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Backpacks in lighter weight and weather resistant materials with innovative accessories have made the camping experience more accessible and comfortable for many people.
Although their price, size and style vary considerably, all backpacks may be said to fall into one of three categories: internal frames, external frames and daypacks. Of the three, the majority backpackers today buy internal frame packs.

“Whether it is a marketing strategy or a sign of the times, almost everybody is switching over to internal frames,” said Doc Dowidat of Miller’s Surplus in Tucson.

Although internal frame packs are slimmer and will fit into places where external frames would be awkward, each of the two styles has its own use.

For mountaineering, rock climbing, cross-country skiing and snow showing, Dowidat recommends the internal frame. But for the open trail, the external frame has the advantage of holding a sleeping bag and tent on its the exterior, leaving more room inside for other supplies.

The external frame is also easier on the body. Dowidat explains that with an external frame pack, 90 percent of the weight is carried by the hips. In contrast, only 75 percent of the weight of an internal frame pack is supported by the hips. The rest lies on the back.

The daypack has neither an internal nor an external frame. It is most often used by high school and college students as a book bag, but can also be used on the trail.

“Daypacks are great for hiking but not good for backpacking,” said Dowidat. “You can do an overnight with a day-pack but you wouldn’t want to take them on a longer hike.”