A good external frame backpack is a necessity for any long-distance hike or camping trip. Plenty of options on the market are designed to provide comfort, organization, and durability for extended periods of carrying weight.
We researched and tested dozens of external frame backpacks to find the best ones to help you carry everything you need, and not a single thing you don’t. Our favorite, the 60L Waterproof Lightweight Hiking Backpack, is designed with a molded, ventilating back panel, adjustable torso height, and plenty of organizational features.
Here are the best external frame backpacks.
Best External Frame Hiking Backpacks: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best External Frame Hiking Backpacks Reviews
- BACKPACK FRAME: Ideal for hunting or camping, this frame backpack can help you tote your belongings without struggle
- COMFORTABLE: A mesh back panel, extra thick padded straps, and a padded waist belt takes the discomfort out of carrying heavier loads
- ADJUSTABLE: Both the upper frame and lower shelf can be easily moved to accommodate heavier loads
- STURDY: With an aluminum frame and dual nylon fabric, this durable backpack is made to last through many outdoor adventures
- ACCOMADATING SIZE: 29.92 x 14.17 x 14.96 inches
- Sport Type: Designed For Hiking And Outdoor Lifestyle
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps: Comfortably Carry Up To 75 Pounds
- Durable Aluminum Frame: Tackles Rough Terrain
- Padded Hip Belt: Provides Weight Distribution
- Foldable Design: Easy To Store And Transport
- 【Mighty Outdoor Warrior】 Boosting your load capacity and carrying space. Crafted with high-quality aluminum alloy frame, the frame backpack is Lightweight yet Sturdy, capable of hoisting a whopping 130 lb. The generous 27.2 x 14.6 x 10.3 Inch backpack frame space tackles the vast majority of outdoor and household needs, even stepping in for emergency rescues during natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, e.g. carrying the injured
- 【Focused Hiker】 Abundant stability and security make light work of backpacking with heavy loads, mitigating sway, and eliminating safety concerns. Two Vertically Adjustable Straps for securing and expanding your carrying space. Two 1.5-inch Small Removable Anchors on the outermost frame preventing your gears from slipping beyond the frame's grasp and act as 2 hooks when needed. All allow you to confidently secure larger hunting, fishing, camping, and outdoor equipment without compromising safety
- 【Effortless Load Carrier】 Ensuring comfort, mitigating fatigue, and conserving energy. The metal frame's burdens are distributed evenly across the body, strategically aligning with ergonomic principles. Weariness and unnecessary energy expenditure would be minimized. High-density foam-padded belts and shoulder straps, along with generous padding, work in harmony with specialized triple-layer belts to uniformly disperse the load's gravity where the body is best equipped to handle it
- 【Hunters, Fishers, Explorers, Climbers, Rescuers – You Could became Any】 Versatile for not just outdoor adventures but also everyday life and even rescue missions. Whether you're hunting, fishing, hiking, or lending a hand in disaster response, this pack frame fits the bill – from securing hunting gear, game, fishing equipment, sleeping bags, tents, to even carrying a person or hauling elk meat weighing up to 130 lb
- 【Patiently Awaits Your Next Adventure】 the external frame hiking backpacks fold neatly for storage in your vehicle or home, requiring just a 28 x 15 x 6 Inch space. When not in use, it sits quietly at home, ready to accompany you effortlessly on your next journey
- 【Large Capacity】Specs (Dimensions) are 31.5” x 21.7” x 11.8”, the main compartment with high quality strapping system features a two-in-one carrier for your bow or rifle. The large main compartment with multi small compartments, waist bag and side pockets offers a total 5500 cubic inches (90L) capacity. The extension bag with drawstring on the top increases the main compartment capacity. TideWe hunting backpack can pack everything you need for 3-5 days outdoor hunting journey.
- 【Ergonomic Design & Comfortable】TideWe Large pack is designed with adjustable shoulder straps and frame, customizing your personal size. The ergonomic design with soft and breathable padding offers pressure reduction makes long walks much easier and comfortable on your body. Curved top frame design is suitable for your head placement, protecting your head from being hit. The lightweight and compact frame, along with the folding freighter shelf, is perfect for your hunting trip.
- 【Trusted Quality】High performance black fabric, durable buckle and exquisite stitching delivers the TideWe external frame hunting back incredible durability. The reinforced Hypalon is used at the frame connection part to reduce abrasion for the frame.
- 【User-friendly Design】TideWe is committed to your ultimate hunting experience by unique design. The zippered quick access design helps you take out gears from the big bag conveniently and easily. This framed hunting backpack is compatible with 2 or 3-liter hydration systems, keeping you hydrated for those long walks in the woods. Waterproof rain cover is perfect for keeping all your gears dry in case you get caught in rain. High quality strapping system makes it easy for heavier load.
- 【Multifunctional】Specs (Dimensions) are 31.5” x 21.7” x 11.8”. It is enough for you to storage your clothing, shoes,trekking poles, sleeping bag and other small items. TideWe frame backpack is well used for hiking, trekking, camping, climbing, travelling.
- Five decades of design building packs focused on being duable, simple, comfortable and reliable for all your backpacking events
- Tradition meets feature rich pack reliable external frame design for your next adventure
- Features: Top Loading, Top Lid converts to Sling Pack, Zippered side pockets, front pocket w/ organization, Stretch front pouch, Hydration Compatible
- Suspension Features: Adjustable suspension, External Frame, Dual density foam waist belt, Padded shoulder straps, stabilizer straps, Sternum strap
- Dimensions: Size (L x W x D) 29 x 22. 5 x 13 in, Weight 5 lbs 5 oz, Volume 65 L, Optimal Carry Weight: 20-55 lbs
- 21W FOLDABLE SOLAR PANEL CHARGER INCLUDE ---- Solar cells deliver up to a 24% conversion rate, Smart charging technology recognizes the input needed for a connected device and distributes current output accordingly, delivering up to 3.0A and cutting down on total charging time. Built-in loops and with carabiners easily attach to your backpack, tent or trees, and has a convenient pocket for the device being charged. No matter where you go, you can keep all your devices fully charged.
- BREATHABLE EXTERNAL FRAME HIKING BACKPACK ---- The backpack is specially designed for traveling enthusiasts, ergonomic padded shoulder straps and back support, gives you more comfortable feeling. Professional TCS carrying adjustable weight decomposition system, So that the backpack effectively removes the pressure and transfer most of the weight from the shoulder to the hips and legs. And the metal frame with mesh separates your back from the backpack, which keeps air flowing and your back cool.
- LARGE CAPACITY & MULTI COMPARTMENTS ---- Spacious main compartment and numerous pouches with large capacity. Special main pocket closing drawstring design, tight closure to prevent the items falling from the backpack. Shoes separated storing pouch, preventing the items inside backpack to be dirty, convenient and practical. Two side pockets to carry more water bottles or umbrellas, And it meets size requirements for most airlines, enough room for 3 or 4 days trips.
- SIZE ADJUSTABLE & MULTI-HANGING SYSTEM ---- The wide, adjustable shoulder straps with chest strap ensure good load distribution, while the padded back of the backpack ensures stability. Powerful hanging system, independent end positions, can put shoes, sleeping bags, etc.; daisy chains, Whistle Buckle, D-shape hooks, compression straps, bottom loops, soft latching loops, key rings and bottom straps for hanging sleeping bag, mat, tents, hammock, trekking pole, tripod, and other gears.
- WIDE APPLICATION ---- Made of durable eco-friendly waterproof nylon & Poly fabric, Capacity of 68L, Weight: 1.65KGS, 3.64Pounds, Size:73*36*26cm, 28.8*14.2*10.2in. Compatible with iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Note, Mini, Nexus, LG, HTC, GoPro, Kindle and other 5V USB powered devices, including power banks of various capacity. You can easily take this charger with you on any outdoor adventure! It’s ideal to use while backpacking, hiking, camping, kayaking & other outdoor activities.
- BEST SELLING BACKPACK: Consistently a best internal frame backpack on Amazon at a great price for such a feature rich backpack; TETON Tough, ready for hiking, backpacking and camping
- TETON TOUGH: The best memories are made with the great durable gear; Perfect for any Adventure; comes in 65L, 75L or 85L sizes and adjustable to fit all; Pocket for Hydration
- CUSTOM COMFORT: Multi position torso adjustment fits medium and tall adventurers; Durable open-cell foam lumbar pad and molded channels provide maximum comfort and airflow; For beginners or experienced Backpackers
- WHAT CUSTOMERS TELL US: Great quality and thoughtful design; large sleeping bag compartment, multi directional compression straps, with spacious compartments and pockets, a place for everything
- TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product support team if you have any questions or concerns; YOU CAN COUNT ON US to get you taken care of and back OUTDOORS
- A trail-tested workhorse, the Kelty Tioga backpack offers heavy load hauling capability, convenient access points and fit adjustability
- The Tioga 5500 Classic's rigid aluminum frame provides excellent stability and support
- Equipped with many zippered pockets, the Tioga 5500 allows you to separate and organize gear while providing quick access to whatever you might need
- Other features on the Tioga 5500 include an enclosed sleeping bag compartment, a lid pocket, zippered side pockets, and a mesh water bottle pocket
- BEST SELLING BACKPACK: Consistently a best internal frame backpack on Amazon at a great price for such a feature rich backpack; TETON Tough, ready for hiking, backpacking and camping
- TETON TOUGH: The best memories are made with the great durable gear; Perfect for any Adventure; comes in 45L, 55L or 65L sizes and adjustable to fit all; Pocket for Hydration
- CUSTOM COMFORT: Multi position torso adjustment fits medium and tall adventurers; Durable open-cell foam lumbar pad and molded channels provide maximum comfort and airflow; For beginners or experienced Backpackers
- WHAT CUSTOMERS TELL US: Great quality and thoughtful design; large sleeping bag compartment, multi directional compression straps, with spacious compartments and pockets, a place for everything
- TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product support team if you have any questions or concerns; YOU CAN COUNT ON US to get you taken care of and back OUTDOORS
- Comfortable Daypack: This climbing backpack is specially designed for traveling enthusiasts, ergonomic padded shoulder straps and back support,gives you more comfortable feeling.ventilation and easing burden.Sturdy frame and high-grade nylon extend service life. Breathable mesh shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. Widened and thickened S-type shoulder straps and high elastic breathable back support for best
- EXTENSIVE STORAGE & MULTI COMPARTMENTS:Roomy compartments help keep stored items organized and easy to find. Large sleeping-bag compartment and multi-directional compression straps are available.Special main pocket closing drawstring design, tight closure to prevent the items falling from the backpack.With one Interior Pouch for water bladder.Shoes separated storing pouch, preventing the items inside backpack to be dirty, convenient and practical.Two side pockets to carry more water bottles.
- With 8 ADJUSTABLE STRAPS:for tying up your pack or hanging sleeping bag, mat, hammock, tripod, and other gears,convenient for the hiking, climbing, camping enthusiasts.
- Water-resistant:Made of high-quality and safe material, it is durable for long-time use.nylon fabric material, Made of High quality rip-stop polyester material, water resistant, tear resistant.And included extra rain cover pouch on the top zip pocket,prevent the water and dust into the backpack,protect your valuables from heavy rain and keep everything dry.
- LARGE CAPACITY: Spacious main compartment and numerous pouches with large capacity.60L provides enough space for hiking and camping.And it meets size requirements for most airlines, enough room for 3 or 4 days trips. Ideal for quick trip pack. Dimensions: 29.1 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches.
Best External Frame Hiking Backpacks Buying Guide
Before choosing the best external frame hiking backpack you should consider the following options:
1. Frame Size: The size of the frame you buy will depend on the size of your body and the weight you intend to carry.
The standard size of an external frame backpack is 60-inch, which is suitable for people who are 5 feet 6 inches tall and weigh up to 165 pounds.
If you are taller or weigh more than 165 pounds, you should buy a backpack with a larger frame.
2. Frame Type: Backpacks are available in three types of frames: unisex, male, and female. Unisex backpacks are suitable for anyone, while male and female backpacks are suitable for men and women respectively.
3. Suspension System: Suspension systems help in distributing the weight of the backpack evenly on your shoulders and hips.
If you are carrying a heavy backpack with an inadequate suspension system, you are likely to experience back pain.
The suspension system in a backpack is made up of straps, pads, and frames. The straps keep the backpack in place, while the pads and frames absorb the weight of the backpack.
Check the quality of the suspension system before buying a backpack. An adequate suspension system should have several straps with good quality buckles, medium-density frames, and high-quality foam pads.
4. Backpack Volume: The amount of gear and supplies you intend to carry will determine the volume of backpack you buy.
If you want to carry more gear, you should buy a backpack with a larger frame and a large suspension system. Backpacks with large frames and suspension systems are heavier and more expensive.
5. Backpack Weight: The weight of a backpack is determined by the frame, suspension system, and the material used.
Highly durable materials like nylon and polyester are lightweight, while nylon, polyester, and canvas are lightweight but less durable.
If you intend to trek through trails and carry heavy loads, you should buy backpacks made from durable materials. Backpacks made from nylon and polyester are lighter and more durable.
6. Budget: Backpacks are available in all price ranges. You can get a decent backpack for less than $100.
However, if you intend to carry heavy loads, buy a backpack with a large frame and a good suspension system. Such backpacks will be expensive.
What else you should know about best external frame hiking backpacks
1. What are the best external frame hiking backpacks?
Some of the best external frame hiking backpacks on the market include the REI Co-op Trailbreak 60, the Deuter Futura Vario 65 + 10, and the Osprey Aether AG 70.
2. What are the features of a good external frame hiking backpack?
Some features of a good external frame hiking backpack are that it is durable, has a lot of compartments for storage, is comfortable to wear, and has a frame that evenly distributes the weight of the backpack.
3. How do I choose the right external frame hiking backpack for me?
The most important factor to consider when choosing an external frame hiking backpack is your torso length. Once you have your torso length, you can then choose a backpack with a frame that is the right size for you. Another factor to consider is the type of terrain you will be hiking in. If you will be hiking in rough terrain, you will want to choose a backpack with a suspension system that can help you carry your gear.
4. What are the benefits of using an external frame hiking backpack?
A hiking backpack with an external frame can provide a number of benefits, including better weight distribution, increased ventilation, and easier access to gear.
5. What are some things to consider when using an external frame hiking backpack?
Some things to consider when using an external frame hiking backpack are the weight of the backpack, the type of backpack, and the weather.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best external frame hiking backpacks. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best external frame hiking backpacks will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.