Upside down pack

I say make it…just because it probably hasn't been done before. But, it sounds like a panel loader would solve your problems.

i am very intrigued by this idea. Make it a roll top closure and instead of rolling it toward the front of the pack roll it toward your back. This will keep the pack very weather proof and keep the closure secure.

You could also make the pack a panel loader and instead of the pack being upside down you could just pack it the way you like.

-Tim

Tim,
Use a panel load style but instead opening folding downward for access have it open/fold upward. The zippered panel would look like a U, with the zipper pulls positioned upward when the pack is open. One could still incorporate a front mesh pocket by having it sewn inbound of the zipper track.

This would still allow for a fixed bottom panel which I feel is critical to the packs structural integrity and strength under load.

a pack like the SMD traveler (i think thats it) could be pack this way as is. Thats all i was saying.

-Tim

Big external pockets might solve the prob.

That sounds like an interesting idea Max! You must have had an innovative teacher! Make sure to include some pockets for items you'll want to access throughout the day and without having to take your pack off. Remember though, many people pack with sleeping bag in bottom to get the bulk of the weight of the pack higher and closer to their upper back (the area within the backpack that carries most efficiently in many people's minds). Are you going to include a hipbelt? I've definitely found that a hipbelt makes a huge difference in load control, regardless of wear in the pack you put the bulk of its weight. Good luck and let us know how it goes!

> I put my sleeping bag, tarp, and jackets all at the bottom and the stuff I need throughout
> the day while I'm hiking, food and water at the top, near the opening. However, this
> leads to an imbalanced pack

With the exception of the tent, that is what I do too. However, I think it gives the *right* weight distribution: the light stuff at the bottom and the heavy stuff higher up. That makes for better load transfer and better balance.

Tent – just how do you get a wet tent at the bottom of your pack in the pouring rain? Strange idea. My tent goes on the top of my pack *outside* the waterproof section. Sure, I have to remove it when I stop for a meal – so what? I have to do a lot more unpacking than that to get my lunch out!

Cheers

A zipper opening, like a sleeping bag compartment on a conventional pack, might do the trick. Open at both ends. Or maybe velcro bottom roll top lid…Keep us up to date, this sounds cool.

Hmmm, what if you just packed your pack the way you want it packed? Am I missing something? Just curious. Ali