Moderator: American AAdvantage, Travel Safety/Security & Texas, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2006
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Just to follow-up...I did get the REI flash backpack, and used it on a recent trip to China.
It was fantastic to have for a hiking adventure along the Great Wall. I was amazed how much stuff I was able to get inside it (weather got warm so I was taking off layers and put them in it).
Plus after the hike, I went to the night market with some other folks from the hike, and the pack was great for putting in some purchases.
Also used it for a trip to the Water Cube. I swim and try to get to different/unique pools when I travel. With just a hotel towel, suit, and goggles, I could hardly even tell I had the pack on for the subway ride and short trek.
I really like how the pack rolls up so small to fit inside another bag. And I didn't have to worry about emptying out my nice travel backpack (it is a Tumi and I really didn't want to take it on the hike).