An axial compression backpack may comprise a first panel defining a first backplane opposite a first face, a second panel coupled to a first edge of the first panel defining a second backplane opposite a second face, a third panel coupled to the first panel at a second edge opposite the first edge, the third panel defining a third backplane opposite a third face, and a cover panel coupled to the first panel orthogonal to the first edge and the second edge, wherein the cover panel defines a fourth backplane opposite a fourth face, wherein each of the second panel, the third panel, and the cover panel are configured to transition between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration.