When a trusty old pack starts to get worn, even a little hole-y, what's a good way to patch it up? Right now, duct tape is doing the job, but I'd like something a little sturdier and perhaps aesthetically appealing. Thanks!

First of all, get that duct tape off of there. Clean off the glue residue as much as you can and then send the pack back to its manufacturer for repair. Generally, repairs are done for a very modest charge. In some (many) cases, repairs will be done for free. For example, when aluminum stays poke through the fabric, that is usually done for free under warranty.

Of course! Silly me. Thanks, Static!

You could always patch it up with a BnA patch

not sure if it counts as aesthetically pleasing but I always have a bit of dental floss with me to patch up anything... it works wonders. And looks better than duct tape.

Static nailed it once again. Always get the manufacturer to do it.

I've had great warrantee experiences with:
-North Face
-Jansport
-Mountain Hardwear.

And I've never had to pay for a repair for a broken pack. Generally, you get what you pay for with backpacks.

Mine's a North Face. Catch is I bought it at an outlet store, so there is no warranty. Any idea how much it would cost to get a few holes patched? Only one hole has actually broken through the material, but there are a few places that look about ready to rip.

Is the "O" in the word "North" on the logo marked out? If so, then it will be a "charge repair". Still, it will be cheap.

Call 800-447-2333 for The North Face Warranty Department

Dang, he's good.

I'm rather fond of artful repairs... those which "nip and tuck" while slightly reducing that extra flab.

Then again, my bag('s) are cheap and carry no such warranty.