Abstract: A backpack assembly includes a backpack with a front surface for facing the person wearing the backpack. Shoulder straps extend from the front surface to the enable the backpack to the mounted on the shoulders of a wearer. A load transfer device is secured to lower portions of the front surface of the backpack. The load transfer device generally assumes the shape of an inverted T with a central support and left and right lower side supports. Front surfaces of the left and right side supports have compound curved shapes configured to the nest into lower portions of the back of the person wearing the backpack so that loads are transferred from the shoulders to the upper regions of the pelvic.