Best Backpack Items & Accessories in Death Stranding 2 – Optimize Sam’s Loadout for Combat, Cargo & Survival

In Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Sam Porter Bridges’ backpack is more than just a cargo container—it’s your mobile command center. Whether you’re scaling mountain paths, sneaking through hostile territory, or hauling gear across rain-soaked wastelands, having the right backpack setup can mean the difference between mission success and a brutal reset.

This guide covers the best backpack upgrades and accessories in Death Stranding 2, including their functions, slot sizes, how to unlock them, and which combinations work best for different playstyles.


๐ŸŽ’ Why Your Backpack Matters More Than Ever

The backpack system in DS2 uses a 5x6 grid, and every slot counts. You’ll need to balance between battery life, defense, healing, combat readiness, and cargo weight. While many mechanics return from the first game, Death Stranding 2 adds more dynamic encounters and tech—so customization is key.


๐Ÿ”“ How to Unlock Backpack Accessories

Backpack upgrades unlock gradually through:

  • Story progression

  • Increasing connection levels with specific facilities (e.g., Animal Shelter, Old Geophysics Research Lab)

  • Completing Orders tied to NPCs with technical knowledge

Be sure to explore, deliver, and rebuild the Chiral Network to access new gear blueprints.


๐Ÿงฐ Best Backpack Items in Death Stranding 2

Best Backpack Items & Accessories in Death Stranding 2
Here’s a breakdown of the most valuable accessories, what they do, and how much space they take:

๐Ÿ”‹ Extra Battery (3x6)

The most essential upgrade in DS2.

  • Function: Doubles or extends energy for exoskeletons, vehicles, armor plates, and more.

  • Why It’s Great: Exoskeletons are power-hungry but game-changing for terrain traversal and cargo balance.

๐Ÿง  Must-have for delivery builds and long-distance treks.


๐Ÿงฒ Chiral Antigravity Device (3x3)

Your go-to for weight management.

  • Function: Reduces total cargo weight and improves Sam’s balance.

  • Why It’s Great: Helps carry more without stamina drain or tipping over.

๐Ÿง  Recommended for all builds, especially in rugged or vertical areas.


๐ŸŽฏ Ammunition Box (2x2)

Keep your guns loaded for survival.

  • Function: Increases ammo storage capacity for firearms.

  • Why It’s Great: Vital for combat zones against Stranded (BTs), Ghost Mechs, and human enemies.

✅ Use the standard version; large ammo boxes take too much space with little added value.


๐Ÿ’ฃ Grenade Bag (1x2 / 2x2)

Carry the tools to fight invisible threats.

  • Function: Stores multiple grenade types (blood grenades, multi-tools, etc.)

  • Why It’s Great: Light, versatile, and effective against BTs and armor.

๐Ÿ”ง Smaller bags are better for saving space unless you're prepping for heavy combat.


๐Ÿฉธ Equipment Pocket (3x2)

Emergency healing at your side.

  • Function: Stores up to 4 blood bags outside of main cargo slots.

  • Why It’s Great: Keeps vital healing ready without overloading your main grid.

❤️ Essential for blood weapon users and boss fight prep.


๐Ÿต Chiral Tea (Accessory)

A fan-favorite support item.

  • Function: Boosts endurance and focus over time.

  • Why It’s Great: Passive buffs during long deliveries or tough environmental zones.

Recommended when stamina drains quickly—especially in Timefall zones or snowy regions.


๐Ÿงช Sample Backpack Loadouts for Different Playstyles

⚔️ Combat-Focused Build

  • Extra Battery

  • Equipment Pocket

  • Ammunition Box

  • Grenade Pouch

Ideal for missions with high BT or enemy density. Keeps you mobile, powered, and fully armed.


๐Ÿšš Delivery-Optimized Build

  • Extra Battery ×2

  • Chiral Antigravity Device

  • Chiral Tea (Accessory)

Perfect for long hauls, roadwork, or rebuilding zones. Helps maintain speed and balance while maximizing cargo capacity.


๐ŸŽฏ Balanced Exploration Build

  • Extra Battery

  • Antigravity Device

  • Grenade Pouch

  • Equipment Pocket

Good for unknown territory with potential threats. Balanced stamina, firepower, and cargo support.


๐Ÿ’ก Expert Tips for Backpack Management

  • Prioritize power: Always carry at least one Extra Battery to avoid downtime during crucial missions.

  • Use lockers smartly: Store excess items in the Magellan DHV or shelters to free up grid space.

  • Swap based on mission: Don’t stick to one loadout. Adjust based on terrain, enemy risk, and cargo type.

  • Customize the outside: Patches and cosmetic add-ons don’t affect gameplay, but hey—style matters too.


๐Ÿง  Final Thoughts

Your backpack isn’t just a storage grid—it’s your survival toolkit. Whether you're prepping for combat, hauling materials for monorail repairs, or rescuing stranded survivors, a well-optimized backpack can save your mission (and your sanity).

Take time to experiment with combinations and adapt your loadout to fit the mission ahead. In Death Stranding 2, every upgrade—and every slot—counts.


๐Ÿ”— Community Resources and Related Links

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