[Ant]

But did not want to buy a new bag, so instead, I picked up an 80l waterproof liner, then taking pair of sissors to an old no longer used 40l pack I cut off the lid and the sides and the result was this.

With the dry bag in place it looks something like this


and when in use it looks like this, no idea how much is in there but it's not full

[marchingmags]

When I saw the first photo I was gonna take the mick but having got to the end it's actually pretty good lol!

[Ant]

I might remove a few more bits, trim a few corners etc to reduce the weight more. Origanal weight was approx 2.5kg new weight approx 1.8kg but with double the capacity.

[dogrob]

Good idea, I see the dog was keeping a close eye to see you didn't cock it up lol

[marchingmags]

I think the 2012 Ingenuity Award has been won and it's only January lol!

[Ant]

Fully loaded (80l)


I could make it bigger by removing the mesh pockets and cutting the bottom of the bag off (and using the bottom compression straps) allowing it to expand to the limit of the compression straps which would save a few more grams but it should be big enough as is, plus right now the bottom compartment is still usable for the likes of wet gear.

[marchingmags]

Well yeah, that's now a large rucksack mate! That's kind of backpacking size. I've travelled abroad for months with 75 litres so I reckon that's enough to hold anything really. The only issue I'd have with it is lack of strength: airport baggage handlers can be brutal with your luggage, but for a trip round the UK it's a winner.

[Ant]

Backpacking size, that is debatable If I needed more durability id swap the liner for an ortleb one of similar size.

Not loaded it up with my actual kit yet, just been using whatever is to hand to bulk it out for photographic purposes. Will put an "actual size" photo on once I've packed it properly.

[marchingmags]

Yeah, Ortlieb may well do the trick. Their fabrics seem very robust. I haven't owned any of their gear but I've looked at it in shops and it does seem fit for purpose.

[Ant]

I think I remembered why else I stopped using it, the backlengh is sightly too short, ah well, will make some modifications.

[Ant]

found another use for that liner, its a "half-bivi" am going to use it to cover the bottom of the sleeping bag which is usually next to the dog to keep the sleeping bag clean and dry.

[marchingmags]

I usually use a black bin liner to keep the bottom of my sleeping bag dry, when I am using my smaller tent. Occasionally condensation can cause the bottom end of the tent to become damp.