Best External Frame Backpacks in 2021-1
1. Kelty Yukon 48L Backpack
If you have a smaller frame than most, you will find it difficult to find a comfortable backpack. Like the clothing industry, backpack manufacturers have a tendency to design packs to fit ‘most' people. Unfortunately, that means if you're on the smaller side, there isn't much on the market for you. The Kelty Yukon 48L Backpack is actually designed for teens and, in terms of size, sits between their junior and adult packs. However, it's suitable for anyone on the smaller side. It has a lightweight aluminum scaffolding system that makes it much stronger than regular packs. Plus, the combination of padded shoulder straps, a dual-density foam waist belt, and load lifter/belt stabilizer straps allow you to spread the weight of the pack equally and comfortably. In terms of storage, it has a large main compartment, a laptop/hydration sleeve, and multiple gear loops. In short, it's got plenty of space for a multi-day hike or any other outdoor adventure.
2. ALPS Zion Mountaineering Pack
By now, you probably know that we love ALSP and their stellar external frame packs. This one falls a bit lower than our top pick, but dammit if they don't put their heart and soul into every individual lineup and model. The Zion comes with vented lumbar support, making it ideal for both men and women to use on long hiking trips. For storage and getting things ready, such as packing up the SUV, you get a heavy duty carry handle that can withstand whatever you've loaded up your pack with. These guys didn't leave a single feature up to chance.
From the lycra covered suspension components, for additional durability, right on down to the 3,900 cubic square feet of space, all for under a Benjamin? We would have called them crazy, if we hadn't purchased and tested it for ourselves. There's enough external pockets to keep you close to your gadgets and small items, like a wallet or EDC kit, while the buckle closures and adjustable straps keep everything tight to the frame, safe and secure. Low budget and high expectations? We're serving this one up on a silver platter.
3. AmazonBasics Hiking Backpack with Rainfly
Last but not least, we had to delve in and see what all the fuss was about when Amazon decided to put out their own external frame backpack. At the lowest price on our list, they did a far better job than we initially gave them credit for. Choose between 55 liters, 65, or 75, and swap out the black accents for olive green, should you choose. While the aesthetics and storage capabilities are nice, the function is what's going to put you head over heels. Utilize the multi-directional compression straps to adjust your weight distribution on-the-go, all while breathing easy under the protection of your all-inclusive water resistant rainfly.
With AmazonBasics Hiking Backpack with Rainfly you get dedicated storage for your sleeping bag, while the extension collar offers a few extra nooks and crannies to stash all your goodies. Lumbar support is a must, so they threw that in, while including thick, well-padded shoulder straps to reduce fatigue, and maximize your good time. AmazonBasics products, of course, come with a one-year limited warranty, though after using this ourselves, we doubt you'll ever need to call upon it.
