Luggage accessories

Protective covers, straps, storage pouches and attachment systems: backpack accessories turn a simple bag into a true adventure companion. Snowleader has selected a range designed for ski, hiking, climbing and trekking enthusiasts, featuring leading outdoor brands.

Why choose backpack accessories?

Whether heading out for a hike or a trip, your equipment matters. A fully packed backpack isn't always enough to handle unexpected situations: a sudden downpour on a mountain trail, a technical section where gear needs to be accessible in seconds, or a night in a hut where organisation is key. Backpack accessories address these real-life scenarios by providing protection, organisation and extra carrying capacity, whatever your preferred activity.

In bad weather, using a protective cover for your luggage and a padlock to guard against theft is second nature for experienced hikers. At Snowleader, we also offer a selection of travel backpacks for all your adventures, to be paired with the right accessories for your plans.

Improve your comfort and organisation

A well-equipped backpack transforms any outdoor outing. Additional pockets and modular storage systems let you organise your gear without emptying everything to find a head torch or gloves. Padded hip belts, adjustable shoulder straps and chest straps distribute the load across your torso, easing your shoulders and making long walks much more comfortable. In this area, the Ubic range by Millet has become a benchmark for modularity. Similarly, the Speed Stash by Matador, awarded at the Carryology Annual Carry Awards, adds a quick-access pocket to any chest strap in seconds-ideal for your phone, passport or snacks.

Protect your belongings with waterproof covers

Water is the number one enemy of your gear in the mountains. Just thirty minutes of rain can soak a sleeping bag or damage an unprotected camera. Waterproof rain covers, dry bags and dedicated pouches for sensitive equipment are a simple and effective way to keep spare clothes, ID documents and electronics dry, even on the most exposed routes. The Safe-it pouches from Ortlieb, the German brand specialising in waterproof bags, take this further with a fully waterproof transparent case designed to protect your smartphone, tablet or GPS in the wettest environments.

Extra pocket for your backpack: boost modularity

Adding an extra pocket to your backpack frees up access to essentials without opening the main compartment at every stop. The Ubic range from Millet meets this need with three complementary formats: the Ubic Shoulder Pocket attaches to the strap for a phone or snacks, the Ubic Belt Pocket fits on the hip belt for a soft flask or map, while larger modules increase total capacity for longer outings. This modular system turns any compatible backpack into a custom-fit piece of kit, tailored to the length and technical demands of your trip.

Straps and buckles: for optimal support

When technical gear won't fit inside your pack, external straps come into play. Compression straps, spare buckles and tightening straps let you securely attach a pair of skis in diagonal carry, a climbing helmet, a foam sleeping mat or trekking poles. Abrasion resistance and the quality of the buckles make all the difference in tough terrain, where poorly secured gear can quickly become a hazard. Ortlieb's 20 mm compression straps, compatible with the brand's Atrack and Gear-Pack bags, feature a Ladderlock buckle designed to withstand heavy loads, while Topo Designs offers a lifestyle-meets-utility approach with their colourful and functional Mountain Accessory Bags.

Pouches and organisers: keep your gear in order

Ever spent ten minutes rummaging through your bag to find your map at a trail junction? Hip belt pouches, modular kits, internal organisers and waterproof phone covers solve these annoyances. Each dedicated compartment serves a specific purpose and keeps your essentials close at hand: map, head torch, energy bars, ID. Deuter adds to this with targeted solutions like the Insulated Bottle Holder for easy access to a flask without removing your pack, or the Security Wallet, a pouch to hide under clothing for protecting documents and payment methods during long treks and remote travel.

How to choose the right backpack accessories

With such a wide range at Snowleader, choosing the right accessories starts with an honest look at your activity. Your main pursuit, the size of your current pack, trip duration, the weight you're willing to carry and typical weather conditions are all key factors before adding an accessory to your kit. For travellers, our outdoor luggage section also includes duffels, wash bags and travel bags compatible with most of our accessories.

Match your choices to your specific needs

Each activity has its own requirements, and the accessories needed for a Himalayan trek differ from those for a day's skiing at a resort. Here are some pointers to guide your selection:

• For day hiking: a rain cover, hip belt pouch and compression straps cover the basics.
• For trekking and multi-day expeditions: opt for large waterproof covers, robust tightening straps, a hydration bladder and internal organisers for clothing and food.
• For ski touring or climbing: choose accessories designed for carrying technical gear, such as ski holders, ice axe holders or helmet holders.
• For long-term travel: consider a TSA padlock, full protective covers for air travel and secure pouches for your documents.

Quality criteria to prioritise

The durability of an accessory starts with the materials. Ripstop nylon or high-density polyester fabrics offer wear resistance that often justifies a higher price. Finishes are as important as the main material: welded seams for waterproofing, metal or reinforced plastic buckles for heavy loads, and durable water-repellent treatments that last through multiple seasons. The specialist outdoor brands at Snowleader guarantee this level of quality for both experienced athletes and occasional users.

FAQ: Your questions about backpack accessories answered

Which accessories should I choose based on my backpack size?

The size of your pack directly affects your accessory choices. For a 20 to 35-litre pack for day hikes, go for S or M rain covers and compact hip belt pouches. For a 40 to 60-litre pack for multi-day treks, choose L covers, long compression straps and internal organisers. For packs over 70 litres, typical for expeditions and long trips, opt for XL covers, robust tightening straps and secure padlocks for public transport transfers.

How do I care for backpack accessories to extend their lifespan?

Regular care greatly extends the life of your technical accessories. After each outing, air-dry covers and pouches in the shade to prevent mould and premature wear of water-repellent coatings. Clean by hand with mild soap, such as Marseille soap, avoiding washing machines and tumble dryers which damage coatings. A water-repellent spray applied once or twice per season to rain covers helps maintain their waterproofing over time.

Which accessories improve safety during outdoor activities?

Mountain safety partly relies on often-overlooked equipment:

• An emergency whistle integrated into the chest strap, audible over several hundred metres.
• Reflective strips for visibility at dusk or in poor conditions.
• Secure pouches for storing a GPS beacon or phone within easy reach.
• Tightening straps for attaching safety gear such as an ice axe, crampons or helmet.
• A padlock and anti-RFID pouches for outings in remote areas or while travelling.

Are there accessories specifically designed for carrying technical equipment (ski, climbing)?

Snowleader does offer accessories specifically designed for technical activities, with attachment systems tailored to each discipline. For ski touring, you'll find side or diagonal ski holders, ice axe holders, helmet straps and dedicated compartments for climbing skins. For climbing, the range includes gear holders, rope straps, chalk pouches and helmet attachments. These accessories clip directly onto the attachment points of technical packs, freeing up internal space for clothing, food and emergency gear.