Method of Using a Carrying Aid

Abstract

A carrying aid that transfers weight from a load supported by shoulder straps, such as a backpack or portable tree stand, and a method of using such to offset the weight of a deer stand or back pack to the user's hip area is disclosed. The carrying aid includes a weight supporting region and a fastener region. The weight supporting region forms a trough around a portion of the load to hold it in place. A fastener attaches the carrying aid to the user's belt. The carrying aid is easy to attach and remove from the user's belt and the load is easily placed in the weight supporting region. The carrying aid is lightweight and easily stored when not in use. This method of using a carrying aid is particularly useful for deer hunters or nature enthusiasts carrying shoulder strap-supported portable tree stands.

I claim: 
     
         1 . A method for transferring some of the weight of those objects, such as backpacks or portable tree stands, that are normally borne across a user's upper back through the use of shoulder straps, to the user's hip area comprising the steps of:
 a. reversibly attaching a carrying aid to a user's belt or clothing article,   b. placing a shoulder strap supported weight across the user's shoulders, and   c. adjusting said shoulder straps so that the weight is partially supported by the carrying aid.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the carrying aid comprises: a weight supporting region formed by a base region having a proximal and distal end, a first side portion distal to the user having a top and bottom end wherein said bottom end is connected to said base region's said distal end, and a second side portion proximal to the user having a top and bottom end wherein said bottom end is connected to said base region's said proximal end, such that the first and second side regions are substantially parallel to each other and largely perpendicular to the base region; and a fastener extending from said top end of said second side portion that is adapted to attaching the carrying aid to a belt or clothing article, so that said base region is largely perpendicular to the user's coronal plane when the carrying aid is attached to the user's belt or clothing article by said fastener.