Zpacks Top Side Pocket

I purchased a pair of the Zpacks top side pockets in May 2019. They attach on the sides of my pack and are used for quick access to commonly needed items on the trail—one for my water filtration and bathroom kits, and the other for my rain gear kit.

These side pockets are a modern adaptation of the top side pockets that old school aluminum external frame packs used to have. Most modern internal frame packs don't have top side pockets anymore. The Zpacks top side pockets are of course removable and can be moved from one pack to another or left at home as each trip requires. Weighing in at 1 ounce (28g) for a pair, they add very little weight while providing the convenience of not needing to open the main pack to access items that are needed more frequently while on the trail.

NOTE: The Zpacks top side pockets do not protect items from the elements. If weather protection is needed, it's a good idea to stow those items in a waterproof stuff sack for added protection.

After serious consideration and evaluation, I decided I didn't have a serious need for the top side pockets, so without ever using them, I sold them in September 2019.