JanSport Carson External Frame Backpack

Just returned from a camping trip with the Jansport Carson and I am very impressed. I hiked with 50 pounds of supplies, but this pack is so balanced I could hardly feel it. Hiked 9 miles to camp without an issue.

This is my favorite piece of backpacking equipment that I own. I had used an internal frame for a while, but it never felt comfortable no matter how I packed the dang thing. After some research, I decided that I was going to try an "old school" external frame. Fortunately for me, there weren't many options so I went with the Jansport Carson 80.

Now your first thought may be like mine was "isn't Jansport the guys who make school backpacks?" Yes they are, but don't let that fool you. I like having plenty of extras with me, and considering we'll go backpacking during any weather conditions, it's nice to have space to stuff those extras. I've hiked this bag at a weight of 40lbs and did so with much greater ease and less fatigue than I have an internal at 20lbs. And did I mention that this thing is huge!

I've enjoyed it so much that my brother finally broke down and bought one himself. For the price of this bag, you just can't beat it. As for the comments about straps breaking; I've had mine out several times now and I have yet to have any problems with straps or buckles on this beast.

The only complaint I can have with this bag is deciding what to put in all that space!

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This pack easily handles the 55 pounds I carry with it. I am a Scout leader and I have to bring enough stuff to be sure I have things the boys, for one reason or another, have left behind. It was a little tough to get adjusted, but once I had it right it has been great with LOTS of room.

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I've owned this bag for 3 years now. It's been on about 15 backpacking trips. The velcro strap that is holding onto the frame was the first thing to break after 2 years. I still use it though. This pack is very large. I've carried over 50 lbs numerous times with it. You can strap anything anywhere with paracord, that's the advantage of an external frame. Very impressed I just wish the top compartment had the zipper on the outside instead of the back of your head, it makes it hard to access when the bag is sitting upright. Overall great value for the money and comfortable.

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As a former military member I liked the external pack, I'm used to it and I don't like a lot of the internal packs which sit too close to my head, often bumping me when I hike and I love the space between the pack and myself to allow for cool air to hit my back. This one is great quality, has a water pouch, it is everything I could want in a backpack AND it was reasonably priced!

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