Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. REI Co-op Flash Pack 22

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions44×24×10 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$125

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeatureREI Co-op Flash Pack 22
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 3
N Passport top
N Passthrough N
Carry
S Backpack S
R Hip Belt R
S Sternum Strap R
Inside
0 Laptop 15
2 Main Compartments 3
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2 Water Bottle Holder
Y Water Resistant N
Material
500D CorduraNylon

REI Co-op Flash Pack 22

Front facing view of the REI Co-op Flash Pack 22
Capacity22 L
Weight0.4 kg
Dimensions46×26×21 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$55

When choosing the ideal travel companion such as a backpack, one must consider not just the design but its functionality, weight, and material. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a sturdy option that stands at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide and 10 inches deep. It's made of durable 500D Cordura and weighs a nimble 0.7 pounds. This lean mass does not impede its storage ability as it boasts of a 16-liter capacity perfect for day hikes.

In comparison, we have the REI Co-op Flash Pack 22 which is slightly taller and wider, standing at 46 inches tall, 26 inches wide and an impressive 21 inches deep. Made of lightweight nylon, it weighs a mere 0.4 pounds making it extremely comfortable for extended hikes. It offers a larger storage capacity of 22 liters, lending itself to more versatility.

  • Size: Tarahumara (44x24x10 inches) vs. Flash Pack (46x26x21 inches)
  • Weight: Tarahumara (0.7 lbs) vs. Flash Pack (0.4 lbs)
  • Capacity: Tarahumara (16 liters) vs. Flash Pack (22 liters)
  • Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura) vs. Flash Pack (Nylon)
  • Laptop Compartment: Tarahumara (None) vs. Flash Pack (Fits 15 inch laptop)

The Hill People Gear Tarahumara, apart from it's sturdy design is praised for its impressive use of interior space and lifetime durability. One reviewer summarized it as a "well-designed, well-executed, and well-built bag." It's centered zip provides a sense of security and convenience in accessing the main compartment.

On the hand, The REI Co-op Flash Pack 22 stands out for its featherweight structure, minimalistic yet functional design, and great suspension system when the bag gets heavy. Summarized aptly by one reviewer - "REI’s 22-liter daypack hits a great middle ground of minimalism and functionality." In terms of cost, the Flash Pack 22 offers remarkable value as the best budget daypack of the season. Be it the Tarahumara or Flash Pack 22, whether you are a casual hiker or a frequent flier, both these backpacks offer distinctive pros that cater to various needs.