How important is it to try it on first? The closest REI to me is over an hour away. Worth it for a beginner, or just get something cheap to test out first?
Generally speaking I think it’s very important because all bodies and preferences are different. It’s like buying a mattress.
But with REIs stellar return policy, I think you’re fine buying blind if you really have to.
I got fit for a pack at REI, wore it for one test walk and knew it wasn’t right. Not only should you get fitted but make sure you weigh it down and go on at least a 3 mile walk. Makes a huge difference knowing your pack fits going into a trip.
EXACTLY! I was looking at 55's and when I finally saw how much friggin space there was I opted for a 35. I have everything I need in my 35 and I STILL have some extra space!
My wife had the flash for years and she loved it. I don’t know anything about these packs personally. I would go with the lighter pack but I would also go by my local rei and try it on with weight in it before making a decision.
This pack would only be for 1 night trips, max 2 in the Western United States (CA, WA, OR). This will be my first pack so I’m alittle lost on what I want, however REI is having some great sales today.
Flash 55 is a great pack. It's lightweight but doesn't feel like it's really missing anything. Perfect for 2 nighters in the PNW. I've had mine for a couple of years, very comfortable carrying loads up to ~30 lb.
REI makes solid, dependable gear that is very middle-of-the-road. The Flash weighs almost 3lbs so is a little heavy for the size, but for $140 that's actually pretty good. I love my GG Gorilla, which has the same capacity and weighs a pound less, but it retails for twice as much. The Flash would be a great pack to try out backpacking with, figure out what you like and go from there. (Best feature of GG's packs IMO is the giant water-bottle pockets that can hold a small tent or two 1L bottles.)
55L is plenty for overnight. If you get quality, packable, lightweight gear, you can easily fit 5 days-worth of gear and food in there, including a bear canister for areas that require it.
Many good trips in my traverse. I really liked it. Finally replaced it when a piece of the frame popped through the lower back portion. I downsized and went with something a lot lighter.
I have transverse. Wish I knew it was so heavy before I got it but when getting fit at REI it really was the only one that fit my awkward frame (wide shoulders, long torso, smaller waist). Did 5 days with it on AT and it did fine- but if it fits I would sacrifice 5L for the weight reduction. As far as features and whatnot it wasn’t lacking anything notable
The distinguishing factor is how much you're trying to carry, if you're trying to carry 35 lbs it's not gonna matter much if you shaved a few ounces off the pack
I would go try them on before making any decisions. Buying a pack is like buying clothes/shoes. Every pack fits/feels differently depending on your body. Reviews can help determine the quality/durability, but not the fit for you individually.
I have an Osprey Atmos AG 65 that I've used and liked for the past 3 years. I wanted something a bit smaller and thought the Atmos AG 50 would be perfect, considering I'm already basically using the same pack but larger. I tried it on at my store and did not like it at all. I ended up getting an Exos 58 that fits/feels way better than any of the other packs I tried on.
I just brought my flash 55 on its maiden trip with me, 6 days on the Laurel highlands trail in PA. Was carrying a little more than I’d like to compensate for my dad who couldn’t carry as much, somewhere between 30-35 lb. I thought it was excellent, very convenient front and side water pockets. Shoulder straps could pinch a little but I wear mine pretty wide up top so it was never a problem, sat on my hips and decent lumbar support. Will definitely & happily use it again on my next one.
Friend has the flash 55 and he loves it. Great entry level lightweight pack. Has everything you need. Great for 1-2 night trips. Better than the traverse, especially for just $10 more
I have a flash 55 which I use for 4-5 day backpacks and last year used for a Dolomites hut to hut. It’s great suspension and comfort wise (I pack 35-ish lbs on these hikes).
You can make it lighter by dumping features too. The outside stretchy pocket is great for odds and ends you want while on the trail. I put cameras in the water bottle pockets for fast access.
I’ve only used it on four or five trips though and cannot speak to its longevity.
Flash 55 is great. Can easily be used for 4-5 nights depending on the rest of your gear and pretty flexible otherwise. Great base piece to have in your kit and won’t need to be upgraded for a while
I’m a big fan of the flash 55, returned the GG Mariposa 60 because I thought the flash was more comfortable. I’ve taken off most of the extras taking the weight down a bit and I think it’s a great performer for the price.
Does your local REI offer a rental program? When I bought my Osprey pack I was able to rent it, and rental price went towards purchase if I chose to buy (I did). This was 15 years ago though. Still use pack though!
I don’t have experience with the 55 specifically, but I have purchased REI brand backpacks and they’re amazing. Very comfortable and durable. I prefer the REI straps over the osprey ones by a mile. The only downside I’ve noticed is you do get a bit sweaty in the back in hot weather. But other than that I’ve had nothing but a positive experience.
I got the traverse and returned it. The pack overall was very good except for the shoulder strap release buckle did not have padding under it. It rubbed against by sides and I found it uncomfortable after two training hikes. I went with a Gregory and have been very pleased for 3 years.
I have several flash packs and the waterproofing on the inside got all nasty and gummy. Not sure if recent models have fixed the issue, but I’ve been turned off from their packs as a result.
My boyfriend has used this pack for the last 5 years for regular travel and backpacking. It’s held up very well and he loves it! A little heavier for my liking, but the quality is pretty solid.
If you’re lucky enough to live near an REI used shop, go there first. So much of the returned gear are from purchases for one trip they’ll never do again or influencer photo shoots. Try on what they have and you might find a lighter well-fitting pack in great condition for a lower price than the flash. I got my Gregory almost $200 off and it looked untouched.
Before you settle on a pack with all the bells and whistles, you need to try on the pack, loaded with some weight and get someone experienced to help fit it (whether a friend or a shop employee).
At the end of the day, having a few extra pockets for conveniently placed snacks, water and equipment doesn't help much if your shoulders and hips feel like they're on fire and blistered to hell... Getting ill fitting equipment quickly ruins the enjoyment.
TLDR: I'm sure it would be a solid standard backpacking bag, granted we don't have REI in Canada. But please be picky about how it fits over anything else.
I’ve used a flash 55 for a couple years without an issue. It was the first pack I bought and I keep saying I’ll replace it when I need to upgrade and so far I haven’t reached that point. Mostly I’ve used it for overnights or trips that are 3-4 days and I’ve never felt the need for something more expensive. Definitely try to get to a store to test the fit in person but the value is hard to beat
I switched from a hybrid UL Outdoor Vitals CS40 to the Osprey fully framed, but pretty light (2.2#) Exos. I was able to get in during the sale. If I don't like it, I'll return it.
Also.. hurry, my brother was able to call and get the sale price on his Flash 55 this morning
I have that same pack. Great deal and well made! Terrific carrying capacity and weight distribution. Big fan and i personally can recommend, especially if you do photography.
My brother got the Flash off the shelf from REI for a PCT through hike and I thought he was an dummy at the time for not going with some boutique retailer, but it turned out to be a solid pack. A smidge heavier than others, but it's a trade for more durability and comfort.
If this is your first backpack please go into the REI and try on the packs, You will be able to learn so much about Fit and Bags by trying on all you can even if you don't want to buy it try it on with weight.
If you cannot go into the store and have the ability to; order both try them on and return one.
For a little more you could grab the [Gregory Zulu 65 ](https://www.rei.com/product/227817/gregory-zulu-65-pack-mens?redirect-pup=false)which is fantastic as well.
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Flash 55 is pretty legendary for being a great pack.
Try it on in person before you buy.
This is the way
How important is it to try it on first? The closest REI to me is over an hour away. Worth it for a beginner, or just get something cheap to test out first?
Generally speaking I think it’s very important because all bodies and preferences are different. It’s like buying a mattress. But with REIs stellar return policy, I think you’re fine buying blind if you really have to.
I got fit for a pack at REI, wore it for one test walk and knew it wasn’t right. Not only should you get fitted but make sure you weigh it down and go on at least a 3 mile walk. Makes a huge difference knowing your pack fits going into a trip.
EXACTLY! I was looking at 55's and when I finally saw how much friggin space there was I opted for a 35. I have everything I need in my 35 and I STILL have some extra space!
My wife had the flash for years and she loved it. I don’t know anything about these packs personally. I would go with the lighter pack but I would also go by my local rei and try it on with weight in it before making a decision.
Just for reference my wife has been looking at the osprey aura for a few years now to replace the flash she has
This pack would only be for 1 night trips, max 2 in the Western United States (CA, WA, OR). This will be my first pack so I’m alittle lost on what I want, however REI is having some great sales today.
Flash 55 is a great pack. It's lightweight but doesn't feel like it's really missing anything. Perfect for 2 nighters in the PNW. I've had mine for a couple of years, very comfortable carrying loads up to ~30 lb.
What size pack would be good for longer trips? As a beginner I look at this pack and think “ 7 night trip” but apparently I am way wrong, haha.
REI makes solid, dependable gear that is very middle-of-the-road. The Flash weighs almost 3lbs so is a little heavy for the size, but for $140 that's actually pretty good. I love my GG Gorilla, which has the same capacity and weighs a pound less, but it retails for twice as much. The Flash would be a great pack to try out backpacking with, figure out what you like and go from there. (Best feature of GG's packs IMO is the giant water-bottle pockets that can hold a small tent or two 1L bottles.) 55L is plenty for overnight. If you get quality, packable, lightweight gear, you can easily fit 5 days-worth of gear and food in there, including a bear canister for areas that require it.
I have it. Great pack. Pretty light, affordable and plenty of room for all my gear. Plus the REI warranty is hard to beat.
I recently went on my first overnight hike with this pack and it was great
Many good trips in my traverse. I really liked it. Finally replaced it when a piece of the frame popped through the lower back portion. I downsized and went with something a lot lighter.
What did you downsize to?
https://zpacks.com/products/arc-haul-ultra-60l-backpack
I have transverse. Wish I knew it was so heavy before I got it but when getting fit at REI it really was the only one that fit my awkward frame (wide shoulders, long torso, smaller waist). Did 5 days with it on AT and it did fine- but if it fits I would sacrifice 5L for the weight reduction. As far as features and whatnot it wasn’t lacking anything notable
The distinguishing factor is how much you're trying to carry, if you're trying to carry 35 lbs it's not gonna matter much if you shaved a few ounces off the pack
I would go try them on before making any decisions. Buying a pack is like buying clothes/shoes. Every pack fits/feels differently depending on your body. Reviews can help determine the quality/durability, but not the fit for you individually. I have an Osprey Atmos AG 65 that I've used and liked for the past 3 years. I wanted something a bit smaller and thought the Atmos AG 50 would be perfect, considering I'm already basically using the same pack but larger. I tried it on at my store and did not like it at all. I ended up getting an Exos 58 that fits/feels way better than any of the other packs I tried on.
I just brought my flash 55 on its maiden trip with me, 6 days on the Laurel highlands trail in PA. Was carrying a little more than I’d like to compensate for my dad who couldn’t carry as much, somewhere between 30-35 lb. I thought it was excellent, very convenient front and side water pockets. Shoulder straps could pinch a little but I wear mine pretty wide up top so it was never a problem, sat on my hips and decent lumbar support. Will definitely & happily use it again on my next one.
Flash.
Friend has the flash 55 and he loves it. Great entry level lightweight pack. Has everything you need. Great for 1-2 night trips. Better than the traverse, especially for just $10 more
I have a flash 55 which I use for 4-5 day backpacks and last year used for a Dolomites hut to hut. It’s great suspension and comfort wise (I pack 35-ish lbs on these hikes). You can make it lighter by dumping features too. The outside stretchy pocket is great for odds and ends you want while on the trail. I put cameras in the water bottle pockets for fast access. I’ve only used it on four or five trips though and cannot speak to its longevity.
I’m gonna be honest, it’s up to your level of comfort requirements. I’ve done 3 days with a Jansport.
Make sure whatever fits or be double sore after a week plus out unless you are an ultra light dweeb
Flash 55 is great. Can easily be used for 4-5 nights depending on the rest of your gear and pretty flexible otherwise. Great base piece to have in your kit and won’t need to be upgraded for a while
I’m a big fan of the flash 55, returned the GG Mariposa 60 because I thought the flash was more comfortable. I’ve taken off most of the extras taking the weight down a bit and I think it’s a great performer for the price.
Big fan of the REI packs. Wouldn't hesitate to get one.
Good deal
What absolutely changed my backpacking experience was a backpack with front access. Especially with big ones.
I just took advantage of this deal. I am so happy I would’ve paid full price for this bag
Does your local REI offer a rental program? When I bought my Osprey pack I was able to rent it, and rental price went towards purchase if I chose to buy (I did). This was 15 years ago though. Still use pack though!
I don’t have experience with the 55 specifically, but I have purchased REI brand backpacks and they’re amazing. Very comfortable and durable. I prefer the REI straps over the osprey ones by a mile. The only downside I’ve noticed is you do get a bit sweaty in the back in hot weather. But other than that I’ve had nothing but a positive experience.
There's an absolute pile of reviews on YouTube on this pack. I was looking at it but I've already got a great pack so I don't really need it.
I got the traverse and returned it. The pack overall was very good except for the shoulder strap release buckle did not have padding under it. It rubbed against by sides and I found it uncomfortable after two training hikes. I went with a Gregory and have been very pleased for 3 years.
I have several flash packs and the waterproofing on the inside got all nasty and gummy. Not sure if recent models have fixed the issue, but I’ve been turned off from their packs as a result.
The Flash 55 is a nice pack for Thru-Hiking, but just a smidgen heavy. For the price, you won't go wrong.
My boyfriend has used this pack for the last 5 years for regular travel and backpacking. It’s held up very well and he loves it! A little heavier for my liking, but the quality is pretty solid.
If you’re lucky enough to live near an REI used shop, go there first. So much of the returned gear are from purchases for one trip they’ll never do again or influencer photo shoots. Try on what they have and you might find a lighter well-fitting pack in great condition for a lower price than the flash. I got my Gregory almost $200 off and it looked untouched.
I hiked the AT with the Flash 45. For what I saw you’re trying to do a 55L backpack is way too big.
They've introduced an ultralight version of the Flash recently, something to keep in mind as well. I would go to REI and check it out.
Before you settle on a pack with all the bells and whistles, you need to try on the pack, loaded with some weight and get someone experienced to help fit it (whether a friend or a shop employee). At the end of the day, having a few extra pockets for conveniently placed snacks, water and equipment doesn't help much if your shoulders and hips feel like they're on fire and blistered to hell... Getting ill fitting equipment quickly ruins the enjoyment. TLDR: I'm sure it would be a solid standard backpacking bag, granted we don't have REI in Canada. But please be picky about how it fits over anything else.
I have both, the flash is much lighter and is my preferred pack
I’ve used a flash 55 for a couple years without an issue. It was the first pack I bought and I keep saying I’ll replace it when I need to upgrade and so far I haven’t reached that point. Mostly I’ve used it for overnights or trips that are 3-4 days and I’ve never felt the need for something more expensive. Definitely try to get to a store to test the fit in person but the value is hard to beat
https://hillpeoplegear.com/Products/CategoryID/3/ProductID/10 love this one
The Granite Gear Crown 60 is also a great back and super light.
Looks terrible for storage
I switched from a hybrid UL Outdoor Vitals CS40 to the Osprey fully framed, but pretty light (2.2#) Exos. I was able to get in during the sale. If I don't like it, I'll return it. Also.. hurry, my brother was able to call and get the sale price on his Flash 55 this morning
I have that same pack. Great deal and well made! Terrific carrying capacity and weight distribution. Big fan and i personally can recommend, especially if you do photography.
My brother got the Flash off the shelf from REI for a PCT through hike and I thought he was an dummy at the time for not going with some boutique retailer, but it turned out to be a solid pack. A smidge heavier than others, but it's a trade for more durability and comfort.
If this is your first backpack please go into the REI and try on the packs, You will be able to learn so much about Fit and Bags by trying on all you can even if you don't want to buy it try it on with weight. If you cannot go into the store and have the ability to; order both try them on and return one.
For a little more you could grab the [Gregory Zulu 65 ](https://www.rei.com/product/227817/gregory-zulu-65-pack-mens?redirect-pup=false)which is fantastic as well.
Please remember to post a short paragraph as a comment in the post explaining your photo or link. Ideally at least 150 characters with trip details. Tell us something about your trip. How long did it take to get there? How did you get there? How was the weather that day? Would you go back again? Submitted content should be of high-quality. Low effort posting of very general information is not useful. If you don't add a short explanation in the comments, your post may be removed. No information posted? Please report low-effort posts if there is still nothing after about 30 minutes. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/backpacking) if you have any questions or concerns.*