Vertical Pouch L on a Backpack: Mounting and Load Balance

By Savotta – Load carrying equipment and sustainment systems | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to mount the Savotta Vertical Pouch L on your backpack with PALS, then balance the load for comfortable carry. Step-by-step guidance and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

Mount the Vertical Pouch L on your backpack’s side PALS webbing, positioning it so the load sits close to your center of gravity. Then balance the weight by mirroring the setup on the opposite side or adjusting strap tension.

Why placement and load balance matter

A side pouch shifts your backpack’s center of gravity outward. The farther it sits from your spine, the more it pulls you off balance, especially on uneven ground. The Vertical Pouch L’s 6-liter capacity is handy for quick-access items, but filling it with dense gear can make one side noticeably heavier.

Mounting height also affects how the pouch interacts with your pack’s compression straps and hip belt. Too low, and it may rub against your hip; too high, and it can interfere with head movement or shoulder straps. Finding the sweet spot takes a few minutes of trial and error.

When a single pouch is enough

If you only need a small amount of extra storage, one Vertical Pouch L on the side opposite your dominant hand can work well—for example, keeping a water bottle or snack on your non-dominant side for easy reach. But if you plan to carry heavier items, consider using two pouches to balance the load, or keep the pouch contents light and bulky rather than dense.

Also check that your backpack has sufficient PALS webbing on the sides. The Vertical Pouch L uses a PALS-compatible attachment system, so it needs at least two rows of webbing to mount securely. If your pack lacks side PALS, you may need to look for alternative mounting options or a different pouch.

Step-by-step mounting and balancing

Prepare your backpack and pouch: Lay your backpack flat and locate the side PALS webbing. Ensure the webbing is clean and free of debris. Open the Vertical Pouch L and remove any contents to make it easier to handle. Check that the PALS webbing is not frayed or damaged—weak webbing can cause the pouch to detach.
Position the pouch on the PALS grid: Decide on the mounting height: typically, the top of the pouch should sit just below the shoulder strap attachment point. Align the pouch’s attachment straps with the PALS webbing, starting from the top row. Avoid mounting too low, where the pouch may interfere with hip belt movement or rub against your hip.
Thread the attachment straps: Weave the pouch’s straps horizontally through the PALS webbing, alternating over and under each row. Pull the straps snug as you go, but leave enough slack to adjust later. A common mistake is threading only one row—use at least two rows for stability.
Secure and tension the straps: Fasten the strap ends according to the pouch’s design (e.g., buckle or hook-and-loop). Tighten the straps evenly so the pouch sits flush against the pack with no wobble. Over-tightening can distort the pouch shape; aim for firm, not crushing.
Load the pouch and check balance: Place items in the pouch, starting with lighter gear. Lift the backpack and check if the load feels uneven. If so, adjust the pouch position slightly or redistribute weight to the opposite side. For heavy loads, use a second pouch on the opposite side to maintain left-right balance.
Test fit and make final adjustments: Put on the backpack and walk around. Check that the pouch does not sway or rub against your arm. Adjust strap tension or mounting height as needed. Re-check after 10 minutes of walking—straps can settle and loosen.

Product facts

Vertical pouch L: Vertical Pouch L is a 6-litre general purpose zipper closure utility pouch with PALS compatible attachment system, primarily designed for use with backpacks. The 6-litre size offers useful extra capacity without being overly bulky, and the PALS system lets you mount it on any compatible backpack side webbing.
Vertical pouch L