REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack Review: Budget Day Pack Champion

# REI Co-op Trail 25 Pack Review: Budget Day Pack Champion Finding a quality day pack that doesn't break the bank can be challenging. The REI Co-op Trail 25 aims to solve this problem by offering features typically found on much more expensive packs at a budget-friendly price. After six months of testing on day hikes, overnight trips, and daily use, here's my comprehensive review. ## First Impressions and Build Quality Out of the box, the Trail 25 feels solid and well-constructed. The materials have a quality feel that belies the budget price point. The 420-denier nylon main body fabric strikes a good balance between durability and weight, while the 600-denier bottom panel adds protection where it's needed most. The stitching throughout is clean and reinforced at stress points. After hundreds of miles of use, I haven't seen any signs of premature wear or construction failures. For a pack in this price range, the build quality is impressive. ## Suspension System and Comfort ### Back Panel and Frame The Trail 25 uses a tensioned mesh back panel that provides excellent ventilation and comfort. The single aluminum stay adds structure without significant weight penalty. This design keeps the pack close to your body while allowing airflow, reducing sweaty backs on hot hiking days. **Comfort Rating: 4/5** ### Shoulder Straps and Hip Belt The shoulder straps are well-padded and contoured, distributing weight evenly across the shoulders. They adjust easily and accommodate a wide range of body types. The sternum strap with sliding attachment point allows for fine-tuning of fit. The hip belt is adequate for a 25-liter pack but could be more substantial. For loads up to 15-20 pounds, it provides sufficient support. Beyond that, you'll feel the load more on your shoulders. **Load Distribution Rating: 4/5** ### Sizing and Fit One of the Trail 25's strengths is its adjustable torso length. The suspension system accommodates torsos from 15.5 to 20 inches, making it suitable for most adult users. This adjustability is unusual in budget packs and adds significant value. ## Capacity and Organization ### Main Compartment The 25-liter main compartment easily handles day hike essentials for most users. I've packed: - Extra layers for three seasons - Full day's food and water - First aid kit and emergency gear - Camera and electronics The clamshell opening provides excellent access to gear, though there's no internal divider to separate clean and dirty items. ### Pocket System **Front Pocket:** Large enough for frequently accessed items like snacks, phone, and maps. The key clip inside is a nice touch. **Side Pockets:** Two stretch mesh pockets accommodate water bottles up to 32 oz. They're deep enough to prevent bottles from falling out but can be challenging to access while wearing the pack. **Hip Belt Pockets:** Small zippered pockets are perfect for energy bars, phone, or small essentials. They're positioned well for easy access while hiking. **Organization Rating: 4/5** ## Performance in Different Conditions ### Day Hiking This is where the Trail 25 shines. For 6-12 hour day hikes with typical gear loads (10-18 pounds), the pack performs excellently. The suspension system keeps loads comfortable, and the organization works well for layering systems and day hiking essentials. ### Overnight Trips While not designed for backpacking, the Trail 25 can handle ultralight overnight setups. With minimal gear and a small sleeping system, it's possible to squeeze in overnight essentials. However, this pushes the pack beyond its intended use. ### Urban and Travel Use The pack works well for urban exploring, travel day packs, and commuting. The professional appearance and good organization make it versatile beyond pure hiking use. ### Weather Resistance The Trail 25 includes a rain cover, which is rare at this price point. The pack fabric has a light DWR coating that handles brief showers well. For extended rain, the included rain cover provides good protection. **Weather Protection Rating: 4/5** ## Durability Testing ### Materials and Construction After six months of regular use including: - 40+ day hikes in various terrain - Rock scrambling and bushwhacking - Daily urban use as a work/school pack - International travel The pack shows minimal wear. The fabric has held up well to abrasion, and all zippers still function smoothly. The bottom panel shows some scuffing but no serious damage. ### Long-Term Outlook Based on construction quality and material choices, I expect the Trail 25 to last several years of regular use. The REI satisfaction guarantee provides additional peace of mind for long-term durability concerns. **Durability Rating: 4/5** ## Comparisons with Competitors ### vs. Osprey Talon 22 The Talon 22 is lighter and has better external organization but costs $30-40 more. For ultralight enthusiasts, the Osprey is worth the premium. For most users, the Trail 25 offers better value. ### vs. Patagonia Nine Trails 20L The Patagonia pack is more environmentally conscious and slightly lighter but lacks the capacity and organization of the Trail 25. It also costs significantly more. ### vs. Deuter Speed Lite 21 Similar capacity and features, but the Deuter costs $20-30 more for minimal performance gains. The Trail 25 wins on value. ## Value Analysis At $59-69, the Trail 25 offers exceptional value. Features like the adjustable suspension, rain cover, and quality construction are typically found on packs costing $90-120. For budget-conscious hikers or those new to the sport, it's hard to find better value. The REI membership benefits (dividend and satisfaction guarantee) add additional value for members. ## What's Missing ### Weight At 2 lbs 1 oz, the Trail 25 is heavier than premium lightweight packs. For ounce-counting ultralight hikers, this weight penalty might be significant. ### External Attachment The lack of external gear loops or bungee systems limits versatility for carrying awkward items like trekking poles or helmets. ### Hip Belt Padding A more substantial hip belt would improve load carrying for heavier loads, though this might compromise the pack's day hiking focus. ## Ideal User Profile ### Perfect For: **Budget-Conscious Hikers:** Excellent performance without premium pricing **Beginners:** Great starter pack with room to grow **Casual Day Hikers:** Ideal capacity and features for most day hiking **Students/Commuters:** Works well for non-hiking uses too ### Consider Alternatives If: **Ultralight Focus:** Weight-conscious hikers need lighter options **Extended Backpacking:** Insufficient capacity for multi-day trips **Technical Climbing:** Lacks specialized features for alpine use ## Care and Maintenance ### Cleaning The pack cleans easily with mild soap and water. The mesh back panel dries quickly, and the main fabric resists staining. ### Storage When not in use, store with zippers partially open to prevent fabric stress. The pack compresses reasonably well for travel or storage. ### Warranty REI's satisfaction guarantee covers defects and allows returns for any reason within one year for members. This policy significantly enhances the value proposition. ## Modifications and Accessories ### Compatible Add-Ons - Hydration bladders up to 3L fit easily - Aftermarket hip belt pockets for additional storage - Gear loops can be added with minimal sewing ### User Modifications Some users add: - Reflective tape for visibility - Extra compression straps - Gear loops sewn onto existing attachment points ## Real-World Testing Scenarios ### Pacific Northwest Day Hikes In wet, muddy conditions with elevation gain, the pack performed well. The rain cover kept gear dry during unexpected showers, and the suspension remained comfortable on 8-hour hikes. ### Desert Southwest Hiking In hot, dry conditions, the mesh back panel provided excellent ventilation. Dust didn't significantly affect zipper function, and the fabric cleaned easily. ### International Travel Used as a day pack during European travel, the pack's professional appearance and good organization made it ideal for urban exploration and day trips. ## Final Thoughts The REI Co-op Trail 25 succeeds by focusing on the essentials and executing them well. It's not the lightest, most feature-rich, or most technical pack available, but it offers the best combination of performance, durability, and value in its category. For most day hikers, especially those new to the sport or operating on a budget, the Trail 25 provides everything needed for enjoyable outdoor adventures. The adjustable fit system, quality construction, and REI's customer support make it a safe choice for a wide range of users. While ultralight purists and technical climbers might need more specialized options, the Trail 25 serves as an excellent all-around day pack that won't disappoint. ## Quick Specs - **Capacity:** 25 liters - **Weight:** 2 lbs 1 oz (935g) - **Torso Range:** 15.5-20 inches - **Dimensions:** 19 x 12 x 8 inches - **Materials:** 420D nylon body, 600D bottom - **Warranty:** REI satisfaction guarantee **Overall Rating: 4.3/5** - Exceptional value with solid performance **Best For:** Budget-conscious day hikers seeking reliable, comfortable gear **Skip If:** Weight is a primary concern or you need technical features --- *This review is based on extensive real-world testing. Some product links are affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.*