The Advance FASTPACK combines the best of both worlds: it’s both a backpack and a fast pack in one. Fast packs have improved greatly in recent years, and this model is a particularly useful piece of kit for pilots.

One of the main advantages is how it handles damp conditions. Packing a wet glider tightly is never ideal. With the FASTPACK, you can quickly stow your gear, take it home, and then open it out to let it dry properly. You can even spread the glider completely if needed. This saves time and helps prolong the life of your equipment.

The FASTPACK is available in two sizes: 160 and 200.. The 200 —the version reviewed in the video—is the larger size. It’s suitable for tandem equipment, but also works well if you simply prefer a bigger pack or have a larger wing.

Packing System

Packing is straightforward. The glider is mushroomed into a ball, with the leading edge positioned slightly to one side so air can be squeezed out of the open cells. Lines are placed on top, and risers go into the riser bag. The bag is then closed using a drawcord running all the way around, secured with a Fidlock closure.

There is ample space for a harness—even bulkier models—or even a full tandem setup. Despite this capacity, the pack remains manageable in both weight and handling.

Features

What sets the Advance FASTPACK apart is its balance of durability, comfort, and simplicity.

• Build quality: The materials are robust and hardwearing, yet the pack isn’t overly heavy.
• Carrying comfort: Padded shoulder straps, waist strap, and breathable mesh back padding make it far more comfortable to carry than a standard fast pack.
• Design: The layout resembles Advance’s COMFORTPACK 4, giving the feel of a proper backpack rather than a simple stuff sack.
• Storage: A zip pocket on the top, a removable Velcro-style side pocket, and an additional side pocket provide room for accessories.
• Adjustability: Compression and side straps allow the load to be pulled closer to the back for improved carrying balance.

In use, the FASTPACK feels like a genuine backpack, not just a makeshift carry bag.

Limitations

This is not designed as a lightweight racing hike-and-fly pack. There are lighter fast packs available, but they do not match the comfort of the FASTPACK when carrying gear over any distance.

One caution: pilots flying high-performance wings with long stiff rods should take care. Simply stuffing such wings into a fast pack and leaving them can result in bent rods or even rods being pushed out of their pockets. A better method is to straighten the sails and roll the wing from the trailing edge to the leading edge, creating a spiral “snail shell” shape. This avoids sharp bends and keeps the rods safe.

Conclusion

The Advance FASTPACK is an excellent choice for pilots who want the practicality of fast packing combined with the carrying comfort of a proper backpack. It’s durable, spacious, and easy to use. While not the lightest option, its comfort and build quality more than make up for the extra weight.

For pilots who often fly in damp conditions or simply prefer the convenience of fast packing, the FASTPACK offers one of the best solutions available.

Flybubble video review

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