GoLite Ion Concept Modification

[Don Meredith]

I've posted a few times on my Ion pack mods. I'm still obsessesed with the pack as but its volume can be a touch limiting. To make it more flexible I'm working on a modular extension concept. Obviously, its a concept that can extend to any pack but its particularly relevant to low volume packs like the Ion. I'm taking it out on a 2 night trip to the Grayson Highlands this weekend. I'll follow up with a trip report when I'm back.

The second photo shows the expansion pack just sitting on the Ion. I'll have it connected to corresponding tabs on the pack for actual use.

Don Meredith

lightpack.blogspot.com

[Javan Dempsey]

Been working on something very similar Don, except that I'm attaching to the bottom, with a cuben dry-bag.

For me personally, because of my hair situation, adding volume vertically isn't an option (roll top style, etc.), and I don't like adding too much weight to the back where I"ve already put a pocket.

I'll post pics when I get done. Great work. Chris and I have been discussing pack modularity a lot lately, and wondering why it isn't more prevalent.

[Brian UL]

I really like the zipper opening, its so clean. I think a pack with that kind of opening would be interesting. Simple and light.

[Dan Johnson]

That looks pretty cool Don!

I'm curious to know why you went with a "mini pack" design instead of adding a large mesh pack pocket?

[Javan Dempsey]

Modularity mayhaps?

[Steven Paris]

Nice work! Looks like it can really increase the functionality of the Ion.

I always liked Osprey's modular system on their packs, although my Aether 75 was big enough for backpacking trips that I never actually needed to use any of the accessories.

What items are you thinking you'll carry in the pocket?

[Don Meredith]

Steven – the idea was to get the compressible high volume stuff out of the pack and on the back. Dense items wouldn't be a good idea all the way back there.

The trip this weekend was great. The pack expansion as a concept worked well. I did confirm that I'm not qualified to sew in zippers, however (partial seam blow). Lessons learned:

1. Larger opening needed for practical packing / unpacking
2. Quick connect and disconnect concept works fine (bungee with cord locks)
3. The next revision needs to be sewn by someone with more skills than me.

[Don Meredith]

Here's a shot of the pack extension full of gear on the trail.

DM

[Mike M]

interesting to say the least :)

any idea of the ~ volume of the add on? weight?

I've been able to get 4 days out of my Ion, that's w/ front/side mesh pockets- I'm afraid any longer (even w/ additional volume) the weight would start being an issue

[Don Meredith]

My issue isn't really weight – its bulk. The expansion pack is only a few liters. Fully packed for two comfortable nights (including 1L water) I was at 13lbs.

[Michael Crosby]

Here is an old thread where we discuss getting 10 days worth of gear in an Ion.

Your expansion pack is a great idea!

[Jerry Wick]

Don, the pocket looks great, well made and the modular concept is interesting.

But I have to ask, why not just use a bit larger pack?

Jerry

[Don Meredith]

I don't like the idea of having several packs around for varying trip requirements. The base Ion works for most of my trips without modification beyond the side and back pockets that I've already added. With the modular expansion I can use it for winter trips and longer trips in warm weather. Its one of the most comfortable packs that I've ever walked with.

Don Meredith

lightpack.blogspot.com

[Jerry Wick]

Perfectly understandable, on all points. Thanks for the reply.

Nice blog, too. I like that Black Sheep.

Jerry

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