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Internal Frame

What is an internal frame?

An internal frame is a structural support system built inside a backpack, consisting of lightweight aluminum stays or carbon fiber rods that run vertically along the back panel. This frame design transfers the pack's weight to the hips through a padded waistbelt while maintaining a close-to-body fit that improves balance and maneuverability on technical terrain. Internal frame packs are preferred by most hikers and backpackers because they offer better stability for scrambling, climbing, and navigating narrow trails compared to external frame designs.

Related Terms

External Frame

An external frame is a backpack design featuring a rigid metal or aluminum frame structure that sits outside the pack bag, typically visible along the back panel. This frame system distributes weight efficiently across the hips and shoulders while maintaining excellent ventilation between the pack and the wearer's back. External frame packs excel at carrying heavy, bulky loads and allow for easy attachment of external gear, making them popular for extended backpacking trips, hunting expeditions, and situations requiring maximum load capacity.