Howdie travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best framed backpacks for some backpacking fun this year. Backpacking is a type of travel that many of us do in our younger years where we pack a backpack and travel. Accommodation is usually undertaken in hostels, pensions and home stays and tends to cover more than just a few weeks.
And as the name suggests, the preferred luggage option here is the framed backpack. There are however quite a number of options out there to choose from so to help you out, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent choices below.
Let’s check them out…
My Three Recommended Framed Backpacks For Travel
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get travelling without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
what is a framed backpack?
As the name suggests, framed backpacks come with a lightweight frame at the back that assists in distributing the weight of the pack across your entire body. Backpackers often prefer this type of pack as they are generally larger – meaning they can hold more gear – and the frame can help protect their stuff inside during the rigors of travel.
They are easier to pack as they hold their shape well, even when empty and often come with many pockets and for better organization as well. Frames can be visible outside the backpack or sewn into the fabric to hide them away.
Check out these: Frameless backpacks
What Should You Be Looking For?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good framed backpack for your travel needs.
- Size
- Weight
- Durability
- Frame location
- Additions
Size
It probably goes without saying but size is a critical element when it comes to choosing a good backpack for your travels. You obviously need to have enough space to keep your gear in without it becoming too cumbersome – especially if you are planning to get out there for the long haul.
The other factor here to consider of course is airline baggage fees. Larger bags mean more gear and more gear can mean more weight. You obviously need a size larger than carry on for backpacking however most airlines jack up the costs for bag weights over pre determined levels as well.
Weight
Above we discussed the weight implications of airlines when travelling and part of this equation obviously is the weight of the pack to begin with. Hence, when you start to look at framed backpacks, check how much it weighs.
In general, framed backpacking rigs are made of lightweight aluminum and strong polyester or nylon fabrics and weight around 3 – 5lb.
Durability
Another absolute truth when it comes to travel is how hard it can be on our gear. So then a critical factor is to ensure that your chosen option is strong enough to handle the rigors of moving around on planes, busses and anything else you can arrange.
To assist here, look for options made of high denier nylon or polyester as it is light weight, tough and often waterproof as well. Also look for good quality zippers (they have always been the first thing to go on m luggage) and heavy stitching on the seams.
And as far as the frame is concerned, it should be made of string aluminum and securely attached to the main backpack too – see next section.
Frame location
This is another area that is a main reason for purchasing this type of backpack. As above, the frame is there to assist with weight distribution and ease of packing. When it comes to fr4amed backpacks, they are built in two ways as below:
- Internal frame – the frame is sewn into the main backpack fabric and often behind padding for extra comfort.
- External frame – the frame sits on the outside of the backpack. These options can often be adjusted for length and allow for extra ‘stuff’ to be hooked onto them. they also provide for extra ventilation in warmer climates.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Pockets/molle straps – these provide for greater organization and safety for smaller items
- Padded back and waist straps – for extra comfort
- Attachable pack – some come with smaller detachable backpacks for day use
- Rain cover – waterproof rain cover that folds out to protect pack when it rains
FAQ
Is a framed backpack worth it?
Framed backpacks provide a number of advantages to travelers in that they assist in distributing the weight of the pack across your entire body and are easier to pack as they hold their shape well. Externally framed backpacks also provide for extra ventilation in warmer weather as they keep the main part of the pack off your back.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Ubon Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
This first option is light weight and super strong making it perfect for backpackers of all types. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Ubon
- Storage Size: 60L
- Weight: 3.97Lb
- Durability: Made from 600D rip-stop and waterproof nylon fabric
- Frame location: Internal
Other inclusions:
- 3D Mesh back panel for extra support and ventilation
- Padded waist bands
- One top pocket, one bottom pocket, and two waist pockets
- Detachable rain cover
- 7 stage height adjusters at the back
Why have I chosen it?
This first backpack option is waterproof and durable with enough pockets to keep everything you need safe and organized. It comes with 7 height adjustments under a padded back for comfort and there is even a water outlet to hold a bladder should you be walking a little further to your next destination. This is a great option for long distance hiking as well.
2. MOUNTAINTOP 80L Internal Frame Hiking Backpack
My second backpack option is for those who want to take a little more gear in a pack that is still light in weight and durable. See its specifications below:
Brand: MOUNTAINTOP
Storage Size: 80L
Weight: 4.96Lb
Durability: Made from high quality water-resistant nylon lining, well stitching and sturdy YKK zippers
Frame location: Internal
Other inclusions:
- Ergonomic back pad, waist and shoulder cushions
- 3D Breathable mesh shoulder straps
- 8 stage height adjuster
- Separate bladder sleeve in the main compartment
- Multiple pockets and molle straps
Why have I chosen it?
As with the first option above, this pack ticks all of the required boxes in that it is light in weight, durable and holds everything needed for long term travel It is also suitable for all travel needs whether you are hiking or camping as well.
3. ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Backpack
This third option is actually designed as a hunting backpack however with so many options to assist with backpacking, I have decided to include it here as well. It is built tough to handle any type of travel need you have from the plane to the hostel. See its specifications below:
Brand: ALPS OutdoorZ
Storage Size: 86L
Weight: 7Lb
Durability: Durable Ripstop fabric
Frame location: External
Other inclusions:
- Main pocket, side pocket, two hinged side accessory pockets, front pockets and waist belt pouches
- 17” to 23” adjustable frame
- Freighter Shelf to keep heavy loads (tents, bed pads etc.) secure
- Padded shoulder and waist pads
Why have I chosen it?
As above, although built for hunting, the features that are needed for this type of sport are actually extremely helpful for backpacking as well. It has plenty of pockets and is built to last as well as sections for water and smaller gear too. The frame is extendable and there are built in lashes should you need to to attach a tent etc. as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three framed hiking backpacks for your long term travel needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
