Abstract: A backpack includes a waistbelt system with a pocket formed by a pair of longitudinally extending spaced-apart flexible straps for receiving the hipbone of the user. The pocket is formed by a pair of longitudinally extending spaced-apart flexible strap. One of the longitudinally extending horizontal straps on either side of the waistbelt system is adjustable so that each separate side of the waistbelt system can be tilted to fit users having large hips or stomachs. A pair of hip cushions are provided on the waistbelt system, one on either side, which are connected to the remainder of the waistbelt system in a manner which allows relative movement between the hip cushion and the waistbelt assembly to reduce frictional forces upon the user. A shoulder width-adjustment system includes a spring bias member and an adjustment strap which allows a pair of shoulder strap support members to be adjusted to the desired shoulder width.

Abstract: A lashing system for selectively attaching a component to a piece of material includes a pair of anchors or loops which are attached in a spaced part relationship to the piece of material. A pair of releasable connectors are provided on the component for engaging with the loops. The releasable connectors are positioned so that a fixed portion is mounted to the front side of the component and a moveable portion of the releasable connector is mounted at a terminal end to the back side of the component. The free end of the moveable portion of the releasable connector can be threaded through the loop to engage the loop and then can be connected to the matching surface of the releasable connector on the front side of the component. A lashing system is provided for the interior or exterior of a travel bag or backpack to lash containers, panels, or walls to the side panels thereof. A matrix of anchors is provided for the releasable connectors on the containers, panels or walls to engage therewith.

Abstract: A lumbar pack having a bag and a waistbelt attached to the bag and including an elongated, flexible, semi-rigid support member flexed into a curved shape and received within the bag. The support member is of sufficient height when in this curved shape to extend from the buttocks of the user to the thoracic region of the user. A pair of adjustable straps are provided, one on either of opposite sides of the pack, to adjust the pack into a position adjacent the lumbar region of the user. When in this adjusted position, the flexible support member serves to bring the upper portion of the bag against the thoracic region of the user's back. The support member may include a pair of elongated delrin rods. The bag includes a front and a back interior wall with top edges folded over to form pockets therein for receiving the ends of the flexed rods so as to retain the rod within the compartments.