When buying a camping backpack which is better, an internal or external frame ?

Answer 1

Ah... one of the great debates of backpacking. The posters above cover the main points:
- Regardless of type, find one that you feel comfortable in
- Internals are sometimes easier when bushwacking, because the center of gravity is closer to your body and there is less sticking out to get caught on branches.
- Externals help you stay cool by keeping the pack off your back.

A couple of other things to keep in mind:
A good external frame pack will generally balance a heavy load on your back better than an internal. Instead of pressing directly against you, the weight of the pack gets distributed through the harness and straps which you can tweak and change for max comfort.

After dominating for decades, Internal frame packs have become all the rage in recent years and so most outdoors stores carry about %70-80 internals, giving you much less choice of options and models in externals.

One option for big loads and long treks (if it is still available) is the Kelty 50th Anniversary pack - a hybrid that has a rigid hour-glass frame partially wrapped in the pack material. The result is that it stays off your back and balances a big load, but with fewer places to snag. I carried 40-50 lbs in mine for 2 weeks on the Wonderland Trail on Mount Rainier and was pleasantly surprised by how well it carried the load.

I definitely prefer externals for heavy loads, but for lighter 2-3 day trips, I have a Kelty Shadow 4500 internal which has also been a great pack.

If you have an REI (Recreational Equipment Inc) store near you, their staff are usually well-trained and spend a lot of time outdoors and so they can help you pick out and fit a pack. They even have big heavy pellet filled bean-bags that they put in the packs while you wear them around the store to get a sense of how a load feels.

A comfortable pack is right up there with good boots as perhaps the two most important items to get 'just right' for a happy backpacking experience. Take the time to find the one that is right for you.

Answer 2

I have a Camp Trail outer frame for over 10 years and must say it has been very comfortable, ample, resistant... can't complain, but on the other hand it is quite bulky and the upper frame tangles a lot wen hiking in jungle and forest, actually I have in mind that when I need a new one I will buy an inner frame because they are compact and there is nothing to hook on a branch.

Being compact is something you will surely value traveling, not only hiking, but of it's ease to fit in cars, buses and so on.

Make it in any case one with double compartment (if possible) so you can even open it on the front and not on the top. This makes it much easier to find stuff and keep order.

Ample pockets, adjustable back straps (the ones that allow you to adjust shoulder height) and very important a GOOD waist strap. Remember most the weight must be on the legs, not on the back.

Answer 3

Internal frame backs are best for off trail, cross country and traveling. They are, however, warmer to use since they are held tightly against your back. There is less feeling of being "off balance" with an internal frame pack.

An external frame pack is best for established trails.

Best bet is to go to a reputable pack dealer, find out which sales associate has the most experience in fitting a pack and try on several that they recommend. (Ask if you can bring your camping gear along to see if it will fit in the pack! You do not want to get a pack that is to small nor to large. Most stores will allow you to do this, if they are really serious about selling packs)

Answer 4

external

Answer 5

If you are going to be on a trail, external frame.

If you are going to be bushwhacking it, or need to hold the load close as in cross country skiing, internal frame.

I have an internal frame, but in the summer, it is hot riding on your back.

Answer 6

Comfort and fit is most important.
Try them on with weight inside.

Answer 7

i don't think it matter as long as it is well constructed.