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Mobile phone pouch for backpack straps

Tassie Kaz

Sempre Avanti
Time of past OR future Camino
2024?
Walking the VF from March & for the first time, I'll be leaving my camera behind & just taking my mobile phone. I'm used to my camera case being looped through the waist/hip straps of my backpack which has always worked well as its easily accessible. I'm hoping to adopt the same method with my phone but struggling to find a suitable pouch. I don't want a separate item around my waist (like a bum bag) but just a pouch to loop on my backpack strap. Seems obvious to put the phone in a clothing pocket but that doesn't work for me. Anyone know of a product to fit the bill? Still searching.... Thanks 👣 🌏
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
 
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The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including being made into favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
Okay...
 
Thanks Davebugg. Definitely some brands there I hadn't heard of...admittedly I only looked on Amazon Australia. Think I've found a suitable pouch on eBay. It actually comes under 'army tactical gear'...sure to make a fashion statement but should be durable! 😁
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
My backpack has a perfect pocket on the hip strap but what you desribe would be very easy to make!
A pocket on the hip strap..good design is a wonderful thing! Sewing not my strong suit (I tend to staple everything 😇 ) but think I've found a suitable item on eBay for under $10 incl postage. What brand backpack do you have?...just for future reference! Thanks 👣 🌏
 
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
Australian Customs would be thrilled.... 🐖 👮‍♀️🌏
 
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A pocket on the hip strap..good design is a wonderful thing! Sewing not my strong suit (I tend to staple everything 😇 ) but think I've found a suitable item on eBay for under $10 incl postage. What brand backpack do you have?...just for future reference! Thanks 👣 🌏
Deuter SL 35+10 but many packs have this feature.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
Wow, it must have taken real guts to wear something like that.
 
I prefer to keep my smartphone on my person at all times. This is for ready access, to prevent loss or theft, and to protect the device from both impact and the elements. Where I go, the phone goes. I could easily carry it on a rucksack strap, but that puts it one "senior moment" away from loss...o_O

To date, I have placed my smartphone in a HD Lok Sack pouch, then into a cargo pocket, when not in use. This has worked very well. But, when I am using it constantly for route detection or research, or to take photos, etc. it is out of the pouch and stuck in any available pocket. This is not a wise idea.

Most everything in my mochila can easily be replaced by a visit to the nearest Decathlon. But, and as most of you might agree, losing your smartphone would be a crisis of somewhat larger proportions.

This past off-season, I found a line of very durable cargo trousers, without zip offs, made of 80 % poly and 20 % cotton. They are made by 'Tru-Spec.'

Yes, I know they digress from the normal 100 % polyester for very rapid air drying. And if you want shorts you have to buy a second pair as they do not have zips.

But, these pants come out of the washing machine / lavadera spin cycle already starting to dry in places, before they are hung on a line or thrown in the dryer / secadora. So, that may argue in favor of considering these Tru-Spec Ascent pants for Camino use. Normally, cotton is a 'no-no.' But, it might be worth a try.

The feature that really endears them to me is a separate, purpose-made pocket, immediately behind each lower cargo pocket, specifically sized for a smartphone. The pocket is an open top slot, but is very deep. My iPhone XR rides in there very well, and does not tip or slide out when I sit or drive.

I haven't tried a head-stand yet, nor am I likely to. But, my sense is that is what it would take to allow the phone to come out unintentionally. Each leg has this most excellent pocket.

PLUS, each hip has an additional pocket sized to hold a multi-tool or torch / flashlight, or even a pair of reader eyeglasses for folks of a certain age... ;)These tool pockets are located just behind and slightly up from the side 'hip' pockets.

This, in addition to 2 (each) cargo pockets, hip pockets, and rear pockets. That is 10 pockets in all, if my fingers don't lie. Don't forget a good belt...or suspenders...to hold them up when you are "geared-up."

I now wear these long pants, or identical shorts (10" inseam), for daily use here in Florida. They have become my go to pants. Also, I am considering using them for my upcoming Camino Primitivo in May this year, instead of my go-to REI Sahara double-zip pants. It depends on the weather. I may wear one long pair and bring a second pair of shorts. We shall see... Still mending from two surgeries... first, I have to get better enough to walk for a few weeks.

If you might be interested in these pants for Camino use, you can find them at www.truspec.com, or at other vendors. The style is called "Ascent." Here is the direct link for:

Men's: http://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/pants/mens-ascent-pants

Women's: https://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/womens-apparel/women-s-ascent-pants

I checked Amazon. They are available there. You might be able to save money on some colors or sizes...

Hope this helps.
 
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The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
In the many years that I have been hiking and backpacking, I settled with a Cliphanger on my phone. I can attach on a belt loop, my waist belt, a shoulder strap, almost anywhere. And it's small enough that I can still fit my phone in my pants pocket if I choose.

https://www.cliphanger.com/
 
In the many years that I have been hiking and backpacking, I settled with a Cliphanger on my phone. I can attach on a belt loop, my waist belt, a shoulder strap, almost anywhere. And it's small enough that I can still fit my phone in my pants pocket if I choose.

https://www.cliphanger.com/
Interesting product...any issues with the phone banging around? ie when you bend over etc? 😊
 
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Walking the VF from March & for the first time, I'll be leaving my camera behind & just taking my mobile phone. I'm used to my camera case being looped through the waist/hip straps of my backpack which has always worked well as its easily accessible. I'm hoping to adopt the same method with my phone but struggling to find a suitable pouch. I don't want a separate item around my waist (like a bum bag) but just a pouch to loop on my backpack strap. Seems obvious to put the phone in a clothing pocket but that doesn't work for me. Anyone know of a product to fit the bill? Still searching.... Thanks 👣 🌏
I modified an Osprey bag with a small hole each side to be able to clip on the front of my shoulder straps with a carabiner each side through the holes. See first photo. I used this for my glasses, phone, passport, wallet etc - ie, all my valuables. It had the advantage of a strap tucked in behind in its own pocket which I could pull out after walking and use it as a bum bag or shoulder bag. See second photo. All available in Aust. I found it very easy to clip on and off and so was able to keep my valuables with me at all times. Even for short stops for lunch etc.
 

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Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I modified an Osprey bag with a small hole each side to be able to clip on the front of my shoulder straps with a carabiner each side through the holes. See first photo. I used this for my glasses, phone, passport, wallet etc - ie, all my valuables. It had the advantage of a strap tucked in behind in its own pocket which I could pull out after walking and use it as a bum bag or shoulder bag. See second photo. All available in Aust. I found it very easy to clip on and off and so was able to keep my valuables with me at all times. Even for short stops for lunch etc.
Necessity is the mother of invention Geoff 👍 Great job...we love multi-purpose & adaptability. I think preferred body positioning of a bag/pouch may be different for males & females...there are some places where you just don't want any extra baggage! 😄 A waist set-up works best for me. I think I've resolved the issue with the purchase of an army-type holster pouch. Now I just have to wait for it to arrive in the post... 👣 🌏
 
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Necessity is the mother of invention Geoff 👍 Great job...we love multi-purpose & adaptability. I think preferred body positioning of a bag/pouch may be different for males & females...there are some places where you just don't want any extra baggage! 😄 A waist set-up works best for me. I think I've resolved the issue with the purchase of an army-type holster pouch. Now I just have to wait for it to arrive in the post... 👣 🌏
@kazrobbo, good call😄. Yes there would be obvious ‘lady issues’ with my arrangement. Good luck and Cooee. Have a great Camino.
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Necessity is the mother of invention Geoff 👍 Great job...we love multi-purpose & adaptability. I think preferred body positioning of a bag/pouch may be different for males & females...there are some places where you just don't want any extra baggage! 😄 A waist set-up works best for me. I think I've resolved the issue with the purchase of an army-type holster pouch. Now I just have to wait for it to arrive in the post... 👣 🌏

Outstanding! I have that same Osprey 'bum bag.' I don't think they make it anymore. Your adaptation is great. I did not work out as a waist-type bag as it was too small. But, as a high carry chest bag for stuff you want quick access to...great idea!!!

If anatomy precludes a high chest carry, consider wearing it cross shoulder, as Geoff's second photo shows. You put it on BEFORE your rucksack. I have done this with other sorts of bags. It works well. Plus, the small sack is always with you, even if you remove your rucksack.

Hope this helps.
 
Outstanding! I have that same Osprey 'bum bag.' I don't think they make it anymore. Your adaptation is great. I did not work out as a waist-type bag as it was too small. But, as a high carry chest bag for stuff you want quick access to...great idea!!!

If anatomy precludes a high chest carry, consider wearing it cross shoulder, as Geoff's second photo shows. You put it on BEFORE your rucksack. I have done this with other sorts of bags. It works well. Plus, the small sack is always with you, even if you remove your rucksack.

Hope this helps.
I have the Pacsafe Citysafe CS25 which I'm taking with me; it can be worn either across the body or as a bumbag. Perfect size for essentials needing to be readily accessed & built-in RFID protection to boot.
My original plan was this item would 'triple-up' as the pouch to be looped through my backpack waist strap however the loops aren't quite wide enough to get the clips of my favourite backpack through. The straps/clips of 2 of my other backpacks do fit, but of course I want to take 'Old Faithful' with me... 🤗 👣 🌏
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I modified an Osprey bag with a small hole each side to be able to clip on the front of my shoulder straps with a carabiner each side through the holes. See first photo. I used this for my glasses, phone, passport, wallet etc - ie, all my valuables. It had the advantage of a strap tucked in behind in its own pocket which I could pull out after walking and use it as a bum bag or shoulder bag. See second photo. All available in Aust. I found it very easy to clip on and off and so was able to keep my valuables with me at all times. Even for short stops for lunch etc.

Nice! Must look out for one :)
This looks similar @Geoff Shepherd?
https://www.paddypallin.com.au/osprey-ultralight-grabbag.html
 
Interesting product...any issues with the phone banging around? ie when you bend over etc? 😊

All depends on where you put it. When I have my pack on, I usually have it clipped to my waist belt where I can easily get to it for that quick picture. After taking my pack off, I clip my phone to a belt loop where it does move around more, but it doesn't bother me.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
 
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A pocket on the hip strap..good design is a wonderful thing! Sewing not my strong suit (I tend to staple everything 😇 ) but think I've found a suitable item on eBay for under $10 incl postage. What brand backpack do you have?...just for future reference! Thanks 👣 🌏
Deuter has a pouch on one side of older packs, and both sides on some newer models. iPhone 5-8 fit perfectly.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
If still open to ideas, I take two small Hero style cameras. One does stills and the other does video, only a couple ounces a piece. I went to the thrift store and found a small camera bag that fits all the camera stuff, including cables, charger etc. Total cost: C$2.50. I saw similar cases there too for as little as a dollar. To clip to my straps, I used a couple of carabiners. Easy peasy.
 
I'm not sure if you are in Hobart? I'm guessing you could be? If you are, I sold a small Salomon pouch to Recycled Recreation recently. It was meant to be a small bottle holder, but I had used it to hold my ph on my last pack. I would say it would work for you if it is still there.
 
I'm not sure if you are in Hobart? I'm guessing you could be? If you are, I sold a small Salomon pouch to Recycled Recreation recently. It was meant to be a small bottle holder, but I had used it to hold my ph on my last pack. I would say it would work for you if it is still there.
No, not in Hobart but next time I am, I will certainly check out Recycled Recreation...hadn't heard of them before but what a great idea for buying & selling gear! Also I didn't know Salomon did items other than footwear & clothing. I absolutely love their shoes...since discovering them, I won't wear anything else. Thanks for both tips Chaya! 👍
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
Ah! Simpler times eh?
 
I use one of THESE - clips on to belt or pack. My Samsung pokes out enough to be easily gripped for removal and it isn't too tight so when you need to take a quick snap you won't struggle. Stops me pocket dialing people too!
 
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
😂😂😂 love this
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I prefer to keep my smartphone on my person at all times. This is for ready access, to prevent loss or theft, and to protect the device from both impact and the elements. Where I go, the phone goes. I could easily carry it on a rucksack strap, but that puts it one "senior moment" away from loss...o_O

To date, I have placed my smartphone in a HD Lok Sack pouch, then into a cargo pocket, when not in use. This has worked very well. But, when I am using it constantly for route detection or research, or to take photos, etc. it is out of the pouch and stuck in any available pocket. This is not a wise idea.

Most everything in my mochila can easily be replaced by a visit to the nearest Decathlon. But, and as most of you might agree, losing your smartphone would be a crisis of somewhat larger proportions.

This past off-season, I found a line of very durable cargo trousers, without zip offs, made of 80 % poly and 20 % cotton. They are made by 'Tru-Spec.'

Yes, I know they digress from the normal 100 % polyester for very rapid air drying. And if you want shorts you have to buy a second pair as they do not have zips.

But, these pants come out of the washing machine / lavadera spin cycle already starting to dry in places, before they are hung on a line or thrown in the dryer / secadora. So, that may argue in favor of considering these Tru-Spec Ascent pants for Camino use. Normally, cotton is a 'no-no.' But, it might be worth a try.

The feature that really endears them to me is a separate, purpose-made pocket, immediately behind each lower cargo pocket, specifically sized for a smartphone. The pocket is an open top slot, but is very deep. My iPhone XR rides in there very well, and does not tip or slide out when I sit or drive.

I haven't tried a head-stand yet, nor am I likely to. But, my sense is that is what it would take to allow the phone to come out unintentionally. Each leg has this most excellent pocket.

PLUS, each hip has an additional pocket sized to hold a multi-tool or torch / flashlight, or even a pair of reader eyeglasses for folks of a certain age... ;)These tool pockets are located just behind and slightly up from the side 'hip' pockets.

This, in addition to 2 (each) cargo pockets, hip pockets, and rear pockets. That is 10 pockets in all, if my fingers don't lie. Don't forget a good belt...or suspenders...to hold them up when you are "geared-up."

I now wear these long pants, or identical shorts (10" inseam), for daily use here in Florida. They have become my go to pants. Also, I am considering using them for my upcoming Camino Primitivo in May this year, instead of my go-to REI Sahara double-zip pants. It depends on the weather. I may wear one long pair and bring a second pair of shorts. We shall see... Still mending from two surgeries... first, I have to get better enough to walk for a few weeks.

If you might be interested in these pants for Camino use, you can find them at www.truspec.com, or at other vendors. The style is called "Ascent." Here is the direct link for:

Men's: http://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/pants/mens-ascent-pants

Women's: https://www.truspec.com/24-7-series/womens-apparel/women-s-ascent-pants

I checked Amazon. They are available there. You might be able to save money on some colors or sizes...

Hope this helps.

Everything I click on says 65 poly and 35 cotton. Too much cotton
 
I use one of THESE - clips on to belt or pack. My Samsung pokes out enough to be easily gripped for removal and it isn't too tight so when you need to take a quick snap you won't struggle. Stops me pocket dialing people too!
I ended up ordering something very similar...just waiting on delivery! 😊Screenshot_20190129-145411_Chrome.jpg
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I modified an Osprey bag with a small hole each side to be able to clip on the front of my shoulder straps with a carabiner each side through the holes. See first photo. I used this for my glasses, phone, passport, wallet etc - ie, all my valuables. It had the advantage of a strap tucked in behind in its own pocket which I could pull out after walking and use it as a bum bag or shoulder bag. See second photo. All available in Aust. I found it very easy to clip on and off and so was able to keep my valuables with me at all times. Even for short stops for lunch etc.
Excellent idea!
 
Mutilating your Osprey with holes! I have stretchy loops to hold my water bottles on my straps (see my previous posts on other threads for how to do this). Lighter weight and simpler than actual strap pockets. For my phone, money, passport, etc., I use cargo pockets in my shorts.
 
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
I am planning to walk the Camino in the Autumn of 2021. I look forward to meeting similar individuals from a parallel universe.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
I use this pouch from Lowepro, which holds my Sony RX100 very snugly and attaches to my rucksack straps at chest level. I put my mobile phone in the hip pocket of my rucksack. Somehow, the mobile phone feels more accessible. I'm going to push myself to use the camera more on my next trip.
 
Originally, in villages where Iberian pigs were butchered, the stomach and intestines were saved and donated to passing pilgrims. Pork stomachs were often filled with air by the pilgrims, stitched shut and hung to dry, after which they were used as footballs, kicked along the Way. Intestines had a variety of uses, including casings for morcilla (blood sausage) and other favorite dishes, such as menudo. Small pouches of the intestine were often carefully dried into appropriate shapes, specifically for carrying cell phones. They were stitched to the pack straps using salvaged cat-gut.
I hope this helps.
Okay, okay, most of that was a joke. However the part about making soccer balls out of the stomachs is based on a true story from Portugal.
 

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