Hello everyone...so I have a question about backpacks for all of those of you who have some knowledge about them. Im going on my first hiking trip and think it is crucial to have a hiking backpack. With that said I am debating between getting an external backpack or an internal one. Ive been told that the external ones are lighter, can carry a more heavier load than an internals one, and are cooler on the body. As far as the internal ones are concerned Ive heard that they hug the body and provide better stability. Im personally looking for a big backpack that have a lot of cubic inch space. I want something that is also comfortable. And finally I want one that can carry a sleeping bag at the bottom and a tent along side. Ive personally saw an internal one that I really liked (Kelty red cloud 6650), but recently Ive read that internal backpacks are more narrow and for skiers or people that go off-trailing or rocking climbing. Im not rock climbing or skiing and probably will only be doing a little off trailing. Ive also heard that internal ones are harder to pack and get to items that you need, while external have more compartments to put things in for easy access. I dont really like a lot of small compartments all I really need it one big one and a medium one. The small compartments are so usless. Sorry I guess Im kinda going all over the place here. If anyone could give me some advice and tell me what is true and what is not out of the things Ive heard, Id really appericate it. Thanks a lot.
Tim
P.S. I heard that external ones are better suited for kids, well I for one am 21 just for the records in case anyone is curious about my age before giving an answer.