)
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Performs best in moderate temperatures; ventilated back panel helps in heat; not designed for insulating or heavy cold-weather loads
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- mild rain or light precipitation when paired with a cover
- moderate temperatures and hot desert conditions due to ventilation
- coastal and temperate day-use environments
Limitations
- not waterproof — will wet out in prolonged rain
- not recommended for winter/cold-weather expedition loads
- condensation or wet contents require drybags in heavy precipitation
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users appreciate the pack's ultralight weight, comfort for day use, and value; common complaints center on limited load capacity and occasional durability/quality-control issues.
What Users Love
- lightweight and packable
- comfortable straps and hipbelt for its class
- good pocket layout and hydration compatibility
- excellent value
Common Concerns
- limited load capacity
- thin fabric and wear over time
- can be floppy when underpacked
- occasional manufacturing quality-control issues (loose threads, dye bleeding)
- multiple reports of zipper tears, seam failures, and fabric wear after months to a few years of regular use
- some users report multi-year life with careful use; others wore out packs faster under heavy use
One-size design fits most (torso 16–21", waist 26–42") but may ride high or lack ideal adjustability for very petite or very tall users
REI satisfaction policy: 1 year (Co-op members) and 90 days (non-members); mixed reports of warranty/replacement denials after the initial period
Expert Reviews
No other backpack in our lineup balances cost, weight, and function quite as well as the Flash 22.Read full review →
An exception to the usual ultralight trade-off: pairing a competitively low weight and price with a highly practical design.Read full review →
A surprising balance of comfort and minimalism — our pick as a top minimalist daypack.Read full review →
For the last four years, the REI Flash 22 has been my go-to daypack.Read full review →
Named Best Budget Daypack for its light weight and value, though it trades capacity and structure for simplicity.Read full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- hand-wash with mild soap and air dry; do not machine wash
- store dry and cool; reapply spray-on DWR if fabric wets out
- patch small tears with lightweight fabric tape or internal patches
- keep zippers free of grit and rinse after salt or heavy dirt exposure
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- zipper tears or jams
- strap anchor seams or stitching failures
- fabric wear/holes from abrasion
- side pocket tears (especially older mesh versions)
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Osprey Daylite Plus
- heavier (~20.6 oz vs ~14 oz)
- more durable/sturdier fabric and construction
- generally slightly higher price
When you want more durability, structure, and hipbelt pockets for heavier everyday or trail loads
Osprey Talon 22
- built-in frame and better load support
- higher weight and cost
- more pockets including hipbelt pockets
When you need more support and capacity for longer or heavier day hikes and light overnights
Cotopaxi Luzon 24L
- slightly heavier (~14.8 oz)
- patchwork recycled fabrics and different top closure (drawcord)
- not waterproof — requires a rain cover
If you want a similarly light pack with colorful recycled fabrics and don't mind a drawcord top and needing a rain cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear