Full trail review
In-depth analysis
Ultralight 22 L daypack for fast summit pushes and hut-to-hut day stages — minimal weight when the big pack stays at rifugio.
Suited for trekking · hiking
REI Co-op Flash 22
REI Co-op
At a glance
- Weight
- 510 g
- Editorial score
- 8.4/10
What we like
- Affordable yet durable
- Packs down easily when not in use
- Ultralight for its capacity
- Surprisingly roomy interior
Trade-offs
- Minimal back support
- Not ideal for carrying heavy loads
On Alta Via 1 I used a larger daypack capacity for camera kit. Flash 22 is what I recommend for fast summit days and travel when 22 L is enough for water, layers, and snacks.
My experience on the trail
I have not carried the REI Co-op Flash 22 on a published trek — my Alta Via 1 day kit needed more camera volume. I have tested Flash packs on day hikes and recommend them when hikers want an ultralight summit pack or travel daypack under 500 g.
The Flash line's pitch is simple: strip features to essentials, keep fabrics light, and swallow a shell, 1–2 litres of water, and food for a long ridge day. It is not a substitute for a 50 L hut pack — it is what you pull out when the big bag stays at rifugio or hotel.
Who it's for
Fast summit days, hut-to-hut stages with pack transfer, and travellers who want a sub-500 g pack for water, shell, and snacks. Strong fit for experienced hikers who already own a multi-day pack and need a dedicated light day bag.
Less ideal as your only pack on self-supported treks — 22 L cannot carry week-long hut kit. Also not a photography hauler unless kit is phone-only.
Weight and capacity
- Volume
- 22 L — enough for water, insulation layer, rain shell, first aid, and lunch on long day hikes.
- Pack weight
- Roughly 340–380 g — among the lighter REI daypacks.
- Torso fit
- Sized for day-hike loads — hip belt is minimal or absent depending on version; load stays light.
- Compression
- Cinch straps shrink volume when half full on descent-only days.
Features and packing
Hydration sleeve compatible with slim bladders — verify bottle pocket depth for your flask. Front pocket handles map, headlamp, and snacks.
Minimalist strap system keeps weight low — do not overload; shoulder fatigue appears quickly above ~5 kg in ultralight daypacks.
Packable into itself on travel days — useful stuffed in main pack until needed for side trips.
Ready to buy?
REI Co-op Flash 22
How it compares
vsOsprey Talon 22 / Tempest 20
Talon wins on ventilation, pocket layout, and adjustability; Flash 22 wins on minimum weight and price for simple summit days.
Read full reviewTrailblazer is running-vest inspired with bounce stability; Flash is lighter traditional daypack geometry.
Read full reviewleaving big pack at rifugio saves knees on cols — Flash earns its place on stage-hike days.
Read full reviewFutura is framed and ventilated for heavier day loads; Flash is ultralight when 22 L suffices.
Read full reviewTrade-offs
- Minimal hip belt support — keep loads light
- Durability is daypack-grade, not expedition abuse — do not haul camping kit regularly
- Fewer organisation pockets than Osprey Talon/Tempest — faster packing, less faff, fewer places to lose headlamps
- Not a camera hauler for mirrorless setups — phone and compact kit only
Bottom line
The REI Co-op Flash 22 is the ultralight daypack I recommend for summit pushes and hut side trips — keep loads honest, pair with your main trekking pack, and enjoy barely noticing it on exposed ridges.
Ready to buy?
REI Co-op Flash 22
Trail use
On hut treks, leave the 50 L pack at rifugio and carry Flash 22 for exposed cols and summit spurs — same logic as many Dolomite stage days. Carry wind layer even in summer; 22 L disappears on your back until weather turns.
Ventilation is basic — acceptable for cool alpine mornings, sweaty on hot valley afternoons. Accept trade-off for weight or choose Osprey Talon 22 if airflow matters more.
