diff --git a/code/datums/outfit.dm b/code/datums/outfit.dm
index 38a67b1baa2..9c32f5b1a9c 100644
--- a/code/datums/outfit.dm
+++ b/code/datums/outfit.dm
@@ -394,8 +394,11 @@
 	preload += suit_store
 	preload += back
 	//Load in backpack gear and shit
-	for(var/datum/type_to_load in backpack_contents)
-		for(var/i in 1 to backpack_contents[type_to_load])
+	for(var/type_to_load in backpack_contents)
+		var/num_to_load = backpack_contents[type_to_load]
+		if(!isnum(num_to_load))
+			num_to_load = 1
+		for(var/i in 1 to num_to_load)
 			preload += type_to_load
 	preload += belt
 	preload += ears