Any ideas for a strap-on chest pack?

[BobM]

I read with interest about the posts about "saddle bag" type packs that spread the load between back and chest.

It gave me an idea for making up something similar to clip onto the front of my 35L pack to carry a digicam SLR (bulky and heavy) and snacks. There is no room in my 35L pack for this stuff.

Has anyone seen a commercial product that connects to the front of a pack?

Regards
Bob M

 

[Minkey]

Strap your pack up right and you won't need one. I think it's important to point out that the waist strap on your pack should balance the load on your hips, no?

 

[alipilgrim]

I use a medium size bumbag, loosen the strap quite a bit, and sling it crosswise across my chest. This is small and doesn't get in the way of my pack straps, fits my valuables and camera, and is safe yet accessible. Good size for going out at night, and fits perfectly into a ziploc (plastic sac) for taking into the shower stall for safety.

 

[Minkey]

Alipilgrim, I used something similar. Dead handy it was too. Also useful for when you're away from your pack to carry all your bits and bobs.

 

[windeatt]

Chest pouch

I just bought a chest pouch attachment

http://www.theomm.com/packs_Chest_pouch.html

to fit onto my rucksack and I'm very pleased with it. I can get my guidebook, dictionary, first aid stuff, notebook, etc in there and there is a special transparent map cover on the back for my Topo Guide map. It will also serve as a 'handbag' when I want to go out in the evening or on rest days.

It is specially made for OMM rucksacks but could easily be used with another make - you just thread some velcro straps through any attachment on your shoulder straps.

 

[BobM]

Bumbag slng across chest is a good idea

Alipilgrim and Minkey gave me a useful alternative to the chest "strap on" pack.

The bumbag across the chest is certainly better and lighter than many of the commercial chest packs.

I just Googled chest packs and there seem to be heaps, especially for the fishing fraternity. Most seem to be too complicated or expensive for what I need, although the OMM version suggested by windeatt looks neat.

I have tried bumbags around the waist, but I personally find them a pain when wearing a pack with a proper waist strap.

Regards
Bob M