The Best External Frame Backpacks

Though they've largely fallen from favor since the early 1990s, external frame backpacks still have their uses. Internal frame packs, which have replaced external frame packs, are more stable on steep and rocky terrain. However, external frame packs, which have a frame and a pack lashed to it, are efficient at carrying heavy loads and are cooler when backpacking in hot climes.

Kelty Tioga 5500

The Kelty Tioga 5500 is a comfortable workhorse for extended trips. The pack features an adjustable suspension that fits torsos between 16 inches and 21 inches long, and a ventilating waist belt and back panel to keep the bearer cool. Unlike many older designs, the Tioga has a sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the pack, making it easy to keep your bag dry and your gear organized. The Tioga has zippered side pockets, a mesh water bottle pocket and a spindrift collar for the main pack pocket. The Tioga also comes equipped with a sleeve for a hydration bag like a Camelback. The Tioga weighs 5 pounds, 10 ounces and measures 31.5 inches high, 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep.

Kelty
6235 Lookout Road
Boulder, CO 80301
800-535-3589
kelty.com

JanSport Carson

The JanSport Carson has an adjustable frame system to fit torso lengths between 16 and 21 inches. The frame has a wide hip belt and a mesh lumbar cushion. In addition to the main storage compartment that has both top load and panel zipper access, the pack has two side zippered pockets and two side water bottle pockets. The frame itself extends below the pack, so you can strap a tent or sleeping bag on the bottom of the frame. The Carson weighs 4 pounds, 12 ounces, and measures 34 inches high, 22 inches wide and 10 inches deep.

JanSport
2011 Farallon Drive
San Leandro, CA 94577
510-614-4000
jansport.com

Mountainsmith Youth Scout

The Mountainsmith Youth Scout is ideal for kids and people with shorter torsos between 13 inches and 17 inches. The packs has sensible features, like a sleeping bag sling with quick-release hardware, two side pockets per side with pass-through sleeves to carry skis and a zippered pocket on the back of the pack to carry food for quick access. The frame has a well-padded hip belt and an air mesh back panel for comfort, and the sternum strap is equipped with a safety whistle. The pack weighs 4 pounds, 2 ounces and measures 27 inches high, 18 inches wide and 15 inches deep.

Mountainsmith
18301 W. Colfax Ave., Building P
Golden, CO 80401
800-551-5889
mountainsmith.com

Article Written By Candace Horgan

Candace Horgan has worked as a freelance journalist for more than 12 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the "Denver Post" and "Mix." Horgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and history.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...