TL;DR
- The backpack cover protects cargo from Timefall damage during critical deliveries
- Unlock by connecting The Collector to the Chiral Network in Episode 3
- Navigate 400m southeast from Distribution Center South of Lake Knot City
- Bring a ladder and collect lost cargo for faster reputation gains
- Essential for late-game missions with extreme weather conditions
After investing significant time in Death Stranding’s third chapter, you’ve likely accumulated numerous valuable tools and enhancements that broaden your capabilities in practical ways (notable mentions include the Bola Gun and Power Skeleton). However, have you ever questioned why Sam’s pack remains uncovered, leaving your important shipments vulnerable to the harsh and unpredictable Timefall weather patterns? From a professional standpoint, this seems remarkably careless for someone considered an elite delivery specialist.
What if we revealed that obtaining protective covering for your backpack is achievable—a solution to safeguard those mission-critical packages? While it exclusively shields items stored within the main compartment rather than external attachments, the backpack cover modification remains a crucial asset particularly valuable during end-game missions when confronting severe atmospheric conditions.
So where can you locate this practical (and stylish) enhancement? We’ll detail the acquisition process for one of Sam’s most vital equipment improvements. For additional Death Stranding content, explore our comprehensive Complete Guide and our feature cataloging the most noteworthy celebrity appearances discovered to date.
The backpack protection becomes accessible once you initiate delivery operations from the Distribution Center located south of Lake Knot City during the game’s third episode. This facility serves as the nearest point of reference to an optional survivalist character, identified as The Collector, whom you must integrate into the Chiral Network infrastructure. Successfully completing this connection will grant you the initial backpack cover alongside its progressive enhancement tiers.
To locate The Collector, travel approximately 400 meters southeast from the Distribution Center South of Lake Knot City, following the right edge of a ravine that extends perpendicularly from the distribution facility. Ensure you pack climbing equipment—this tool will prove absolutely necessary. Remember to deploy Odradek scanning pulses during your journey to detect any misplaced shipments marked with The Collector’s identification, enabling you to transport them directly to him. These items are worthwhile acquisitions in advance if circumstances permit.
Following the gorge’s path, you’ll notice a narrow trail descending downward; proceed along this route and continue moving along the base toward the right until encountering shallow water basins and a MULE detection tower. Position yourself near this structure and gaze upward northward, where you should spot a stylized fox illustration painted on the rock surface. Deploy your ladder at this location and ascend to encounter The Collector. If you possess familiarity with Japanese gaming publication Famitsu, you might identify The Collector’s appearance as resembling the magazine’s previous chief editor, Hirokazu Hamamura. Regarding the wall artwork? It represents the publication’s official mascot character.
Many players underestimate the backpack cover’s significance until encountering severe Timefall storms that can rapidly degrade unprotected cargo. The protective shell becomes particularly vital when transporting delicate electronic components or medical supplies through mountainous regions where weather patterns shift unpredictably. Advanced porters recommend prioritizing this upgrade before attempting five-star deliveries for preppers located in harsh climate zones.
Common navigation errors include missing the subtle path descent or failing to bring adequate climbing gear. Without proper equipment, reaching The Collector’s elevated hideout becomes impossible. Seasoned players suggest checking weather forecasts through terminal access and planning expeditions during clearer atmospheric windows.
For optimal progression, focus on building connection levels with The Collector through repeated deliveries. Each star rating increase unlocks enhanced cover variants with improved durability and additional attachment slots. Consider consulting our Weapons Unlock guide for complementary equipment strategies that synergize with protective gear enhancements.
Death Stranding Guides
Action Checklist
- Reach Episode 3 and access Distribution Center South of Lake Knot City
- Gather climbing equipment and check weather forecasts
- Navigate 400m southeast following ravine to find hidden path
- Collect lost cargo marked for The Collector during journey
- Use ladder to ascend to hideout marked by fox painting
- Connect The Collector to Chiral Network and begin upgrade progression
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Death Stranding Tips: Don’t Miss This Useful Upgrade Essential guide to unlocking and upgrading the backpack cover in Death Stranding Episode 3