User Review: REI Flash 18 Pack

REI Flash 18 Pack
Above: The current Flash 18 Pack, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 30, 2009 by Snakey

Rating:
Design: Stuff Sack with straps
Size: 18 liters
Price Paid: $29.50

This is a great pack and is so compact that you can compress it into a small ball. I am a photographer, and wanted a pack that would carry my camera gear once I got to the campsite.

I do not use a traditional camera bag as they are too heavy and are not good enough for overnight trips. After a lot of searching I settled on using Sterlite "Ultraseal" plastic boxes, which are watertight, and one is large enough for my DSLR while a smaller one was just right for lenses. They fit in my Deuter Futura Pro 42 (see my review on that if you want) bottom compartment perfectly.

However, when I get to a spot that I want to photograph, I did not want to lug all my gear around. I needed a small bag to carry those Sterlite boxes, so enter the Flash18. I must say that this sweet young lady, at REI showed me the pack and she was right...it is perfect.

Those Sterlite Ultraseal boxes fit PERFECTLY into the bag with room for a few other things. The tie system is a little strange at first, but once used to it,you can access your stuff quickly. It is so compact and light that I can stuff it into the Deuter, and pull it out when I need it. Perfect for when you want to leave your camp setup, and do a hike but need some way to bring something with. Very comfortable and easy to use!

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