Types Of Canvas Backpacks
If you want a backpack that is durable, reasonably priced and stylish, a canvas backpack form camping might be just what you need.
They are rugged by look and nature, so if you are planning that hike in the mountains or trek across the desert, you can be sure that your equipment will be safe from the harsh environment in a canvas backpack.
Plus, who wouldn’t want to feel like Indiana Jones once in a while? Now, many people don’t know very much about the canvas backpack market. You know what, I don’t blame them. I didn’t know very much when I started either.
But after some research, I learned that there are a ton of choices available and I will do my best to bring you some examples in this article. So, let’s get started, shall we?
Canvas is generally regarded as being one of the toughest fabrics around. Naturally, some of the best camping backpacks available are made of canvas. Anyone who is serious about the outdoors should definitely get their hands on a high-quality canvas backpack.
But what kind of backpack should you buy? Well, canvas backpacks are commonly put into one of three categories: frameless, internal frame, and external frames. I will go over each one and let you know what they are designed for. Hopefully, this will help you pick out the perfect backpack for your needs.
Frameless Canvas Backpacks
Frameless backpacks are the most common type among the general public. They are the typical school bag, consisting of the main compartment and two shoulder straps.
However, camping canvas backpacks and hiking canvas backpacks usually come with extra compartments and chest/waist straps. A major drawback of frameless backpacks is that the shoulder strap design can negatively affect your posture if you carry more than 30 pounds.
Frameless designs also restrict the motion of your upper body. Because of this, they are generally used for recreational camping at a campground. It would be too uncomfortable to do any serious hiking with one of these.
If that’s your thing, you will have to get your hands on a framed backpack.
Internal Frame Canvas Backpacks
Internal frames are actually a recent innovation, having been invented in 1967. Basically, the canvas is stretched around a frame which is usually made out of aluminum, plastic, or titanium.
A-frame supports the pack and distributes its weight to the hips and legs. This takes a lot of pressure off of your shoulders and allows you to carry more with a smaller chance of injury.
Because the frame is inside the actual backpack, these fit close to your back. This provides mobility and is desirable if your activity involves a lot of upper body motion.
However, there is less ventilation and a common complaint is a sweat. The major drawback, however, is that it’s difficult to lash larger items to the outside of the pack.
If you are a hardcore hiker who travels heavy, you might want to consider an external frame. Generally, internal frames are designed for day hikes and the like.
External Frame Canvas Backpacks
External frame canvas backpacks are the dedicated hiker’s best friend. The frame itself is usually made from aluminum and has a series of straps/netting that prevents the frame from contacting the user’s back.
The actual canvas pouch is smaller than the internal frames but the real reason hikers love these are the exposed frame areas above and below the pack.
The extra room allows you to attach vital camping gear such as your tent and sleeping bag. Sometimes, the pack can be removed entirely which allows the individual to customize his load the way he/she wants.
As you can probably tell, these are designed for the very dedicated hikers out there. If you are new to the whole outdoors thing, I wouldn’t pick one of these up. Stick with the internal frames.
Whether you are just a recreational camper or a hardcore hiker, there will always be a canvas backpack available that will suit your needs.
All you have to do is decide what you will be using it for the most, and choose the category that fits the best.
Frameless packs for the family camping trips, internal frames for the day hikes, and external frames for the advanced, overnight hikes. May you enjoy all of your outdoor adventures with your new canvas camping backpack!
Canvas Backpack Buying Options
Rothco Vintage Star II Canvas Backpack – Khaki
The Khaki Vintage “Star” II is actually sold as a backpack for the military. Because it was made for the military, everything has a place.
This large canvas backpack is rugged and made to last. It is also light-weight and washable. Stone-washed canvas in a khaki color makes it stylish as well.
The shoulder pads are padded and adjustable, allowing you to carry heavy weights without shoulder pain. This 15” backpack comes with several pockets, a carry handle on top and tags for personal information.
This is a great backpack for hiking because a lot fits in this one.
Paraffin Outdoor Canvas Backpack Hiking Camping
Even larger is the 18” Paraffin Outdoor Canvas Backpack Hiking Camping. Designed with washed cotton canvas, this backpack is durable yet soft.
It was designed ergonomically with an s-curved airflow. Dual-sided pockets make it really easy to get to things.
Pockets are deep and roomy to hold all your stuff. Stress points have bar-tacks and the zippers are self-repairing. This backpack is available in army green, grey, khaki.
Take this backpack out for several days; it holds a lot and is lightweight as well.
South African Style Hiking Backpack
The South African Style Hiking Backpack is in army green canvas and is 13”. The main compartment of this backpack has snap hook closures inside. A storm flap covers the main compartment and has a handle strap. There are 2 ammo-style pockets on the side which also have snap closures. The shoulder straps are adjustable and there are long bottom straps to carry a roll pad and other gear.
Duluth Canvas Backpacks
Duluth makes a backpack that is made with 18-oz canvas construction. The leather shoulder straps are durable and stylish.
The main compartment and front pocket both come with high-quality zippers. The front compartment also has slip pockets inside it to keep your items secure.
A leather bottom and leather on the front pocket adds durability. The canvas comes in black, khaki, olive, burgundy, navy and spruce. This canvas backpack is guaranteed for life so prepare to do a lot of hiking and camping.
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