How to Distinguish Between Internal and External Backpack Frames

When you take a backpacking or hiking trip, your backpack means everything. It holds everything you need for comfort and survival. One of the decisions backpackers have to make is whether to choose an internal or external frame backpack. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Recognize the difference between the two types of frames. An external frame backpack is easy to spot with an aluminum-tubing frame on the outside of the pack. This allows an external frame back to stand up alone on the ground.
2. Find the support in an internal frame backpack under the outer layer of your pack. This gives backpackers a less cumbersome load to carry on their back.
3. Look at other advantages to the internal frame. Because the frame is narrower, it is easier to maneuver on narrow trails or while climbing. In addition, carrying your load closer to your body allows better balance too.
4. See the advantages of external frames. One of the main ones is an easier packing system with more room and more pockets to organize items.
5. Think about your comfort. If you're going to backpack in a sunny area with high temperatures, having an internal frame backpack next to your back can be very uncomfortable. External frames lift the pack off the back, allowing air to circulate.
6. Consider your backpacking trip location. Backcountry backpacking trails may mean trails too narrow for an external frame. Likewise, external frames can get caught on briars and rocks. Climbing tends to be easier with internal frames.
7. Contemplate how much you want to spend on a backpack. External frames tend to cost significantly less.

Tips & Warnings

• After you decide on the type of frame, be sure to look at the correct size and fit for your torso.