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While I personally would recommend either getting a good civilian hiking backpack, if you do want to go the surplus method the best course of action is to look for an ALICE pack in as good as shape as possible for as cheap as possible, I got mine from a guy locally for around $40 and it came with the frame and some extra straps, you can check on apps like OfferUp, Craigslist, eBay, etc. after you get an Alice pack you’re gonna want to replace the Alice kidney belt and straps and frame depending on your preference. I replaced my frame with a 1606AC frame and stuck some Molle II straps on it. Also replace the regular tightening straps with buckles.
