Modifying Medium ALICE pack

Im thinking about getting a medium alice, but am concerned about the reviews of it not having a decent weight distribution system.

Is there a way i can swap parts on it, like the shoulder straps, to remedy this?

I plan on traveling light, however will be treking out in the country once in a while for a couple of days. Would the medium alice be appropriate?

Also, is there any way i can make the ALICE distribute the pack weight to the hips?

Thanks

 

When I was in the Army we always used the frames with a waist strap. They constantly broke and rubbed holes in your back. When I was in the Marine Corps we never used the frame or the waist strap and it was a lot more comfortable. All in all it's up to what you feel comfortable with. I went through a lot of packs and there were very few that I liked. You can change the straps, I've seen people with strap pads that you add on that were wider and thicker. There used to be a catalog called US Calvary, or something close to that. They had tons of stuff like that.

 

There isn't much issue equipment that you can't buy on eBay.