This tends to be a religious question rather than one appealing to logic, i.e. few people are wholly rational about it. Bear this in mind when considering the replies.
I have this fabulous accessory I call....MY HUSBAND!! This accessory does a wonderful job of packing my gear on hikes. Seriously, I use a Thinktank Streetwalker for hikes. The tripod straps onto the back. Im told it is very comfortable.
Haha, that's what I use my wife for, she just doesn't like nick names.....