Outdoors 101: Backpacks
When choosing the right backpack for the trail, event, or day out exploring, there are many different attributes which can determine its success including: pockets, carrying capacity, external straps, waterproofing capabilities, or material strength.
Nevertheless when it comes to performance, and its ability to directly affect the users physical endurance, several factors should be considered when searching for the right backpack including the backpacks comfort, weight capacity, and its load transferring abilities.
That’s why travelers consider three major types of backpacks when preparing for the adventure: Frameless, External-Frame, and Internal-Frame.
Frameless backpacks are best suited for ultra light loads and short-term packing. Frameless packs are usually the most affordable, lightweight, and portable. The packs can be folded up and stored when not in use; they can carry roughly 20 pounds of gear with the weight transferred to shoulder, chest, and hip straps. However, due to a frameless backpacks inability to transfer heavy loads efficiently, or rigidly, they are usually not preferred for longer expeditions, rather better suited for weekend trips or climbing adventures.
External Frame backpacks are units comprised of compartments and accessories, which are externally connected to a lightweight aluminum or steel frame. These types of packs generally are heavier but do allow for major versatility in the strapping and packing of bulky travel gear. The rigid frames create direct load transfer support, which is absorbed through an adjustable/padded chest harness. External backpacks can range in capacities, anywhere between 35-100+ liters; providing great storage abilities.
Internal Frame backpacks consist of semi or rigid construction, utilizing a thin aluminum or plastic internal framework to transfer the load to the shoulder and hip straps. These packs are great for moderate to heavy loads, while also giving the user the ability to remove the frame, and convert it into a frameless pack when needed. These packs are great for novice, beginner, and advance adventurers due to its ability to exhibit traits of both the external and frameless backpack. Sizing ranges from 35-100+ liter carrying capacities.
So when choosing the right backpack for the trail, remember the basics: material strength, carrying capacity, waterproofing, portability, customizability, and most importantly, the backpacks comfort and load transferring ability. Considering these aspects, when choosing your backpack, can make the difference of a “can’t wait to get home” or a “Let’s make this an annual trip” type of weekend!
So grab your best gear, don’t forget the bug spray, and let the adventures begin! ⛺️🌲🏔