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How to Choose a Backpack

Planning to buy a new backpack for backpacking? There are three main areas where you’ll need to make choices.

Backpack capacity: The size of the pack you’ll need is tied to the length of your trip and how much weight and bulk you want to carry.

Backpack features: These are the refinements that affect how the pack works for you.

Backpack fit: Torso length—not your height—matters most.

Frame Type

Internal-frame backpacks: The majority of packs sold at REI today are body-hugging, internal-frame packs where the structure is hidden inside the back panel. They are designed to keep a hiker stable on uneven, off-kilter terrain and may incorporate a variety of load-support technologies that all function to transfer the load to the wearer’s hips.

External-frame backpacks: With an external-frame pack, you can see the structure that supports the load: aluminum (usually) hardware on the outside. Because the frame extends beyond the packbag, a backpack like this may be an appropriate choice if you’re carrying a heavy, irregular load (like an oversize tent or inflatable kayak). External-frame packs also offer good ventilation and lots of gear organization options.

Frameless backpacks: Ultralight devotees who like to hike fast and light might choose a frameless pack or a climbing pack where the frame is removable for weight savings. But packs without a frame are much more uncomfortable under heavy loads.