An apparatus for securing items to a pack for ready and convenient access is provided. The apparatus includes a load rail for use in connection with a pack, such as a backpack. The load rail comprises an elongated body formed of a dimensionally stable material having first and second end portions. The end portions may take the form of depending feet for attaching to the pack via fasteners. A plurality of load rails may be provided along one side of the pack, such as opposite the side including one or more straps for being worn by a user, and may associate with a connector for connecting gear to the pack via the load rails. When mounted, an intermediate portion of the or each load rail may be raised above and spaced from a surface of the pack to facilitate receipt of a portion of the connector.