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Internal Frame Backpacks |
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Internal frame backpacks: a step upIn the old days, everyone used external frame backpacks. They provided a great deal of support for the items being carried inside, and could hold a great deal of equipment. But with the introduction of internal frame packs, backpacks became lighter, more comfortable, and more convenient. Hiking equipment followed suit. Now, necessity items like tents and sleeping bags are smaller and lighter than could even be imagined 20 years ago, so a large backpack is no longer a necessity. Internal frame backpacks allow you to store most if not all of your gear inside the pack, protecting it from snow and rain and preventing snagging on branches or rocks. A good pack will also have various bindings, pouches, and pockets wherein you can store items for quick accessibility, such as a compass, map, water bottle or the like. Before choosing an internal frame backpack carefully consider what you will be using it for the majority of the time. You want neither a pack that is too small or too large for your needs. A large pack that is under-filled can be very uncomfortable to wear. Plus, you may be tempted to fill a large pack with unneccesary items, making your trek more uncomfortable.
A small pack, such as a daypack, may offer only 1000-2000 cubic inches of internal storage. A medium size pack of 2000-4000 cubic inches would be appropriate for a weekend getaway. If you plan on spending an extended time in the out-of-doors, or you have a fairly large tent and sleeping bag, a 4000 cubic inch or greater pack will probably be needed. Look for plenty of storage areas on your chosen pack, as well as good padding around the hips and shoulders, double-stitching at connection points, and separate pouches for smaller items. Always go with a name-brand hiking backpack. They only cost a little bit more, but they're built by people who spend time in the outdoors themselves, so they know what features to build into the pack. One of the best known brands is Gregory - when in doubt, you can't go wrong with them. Good luck in your search for the right internal frame backpack.
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