does the waist strap pockets zip off?
241956
No they are integral (zipper with back of pocket mesh so would drain water etc). Small but quite useful for snacks or GPS or bike tool if you want to access without unstrapping pack - if empty just really part of waist strap and minimal extra bulk.
1159600
Yes, it does zip up! You slip the mattress in and zip it up so it is secure. There is also a small flap of fabric that goes between the zipper and the mattress, to reduce the contact of the mattress with the outside even more.
1621500
No. I use the pockets to store my GU gels. They fit perfectly if I fold them in half.
1432536
No zipper or velcro on the pockets. For the most part, I believe it's made more for storage than travel.
939334
The waist straps are sewn in, but the sternum straps appear to be removable. There is a sliding mechanism on each strap that allows for up and down adjustment. This could be removed pretty easily but it looks like it could wear out if you removed/re-attached them regularly.EDIT: My bag is the Medium/Large size. Not sure why George's answer is different than mine but could be a size variation.
1034952
No it does not and they are not well made, the center of the pockets come apart.
106900
Sadly, no. It has zipper for pockets at front, but it's covered by the flap anyway
334694
The zipper is zipped into a pocket that is made of elastic material when it's zipped closed. I haven't had any issues with the zipper snagging on anything.
911691
No. I just tried fit a notebook in one of the extended pockets and the zip won't close.
656913
Yes! Actually a small pocket (with its own mini flap to keep contents inside) is stitched to the front of a larger, pleated to expand(!) Velcro-flapped pocket. It's a slick arrangement. Very nicely designed and not the least bit bulky for all of the features it has.
1713396
Yes. There are pockets on each side in which you can tuck in handles. They close with Velcro.
1016986
Mine is put away in a very frigid attic and I will need warmer days to investigate this inquiry further. My recollection is that I do NOT believe that the waist strap is detachable. However, if you fill up this bag with quality camera equipment, you will not only want the waist support, you'll need that waist belt as an extra fail safe to protect your valuable investments.
937187
Yes, it does. Only for the main zip in the middle. Little pockets on both sides, no. This is a great outdoor item, not really for traveling when you have to check it in. Hope this helps.
2155342
yes the big center compartment zips closed in addition to the flap that snaps onto the side. I love this bag. It holds a lot of stuff.
803777
No, there is n o waist strap, however, the shoulder straps are padded and quite comfortable.
1353332
Yes, if I remember correctly. I gave it as a gift and I remember making sure it had a pocket. The front red part around the waist is a pocket.
1476903
It doesn't have a waist strap. The outside pouch is perfect for phone, keys et.. But will hold far more than just a couple items. I used ours yesterday, filled two medium size freezer baggies with Melba toast and other crackers for our trip. There was room to spare.