Abstract: A lightweight, flexible backpacking harness includes a pair of elongated shoulder straps crossed and permanently joined intermediate their ends and having their end portions adapted to be releasably and adjustably joined to one another. In use, the crossed permanently joined portions of the shoulder straps are positioned on the wearer's back and one end portion of the joined straps extend one over each shoulder and the other end portions extend one around each side of the body from back to front in position to be releasably and adjustably joined to the strap portion extending over the shoulder on the corresponding side of the wearer. An adjustable chest strap releasably connects the joined end portions of the shoulder straps, and a plurality of pair of elongated flexible ties or straps are permanently joined to the two shoulder straps in the area thereof extending over the wearer's back to enable articles to be secured on the harness for carrying.