User Review: REI Flash UL Pack

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

Reviewed November 27, 2006 by James Noel

Rating:
Design: Top-loading
Size: 1,050 cu. in. / 17 liters
Number of Pockets: 5 + main compartment
Max. Load Carried: 10 lbs
Height of Owner: 5'10"
Price Paid: $25

This is a great little travel pack to use while exploring cities or for excursions away from your campsite. I am an amateur photographer and I used this pack while I went camping in the Santa Monica Mountains and at Joshua Tree National Park. After setting up camp, I carried my camera, tripod, towel, water, a sweater, and a hat. I left most of my gear at camp but I was able to carry what I needed to take my pictures. The longest hike was approximately 10 miles.

Also, I have used this pack while exploring the cities of Chicago, LA, St, Louis, and Louisville. It was useful in carrying a raincoat, sweater, tour books, and other small items. Also makes for a good carry-on for planes.

Some cons to note are there is no internal frame so you have to be careful in how you pack to make sure it is comfortable and that the material does not breathe so your back will get hot. The pros are that the bag is extremely light, can revert into a stuff sack at camp, has many useful pockets, and can hold a hydration reservoir pack. All in all a great daypack for the price.