ORIGINAL: stinkbelly
Can you think of any other advantages to having an external frame pack?
Yes - With a frame, I am carrying a solid multi height gun rest on my back. I carry a frame with a small 2500 in3 pack in the middle. If I want to add overnight gear and food I just strap it to the frame over, under, and/or alongside the small pack.
I have to add that I'm impressed if you can go 5 to 7 days, sleep comfortably, and carry cold weather gear with a smaller than 6500 pack. Like dirt2, I'm not proud of my packing efficiency, nor do I intend to improve on it.