Packing my MLD Newt for a SUL trip

Hello

I use two water bottles attached with MLD bungee cord on straps. Gossamer Gear nightlight pad fits under rear bungee. This frees up interior space.My cuben poncho/tarp can go inside or out. I really like the newt.

Jim

I've done water bottles on my shoulders before. I found that I was comfortable carrying a 20oz bottle of water on each shoulder, but the 1Qt bottles where just a bit too big. I normally use the powerade bottles if that matters. Depending on where you hike, going SUL is a great way to simply carry less water, so this may work for you.

I've put a tarp out the outside of my pack using lashing plenty of times, and I haven't really had a problem with it

As for a removable pockets, I would think about doing something like Example 1 as the easiest. If I were doing it, I would just make a channel at the bottom and string some drawcord through it. Tie the drawcord to the two bottom lashing loops. Then, making a channel at the top and put some shockcord through that. Tie the shockcord to the top two loops. This way the top opens up, but not the bottom.

I'd go with the Z-Packs chest pack and rig it to attatch to your pack's Lower shoulder straps (the webbing parts) with a quick release buckle on one side and 2 vertical-to-horizontal slider buckles (at REI).

The slider buckles go on the shoulder strap webbing. Only one QR buckle is needed on whichever side you like. (Look at a Dana Designs Rib or Wet Rib front pocket to get the ides.)

Attatch the "male" end of the QR buckle to the slider with a short piece of webbing from the Z-Pack. You'll have to sew the webbing once the half of the buckle is on.

Carrying some weight here balances your pack better AND fast access to things is SO much easier. I have a Dana Wet Rib (it has a water bottle sleeve on the left end of the pocket.) This is great for electrolyte drinks. A Camelbak hydration system rides inside my pack.