The advantages of external backpacks are mainly due to their versatility. They do also offer better ventilation for the dorsal area than most backpacks because the pack is somewhat suspended within the frame taking pressure off of the back. The frame can be used to tie or strap on extra equipment like tents or cooking utensils. This makes them a necessity for solo hikers and small groups that might require one person to carry the extra equipment.
External frame backpacks have become less popular in backpacking as gear has become more compact. Many tents and large gear fold down to manageable sizes that do not require the external frame to attach to. People's activity demands are also a factor that has created lower demand for external frames. Adding jogging and biking to a backpacking trip makes a smaller internal frame the better choice because of its lower center of gravity. Travel constraints also make it hard to lug the larger packs of trains and planes, especially for those traveling to Europe. The traditional backpacker will always have the external frame, but technology is slowly phasing out the need for one.
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