Other items to have on hand for zipper or strap repair are a heavyweight polypropylene webbing, extra zippers, zipper threading, and pull tabs. Seems a bit much, we know, but when you need them it is such a relief to know you have these items in stock!

Straps
Generally when backpack straps tear and become detached they can be easily sewn back on. To be sure, keep additional heavy-duty sewing supplies nearby in order to prevent future tears or to be prepared for them.

Tools such as buckles, clips, and sliders are also generally easy to fix or replace when repairing backpack straps as well. Be sure to have spare materials in case some become broken or lost.

Backpack buckles and clips are usually sewn onto the backpack straps in a loop-like fashion and sliders are slid into place through the webbing or strap.

Zippers
One of the first most common zipper dilemmas is the tear between the backpack cloth and the zipper itself. This tear usually calls for either a new backpack or a new zipper.

Fortunately though if extra zipper teeth threading is supplied this dilemma can be easily fixed. All that is needed is a sewing kit and a little know-how regarding sewing techniques.

For jammed zippers or zippers that become stuck in the nook or cranny of a backpack opening a sewing kit will also prove handy. Sewing needles, or items of the sort, are great for releasing the grip if inserted into the inside of the zipper itself.

You might want to check the backpack you are currently using and see if there are any existing imperfections or, at least, something you can see that might go wrong in the future.

There is more information about this subject on Survival Life. We encourage you to take a look and read up on the latest in zipper and strap care.

Just remember, when the grid shuts down you do not want to be the one scrambling for what you thought were unnecessary supplies!