Ultralight backpack manufacturers cut down on pack weight by removing a lot of creature comforts that you will normally find on heavier or mainstream backpacks. For example, hip belt pockets are not available as an option on my new Gossamer Gear Mariposa Plus backpack. These pockets are really handy for storing bug dope, Purell, sun tan lotion or a digital camera, so you don’t have to stop hiking when you want to use them. Extra hip belt pockets are an option provided on the slightly heavier Six Moon Designs Startlite pack, which I also own and recommend.

Mountain Laurel Designs - Shoulder Backpack Pocket

If your pack doesn’t come with extra hip belt pockets, you can buy these separately from a small ultralight gear manufacturer called Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD). They also sell very lightweight tarps, backpacks, and other UL accessories. In the picture above, you can see MLD’s aftermarket Gear Pocket (0.33 oz) for shoulder straps. It is perfectly sized to hold a digital camera or small bottles of DEET, Purell, or sun tan lotion. The pocket has two elastic straps that slip over the shoulder pad and a small buckle that attaches to the elastic hydration tube band found on shoulder straps and prevents the pocket from slipping down. The top of the pocket seals with velcro and a metal snap for security.  MLD also sells other add-on pockets that attach to pack hip belts or to the two sides of your sternum strap. Pricing for these add-on pockets runs from $18-$22. MLD will also create custom gear for you, if requested.

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