We’ve all been there – when you need some “little thing” on a hike, it is guaranteed to be on your back, hidden somewhere deep in your pack. Whether it’s a pocket knife, compass, wallet, muesli bar or a tissue. Carrying it in your trouser pocket is uncomfortable and may even chafe over time. What’s missing is simply a storage space that can be reached quickly and easily – and here is the solution: the Osprey GrabBag…
Description of the “Osprey GrabBag” backpack add-on pouch
This handy add-on pouch is worn diagonally across the chest, giving you quick access to all your important accessories. The Osprey GrabBag attaches to the shoulder straps with a quick-release buckle, so it can also be removed easily. In addition, with a long strap the pouch can also be worn as a hip pack if needed. The back is padded and covered with a breathable mesh fabric, which largely prevents heat build-up. Inside, the Osprey GrabBag has a main compartment and a separate mesh slip pocket. On the front there is also a very stretchy slip pocket.
Dimensions of the Osprey GrabBag
- 18.0 / 24.0 / 9.0 cm (height/width/depth)
- Weight: 160 g
- Colour: granite
Testing the Osprey GrabBag
Attaching the Osprey GrabBag
The GrabBag has a simple and efficient attachment for the shoulder straps, which should fit any backpack strap up to a maximum width of 2.8 cm. There are three attachment points: two on the right shoulder strap and one on the left. The left one is designed as a quick-release buckle, so it can be opened easily when you want to take off your pack. A slip pocket also holds a longer strap and another quick-release buckle, which let you use the Osprey GrabBag as a fully fledged hip pack.
Carrying comfort of the Osprey GrabBag
Once it is attached and adjusted, the Osprey GrabBag sits very well on the body. Nothing dangles loosely or restricts your movement. The back of the pouch that rests against the body is covered with breathable mesh. Even so, in warm weather and over longer periods moisture inevitably collects there, and a damp patch may end up on your hiking shirt. But that probably can’t be avoided whenever something sits directly against your body.
Verdict on the Osprey GrabBag
Admittedly, you can manage without it – but once you have attached the Osprey GrabBag to your pack, which is quick and easy, you won’t want to be without it. Soon you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. And as is always the case, you’ll think of far too many things that really ought to be stored right there (maybe you could mount a second GrabBagon the other side??? 😉 )
Links and where to buy
- Osprey Packs
- Globetrotter
