Over the last few decades, many modifications to bags and backpack designs have been made. They all use to have the same structure and were made from similar materials. But, with the increasing demand for backpacks and bags in various styles to accommodate different lifestyles, they have since then changed for us to now have a few different choices.
Two of the most popular options for backpacking and hiking are the internal and external frame backpacks. Each of these types of backpacks has different pros and cons when it comes to using them for hiking. To help you choose which one you should invest in for your next trip, here is a detailed explanation of the difference between internal and external frame packs and a list of their strengths and weaknesses.
Internal Frame Packs
Pros
Internal frame backpacks are built to sit right up against your body. This design keeps your bag to be closer to your body’s natural position while standing upright. You can adjust the straps and the bag to fit your frame, and this prevents the bag from swinging or moving while it is on your back. These factors can be a huge advantage when it comes to doing activities that cause you to move in irregular positions.
To put this in perspective, try to think that you are hiking on an uneven path. You will need to run and climb the road, and with that, it will cause the insides of your backpack to shift whenever you move. But, if you are using an internal frame backpack, all of your belongings will be tucked away, and the bag will stay upright instead of falling off your shoulder or moving from side to side.
Another advantage of internal frame backpacks is that they have vast amounts of space within them, allowing you to carry more items on your trips. So, if you would go on a hike or a camping trip that requires you to bring all of your needed gear, the internal frame backpack will have enough space to accommodate those irregular and larger shaped items and equipment.
In addition, the shoulder straps on internal frame backpacks are simple to adjust, which makes it easier to fit any type of body frame and people of various heights. They are also very compact, which means it will be a lot easier to pack them in the trunks of your car or when you have to check in your luggage for your plane ride.
Lastly, internal frame backpacks are designed to have two aluminum stays, which are long bars that are entirely flat and located against the back of the bag; these will provide you with extra support when you need it. The stays can bend to shape your back or can be changed to accommodate whatever it is you are packing into the backpack.
Cons
Just because internal frame backpacks are meant to be better, doesn’t mean that they will be a perfect match for everyone. Here are some of the drawbacks that we have noted from people who do not like internal frame backpacks.
First, internal frame backpacks make your back sweat more because they have a very tight fit, which means they can get uncomfortable in high temperatures for extended hikes. They also tend to run higher in price than external frame backpacks. Likewise, they end up distributing the weight lower than other pack designs, which means you will be transferring the weight onto your lower body and back instead of your upper back and shoulders.
Additionally, it is also complicated to strap items to the outer part of the internal frame backpacks and have them fit comfortably. They also do not usually come with the option to store your smaller items in easy-to-grab compartments like other backpacks. This means that you will have to reach inside the bag every time you need to get an object in the bag.
External Frame Packs
Pros
External frame backpacks fit so that they rest farther away from a person’s torso. This can help increase ventilation and reduce the heat on your back. The weight is distributed at a higher position, which means you would use your upper back and shoulders to help support the weight. These factors are excellent for people who want a backpack for walking trails, camping, and hiking.
They also tend to run cheaper than internal frame backpacks and are easier to strap gear to the frame or the outside of the pack. This gives you more flexibility when packing your gear and improves your ability just to grab and go with any of your items. This means that you won’t have to always open the pack up to get access to other things because you can attach them to the straps on the outside.
Most of the external frame backpacks come designed with many side pockets; this makes it easier for you to pack and access smaller items without digging in the pack. The shoulder straps are difficult to adjust, but they accommodate people with smaller physiques.
Cons
External frame backpacks often are harder to adjust when it comes to changing the straps to your liking. They are designed to be big and have more space than the internal frame bags, but this makes it more challenging to store it away if you need to travel to your destination.
Which is Better?
So, which is better among the two? What is the difference between internal and external frame packs? The answer is that both of these backpacks serve a specific function and you should decide based on the activities you will be doing. If you will be hiking on rough terrain that requires you to move more often, and you do not want your gear to go flying, then an internal pack is better for you. If you plan to go camping or hiking on a trail pathway, then we will suggest the external frame pack instead. That is because this will give you more compartments and you will quickly be able to access your gear.
Best external frame backpacks
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Pack with Bag
This model is hugely popular with people who prefer external frame backpacks. It has a large main compartment, front pocket, two side accessory pockets, a spotting scope pocket and a rifle pocket. This military-style bag is made of durable fabric and has lashing points to attach more gear.
The bag is fully detachable from the frame. Total weight of both is nearly 10 lbs or 4,5 kg making it heavier than most modern packs. You should take it into account when planning a longer trip. But overall, users agree that this is a great external frame backpack and good value for money.
Made of durable Ripstop fabric, giving you a long-lasting use in the harshest weather environments.
Organize your gear in one of the many pockets: two side accessory hinged pockets, main, front and spotting scope pocket.
Kelty Yukon 48 Hiking Backpack
This 48 liter hiking backpack has plenty of room. It only weighs around 5 lbs or 2.3 kg. It is a lightweight external frame backpack that is suitable for women and youngsters who prefer the benefits of an external frame pack but do not want to carry extra weight.
With padded shoulder straps and dual density foam hip belt, it is the best of both worlds – sturdiness of an external frame combined with the level of comfort you would expect from an internal frame pack.
Yukon's popular with scouts and young adults as they transition into a full sized pack with great features from our full sized packs.
Tradition meets feature rich pack reliable external frame design for your next adventure.
Best internal frame backpacks
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Hiking Backpack
Osprey Atmos series are among the best modern internal frame backpacks on the market. This spacious bag has enough room to accommodate for up to a week-long trip. Padded shoulder straps and a wide hip belt provides comfort and ease of carrying heavy loads for extended periods of time.
With its sleek and modern design, it is a favorite of many hikers – beginners and pros alike.
Anti-Gravity suspension - feels like you are carrying less weight than is in your pack.
Adjustable harness and Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt to dial in perfect fit.
Gregory Baltoro 75 Liter Men’s Hiking Backpack
This pack is made to carry heavy loads on multi-day trips while ensuring a great level of comfort. With adjustable torso length, shoulder harness size and hip belt size, it allows more customization options than most packs of this size. Users note that well-crafted design features make it feel lighter than it actually is. This is a clear benefit for long trips and when you have to carry the bag for hours at a time.
630D High-Density Nylon (Base) 200D Polyester (Lining).
Removable raincover stowes in its own zippered pocket.
WeatherShield PU-coated hipbelt accessory pocket.
