How to Buy a Backpack

Many of the articles written on how to buy a backpack start with an assumption. The writer assumes that you will want either an external frame or internal frame pack, but a full-size one in any case. There is a third option, though, which will be included in this look at packs.

First, let's quickly review the full-sized packs, and their advantages and disadvantages.

For all of the many types and models, there are still essentially three types of backpacks. The oldest and still the best in many ways, is the external frame backpack. The advantages include the ability to tie almost anything to them, so their capacity is always more than just the cubic inches advertised. Also, the external frame means that the pack itself is separated from your back with webbing, and so allows more airflow. I prefer this to the hot internal frame packs that hug the back.

That hugging of your back, however, provides one of the primary advantages of an internal frame pack. The closeness to you makes for better balance. These packs are less likely to swing around and throw you off balance when you are scrambling up a rocky hill. Also, the internal frame packs are usually (but not always) lighter for the size - if you count only the space inside (remember that you can more easily attach things to the outside of external frame backpacks).

How to Buy a Backpack for Ultralight Backpacking

If you want to go really light, you'll want to consider a third option; a frame less backpack. My own weighs just 14 ounces, and I have used it for trips that lasted more than four days and nights. It is difficult to find them this light now, because manufacturers are afraid to make anything that might break and give them a bad reputation. But being careful, I have used mine for over ten years now. In any case, you can still find some of these lightweight frame less packs in the two-pound range - much lighter than almost any frame pack.

As for the "frame" that you might want, just use a folded sleeping bag pad inside against your back and you'll have the support necessary. The pack will rest solidly against your body, and so can be hot. On the other hand, if you go as light as I do (nine pounds total for overnight trips), you can easily swing the pack from one shoulder to the other to allow your back to cool. Buy a backpack like this only if you will be cutting the weight of your shelter and sleeping bag as well. They are generally only good for 25 pounds or less.

Finally, walk around the store with whatever pack you want to buy. The clerk might let you load it up even, using whatever is available for weight, so you can see how it feels. That's how to buy a backpack that won't surprise you later.

Every chapter has tips for lightweight backpacking and wilderness survival.