Alan since you're rebuilding you kilt anyway could I suggest MOLLE on the front (at least) for sporran attachment. I don't backpack but my RKilts paintball kilt utilizes it. Witha sporran firmly attached (yet easily removable) to the apron you don't have the drumming effect on your nether regions that you do with a regular sporran. I use a dump pouch for a sporran. At 7" H x 6 1/2" W x 3" D it's plenty big enough, easily accessed and with the internal elasticated opening, very secure should you decide to tumble down the Sierra Nevadas. With MOLLE all around and the variety of pouches availiable you'l have easy access to cameras, bear repellent first aid supplies, cigarettes, scotch...