The exposed frame and huge carrying capacity of old-school external frame packs make them prime for enhancements.
Attaching sleeping pads, custom pouches, utility loops, and other add-ons lets you build a hyper-functional backcountry hauler tailored to your needs.
Whether you want to strap bulky gear to the exterior, mount essentials for quick access, or inject personal style into a hand-me-down Kelty external frame backpack, customizing options abound.
Prime Real Estate for Adding Gear
The exterior frame on an external pack offers almost unlimited possibilities for lashing on extra items. Take advantage of this prime vacant real estate:
- Above/below main bag: Great for sleeping pads, tents, and long/awkwardly shaped items.
- Side and bottom bars: Add pouches here for quick-grab items like water bottles.
- Vertical bars: weave on angled compression straps to hold poles, tripods, or snowshoes vertically.
- Hip belt: Attach holsters for camera gear or walkie-talkies.
- Shoulder straps: Sew on small stash pockets for snacks and maps within reach.
Daisy-chain webbing stitches on the frame allow versatile gear and accessory attachment.
Secure Lashing Methods
How you lash and fasten additional gear determines whether it stays put or bounces annoyingly with each step. Some top lashing options:
- Voile straps: Use bungee cords to tightly compress and bind items using strong Velcro-type closures. Ideal for tent poles, pads, snowshoes, etc.
- Webbing straps: Loop 1” tubular webbing anywhere on the frame then fasten with a secure buckle. Great general utility straps.
- Bungees: The rubber cord bunnies with metal hooks included on most external frame packs are handy for attaching items quickly.
- Rope: Cordage lets you lash gear precisely. Combine with knots or carabiners for a solid hold.
- Zip ties: Weave cable zip ties through frame openings to create instant attachment loops and anchors.
Try different combinations of fasteners until the gear feels rock-solid when you move.
Ingenious Add-On Pocket Designs
With some basic sewing or crafting skills, it’s easy to DIY handy organizational pouches for your frame pack. Attach them wherever a pocket is needed!
- Water bottle holders: Simple mesh or fabric pockets with drawstring tops. Strap to the frame at hip level for access without removing the pack.
- Utility pouches: Boxy cordura nylon pouches secured with clips or straps keep essentials orderly.
- Stash pockets: Use lightweight fabric and elastic to create pockets for snacks, chapstick, batteries, maps, etc.
- First aid kits: A red cross makes removable medical kits highly visible. Use clear vinyl to see the contents.
- Tool rolls: Roll up knife/saw/axe sheaths and secure with daisy chains. Quickly see if one is missing.
Let your imagination run wild! Any flat object can become an exterior framed pack pocket.
Fun Personalized Touches
Beyond function, it’s easy to infuse personality and custom style into a bland Kelty or outfitter pack frame:
- Decorate the frame tubes with spray paint, stickers, duct tape, sharpie art, etc.
- Upgrade drab hip belts or straps with padded, color-coordinated replacements.
- Wrap the handle in colorful grip tape, tennis wrap, or leather.
- Add a name patch or your home state’s flag. It will stand out at shelters.
- Stencil inspiring quotes, trail names, or logos onto pack surfaces.
- Night hiking? Attach reflective tape designs for shine and safety.
