Funny you mention external frame packs. I was just in an outdoor store in Franconia, NH today and they had their last remaining external frame Jansport (from about 4 years ago) marked WAY down to $59. I was tempted to buy just because it was such a deal. But I'm already way in the hole with my wife and can't be bringing home any more gear. Except maybe an old Dahon. I would risk it for one of those.