In my opinion, if you need to haul heavy loads, nothing beats the old fashioned external frame pack. I still use my Kelty that I bought in 1969! I have replaced the shoulder straps and hip belt with much lighter versions, added a sternum strap, and sewed my own pack bag of much lighter material. The result is 3.5 pounds for the pack and frame. The pack is very versatile - can move the load as needed. When I carried full on climbing gear (about 30 pounds) it all was tied to the top, attached to the extender bar.