>>59661tl;dr version: with the experience of a decade under an ALICE....Not really.
Extra fastex buckles to thread onto the two over-the-top straps can allow you to make it interface with other bags. Same with the other attachment points if you're not using it with the usual stuff (E-tool and canteen, or stereo 2 quart canteens) on the sides.
The major advantage an ALICE has is it's low entry cost. Toss on $100 worth of straps on a $50 backpack and you're doing decent in compared size and weight capacity to civvie packs.....
You can also throw some mods at it via Tactical Tailor if you want to make it a bit more shmexy with additional pouches and pockets, but if you start doing more modifications and additions as a civilian with latitude as far as pack selection? You can start venturing into turd polishing territory.
You've got to balance total ruck expense compared to what you could be spending on a new manufacture and better designed ruck.
I bought a Eberlestock Skycrane II. posted about it on here before. One pack, bout $600 total... and out of it I have:
an internal framed pack
large day pack
buttpack
rifle carrying system
additional zip-on and strap-down duffel bag.
It'll adapt to carry just about anything, it's comfortable as shit... While expensive to some, I don't intend on buying another pack, period. Lifetime warranty on it and it's got so much latitude in terms of how I can configure it.
If you have money, I would look for something better... if you just have the coin for an ALICE and the straps/buckles I mentioned? you've got a good start and once you upgrade at a later date have a bag you can keep oh-shit kit in, organized, and just keep in your rig for if stupidity occurs in your life.
