Alice Pack - Hipster Backpack for camping, travel and retro military

I took a trip last summer that required a backpack capable of safely and comfortably carrying my belongings for short trips lasting around 2-4 days each. I had a base with friends where I could leave larger bags. I started shopping around and looking at options and realized the most economical one was in my garage.

My roommate had a medium sized AlicePack on a frame that she used in college and it was still as sturdy and capable as ever. While learning the best way to pack and carry this classic piece of military equipment, I wanted to learn about it's history as well.

This classic rucksack developed for the military can be modified for many modern uses beyond it's typical military equipment load. The nickname for the Alice Packs comes from the acronym All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. Any military surplus store will have packs, accessories and even modern versions that can be adapted to your specific or flexible needs.

Since last summer, I have used my Alice Pack for short weekends, even a conference at SXSW. I can carry a laptop, digital equipment and all the backup snacks and drinks to keep me going through the day or even a weekend.