Should You Get a Frameless Pack? Things to Consider for Backpacking and Long-Distance Hiking

My Gossamer Gear Kumo 36

Until a few years ago, frameless packs seemed to be something only fringe ultra lighters used. Now, frameless packs are becoming increasingly mainstream. The reason why is clear- gear has become lighter and more compact, making a frame unnecessary in some circumstances. Going into the future, the trend of lighter and more compact gear will continue.

Like many backpackers, I only used framed packs for years. In my mind, I couldn’t imagine not having the load carrying benefits of a hip belt. I then decided to give a frameless pack a try, and now I’m a believer.

As for my hiking experience, I’ve completed the Appalachian, Colorado, Long, and Northville Placid Trails, and many shorter trails. I only used a framed pack on those longer hikes, but have used frameless on shorter ones.

Here are some reasons why you might want to transition to a frameless pack:

Well, they’re lighter! A frameless can be around a pound lighter than the lightest framed pack. It’s not just the lack of a frame, but the stitching, fabric, and materials needed to hold the frame.They’re cheaper! No frame, less materials, cheaper price.Frames bend, break, squeak, and can wear into your pack. With a frameless, you never have to worry about those things. By being so simple, frameless packs are often more durable.Don’t need a hip belt! A big reason for me, I love hiking without a hip belt. I just feel I move more naturally. Hip belts can also lead to more sweating, chaffing, redness, or abrasions.Perfect for hot weather hiking. Similar to reason No. 4, frameless packs are much cooler without a hip belt wrapped around you. Yes, frameless packs are known for a lack of back ventilation. One thing that has helped me (if your pack has a mesh sleeve or cords) is using a firm, egg crate foam pad against my back. This has helped with ventilation and also works as a sit pad. Versatile! Many frameless packs have simple hip belts that move better with your body than the traditional thicker ones. This is ideal for people who like hip belts, or want a belt to help carry some of the weight. In most frameless packs, these belts are removable. Frameless packs can also be used as a daypack.Can be perfect for weekend trips. Not everyone does long distance hiking, the vast majority of backpackers do weekend trips. Frameless packs can be perfect for those trips when you don’t need to carry as much food. On a related note, frameless packs are also ideal for summer weekend backpack trips. You use a fold out foam sleeping pad. If you cut the length of the pad, it can be folded up and put in a frameless pack, giving it a “frame” and helping direct weight to your hips if you also use a hip belt.A smaller pack makes you streamline your kit and requires you to be more disciplined about what you’re carrying.

Reasons not to transition to a frameless pack:

There’s no question, framed packs can handle more weight comfortably. If you like your comfort items or don’t have light gear, no problem, but a frameless may not be for you. Base weights for frameless packs should be around ten to twelve pounds, and frameless packs often become uncomfortable when total weight goes into the low to mid twenties. If you’re on a hike with big water and food carries, again, a frameless pack may not be the best choice.

What I look for in a frameless pack:

Wider, curved shoulder straps. In a frameless pack, shoulder straps take on even more importance. Running vest style straps are ideal, or any that are wide to distribute weight more comfortably.Back mesh or straps to hold a foam pad. Not all packs have this, but I like them. It gives the pack structure, helps prevent gear from poking your back, and can help with ventilation (see above).Removable hip belts.Mesh pockets on shoulder straps. Specifically, pockets that can hold about a 600 ml bottle. I like to hold my water bottles there, it feels lighter close to my torso as compared to side pockets near my lower back. It also counteracts the weight of my pack. Water is quite heavy and shoulder strap pockets ease that burden. Big rear mesh pocket. This goes for any pack, something to stash gear I need through the day or to dry clothing.Side pockets that can hold two liters of water. This seems to be the standard, big side pockets can also hold other gear as well. If I didn’t have shoulder strap pockets, I’d want a pack where I can easily reach my water in the side pockets without taking my pack off or loosening straps. Roll down top. Just a preference. Water resistance. A preference but not a deal breaker as a trash compactor or nylofume bag works just as well.

What companies make frameless packs?

Some are Nashville Packs, Pa’lante Packs, Outdoor Vitals, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Gossamer Gear, Durston Packs, Superior Wilderness Designs, Mountain Laurel Designs, Desolo, Zpacks, Osprey Packs, Mountainsmith, ULA Equipment.

Is there a best buy among frameless packs for those looking to give it a try?

Many people say Gossamer Gear’s Kumo 36 is the best buy among frameless packs. It is roughly half the price of many other packs (even cheaper during sales), the pack alone (no hip belt) is just over 14 ounces, it is versatile, and very comfortable. I have one and can attest to its comfort (I paid for it and did not receive any incentive for this plug). Unlike other packs, it is not water resistant, and has Gossamer Gear’s classic fold over top as compared to a roll down top. I also have a Desolo Tallac 35, a good pack. It is inexpensive, water resistant, and has a huge mesh pocket, but the shoulder straps are not as comfy as the Kumo. Another idea is to see if the frame of your traditional pack is removable. Many are. That can give you an idea if frameless is for you without spending more money.