Types Of Packs

There are three basic types of backpacks: Internal Frame, External Frame, and Frameless.

Internal frame packs by far are the most popular and what most backpackers own. They are called internal frame because they have no visible frame. Most have two flexible metal stays ( length of metal ) that run vertically inside the pack along your back. These stays give the pack rigidity and allow the weight of the pack to be transferred to your hips.

Internal Frame Pack Advantages:

- Internal frame packs conform to your body. They also have cinch straps that compact your pack and keep the contents from moving around. The internal frame pack becomes an extension of you, moving with you. Since it moves with you, you are more agile and your balance is better.
- Internal frame packs are also narrower. This allows you to move down narrow trails without your pack hitting trees and allows you to more easily negotiate boulders or fallen trees.

Internal Frame Pack Disadvantages:

-A typical internal frame pack is one large cavern to store your equipment. If you need something at the bottom, you have to remove or dig through everything on top. Many packs do have a zipper access to the bottom of the pack ( where typically your sleeping bag is stored ). Some have a zippered panel that gives you access to the entire contents. These features help to alleviate this problem.
- Because internal frame packs conform to your body, many times they are hot to wear and can make your back sweat. Newer designs have tried to tackle this problem with various venting methods.