Local Lion 30L backpack (REI "Flash 30" clone)

$22 USD Local Lion 30L Backpack
REI Flash 30 backpack (no longer sold)
 The Local Lion 30L backpack is available for $21.74 USD delivered on Aliexpress.

  • For lighter loads and smaller torsos - 5'8" max height without modifications
  • 52 x 17 x 28cm, 765g

Discounts (USD):

The "Flash 30" backpack used to be sold by REI, but was discontinued in around 2012.

You can still buy it on Aliexpress as the "Local Lion 35L" backpack. The design essentially remains the same - with the "Flash 30" marking still present.

The main downside of the pack is a very short torso length that is unsuitable for people over 5'8".

The 30L (not 35L) capacity makes it a lighter use pack that is suited for ultralight trips, longer daytrips, or if you have a spouse/friend/child who isn't committed to hiking.

From reviews, it seems the quality of the Local Lion version is not as good as the REI version, but for $24 USD delivered it is still cheap enough.

Pros
  • Side pockets for water bottles
  • Can take a hydration bladder
  • Chest strap with whistle
  • Hipbelt strap with pockets
  • Elastic at the front to stuff things in / hang things off

Cons
  • Hipbelt doesn't adjust like the REI version
  • Shoulder straps not padded
  • Inferior quality stitching (single line, long stitch length, stitches rip out easily). Do not overstuff
  • Framesheet is not removable
  • Only one internal reservoir hook

Modifications
  • Reinforce stitching
  • Modify for larger torsos by detaching and resewing shoulder straps at a higher point on the pack.
  • Remove the following for a lighter pack:
    • Hipbelt (if tall it's useless anyway)
    • Lid
    • Ice axe loops
Local Lion dimensions

Front
Rear


Further Resources

Backpacking light thread: 35L Ultralight Pack for $30 – First Impressions

Reddit
Frugal UL Gear?
Any word on quality on that cheap 35L Ultralight pack from AliExpress?

Youtube
Review of the "Local Lion 30l Flash Day Packs"