What is a Modern ALICE Pack?

Every outdoor enthusiast needs a high-quality, rugged pack they can count on. Facing hours (or even days) of tough wilderness conditions, the last thing you need is your bag breaking or tearing. That’s why so many turn to ALICE. Used by the military for decades, ALICE packs have proven their durability in the field long ago. Wondering whether an ALICE pack is the right choice for you? Read on to learn more about what an ALICE pack is and why it’s one of the most versatile options for outdoor use.

History and Development of the Modern ALICE Pack

Though they weren’t introduced until the 1970s, development for ALICE packs actually began in the ‘60s. The US Army launched a program called the Lightweight Individual Clothing and Equipment (LINCLOE) program, with one of its goals being to lighten a soldier’s load with a lightweight load-carrying system. The pack currently in use, the M-1956 Load-Carrying Equipment (LCE), added too much weight.

After years of deliberation and the development of the M-1967 Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment (MLCE), the modern ALICE pack was finally developed in the early 1970s. It revolutionized the way soldiers carried and organized their gear.

What is an ALICE Pack?

ALICE stands for All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. It’s an equipment attachment system, meaning you can add, remove, and combine different components depending on your needs. The packs utilize this system, enabling the wearer to carry large loads of gear simultaneously. They’re made in small, medium, or large sizes.

ALICE packs were officially adopted by the US military in 1973 and were widely used throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Once a staple, they were replaced as standard-issue equipment by MOLLE packs post-9/11.

Modern ALICE Pack Components

ALICE was designed as a two-component system. The first is the belt system, to which an entrenching carrier, canteen cover, two small cases, and suspenders are attached. This versatile component could also be used to attach any other survival gear you may need to be easily accessible, like a first aid kit. Component number two is the pack itself, consisting of the bag, its cover, and the frame.

The Pack and Frame

Unlike other hiking backpacks and outdoor packs, ALICE packs don’t come with tons of compartments, pockets, and zippers. These packs have a more simplistic design: one main component, a few outside pockets, and flap closure (no zippers). They also have webbing for the addition of more gear.

So, where does the frame come in? Frames are designed to better distribute the weight of the contents in modern ALICE packs – and keep it from pressing in your back. Some prefer using frames to increase their load-carrying capacity and use kidney pads to increase comfort. However, they can be carried without the use of a field pack frame.

Benefits of ALICE Packs

Knowing what an ALICE pack is is one thing. Knowing the benefits is another. Why are ALICE packs still used if they were phased out of military usage over 20 years ago? These packs remain popular today because of their rugged durability, load-carrying capabilities, and versatility for any outdoor adventurer.

Carrying Capacity

ALICE packs were explicitly made to accommodate maximum carrying capabilities so that soldiers could carry all their critical equipment on missions. It all has to do with their design and internal space. Without zippers, you can pack as much gear into your bag as you need without worrying you won’t be able to close or break the zipper. They also can be carried with an external frame to increase your carrying capacity further. Plus, they give you plenty of internal storage to hold your tactical equipment, military camping gear, and more.

Note: Though modern ALICE packs can be packed to the brim, they can become uncomfortable to carry and more difficult to manage.

Rugged

Heading into the wilderness? Facing rough terrain or weather? An ALICE pack is the military pack you want with you. They’re primarily made from durable, water-resistant nylon that’ll remain dry and hold up against whatever conditions you encounter. Their rugged construction means things like branches and sharp rocks aren’t going to tug or tear your bag while you’re on the move.

Versatile

These packs may have originally been designed for military usage, but they’re extremely versatile. What is an ALICE pack used for? Anywhere you need to carry bulky equipment or a lot of gear. Take your modern ALICE pack hiking, camping, hunting, and traveling, or even use it as a bug-out bag. Its modifiable compartments and additions make it easy for anyone to adjust the pack to accommodate their needs.

Affordable

There are a lot of bags on the market. And let’s be honest, most of them aren’t exactly cost-effective. Modern ALICE packs are considerably more affordable without sacrificing the quality, durability, or reliability you need from your pack. Extra attachments and replacement parts are easy to find and equally affordable.

USGI and New ALICE Packs

Today, you can find USGI, GI Style, and new ALICE packs. Made with the same features, design, and capabilities, the main difference between new and USGI packs is their construction. New packs are crafted from materials like heavyweight cotton canvas and polyester, which are still rugged and made for the ultimate durability against harsh wilderness conditions. Modern ALICE packs also may help solve a common problem many have with USGI packs: comfort. That’s all thanks to adjustable padded shoulder straps that you can alter to fit your unique frame.

The Field-Tested Durability of ALICE Packs

What is an ALICE Pack? Call it an equipment attachment system. Call it a military bag. But put simply, modern ALICE packs are field-tested, ruggedly durable packs that are made to withstand the test of time – and the great outdoors. Shop ALICE Packs and more new and GI surplus gear at Army Surplus World today!