A backpack frame and support assembly includes a backpack frame together with first, second, and third poles and first, second, and third couplings that removably couple the poles to a backpack frame to form a tripod-like support configuration. The couplings hold the poles so that the poles angle away from the backpack frame advantageously for improved stability. In addition, the couplings hold the poles in a way enabling a user to remove the poles easily by lifting the backpack frame. The couplings may be part of the backpack frame, they may be attached to a backpack frame as original equipment, or they may be mounted as retrofit equipment on an existing prior art backpack frame. The poles in one embodiment slide together to form a walking staff or two trekking poles, and a separate hook attaches to the third pole to adapt it to use in mounting a bear bag over a tree limb.

A convertible and collapsible backpack adapted for shoulder support for persons to carry various types of loads on their backs while walking, said backpack being comprised of a pair of elongated J-shaped members of hollow tubular construction, said J-shaped members being conjoined by two mutually parallel collapsible bars extending in a perpendicular fashion from the middle portion of said J-shaped bars; said J-shaped members having on their respective axial lengths a plurality of holes extending therethrough which are capable of receiving therethrough a series of pins which lock onto corresponding positions on the respective J-bars the fastening ends of various carrying members such as a baby pouch, or a knapsack support, or alternately, a tray member for eating meals when at rest.

A backpack with a frame to carry a load. The frame has a pair of upright rails, one at each side of the hiker. An encircling belt is attached to each of the upright rails, and a pair of shoulder rests fit over each of the shoulders. Front and rear risers connect to the front and rear legs of the shoulder rests. The rear risers rise from the back of the belt, and the front risers connect to the upright rails. Balance rods extend forwardly from the frame and are vertically pivotable. They can lift and lower the shoulder rests. Forward load-attachment devices on the balance rods can carry a forwardly mounted load.

A top bracket, preferably formed of a continuous tubular member, may be attached to the top of a tubular pack frame to form an extension of the frame. The structure extends the length of the frame and also projects laterally either rearwardly or forwardly of the frame in the form of a shelf or framework for lashing either loads or a shelter from the elements.

A back-pack frame, formed of lightweight metallic tubing, comprising a pair of substantially U-shaped members disposed in end-to-end facing relation with the outer end portions of the legs of one member telescopically engaged in the outer end portions of the legs of the other member; there being intermediate cross bars spanning in engaged relation between, and supported by, the legs of said U-shaped members, and said cross bars having tongues projecting from their ends and extending into slots in the corresponding legs.