Just wondering if anyone still uses an external frame pack or am I the only one. I really like the pack I have and just can't bite the bullet to purchase a new pack. Am I really missing out on anything?

The only external frame I have ever used we modified to carry elk out of the back county in Montana. This worked great for hauling large pieces of meat out. That being said I do love my internal frame pack, but maybe I don't know what I'm missing?

My brother showed up in our Angleworm hike with a mid 1980s Camp Trails external frame pack. He regretted it the whole way - the weight sits so far away from your back, it encourages over packing, and in his case it was really worn out as well. Packs have come so far since the 1980s, his pack was just extremely outmoded.

Scouts - If you like your pack then that is all that matters.
I used an external frame for many years.
About 5 yrs ago I bought a used Red Cloud 5400 internal frame pack.
The transfer of weight to my hips was better and the pack was a couple pounds lighter.
I liked it, but I was moving into lightweight hiking then.
So I bought a Granite Gear Crown VC 60 which is essentially a frameless pack that has a carry limit of about 30lbs.
Anyway, if you are wondering maybe you can borrow a pal's internal frame pack and see how it feels.
It is important to get a pack of the correct length as internal frames are generally not very adjustable.
There must be 100 videos of how to measure for correct pack fit.

I used an external frame Jansport pack for years until 1996, since then I use a frameless pack.
They are much lighter and can be adjusted for your Torso length.
I have been getting into lightweight backpacking the last few years, 250 bucks will buy you a nice backpack if you can afford it, I would highly recommend it.

Go into an REI or similar store and try some on, they will adjust the length for your height, fill various brands with weight and let you walk around the store with it on. You will most likely be shocked with the new technology.

My latest pack is a Dueter brand.

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. I am going to finish out the hiking season with my external but definitely something to consider for next season.

My first pack was a Dana Design external frame pack which I loved. I liked how that pack did not sit directly on your back but I couldn't carry much weight especially if there was any elevation involved. Then I went to one of the original Granite Gear internal frame/internal plastic sheet and I could carry a lot more gear for longer trips-this was maybe 20 years ago, or more. I loved that pack too but it was heavy and hot on my back. I just bought a Hyperlight Mountain Gear pack which is an expensive sack. Super light, bells and whistles are on the outside, it's light and it's nice. It still needs to be thoroughly trail tested but I've never regretted having a lighter pack! For me being outside is not about the gear and its good to be slow before buying new gear.

quote Sologirl: "My first pack was a Dana Design external frame pack which I loved. I liked how that pack did not sit directly on your back but I couldn't carry much weight especially if there was any elevation involved. Then I went to one of the original Granite Gear internal frame/internal plastic sheet and I could carry a lot more gear for longer trips-this was maybe 20 years ago, or more. I loved that pack too but it was heavy and hot on my back. I just bought a Hyperlight Mountain Gear pack which is an expensive sack. Super light, bells and whistles are on the outside, it's light and it's nice. It still needs to be thoroughly trail tested but I've never regretted having a lighter pack! For me being outside is not about the gear and its good to be slow before buying new gear."

Thanks Solo. I have a nice REI pack that weighs 3bls 5oz empty so it is fairly light. As you know, they can hold a ton of gear so I have to be mindful of what I pack. Last year I took a hiking trip to the Big Horn Mountains and kept me pack weight at 36lbs for 5 days. I was the only one on the trip with an external frame and I was the only one on the trip that didn't get any sort of belt rash from the hip belt. Not sure if this was luck, coincidence, or because of the pack I was using. I was told to check out some of the ultra light packs like the ULA packs but just don't know what to look for. I know fit and comfort are king!

36 lbs for 5 days is really good. Your pack is pretty light for an external frame and the new materials for the ultra light stuff is impressive. When I got my new pack in the mail it was so light I couldn't believe it could hold the weight of my gear. But the material is tough and waterproof.

I think packs are like canoes when you have it you learn to make it work for you. And of course the ultra light stuff can be really expensive and that ends up driving decisions. One thing to consider with the ultra light packs is that they are not as big as the older packs so if your gear is not slimmed down it'll be hard to get it all in but it doesn't like you will have that issue. Have fun shopping!!!!