Matilda Backpack – a bushcraft classic inspired by the ALICE system
Do you appreciate tried-and-true solutions? Love classic gear with a nod to history? Then the Matilda Backpack is for you. With a 50-liter capacity, it easily carries everything you need for extended trips far from civilization. Made from lightweight, durable nylon, with a straightforward design and a functional pocket layout, it’s an excellent choice for camping, bushcraft, or multi-day hikes in the wilderness.
Is the Matilda Backpack suitable for multi-day camping trips?
Yes – this pack was designed for long outings. Its large capacity, comfortable carrying system with a reinforced back panel, and the ability to attach a sleeping bag, mat, and extra pouches make the Matilda perfect for carrying a full camp setup.
Old-school style, modern functionality
The pack features three spacious front pockets secured with buckles and equipped with drawcords and grommets (ideal for tools like an axe). The top flap includes a zippered pocket and a hook & loop panel. Inside the main compartment, MOLLE/PALS webbing allows you to organize gear with inserts or additional pouches. Side straps let you attach a sleeping bag or foam mat.
Can I attach extra gear to the Matilda Backpack?
>Absolutely. MOLLE/PALS webbing on the front and inside the main compartment, side straps, and the flat lid design make it easy to expand the pack with additional gear. It’s the perfect base for a complete bushcraft setup.
A main compartment with potential
The main compartment of the Matilda is spacious and uncomplicated – free of unnecessary dividers for maximum packing flexibility. Inside, you’ll find a hydration bladder sleeve and MOLLE webbing for gear organization. Under the lid, there’s a mesh pocket with a zipper, and an external zippered pocket for small items.
In total, the Matilda has six pockets:
- three large external front pockets (each with buckle and drawcord),
- one zippered pocket on the top lid (external),
- one mesh pocket under the lid (zippered),
- one hydration bladder pocket inside the main compartment.
Military roots, outdoor purpose
The Matilda’s design draws inspiration from the ALICE system (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment), introduced by the U.S. Army in the 1970s. The original nylon pack with a frame was created to meet the need for a universal load-carrying system for all climates. The Matilda borrows ALICE’s functional pocket layout and modularity but adapts it for bushcraft and civilian use by making it lighter and more versatile.
The result? A pack that honors tradition yet excels in the field – reliable, simple, and ready for anything.
Still unsure which backpack to choose? Check out our backpack ranking on the blog.
