Abstract: The belt, convertible to a backpack, is worn about the waist of a person and includes an elongated strap, free end sections and a belt latch. The belt-backpack also includes a sack attached to the strap mid-section. The sack has an opening to permit access to its interior and a closure system (zipper, velcro, etc.,) for closing the sack opening. A pair of elongated extension panels is longitudinally affixed to an outer surface of the sack and each panel has an opposing free side edge. Each opposing free side edge has a complimentary closing system (preferably zipper) such that the extension panels and the strap form a pouch within which is disposed the folded sack and, in an opened condition, the sack is unfolded to expose the closable opening of the sack. The free end sections form backpack straps which permits the user to carry the sack.

Abstract: A system and related manufacturing and business methods based on bags comprising three-dimensional representations of items necessary to sports contests.

Abstract: An apparatus for use as a harness for a child so as to ensure that such child is within reach, the apparatus comprises a back pack member having a predetermined shape, a predetermined size and formed of a predetermined material for storing needed items. A securing means is engageable with the back pack and with such child for securing the back pack to such child's body, and an extension lead member is removably engageable with one of the back pack and the securing means for providing a predetermined distance that such child may stray from a care giver.

Abstract: A portable backpack workstation for holding tools and the like. The backpack includes a self-supporting rigid frame and a shell defining a body having a top, a bottom, a back and left and right wing panels. The left and right wing panels are movable between an open position and a closed position. A pair of shoulder straps are secured to the back of the body.

Abstract: A combination carry bag and personal armor for concealing and carrying a weapon. The carry bag includes a bag, a weapon support, a ballistic protection member and a first flap. The bag defines a modular accessory compartment sized to receive the weapon. The weapon support is disposed within the modular accessory compartment and is connected to the bag. The weapon support is dimensioned to secure the weapon to the bag. The first flap extends from the bag and carries at least a portion of the ballistic protection member.

Abstract: A style changeable backpack is disclosed where the backpack storage area is removable from a back support with shoulder straps to accommodate the style of the user. Backpacks of various styles and colors are combined or changed with back support and shoulder straps of various styles and colors. This allows a user to match the backpack and shoulder straps to the clothing that they are wearing as well as match the activities they will be performing. One style of storage area includes one or more transparent panels where pictures or drawings can be placed to further customize the backpack. The back support and shoulder straps are filled with memory foam to improve user comfort. A storage area can be configures as a gym bag, school backpack or a baby carrier. Other accessories can be added to the storage area to further coordinate the backpack as well as add additional functionality, these accessories can include water bottles, cell phone cases and lunch boxes.

Abstract: A backpack with a compression system includes a backpack body having a top side, a bottom side, two lateral sides, a body side, an outer side and a pair of shoulder straps. Each shoulder strap has a first end connected at a junction of the top side and the body side, and a second end connected to the backpack body at a junction of the bottom side and the body side. Each strap extends along a corresponding lateral side and the bottom of the backpack body, and is slidably connected to the backpack body at a junction of the body side and a corresponding lateral side, and at a junction of the corresponding lateral side and the outer side.

Abstract: A hand carriable container for a portable personal audio device of the type which is normally listened to with earphones. The container includes: structure for holding the portable personal audio device; a device, separate from the personal audio device, for amplifying sound from said personal audio device; a source of power separate from the personal audio device, for the amplifying mechanism; a pair of speakers; and wiring for electrically connecting the personal audio device, the speakers, and the power supply to the amplifying mechanism. The speakers are mounted in compartments which are detachable and remotely positionable from the main portion of the container. The main portion of the container includes structure for storing pre-recorded audio material. The wires to the speaker are supported by a take-up reel supported in the main portion of the container.

Abstract: A baby carrier comprises a wrapper partitioned to a front portion and a rear portion, front portion having a back support to support the back of a baby when needed and a hip sheet extending from the back support, the rear portion having a bottom sheet extending from the hip sheet and a rear sheet extending from the hip sheet, auxiliary supports each connected to the bottom sheet to support the thighs of the baby when needed, and shoulder straps connecting the back support to the auxiliary supports to hook the connected shoulder straps on the shoulders of a baby caretaker when needed. The hip sheet is foldable over on the bottom sheet so as to allow the baby to sit on the hip sheet detachably layered on the bottom sheet while being supported by the auxiliary supports.

Abstract: An upper torso garment, such as a jacket, can be folded within itself to transform it into a different shape for use as a pillow. In a further embodiment, the garment bears an integral back pack which can be used while the garment is being worn, and can be transformed into either the pillow shape or into a wearable back pack, with the garment structure fully contained and concealed in both of these configurations. The garment includes a flap element an integral hinge portion and separable fastener halves, e.g. zipper half sections, mounted to permit various parts of the garment to be fastened together in varying relative configurations by fastening one half section to various other mating half sections located on different parts of the garment.

Abstract: The convertible tote bag of the present invention comprises a container of any width, depth and length that can be either closed or open at the top, with or without exterior or interior pockets, with two carrying straps of adjustable size that are permanently attached on one end on opposite sides of the bag diagonally across from each other. The convertible tote bag can be carried in the hand or on the shoulder when the end of each strap that is not permanently attached to the bag is selectively attached to the attachment mechanism on the same side of the bag. In this invention there are two ways for the convertible tote bag to be worn as a backpack.

Abstract: A customizing pack carrier having one or a combination of independently unique and novel components comprising a main frame assembled of elongated or planar members having fixed or height-adjustable pack retainers, a single-handed operating method for adjusting retainer height, a support base that manually or self-adjusts to the depth of the pack, a quasi-permanent height-adjustable handle, an outer layer on an extendible main frame that can function as an amusing accessory and as part of a strap-lifting apparatus, a concealable seat and inclinable main frame combination, an ergonomically designed removable or non-removable back support, and a detachable shoulder harness, is provided. The main frame is adapted for use on ground casters, on upright and recumbent bikes, and on scooters. A one-piece clasping article for temporarily connecting any two tubes side by side as in connecting a tubular main frame to a tubular bike frame is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is a new, original and novel one piece sleeping bag/backpack with rollers that is folded and contained in an attached pocket cavity enclosure, and when folded becomes a square pillow. In addition, there is an optional matching small pillow that fits inside one of the many pockets contained on the sleeping bag for the child to use for his/her head when laying in the sleeping bag. The rollers/wheels are small and can be made with the rollers sewn and permanently attached to the bottom of the sleeping bag. The rollers are also conveniently attached with the use of snaps or Velcro® so that they can be removed for the washing machine. However, that is not necessary because the wheels are so small it causes no problem in the washing machine if they were permanently attached. If the wheels are attached it causes no discomfort to the child as they are positioned in such a way that the child does not notice them while sleeping or resting.

Abstract: A backpack hunting blind for use with a portable or fixed tree stand. The backpack has shoulder straps for carrying and one or more straps on its top portion for detachably securing the backpack to a tree stand. A hunting blind made of a flexible material is secured to the backpack and stowed therein when not deployed. The hunting blind has loop fasteners for detachably securing the blind to a tree stand. A rear portion of the backpack facing a user folds downwardly for deploying the blind. Easily accessible pockets are provided on a surface which faces a user when the rear portion of the pack is folded down.

Abstract: A multi-article storage carrier is based upon a sheet of flexible material comprising a plurality of compartments on one side for containing the articles, the sheet being folded at least once in each direction to form the carrier and enclose the articles securely. Securing and carrying means such as straps are provided on the surface of the sheet opposite the compartments so that they are exposed for use when the carrier is folded and/or rolled for carrying.

Abstract: A rucksack having a folding chair. The rucksack includes a back wall, a bag body of a large volume, a plurality of pockets respectively provided at predetermined portions of the bag body and having small volumes, and a pair of shoulder straps. The rucksack further includes a VELCRO releasable fastener having a pile piece and a hook piece constituting a fixed part which is provided at an upper portion of the back wall to have a predetermined area, while also constituting a movable part which is detachably fastened to the fixed part. The folding chair has the movable part of the VELCRO releasable fastener at a predetermined portion thereof, and is longer than the back wall. A cover covers the folding chair while exposing a predetermined portion of the folding chair to an outside, with a slide fastener being provided along each of both side edges of the back wall and an associated side edge of the cover to fasten the cover to the back wall.

Abstract: A luggage case is provided with straps or handles for carrying the case and a wheel and an extendable handle assembly for dragging or pulling the case. The wheel and extendable handle assembly is removably attachable to the case, such that it need not be carried when the case is carried by the straps or handles. The wheel and handle assembly are formed as a shell to snugly surround the luggage case. In the preferred embodiment, the case and the shell are joined by mating zippers at the bottom front and top rear edges of the assembly.

Abstract: A container with a cover for concealing an extendable handle and shoulder straps attached to the container is provided. The container is configured to be wheeled on a set of wheels by way of the extendable handle in a first transport mode and carried on a person's back using the shoulder straps in a second transport mode. The container has a front compartment for storing items, and a rear compartment for housing the extendable handle and the shoulder straps that are attached to and used for carrying the container. The shoulder straps and the extendable handle are both deployable from a covered opening in the rear compartment proximate to the container's top. The container further comprises a cover for covering at least a portion of the set of wheels in a second transport mode.

Abstract: A towable, wheeled-backpack includes a towing handle attached to a curved, single-pole, telescoping towing member which retracts into the backpack when not in use. The curvature of the towing member provides support for a backing sheet that is attached to the towing member, and the backing sheet is contoured so that the backpack can be comfortably supported on a wearer's back. A rigid base with wheels is pivotally attached to a bottom end of the towing member. The pivot attachment allows the base and wheels to move independently of the towing member as the bag is worn or as the bag is rolled along the ground.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for charging an electronic device using solar energy are disclosed. In one form, a portable storage apparatus operable to charge a battery associated with an electronic device is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first material configured to provide a storage space for storing articles. The storage space includes an interior portion and an exterior portion. The apparatus further includes a first flexible solar panel coupled to an exterior portion of the portable storage apparatus and integrated as a part of the first material. A second positional solar panel is also provided and coupled to an interior portion of the portable storage apparatus. The apparatus further includes a universal 12-volt charge port coupled to the first and second solar panels and operable to receive a charge conductor for charging the electronic device.

Abstract: A packable cart includes a pair of telescopic side rails with cross members removably positioned therebetween. A pair of wheels are received by the side rails for transportation. A pole handle extends from the ends of the side rails opposite the end near which the wheels are positioned. The packable cart is made of lightweight material and readily assembled and disassembled. A backpack is provided for receiving the cart in its disassembled state. The backpack also serves as a sling between the side rails which, when provided with an inflatable mattress, provides a bed rest. The pole handles are selectively rotatable to serve as support legs when it is desired that the cart be immobile and serve as a bed. The quick assembly of the cart is achieved, in part, by the provision of pin assemblies fixedly received by and operative in association with the cross members.

Abstract: The present invention is a beach accessory that combines a backpack and beach towel into an integral, unique product. The invention may also be used as an adjustable pillow for car and airplane travel. Fabricated from 100% terrycloth or velour towel and 100% cotton or cotton blends, the accessory is machine washable for easy care. The accessory can be easily unfolded to access the towel and just as easily refolded when desired. In backpack form, the invention includes ample storage space for personal items. An added feature incorporates a security pocket for the safekeeping of valuables. Adjustable straps are provided to ensure a good fit when the accessory is utilized as a backpack. The straps also function to secure the towel in a rolled-up configuration when employed as a pillow.

Abstract: A removable, storage box for use within a canoe or other small boat. The shape of the box is such that it fits securely within the tapered bow or stem of a canoe or any watercraft having adequately shaped bow and/or stern regions, without degrading the watercraft's stability or seaworthiness. The key to the utility of the box is that because of its overall shaped it can be wedged in between the watercraft's floor and the underside of its gunwale flanges. Once the box is so situated, its wedged fit holds it in place both for water travel; during portaging, it can be removed for carrying on one's back or it can be left in place to be carried along with the canoe. Also, because of the wedge fit, the lid of the box is held firmly closed during travel by the gunwale flanges. Because of the thermal insulation of the box, this tight closure of the lid allows either hot or cold items to be transported without their undergoing undesired temperature chages.

Abstract: A combination beach towel and knapsack in which the towel has a storage pocket or compartment at its top. The storage pocket has two clasp or similar fastening devices inside of the pocket. There are two drawstrings around the perimeter of the top of the pocket that when pulled, draws the top of the storage pocket into a closed position. The ends of the drawstrings are provided with fasteners.

Abstract: The triathlonbag is used for the rapid identification and segregation of triathlon equipment. The bag comprises a water-resistant base (11) to which water-resistant front and rear shells are connected with a waterproof closure device (16). Storage areas of meshed material are disposed on the interior (17, 18, 19) and exterior (1,3,4,5,6) surfaces of the shells and, along with a removable mesh cylinder (20), allow segregation of wet and dry items and rapid visual identification of and access to the equipment. This triathlonbag may be transported either as a duffel bag or as a backpack.

Abstract: The present invention provides a panel for use in an article carrier which has opposed sides which are generally connected by a material which include some form of a closure device. The panel is semirigid with interior and exterior faces. The interior face defines a chamber which opens to the interior of the article carrier and the exterior face defines a three dimensional structure. A method for forming the semirigid panel is also disclosed. The disclosed method provides a means for applying color to the three dimensional structure.

Abstract: A container with a cover for concealing carrying means attached to the container is provided. The container is configured to be wheeled on a set of wheels by way of an extendable handle in a first transport mode and carried on a person's back using shoulder straps in a second transport mode. The container has a front compartment for storing items, and a rear compartment for housing carrying means that are attached to and used for carrying the container. The carrying means include a set of wheels, a set of shoulder straps and an extendable handle. The shoulder straps and the extendable handle are both deployable from a covered opening in the rear compartment proximate to the container's top. The container further comprises a cover for covering at least a portion of the set of wheels in a second transport mode.

Abstract: An improved convertible luggage which conveniently converts from a wheeled suitcase to a backpack having a first compartment, a pair of wheels mounted to the first compartment, a second compartment affixed to the first compartment, a second compartment, a first cover on the backside of the first compartment forming a pocket, a frame piece situated within that pocket, a second cover, and a pair of shoulder straps. The frame piece is attached to an extendable handle, which gives the convertible luggage greater stability and rigidity while not detracting from the backpack's overall aesthetics nor lessening user comfort. The shoulder straps have two ends wherein the ends are affixed within the second compartment, such that the straps can be deployed by opening the second compartment, and when the second compartment is closed, the straps are secured within the second compartment.

Abstract: A knapsack or rucksack for providing leaning support for a wearer. The inventive rucksack or knapsack includes a back-wall and a bottom-wall formed of a rigid frame of a generally L-shape wherein a first leg of the frame supports the back-wall and a second leg supports the bottom-wall. The L-shape frame allows a user to lean against the back-wall of the rucksack or knapsack when the bottom-wall is on a support surface such as a floor.

Abstract: A laptop computer transport and support system for a mobile environment such as an airplane, bus or train is embodied as a wheeled clamshell style backpack carrying case with a retractable handle. The system is employed by unzipping three case edges and lifting a hinged protective cover thereby exposing a computer. The backpack straps unhook from the cover and secure to a user's seatback or around a user's headrest while strap posts at an opposite backpack strap end extend from the case and prevent strap interference with the user. A foldable or detachable handle permits retractable handle posts to extend on each side of the user and support the system against the seatback instead of the user when the system is used. Optionally, computer peripherals within a compartmentalized base are connected within the base to a docking station port and provide the computer with quick access to the peripherals.

Abstract: A soft-sided carrying case comprises a compartment having a plurality of sidewalls, a front wall, a back wall, a top wall, and a bottom wall, the back wall having a flap, the flap disposed on the back wall and shiftable between a closed position and an open position to conceal and reveal a back pack configuration. The backpack configuration includes a pair of shoulder straps secured to the back wall and a waist belt. The waist belt is secured to the flap and is foldable about a waist belt hinge so as to lie flat. The carrying case may also include a plurality of wheels and a telescoping handle to use the carrying case in a manner similar to a luggage cart.

Abstract: The triathlonbag is used for the rapid visual identification, and segregation of triathlon equipment. The bag comprises a water-resistant base (11) to which water-resistant front and rear shells (30-31) are connected with a waterproof closure device (10). Storage areas of meshed material are disposed on the interior (24-29) and exterior (1-3) surfaces of the shells, allowing segregation of wet and dry items and rapid visual identification of and access to the equipment. Triathlonbag may be transported either as a duffel bag or as a backpack.

Abstract: A backpack entertainment system with detachable speaker pockets is provided. The speaker pockets can be detached from the backpack and positioned separately therefrom to provide an enhanced stereo sound quality and/or ambience. Audio equipment within the backpack is connected to the speakers. The speaker pockets preferably comprise canvas or other like material, and can be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the backpack by zippers or other similar means.

Abstract: A rucksack with supple material walls comprising a retractable handle (7) and wheels. An incurvated interior base plate (2) is provided, plate made to form one piece with the base of at least one telescopic housing (10) of the rod(s) (1) of the retractable handle (7), housing provided internally in the baggage along one face. The aforesaid base plate (2) comprises openings (8, 8′) at the incurvation, openings receiving projecting wheels (5). The upper extremity (10) of the telescopic housing(s) is made to form one piece with a supporting plate (3) of the supple material extending perpendicular to the telescopic system. The face in contact with the back and provided with straps (31) is opposite the face adjacent to the telescopic housing (10).

Abstract: An outer assembling mechanism of a backpack for carrying a detachable skate in accordance with the present invention mainly comprises a base plate and a plurality of assembling seats fixed thereto. The assembling seats are adapted to releasably engage with the detachable skate in walking or to disengage with the detachable skate for skating.

Abstract: A container for transporting articles that transforms into a ballistic protection unit includes a bag and a detachable panel. The bag includes a first compartment for containment of at least one piece of ballistic shield material. The detachable panel also contains at least one piece of ballistic shield material and is coupled to the bag by at least a first strap. The detachable panel is detachably coupled to the bag. During use, the user may detach the detachable panel from the bag and the bag may be placed over a shoulder of the user, protecting the user from high speed projectiles.

Abstract: A kayak portage harness includes: a draw cord in a hem of the harness that is used to secure the hem of the harness under the lip of a kayak cockpit coaming and a pair of opposed hooks that are also secured to the lip of the kayak cockpit coaming at the front and rear of the coaming. In addition, the harness may include a pair of hull straps that extend from the harness about the hull of the kayak and carry paddle clips for securing a paddle to a side of the kayak. The harness is secured to the back of the kayaker in a substantially vertical position for portaging by shoulder straps and an equipment gear bag of the harness fits down through the kayak cockpit into the hull.

Abstract: The cover of a binder or album is provided with a coating which is receptive to inks which are water based, solvent based or gel based, and which is substantially water-fast after the ink has dried. A coated transparent or translucent sheet may be provided on the front cover of the binder to form a pocket so that visual material inserted in the pocket may be traced, and so that the cover may be personalized. The coating may include finely divided porous particulates and a binder which includes as a component a water soluble polymer. The coating may be applied to backpacks, zippered binders, and pencil pouches, and to the transparent sheet material overlying photographs mounted in a photo album. Personalized writing or designs may be written or drawn onto the coated products using ink pens of virtually any type.

Abstract: An improved convertible luggage which conveniently converts from a wheeled suitcase to a backpack having a first compartment, a pair of wheels mounted to the first compartment, a second compartment affixed to the first compartment, a second compartment, a first cover on the backside of the first compartment forming a pocket, a frame piece situated within that pocket, a second cover, and a pair of shoulder straps. The frame piece is attached to an extendable handle, which gives the convertible luggage greater stability and rigidity while not detracting from the backpack's overall aesthetics nor lessening user comfort. The shoulder straps have two ends wherein the ends are affixed within the second compartment, such that the straps can be deployed by opening the second compartment, and when the second compartment is closed, the straps are secured within the second compartment.

Abstract: A sports equipment bag (10) having a water-resistant outer shell (12) with multiple ventilation assemblies (25) for exposing the interior of the bag to free air circulation. Each ventilation assembly includes an opening formed in the outer shell (12) that is covered by a mesh lining (42) and a flap (30) which can be selectively opened and closed using a zipper (93). In one embodiment, the bag (10) includes openings on both sides (16, 18) and both ends (20,22) of the bag (10). In an alternate embodiment the bag (57) includes openings (66) on both sides only. In another alternate embodiment, the bag (68) includes a vent (73) at one end and a fan assembly (80) located at the other end (74). The fan assembly (80) includes an electric fan (76) which draws air through the interior of the bag through a vent (73) located on the opposing end of the bag (68).

Abstract: A backpack including integral raingear includes a securing tabs for rapid deployment of the raingear. The securing tabs are attached to pull-strings that are used to deploy the raingear. A front half of the raingear is pulled over the users head and drapes down around the front of the user. The rear half of the raingear drapes down over the backpack and the hind-side of the user to prevent the back of the user and contents of the backpack from becoming wet. When deployed, fastening devices are used to fasten the front and back halves of the raingear together.

Abstract: These abstracts show that the Card & Comics Collectors Backpack is a new idea. The card collector's backpack has three clear plastic pockets on the front of the bag. It also has clear plastic pocket on each shoulder strap that holds a single card. Inside the backpack, which unzips from the right side that allows the backpack to open up like a book. It has a three ring binder, which will pull open to hold Trading Cards Pages. You will also find mesh pockets to hold a new deck of cards. The Comics Back Pack is basically the same the only difference is, it has a clear plastic pocket that is made to carry a comic book on the front of the bag cover and no pockets on the straps.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a backpack having a plurality of compartments and modes. Each compartment has a plurality of pockets. The pockets are designed to hold tools or other items in an individual manner. The invention also comprises a waist belt having two quick release clips or buckles to be removable along with its belly pack. The buckles also allow a user to open the waistband and then to turn the pack around the user's body so the back can be accessed by the user without the need to remove the pack from the user's body. The invention also comprises a water source in the pack. A dedicated compartment allows a user to place a water container in the pack for transport and storage of water. This also allows a user ready access the water while engaged in an activity. A bicyclist can carry the rear bag on his back in a first mode. He can disconnect one buckle to rotate the rear back to his belly for a second mode. He can disconnect the waist band and belly pack for a third mode.

Abstract: A combination backpack and duffel bag in the form of a rectangular parallelpiped made from a flexible fabric material includes handles, and storage pockets for the handles when the bag is in the form of a duffel, and backpack straps stored in a side storage pocket for use in the backpack configuration.

Abstract: A luggage case is provided with straps or handles for carrying the case and a wheel and an extendable handle assembly for dragging or pulling the case. The wheel and extendable handle assembly is removably attachable to the case, such that it need not be carried when the case is carried by the straps or handles. The wheel and handle assembly are formed as a shell to snugly surround the luggage case. In the preferred embodiment, the case and the shell are joined by mating zippers at the bottom front and top rear edges of the assembly.

Abstract: An improved convertible backpack construction is convertible from wheeled luggage to backpack and includes a back panel with a pocket for storing attachment belts and carrying straps.

Abstract: A packable cart includes a pair of telescopic side rails with cross members removably positioned therebetween. A pair of wheels are received by the side rails for transportation. A pole handle extends from the ends of the side rails opposite the end near which the wheels are positioned. The packable cart is made of lightweight material and readily assembled and disassembled. A backpack is provided for receiving the cart in its disassembled state. The backpack also serves as a sling between the side rails which, when provided with an inflatable mattress, provides a bed rest. The pole handles are selectively rotatable to serve as support legs when it is desired that the cart be immobile and serve as a bed. The quick assembly of the cart is achieved, in part, by the provision of pin assemblies fixedly received by and operative in association with the cross members.

Abstract: A multi-article storage carrier is based upon a sheet of flexible material comprising a plurality of compartments on one side for containing the articles, the sheet being folded at least once in each direction to form the carrier and enclose the articles securely. Securing and carrying means such as straps are provided on the surface of the sheet opposite the compartments so that they are exposed for use when the carrier is folded and/or rolled for carrying.

Abstract: A backpack unit comprising a frame of a material selected from a metal alloy, including, but not limited to, aluminum, aluminum alloy, steel, and steel alloy or plastic. The frame includes a U-shaped seat frame pivotally coupled at its ends to ends of a U-shaped back frame through a cross-member, a U-shaped front leg frame pivotally coupled to the seat panel and pivotally coupled at its ends to ends of a U-shaped back leg frame. The frame is capable of being folded such that the back frame, the seat frame, the front leg frame, and the back leg frame folds substantially parallel and adjacent to one another.

Abstract: A backpack having a waist encircling belt, and an attached set of shoulder straps which retract into a discreet pocket when not in use. There is a set of shoulder straps having clips on one end, and these are carried in, and attached to, a discreet pocket at the other end which is location on the outside, rear panel of the pack where the shoulder straps are readily accessible and can easily be drawn out and attached to rear side portions of the waist encircling belt. This provides additional support for the pack on an as-needed basis, and has the added benefit of being quickly and easily stowed when not in use.