Abstract: The present invention relates to a backpack system. In one embodiment, the backpack system of the present invention comprises: a harness system; an interchangeable bag; and a mounting system that joins the bag to the harness and permits the wearer to manipulate the bag in several ways so as to provide rapid access to the bag and to permit repositioning of the bag from the back of the wearer to the front or side of the wearer. In one embodiment, the harness system comprises a single bifurcated shoulder strap, or even two individual shoulder straps, and a back component that is comprised of one or more alignment features to permit alignment of connectivity of the interchangeable bag. In one embodiment, the harness system can comprise two shoulder straps, a waist and/or belt strap, and a back component that comprises one or more alignment features to align and connect the interchangeable bag.