The Osprey Daylite Plus and REI Co-op Flash 22 are both compact daypacks, but their published specifications point to different priorities. Osprey lists a 20-liter multi-use pack with several organizer pockets and a sleeve for a hydration reservoir or most 14-inch laptops. REI lists a 22-liter frameless pack at 14 ounces and publishes torso and hip ranges. This comparison uses those official listings to help you decide what to try on; it is not a comfort or trail-performance test.
How we compared them
We checked each manufacturer or retailer product listing on October 21, 2026 and compared the same practical factors: capacity, listed weight, fit information, carrying design, organization, and weather-related details. We did not buy, wear, load, or field-test either pack. Product features and measurements below are listing data; subjective comfort, durability, and real-world capacity remain unverified. Prices are omitted because they can change.
At a glance
| Published detail | Osprey Daylite Plus | REI Co-op Flash 22 |
|---|---|---|
| Listed capacity | 20 L | 22 L |
| Listed weight | 1.29 lb | 14 oz |
| Carry structure | Mesh-covered die-cut foam back panel; padded harness | Frameless |
| Fit information | One size listed | Torso 16–21 in; waist/hips 26–42 in |
| Organization | Main compartment, front organizer pocket, front zip pocket, shove-it pocket, two bottle pockets | Top access, two interior slip pockets, four-plus exterior pockets including main compartment |
| Notable listed detail | Sleeve for hydration reservoir or most 14-inch laptops/tablets; removable webbing hipbelt; attachment compatibility with selected Osprey packs | Reservoir compatible; hipbelt; removable sit pad; no rain cover included |
Specifications are taken from the Osprey Daylite Plus listing and the REI Co-op Flash 22 listing. Confirm the current product version and details before purchase.
Where the Osprey listing stands out
Osprey’s published details emphasize organization and multi-use features. The interior sleeve is described as fitting a hydration reservoir or most 14-inch laptops or tablets, and the pack has two side bottle pockets plus several front storage areas. Osprey also lists a removable webbing hipbelt and compatibility with selected travel and backpacking packs.
Those details may appeal if you want one compact bag that can carry small everyday items as well as a light hiking kit. The listing’s 1.29-pound weight is higher than REI’s listed 14 ounces, so someone focused on minimizing pack weight may want to compare that difference with the organizational features they would actually use. The listing does not establish which pack feels better when carried.
Where the REI listing stands out
REI’s Flash 22 listing emphasizes a frameless 22-liter design and publishes a torso range of 16–21 inches and a hip range of 26–42 inches. It is listed at 14 ounces and includes a removable sit pad, bottle pockets, and reservoir compatibility. REI also says that a rain cover is not included, so plan for separate weather protection if your conditions call for it.
The published sizing ranges give shoppers concrete figures to check, but they do not guarantee a comfortable fit. Try the loaded pack and adjust the straps; torso length and hip fit can matter more than overall height. REI provides additional daypack fit and selection advice.
Which one should you try first?
- Consider the Osprey first if the laptop-compatible sleeve, multiple organizer areas, and attachment compatibility match how you plan to use a daypack. Check its current fit guidance and try the listed one-size pack with your typical load.
- Consider the REI first if its published torso and hip ranges, frameless design, or lower listed weight match your priorities. Check whether the 22-liter capacity and simpler structure suit the items you carry.
- Try both if comfort is the deciding factor. Load each with similar essentials, adjust the straps, and walk around before choosing. Published measurements cannot predict pressure points or stability on your body.
Neither pack is a universal winner from the available desk research. The Osprey listing offers more detail on organization and multi-use compatibility; the REI listing publishes a lower weight, slightly larger capacity, and specific torso and hip ranges. A better choice depends on your fit and gear list, which specifications alone cannot settle.
Sources
Desk comparison of current official product listings checked October 21, 2026. Neither product was purchased, worn, loaded, or field-tested by ReviewClearly. No prices or affiliate links are included.