The sight is iconic: a backpacker trekking along the trail with an old-school camp trails external frame backpack towering over their head.
External frame packs used to be the backpack of choice for thru-hikers and weekend warriors alike. But modern internal frame designs ultimately claimed the throne.
Should you buck the trend and go retro with an external frame backpack for your next hike? Let’s break down how this throwback pack stacks up.
External Frame Packs: A Blast From the Past
You can instantly identify an external frame backpack by its distinct skeleton-like frame. The pack sacks actually attach to the lightweight metal frame externally, hence the name.
These vintage packs boasted some perks back in the day:
- Keeps load lifted off your back
- Allows sweat to evaporate
- Shifts weight to hips
- Offers great organizing options
For decades, brands like Kelty and ALICE ruled the industry with their external frame designs. But packs evolved over time and new technologies emerged. Segment by segment, internal frame backpacks took over the mainstream hiking market.
Today external frame packs are viewed as relics of the past. But should you snag one for your next adventure? Let’s unpack the pros and cons.
The Case for External Frame Packs
Airflow
A key advantage of the external frame design comes down to airflow. By keeping the backpack lifted off your body, these packs allow air to flow across your back to ventilate sweat. This helps you keep cool, especially on sweltering summer hikes.
Load Balance
The structure of an external frame pack strives to transfer weight off your shoulders and onto your hips via load balance. This improved ergonomic design minimizes shoulder and back strain over long miles.
Customizable Storage
You can really dial in your perfect organizational system with external frame packs. Most designs allow you to add storage pouches and gear ties galore to accommodate all your hiking necessities.
Budget Buy
While premium designs are available, many quality external frame packs come in at lower price points than top-shelf internal frame competitors. The simpler construction keeps manufacturing costs down.
The Case Against External Frame Packs
But it’s not all sunshine and roses out on the trail with an external frame. There are good reasons why internal frame packs now dominate…
Limited Capacity
Most external frame packs max out below 6,500 cubic inches capacity. So serious backpackers hauling loads of gear might quickly run out of room.
Poor Weight Distribution
Lower capacity also equates to less overall weight. Heavily loaded internal frame packs can actually distribute weight more evenly and effectively.
Unstable Ride
Navigating uneven terrain with a towering pack can throw off your center of gravity. External frames also tend to sway more compared to the snugness of an internal frame hugging your body.
Obtrusive Frames
Trying to scramble through thick brush with a gangly external frame? No thanks! Their size can make off-trail travel tricky.
The Verdict: Who Are External Frame Packs For?
If you’re an ultralight hiker doing long mileage with few creature comforts, an external frame likely won’t cut it.
Modern trail runners training for thru-hikes also favor minimalist packs that strap tightly to their bodies.
But for hunters, anglers, and casual weekend warriors not hauling extreme loads, an external frame pack offers great utility.
Their airflow and customizability are handy for hauling bulky gear to base camp or remote areas accessed mainly on trail.
Their lower cost also makes experimenting easier for new backpackers. External frames remain well-suited for:
- Hunting expeditions
- Shorter day hikes
- Youth backpackers
- Hot weather treks
- Budget-conscious hikers
Key Features To Look For
If revisiting an external frame pack sparks joy, keep these buying considerations in mind while browsing options:
- Torso fit: External frames come in more limited sizes
- Total capacity: Look for 35L+ capacity
- Attachment points: For adding modular pouches
- Load lifters: Help transfer weight to hips
Adjustability: Ideal for dialing in the perfect fit
