Abstract: A removable inflatable support and comfort bag that is designed to be inserted into a specially formed pocket built into the lumbar region of a backpack waist belt. The partially or fully inflated bag helps transfer the weight of the load of the backpack in the lumbar region of the user's back, providing relief from fatigue. The bag is in the form of an airtight, watertight bladder that is insertable into a lumbar pocket in the waist belt of a backpack, and is connected by a hose to a hand pump which includes a release valve. The waist belt may include a pre-molded pad with grooves for channeling perspiration and moisture away from the lumbar region.

Abstract: An internal frame backpack having a large flat closable pocket along one entire side which pocket is adapted to receive a rigid contoured rectangular piece in order to provide support for said pack. The piece may be corrugated for additional strength, and is specially molded to conform to the lumbar region, shoulders, back and head of a human wearer so as to minimize interference with the free movement of the wearer's back, shoulders and head. An alternative embodiment provides contours adapted to receive the shoulder straps of the backpack to avoid their rubbing against the back of the user.