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a backpack (vs a traditional canoe pack) - mine has netting pouches on the outside

Like M_Mat, I'm a fan of those side pockets.
IF you don’t have external pockets on your canoe pack, I highly recommend you add some. My gear pack has side compression straps you mount the daisy chain pockets too. My Granite Gear food pack DIDN’T have them so I had KONDOS outdoors sew some on.

Having 4 extra easy to reach pockets make it nice to keep your fuel (liquid) in those pockets and in event of a leak, you won’t get your food contaminated of main pack soaked in fuel. It’s also a great place for ANY item you want handy without having to get into a big pack or paw thru your daypack.

I use plastic fuel bottles so I added another layer of impact protection by taking a plastic milk jug and some duct tape and made a DIY sleeve to fit fuel bottle, would work for those thin Aluminum too. That way if I inadvertently set the pack down wrong on a sharp rock/stick, it gives an extra almost weightless level on impact protection.

This is an example of what I have but a different brand. I’m on my 2nd set on one pack because I left a granola bar in side pocket and a mouse chewed a hole in it. I kept the pocket, stitched up the hole and use it to put my camp shoes in. Keeps dirt from getting into gear in pack.

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