Flash Pack Reviews 1,534

Having completed a couple of previous trips with Flashpack, it was a no brainer to join another one given the great experiences I have had with Flashpack. Bali has long been on my list to visit, I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to go. What a joy the trip was from start to finish, the itinerary is great with a good balance between activities and free time. The group itself was filled with like minded individuals, we met as strangers and we have left as friends. The trip was made even more enjoyable by our guide Yogi. He didn’t miss a beat and went over and above to ensure everyone was happy, helping arrange additional activities for some of the group and even helped us out after the trip had ended. We had such a great driver also in Koman who’s driving skills were incredible on the busy streets of Bali. I can’t recommend Flashpack enough!

Amazing first experience with Flash Pack on the Philippines trip. Everything was thought of, and communicated well and there was a great mix of activities, unique experiences and down time, and the accommodation we stayed in were also great. The guides Rupert and Rey were both fantastic, kind caring and positive, and made sure we were having fun but also informed about what was coming up.
I was nervous about travelling with people I had never met but we all got to know each other really quickly and gelled as a group of new friends.
If you're looking to travel with a group of like mined people and see and do things that will create life long memories I highly recommend Flash Pack.

My first trip with FlashPack was a dream!
Good communication before booking, answered all of my questions. Thoughtful questionnaire sent to aid matching roommates which worked really well in reality, I was matched with a great person.. both early risers and fairly tidy! Trip was well organised by the pack leader, we were treated really well by other staff who were involved in the delivery of the trip. Absolutely nothing negative about the experience! Would highly recommend FlashPack. . Only slight drawback is the high price tag

My first trip with flashpack, was excited and apprehensive but all that I experienced was pure joy and comfort. They did an amazing job from pickup until helping us get a ride back to airport. Perfect planning with a great balance between adventures and relaxation... I am truly glad I opted for this travel package.

Yogi, our pack leader was fun, kind, thorough and accommodating, he has set the bar so high for all future trips.

I'm a little concerned that I might have picked the most amazing trip right out of the gate for my first Flash Pack and that any other experience will fall short because of the bar set by this trip.

The itinerary included a combination of activities designed to showcase Bali's beauty while incorporating culture and community. Everything felt more personal and allowed you to also see how traveling to Bali benefited the local people. If you asked me to choose a favorite day or favorite activity it would be impossible.

All of this was made possible by our amazing guide, Yogi, and our dedicated driver, Komang. Together they went above and beyond helping us plan additional outings during free time, creating unique and personal experiences at the activities, and always giving of their time and energy.

The last element was the other travelers - all were similar age and with similar experiences and we got along really well. The small size gave us the ability to connect and we have left our adventure as friends.

I don't think I could have asked for a better experience. The only complaint is that is simply went too fast!

First time Flashpacker here and I am already searching for my next trip. I loved every minute of it and I’m so glad I chose Bali and the Gili Islands as my first adventure. From the moment I met Wayan at the airport to the last day that I said goodbye to Yogi, I felt safe and taken care of. I have been wanting to visit Bali for over a decade and after raising my babies and establishing stability, I decided that I was going to do something big for my 40th and Bali was where I wanted to be to welcome in a new decade. Who would have thought that spending my 40th with strangers was going to be hands down the BEST birthday I have ever had? Not me, that’s for sure. My travel mates and Yogi made it unforgettable and I felt so loved even after just meeting these wonderful people. From Day 2 being welcomed into another Wayans family house and sharing a meal and a blessing with them til day Day 11 at surf lessons and an amazing city tour in a VW Thing (yes that’s what the car is called) was the best planned and executed trip ever. Multiple beautiful temple visits, meditation and prayer, swimming in the waterfall with a picnics lunch and the best sambal tomat, learning the culture, aerial yoga, village cooking class, annihilating Mt. Batur, amazing pictures at Heavens Gate, snorkeling on Gili Island, BBQ seafood dinner, and our farewell dinner was amazing. I came to Bali looking for a nice balance of activities and connecting to my spiritual side and learning to accept, flow, and smile and that is EXACTLY what I received. The purification ceremony is so near and dear to my heart and was such an amazing way to let go of the sadness and connect with my ancestors to know I was on the right path. This trip was my first big trip since my dad was killed by a drunk driver and it was exactly what I needed to work on finding forgiveness and accepting my grief. The Balinese people are amazing, kind, and are connected to their spirituality and have taught me so much about myself and being a better person. I can’t recommend this trip enough to anyone wanting to experience a little bit of everything that Bali has to offer.
And Yogi Bear 😊 don’t get me started on what an amazing man and guide he really is. He is so knowledgeable about Balinese culture, answers all of your questions, he’s passionate about Flashpack and takes the best care of all of his flashpackers like family. And his photo taking skills are unmatched….I have some of the best photos I’ve ever taken because of him. He’s funny, caring, thoughtful and really has a heart of gold (he quietly bought ice cream for two little girls selling fans on the street without being asked and we wouldn’t have known had we not glanced over at him and saw, now that is a caring man). No offense to any other guides but I think Yogi will always have a special place in my heart. His soul is beautiful and I’m very grateful for him and how safe he made us all feel. You NEED to come to Bali just to meet Yogi honestly. You won’t be disappointed. He made sure we got to do all the things we wanted to while here and even found us a healer and palm reader for a few of us to partake in.
And Coman (not sure if it’s how you spell his name) was the best driver EVER! That man is an expert and can maneuver that van like a pro. I have PTSD from a bad car accident and not once did I feel unsafe as his passenger and there’s not many people that I can and will say that about.
I really can’t say enough good things about my experience and I leave with no regrets. I will definitely be back to Bali as I’m sure I’ve left a piece of my heart here. If you’re hesitant about being a first timer, do the Bali and Gili Islands and let Yogi and Coman take care of you. You won’t be disappointed…and honestly if you are disappointed then YOU probably did something wrong and didn’t embrace the opportunities that Bali has for you.

Just came back from my first trip with Flash Pack to Sri Lanka and it was a really great experience. The itinerary was well planned, with a good mix of activities and local, traditional experiences that made the trip feel authentic. The hotels were beautiful throughout. There are some long drives, so it’s worth being prepared for that, but it’s also what allows you to see a large part of the country. I was also lucky to be part of a lovely group, which made the experience even more memorable! A big highlight was our local guide, Suranga, very knowledgeable about history and culture, always supportive, and genuinely attentive to the group. It wouldn’t have been the same traveling independently! Overall, a very positive experience and I would definitely consider traveling with Flash Pack again.

Everything was perfect - the hotel, the itinerary and the people I met. Our tour guide, Kamil, was amazing. He was fun, informative and really made us feel welcome. I would even argue that he was the highlight of the trip!

The Portugal trip was fantastic, and it all started with our tour guide Sonia. She was 10/10! Sh really cared and was so through with everything, I enjoyed my time so much with her. The events chosen were awesome, some I never would have picked myself. Surfing, baking and more was great. Can’t say enough, 10/10 will do another!
Josh

I'm just back from a wonderful adventure in Vietnam and Cambodia with Flash Pack. Having been to Sri Lanka with Flash Pack two years ago and having an incredible experience I was a little nervous about how it could match that but in everyway it did.
I had a superb group, everyone blended really well and I've left with friends for life I hope with meet ups already planned.

The trip itself was superb. It's certainly action packed so if you're hoping for regular downtime this isn't the trip for you. We ended feeling pretty exhausted but in the best possible way after touring two countries and two internal flights in 13 days. You will always wish to have slightly longer in places but see this trip as a taster and you won't be disappointed. I personally feel everything was great and wouldn't change anything about the trip. Highlights for me were the Vespa ride around Ho Chi Min City which was such a thrill and the beauty of HoiAn but, as with FlashPack trips, the really special moments and memories come from the laugher and the people along the way.

I need to call our our Vietnam guide Hai- he was absolutely exceptional. Full of fun, guidance, care and always willing to answer every question we had. He made Vietnam so special for us, always made us feel safe and I know the trip wouldn't have been half as good without him. If you have him as you guide count your lucky stars!

Had a great experience in Vietnam! Our guide Hoang Le was nothing short of amazing!! Very knowledgeable, fun and kept everything well organised. Highly recommend!!!

This is the first time I used FlashPack and had a wonderful time. The pack leaders Hai and Sarou were both fantastic and looked out for the whole group. They both went above and beyond for us all and still enjoyed a beer with us! All the places we went to were great and the guides made it more enjoyable. Started out with the rural places in North Vietnam and worked out way down to Ho Chi Minh City. For me Ha Long bay, boat rides and the rice field trek were probably the faves. Then onto Cambodia to see the amazing temples, Angkor Wat was simply amazing as well as the other ancient temples.
Food was also delicious.
Trip was packed with a lot of activities, but there were a few resting afternoons for us to catch our breath. Clearly a lot to do! But the guides had a good sense of humour and even with the early mornings we still had a blast.
All in all a very good experience and would love to do it again!

I have just done the Secret Vietnam trip which was my first Flashpack. It was a great introduction to my first time in Asia. The activities were great, a real mix of culture, history, food and fun. Everything was so well organised, we didnt have to worry about a thing. The hotels and the junk boat were all lovely. Our pack leader Hoang was amazing. I love how passionate he about his country. His passion and enthusiasm is infectious.
I am 53 and joined a group in the age range 35-49. In hindsight, I should probably have gone with an older age group; not because of the activities or pace, but for better group dynamics and integration. The group were all lovely but they were mostly all over 10 years younger than me so I did feel old!
I would definitely recommend Flashpack and would do another one in the future.

Just returned from my second Flash Pack trip.
This time to Vietnam.
Previously I'd been to Chile & Patagonia and had the very best time.
Once again the Flash Pack experience was excellent.
Our group leader Hoang Lee was absolutely amazing. He was kind, patient, helpful, organised, funny and passionate about his country. He was a delight to spend 10 days with - thank you.
The itinerary, activities, food and accommodation were great. The trip was fast paced, though some of this was self-inflicted - there was sufficient time to relax if you wanted.

I swithered about including this next part in my review but the group of fellow travellers you find yourself with can make or break a trip like this.
I made some very good friends although I felt this particular group didn't gel nearly as well as my previous one, which I'm sure is due, in part, to the fact that half the people had a connection to someone else.
I know FP encourages solo travel. Whilst some friendships/couples have been a positive delight on this and my previous trip, I think the more there are, the more impact this has on the group dynamics.

Overall I had the best time and I am already planning my next adventure with Flash Pack!

I traveled for the second time with Flash Pack on their Secret Vietnam tour in March and had a lovely time! Our guide, Hoang Lee, did an excellent job explaining cultural and historic moments, ensuring we arrived at our destinations safely (STICKY RICE!!!!), and keeping the overall mood positive on long travel days.

The trip's itinerary was great too. From spa days in our free time, to sidewalk pho after a long travel day, I felt our days were always organized. My favorite day was our first in Ho Chi Mihn when we rode the vespas - I even teared up on the back of that bike - it was such a cool pinch me moment.

My only small critique and the main difference between my first trip with FP and this one was there weren't as many solo travelers on the Vietnam trip. I had a great time getting to know everyone but the vibe changes when 50% of the group enters with some sort of friendship. Everyone was nice and friendly still!

Already looking forward to my next FP trip :)

Last year, I booked the Spectacular Peru trip with very little research. I was planning a different solo vacation but could already tell it was going to feel a bit the same as trips I had gone on before. I booked with Flash Pack in an act of ‘spontaneous planning’ and never looked back.

I was surprised with how much I enjoyed the food tour in Lima and it was the perfect intro to my fellow Flash Packers. Our 2 days in the Amazon was quite the experience. Despite the intense humidity, I think the whole group enjoyed our time there with the amazing local guides. The Sacred Valley portion of the trip was the highlight. As an avid biker, I really enjoyed the bike day-trip through the Andes landscape. Our climb at Machu Picchu was an intense challenge but we were rewarded with stunning views as the fog cleared and a real sense of accomplishment as the whole group made it to the top. Our final days in Cusco were a great cap to the trip as we explored a beautiful, historic city and enjoyed a few more meals together.

One of the reasons I was drawn to Flash Pack was their confidence that their trips really bring solo travellers together. And now having completed my first trip with Flash Pack, I completely agree. Travelling with other people in a similar stage of life as me was so rewarding. Our time enjoying nights out and experiencing (& sometimes struggling through) the many activities created such intense bonds. I am shocked by the types of conversations and experiences that I shared with a group of people I had only known for 9 days. It was this social experience that I was hoping to have with Flash Pack and I absolutely got what I was looking for.

Julio, our pack leader, was absolutely amazing! He was always upbeat and kept everyone organized. He made it a mission to keep us hydrated as we moved from the Lima heat to the jungle humidity and finally the elevation of the Sacred Valley. Julio clearly loves Peru and wanted to pass all his knowledge along to us. Julio was always prepared to make suggestions of other activities and restaurants in Cusco. And the best part, Julio was a part of the group enjoying all of our activities right along with us.

The Philippines delivered the complete package, in a world of chaos and uncertainty, it’s a paradise. The Filipino people are so kind, hard-working and welcoming to all.
Everyone went above and beyond the standard expectations to ensure a good time was had by all.
We were fortunate to have Rupert as our pack leader, he dedicated so much time behind the scenes to allow the smooth ruining of the trip, from filming drone shots and uploading pictures, to checking the weather and flight transfers, I honestly don’t think I’ll cope without him I my day to day life
The food was delicious, often too much of a selection and it’s all too irresistible that I think my clothes has shrunk (I’ve obviously gained weight here)
Chef Paul and Wren deserve Michelin stars
The housekeeping staff always making sure everything is clean, often challenging dealing in sand during camping on the beachfront.
The massage staff making the trip relaxing in a tranquil background of nature
The sailing crew bring us from one island to another and ensuring the snorkelling equipment was cleaned and ready to explore the amazing colourful corals and fish
The party boys Bert, Albert, Ian & Lio with their ‘decent’ (heavy handed portions) of rum and mango juice. They’re a bad influence but in the best way.
We were very fortunate with good weather which also helped, the activities were a highlight including the SUP, quad biking, the cycling to a swimming cave, the kayaking.

With 7641 islands it’s just a shame we only explored a few of them. The Philippines has so much to offer, I can’t wait to explore more. It would be great if some of the mountains of waterfalls were included in the itinerary, for example the canyoneering in Badian

Trip & Experience Summary:

The highlight of the "Alternative Thailand" trip was undoubtedly the group dynamic. I was fortunate to be with an amazing group of people; we got along better over those 9–10 days than I do with some of my closest friends on weekend trips. Sharing these experiences with people at a similar stage of life makes the memories so much more impactful than the surface-level interactions you get from solo travel. While I enjoy a truly solo trip from time to time, meeting people "in the wild" is much easier said than done. You can try local meetups or Airbnb experiences, but those are often quick and "one-and-done." In contrast, sharing numerous experiences with the same group over an extended period creates friendships that are very challenging, if not impossible, to replicate on your own. I also learned from seasoned Flashpackers that the group 'ratio' can have a noticeable impact on the overall flow & vibe. Our balance of 5 men and 9 women felt like a sweet spot for group cohesiveness, so if you’re someone who values that social balance, it’s worth checking the group makeup before you hit the book button (if possible).

The activities and pacing were mostly what I expected; I enjoyed some activities more than others. We traveled ~800 total miles in just 9 days by train, taxi, and boat. I especially loved the variety of the itinerary; we did things I never would have made the effort to do on my own, like the floating raft house. The pacing was well-thought-out, starting with the big-city energy of Bangkok and finishing at Kamala Beach. It’s important to know that if you are looking for "downtime," this is NOT the trip for it. You have to be able to push through when the weather is not ideal and you’re tired, but the reward is a truly immersive experience that covers an impressive amount of ground.

Regarding lodging, the rooms were 'good enough' for my needs, though I can see why some travelers might find the 'semi-luxury' price point a bit at odds with the actual quality of the lodging. The rooms were definitely tight at times, which was my only real complaint, and we did encounter some minor A/C issues. However, the hotels were incredibly responsive and fixed things quickly. For me, I’d much rather be in a functional hotel that keeps the whole group together than be spread out across a massive luxury resort just for the sake of having a "luxury" stay (with a heftier luxury price tag). Even the overnight sleeper train, which was rough for some, was very typical of what you’d find on any overnight rail journey in Europe or Asia (and I had no problems with). While the last hotel in Kamala felt a bit sleepy and had an older clientele (like a retirement community feel), I understood the choice after visiting Patong; Kamala is the perfect place to actually relax before heading home instead of the chaotic nature of Patong.

The absolute glue of this trip, however, was our Pack Leader, Oat. On a scale of 1–10, I give him a 100. Flash Pack, if you are reading this, he deserves a raise!!! He was unbelievably professional and dealt with every curveball with grace and dignity. He has a zest for life that is hard to put into words and ensured every person was as comfortable as possible at all times. He went far above and beyond the call of duty; he could have just "phoned it in," but he did the complete opposite. His adaptability for certain travel segments and his pleasant demeanor made all the difference. If you go on a Thailand trip, see if you can make a special request for him—you won't regret it!

Recommendations and Things to Consider for First-Timers:

When deciding if Flash Pack is right for you, be honest about your budget and travel style. There is undeniably a "Flash Pack tax," but for me, the peace of mind was worth it. Navigating spotty logistics and avoiding taxi scams in a country where you don’t speak the language is stressful; having a guide like Oat handle those hurdles saved me dozens of hours of planning and let me just relax and enjoy the trip. If you view travel as a life experience rather than just a transaction, the convenience is a win.

Just be sure to temper your expectations. This is essentially a "grown-up hostel" experience—better lodging, but the same need for a flexible mindset. You can’t control your roommate dynamic or minor inconveniences like tight rooms, so if you feel "too old" for that, you can spring for a solo room or use a different tour company. Ultimately, if you can roll with the punches and embrace the group vibe, you’ll have a fantastic experience!!

I've just returned from my fourth holiday with FP. I've had three great experiences with the company (in Vietnam, Colombia and Jordan) plus one which was a bit mediocre (FP apologised and gave me a partial refund). If you can live with the price (and understand what you're getting for the money) then I can only recommend them.

+: Patty really set the bar high as our tour guide in Thailand! She shared history, culture, and provided us with great food. Patty has a gift of capturing beautiful photos, which provided a memorable timeline of our trip together. She really is a special person!
The adventures were planned generally well in terms of exploring and variety. I loved being on and in the warm turquoise waters.
Flash Pack surprised us all with gifts of massage after an unexpectedly wild adventure on the water, super nice.
The accommodations were spacious and clean, with great amenities and the staff were all lovely.
-: Didn’t love being in a hotel that was an hour away from Old Town Phuket. More time to explore old town would have been appreciated.
A/C transportation as advertised was not always provided and it was hot!
Nearly half of the group came on the trip with someone. Since it is advertised as solo travel, that was my expectation for the group dynamic. Everyone got along well but I am curious how a 100% solo adventurer group experience would be.
All in all, I would take another flash pack trip.
I am providing my honest feedback because reading the feedback is why I chose Flash Pack and I do believe the company cares about our experiences!