At $199, the Flash 55 punches well above its price with a steel internal frame, adjustable torso, and fully removable components that let you strip weight as needed. It's the go-to recommendation for budget-conscious backpackers and thru-hikers alike.
REI Co-op's in-house gear is well known for value, and their $199 Flash 55 pack is no exception. We've had the opportunity to extensively test the Flash all over the world, most recently on a backpacking trip in Wyoming's rugged Wind River Range, and have been impressed by its balance of comfort, weight, and durability.
REI Co-op Flash 55, Best Bang for the Buck, scored 81 overall.
Flash 55 is borderline perfect pack. It's light enough, carries well, and don't have to sacrifice anything feature-wise for minor weight penalty. And being able to dial in the torso length along with lower price makes it clear choice in my estimation.
I loaded mine up with 32 lbs gear/food last month and hiked up/down/around the Grand Canyon for 5 days. I brought too much stuff, but the pack carried it well and was extremely comfortable.
The suspended mesh back panel wraps onto the hip belt for unmatched comfort on multi-day trips. Lighter than the standard Atmos AG while keeping all the features that make Osprey the trail standard.
At just 3.0 lbs with a 60L capacity, the Blaze 60 is the sweet spot for ultralight-curious backpackers who don't want to sacrifice comfort or features. The removable brain and hip belt convert into a fanny pack for day hikes from camp.
Extra-cushioned hip belt, shoulder harness, and back panel make the Baltoro 75 (men's) and Deva 70 (women's) the most comfortable option for carrying 40-50 lb loads on week-long trips. The ultraplush lumbar pad molds to your back and prevents hip belt drift.
Sub-2-pound Dyneema construction is fully waterproof, tear-resistant, and rated to carry 40 lbs, a combination no other ultralight pack matches. The go-to choice for serious thru-hikers on the PCT, AT, and beyond.
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