Make sure it fits! Choosing a pack with the right capacity and features, and with a low price tag, is not a good deal if it's too long or short for your back, or sits awkwardly on your shoulders or hips. For example, there should be no gap between the shoudler straps and your shoulders.

2torial #0825: Learn2 Choose the Right Backpack (Continued) Choose a frame design In the outdoor recreation world, there's some fierce debate over the superiority of internal versus external frames. Some backpackers are loyal to internal frame backpacks; others think the traditional external frame is the only "real" pack. Internal frame packs have their frame ( which is usually aluminum or graphite) built into the pack itself. Some folks insist that internal packs allow for greater manueverabilty through tight spaces, and for greater stability on open faces--the pack fits your body's contours more closely.   External frame packs wear their frames on the outside, and the pack itself hangs from it. Externals tend to be less expensive and can distribute the weight of your pack higher on your shoulders, which makes the load easier to carry. Yet internal packs (the other kind) are currently the most popular, due to its greater manuverabililty and, perhaps, the wishes of the outdoor recreation gear industry. Step 3