As some of you know, the Arcteryx Alpha FL 30 and 45 do not have places to hang up a camel back inside. I understand the decision to not have one, but I think it reduces the versatility of the backpack for non-alpinism scenarios (day hikes for instance). I am looking for a way to attach a little loop of fabric to the inside without poking holes through the waterproof fabric. Does anyone know of a glue that would be useful and non-damaging in this scenario?
Stitch and seal is the way to go. Glue will degrade over time and it will fall off. Stitch for strength and seal to restore waterproofing. Although a camelbak isn't that heavy, anything weight bearing will last longer with a proper sew job. I always sew for any gear mods I do regardless, then seal if waterproofing is required.
Agree with the sew and seal advice, but wouldn't go with tape for the seal... on anything that isn't totally flat, you'll have a hard time getting the tape to lay flat, and it won't be waterproof if it doesn't. I'd use waxed thread to sew the loop in place, then use seam grip or something similar to seal the whole thing from the inside of the bag. If the idea of poking holes in your backpack is out of the question, I'd sew a loop into a piece of fabric then glue the fabric into the inside of the bag with rubber cement. The more surface area for the glue, the better, but it certainly won't be permanent. Don't bother trying to glue a little loop directly. No matter what glue you use, it's not gonna hold.