What are Alpine Bags?
Alpine Bags are ultralight, stretchable organizer pouches designed for efficient gear organization in any environment. Featuring water-resistant zippers and a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish, these versatile storage solutions protect your essentials from moisture while weighing as little as 0.65 ounces. Available in three sizes—Small (4" x 7"), Medium (6" x 10.5"), and Large (8" x 14.5")—Alpine Bags compress flat when empty and expand to accommodate various items, making them ideal for weight-conscious backpackers, travelers, hunters, and anyone who values organized gear without bulk.
Perfect companions for:
- Bang Bag - Create organized compartments inside your tactical sling
- Junk Sack - Sort EDC items in your concealed carry pack
Available sizes: Small (0.65 oz) | Medium (1.14 oz) | Large (1.77 oz)
Ultralight Organization Without Compromise
Every experienced backpacker, thru-hiker, and outdoor enthusiast understands the eternal balance between organization and weight. Traditional packing cubes and rigid organizers solve the chaos problem but add precious ounces that accumulate into pounds over long distances. Stuff sacks compress well but offer no structure or visibility. Alpine Bags represent a third option: ultralight organizer pouches that provide the benefits of structured organization while weighing less than most people realize is possible. The Small Alpine Bag weighs just 0.65 ounces—lighter than a single AAA battery—yet provides water-resistant protection and enough volume for first aid supplies, electronics accessories, or trail snacks. Even the Large size weighs only 1.77 ounces while offering 232 cubic inches of expandable storage capacity.
The secret to Alpine Bags' minimal weight lies in their stretchable fabric construction combined with intelligent design. Unlike rigid containers that maintain their shape whether full or empty, Alpine Bags compress nearly flat when not in use, taking up minimal space in your pack. When filled, the stretchy material expands to accommodate items of varying shapes and sizes, conforming around gear rather than forcing gear to conform to a fixed shape. This flexibility means you can pack a jacket, sleeping bag compression sack, or cooking equipment in the Large bag, then compress it down as you consume food or reorganize during your trip. The water-resistant zippers and DWR finish protect contents from the moisture threats you'll actually encounter—rain, humidity, splashes, and damp environments—without the weight penalty of fully waterproof materials designed for submersion scenarios that rarely occur.
Beyond wilderness applications, Alpine Bags excel in everyday contexts where organization matters but weight and bulk create friction. Travelers use them as packing cubes that compress for return trips when you've acquired souvenirs. Hunters organize calls, scents, ammunition, and field equipment in separate bags that can be accessed without dumping an entire pack. Photographers protect memory cards, batteries, and cleaning supplies in the Small bag while keeping lens accessories organized in the Medium. EDC enthusiasts create modular organization systems in backpacks or messenger bags, swapping bags between different packs based on the day's activities. Students separate tech accessories, chargers, and supplies to eliminate the backpack black hole where earbuds and USB cables disappear. Alpine Bags work as standalone organizers or as internal organization for larger bags like the Mountain Partisan Bang Bag, creating a customizable system that adapts to your specific needs.
Key Features
- Ultralight Construction: Weights range from 0.65 oz (Small) to 1.77 oz (Large), providing organization without significant weight penalty
- Stretchable Material: Flexible fabric expands to accommodate varied item shapes and sizes, then compresses flat when empty
- Water-Resistant Zippers: Protect contents from moisture, rain, humidity, and splashes during outdoor activities
- DWR Finish: Durable Water Repellent coating on bag material enhances water protection by causing moisture to bead and roll off
- Three Size Options: Small (28 cu in), Medium (94.5 cu in), and Large (232 cu in) for versatile organizational configurations
- Compressible Design: Bags compress nearly flat for efficient pack space when not filled, expanding only as needed
- Durable Construction: Built for repeated use in demanding outdoor environments and daily applications
- Versatile Applications: Functions standalone or as inserts for backpacks, luggage, tactical bags, or vehicle storage
Understanding DWR Technology
DWR (Durable Water Repellent) is a coating applied to technical fabrics that causes water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than saturating the material. This technology is commonly used in high-performance rain jackets, tents, and outdoor gear where moisture protection matters but fully waterproof materials would add unnecessary weight or reduce breathability. On Alpine Bags, the DWR finish provides an additional layer of moisture defense beyond the water-resistant zippers. When rain hits the bag's surface, it forms beads that can be easily shaken off rather than soaking through to your gear. The coating is engineered to maintain effectiveness through repeated use, handling, and exposure to the elements, though like all DWR finishes, it can be refreshed with reapplication products if needed after extended use.
Size Selection Guide
Small Alpine Bag (4" x 7" x ~1", 0.65 oz, 28 cubic inches)
Ideal for:
- First aid supplies and compact medical kits
- Electronics accessories (charging cables, earbuds, adapters, USB drives)
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Small EDC essentials (compact flashlight, multitool, fire starter)
- Snacks, energy bars, and trail food
- Fishing tackle, flies, and small gear
- Memory cards, batteries, and camera accessories
Medium Alpine Bag (6" x 10.5" x ~1.5", 1.14 oz, 94.5 cubic inches)
Ideal for:
- Clothing layers (base layers, socks, underwear, lightweight shirts)
- Electronics (power banks, GPS units, satellite communicators, tablets)
- Camp kitchen items (utensils, cook set accessories, spices)
- Photography accessories and lens cleaning supplies
- Documents, maps, and navigation materials
- Medium-sized repair kits and tools
- Hunting calls, scent control items, and field accessories
Large Alpine Bag (8" x 14.5" x ~2", 1.77 oz, 232 cubic inches)
Ideal for:
- Clothing storage (jackets, pants, multiple base layers)
- Sleeping bag compression and storage
- Food storage for multi-day trips
- Bulky camp items (stove systems, fuel canisters, cookware)
- Hunting gear organization and game processing supplies
- Large electronics (laptops, full-size tablets, charging stations)
- Emergency kits for vehicles or home
Backed by Mountain Partisan Lifetime Warranty
Alpine Bags are backed by Mountain Partisan's transferable lifetime warranty against defects in workmanship, materials, and manufacturing. No receipt required—if it bears the Mountain Partisan mark and something isn't right, Shield Arms will repair or replace it. This warranty reflects our commitment to quality and our confidence in the durability of our products. The warranty does not cover misuse, intentional damage, or normal wear and tear from extended field use.
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Small |
Medium |
Large |
| Dimensions (L x H x W) |
4" x 7" x ~1" |
6" x 10.5" x ~1.5" |
8" x 14.5" x ~2" |
| Volume |
~28 cubic inches |
~94.5 cubic inches |
~232 cubic inches |
| Weight |
0.65 oz |
1.14 oz |
1.77 oz |
| Material |
Stretchable fabric with DWR finish |
| Zipper Type |
Water-resistant |
| Water Protection |
DWR coating + water-resistant zipper |
| Design |
Compressible when empty, expandable when filled |
| Product Line |
Mountain Partisan by Shield Arms |
| Warranty |
Transferable lifetime warranty |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Alpine Bags waterproof or just water-resistant?
Alpine Bags are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. The combination of water-resistant zippers and DWR-finished fabric protects contents from rain, humidity, splashes, and damp environments—the most common moisture threats you'll encounter. However, they are not designed for submersion or prolonged exposure to heavy rain. For truly waterproof protection in extreme conditions, consider placing Alpine Bags inside a dry bag or pack liner as an additional layer of defense.
How much can I actually fit in each size?
The stretchable material allows Alpine Bags to accommodate more than their stated volume suggests. The Small (28 cu in) comfortably holds a comprehensive first aid kit or multiple charging cables and accessories. The Medium (94.5 cu in) fits several clothing layers, a power bank, cables, and small electronics. The Large (232 cu in) can serve as a sleeping bag stuff sack or hold a puffy jacket, rain shell, and additional layers. The expandable design means you can pack items tightly or leave room for compression depending on your needs.
Which size should I choose for organizing my backpack?
Most users find success with a combination of sizes rather than multiples of one size. A common configuration: one or two Small bags for first aid and electronics accessories, one or two Medium bags for clothing and food, and one Large bag for bulky items or as a compression sack. This mix provides flexibility for different trip lengths and gear requirements. For organizing the Mountain Partisan Bang Bag, Small and Medium sizes work best as internal organizers.
Do Alpine Bags add significant weight to my pack?
No. The weight penalty is minimal compared to the organizational benefits. The Small weighs just 0.65 ounces (less than a AAA battery), the Medium weighs 1.14 ounces, and even the Large weighs only 1.77 ounces. A complete organization system using one Small, two Medium, and one Large bag adds approximately 4.7 ounces total—less than a single energy bar—while dramatically improving pack organization and gear accessibility.
Can I see what's inside the bags without opening them?
Alpine Bags are not made from transparent material, so you cannot see contents without opening the zipper. However, the lightweight design makes it easy to identify contents by feel, and the different sizes help you remember which bag contains which category of gear. Many users label bags with tags or use different sizes for specific categories (Small for medical, Medium for electronics, Large for clothing, etc.).
How do Alpine Bags compare to traditional packing cubes?
Alpine Bags offer several advantages over conventional packing cubes: significantly lighter weight (traditional cubes often weigh 3-6 ounces each), compressible design that saves space when empty, stretchable material that accommodates irregular shapes, and water-resistant protection. Traditional packing cubes maintain rigid shape and may offer better structure for clothes in luggage, while Alpine Bags prioritize weight savings and flexibility for outdoor and tactical applications.
Will the DWR finish wear off over time?
DWR finishes maintain effectiveness through normal use but can gradually diminish with extended exposure to dirt, oils, and abrasion. If you notice water beginning to saturate the fabric rather than beading up, the DWR can be refreshed using commercially available DWR reapplication products designed for technical fabrics. With reasonable care, the factory DWR coating should last for years of regular use.
Can I use Alpine Bags for air travel and TSA screening?
Yes. Alpine Bags work excellently as packing organizers for carry-on luggage and checked bags. For TSA screening, keep toiletries and liquids in clear, TSA-compliant bags as required, but Alpine Bags are perfect for organizing clothing, electronics accessories, chargers, and other non-liquid items. The compressible design helps maximize luggage space while keeping contents organized and protected from moisture.
Are Alpine Bags suitable for organizing hunting gear?
Absolutely. Many hunters use Alpine Bags to separate and organize calls, scent control items, ammunition, field dressing supplies, and other hunting accessories. The water-resistant protection is particularly valuable for keeping scent control products separate and dry. The different sizes allow you to create a modular organization system where each bag contains a specific category of gear, making it easy to grab what you need without sorting through a jumbled pack.
How should I clean and maintain Alpine Bags?
Clean Alpine Bags by wiping them down with a damp cloth or using mild soap and water for more thorough cleaning. Avoid harsh detergents that might damage the DWR finish. Always air dry completely before storage to prevent moisture buildup or mildew. Store bags flat or loosely rolled when not in use. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when possible, as UV exposure can gradually degrade the DWR coating over time.
Can Alpine Bags be used as stuff sacks for sleeping bags?
Yes. The Large Alpine Bag (232 cubic inches) works well as a sleeping bag compression sack for lightweight quilts and sleeping bags. The stretchable material accommodates the bulk while compressing effectively, and the water-resistant protection offers an advantage over traditional stuff sacks if your sleeping bag gets exposed to moisture. Many backpackers prefer Alpine Bags over standard stuff sacks for this reason.
What warranty comes with Alpine Bags?
Alpine Bags are backed by Mountain Partisan's transferable lifetime warranty against defects in workmanship, materials, and manufacturing. No receipt is required—if the product bears the Mountain Partisan mark and experiences a manufacturing defect, Shield Arms will repair or replace it. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or intentional damage.
Who Should Buy Alpine Bags
- Backpackers and thru-hikers who obsess over every ounce and need ultralight organization without weight penalties
- Ultralight enthusiasts seeking the absolute lightest packing solutions that still provide structure and water protection
- Travelers wanting efficient, compressible packing organizers for carry-on bags, checked luggage, or duffel bags
- Hunters organizing calls, scents, ammunition, and field equipment in separate, water-resistant compartments
- Photographers protecting camera accessories, memory cards, batteries, and cleaning supplies from moisture
- EDC enthusiasts creating modular organization systems in backpacks, messenger bags, or tactical packs
- Students separating tech accessories, school supplies, and personal items to eliminate backpack chaos
- Mountain Partisan Bang Bag owners creating organized internal compartments in their tactical sling
- Fishing enthusiasts organizing tackle, flies, leaders, and small accessories in weather-resistant pouches
- Emergency preparedness planners building organized vehicle or home emergency kits with protected compartments
- Cyclists and bikepacking riders organizing gear in frame bags and panniers while protecting from weather
- Anyone who values organized gear without the weight penalty of traditional rigid organizers or heavy-duty cases
Alpine Bags and Mountain Partisan Gear Integration
Alpine Bags work exceptionally well as internal organizers for other Mountain Partisan products, particularly the Bang Bag tactical sling. Use Small or Medium Alpine Bags inside the Bang Bag's main compartment to create separate zones for medical supplies, electronics, snacks, and tools. This modular approach transforms the Bang Bag from a single-compartment satchel into a highly organized system where everything has its place. The water-resistant protection of Alpine Bags adds an extra layer of security for sensitive items like electronics or first aid supplies. Similarly, Alpine Bags complement the Junk Sack concealed carry pack by organizing EDC items in the front pouch or keeping backup gear sorted. This system allows you to swap organized pouches between different bags based on your daily activities or mission requirements.
Care and Maintenance
Alpine Bags require minimal maintenance but benefit from proper care. Clean bags by wiping with a damp cloth or using mild soap and water for more thorough cleaning—avoid harsh detergents that could damage the DWR finish. Always air dry completely before storage to prevent moisture buildup that could lead to mildew or odors. Store bags flat or loosely rolled rather than tightly compressed for extended periods. The DWR finish maintains effectiveness with normal use, but if you notice water beginning to saturate rather than bead up, you can refresh the coating using commercially available DWR treatment products designed for technical outdoor fabrics. With reasonable care, Alpine Bags will provide years of reliable organizational service in demanding conditions.
Related Products and Accessories
Combine Alpine Bags with other Mountain Partisan gear to create a complete organizational system:
- Mountain Partisan Bang Bag - Tactical shoulder sling with MOLLE panels that pairs perfectly with Alpine Bags for internal organization, transforming the single-compartment design into a modular system
- Junk Sack - Quick-access concealed carry fanny pack where Alpine Bags organize EDC items in the front pouch and keep backup gear sorted
All Mountain Partisan products are manufactured in the United States and backed by Shield Arms' lifetime warranty, ensuring you're building an organizational system with American-made quality that's built to last.
