3F UL GEAR 40L frameless backpack

$57 USD 3F backpack

$145 USD ULA CDT backpack
The 3F UL GEAR 40L is available for $56.91 USD delivered on Aliexpress.

  • 80 x 30 x 22cm, 950g

Discounts (USD):




This is a frameless 40L + 16L (side pocket) capacity pack that is designed so you should place a closed cell mattress at your back to give the pack structure. (e.g. Thermarest Z-lite Sol or cheaper Naturehike equivalent)


Pros
  • Excellent affordable entry level pack
  • Solidly built with thick shoulder straps and thick hip belt 
  • 3 colours (blue, grey, orange)
  • Lightweight at 950 grams, can cut weight further by removing surplus straps
  • Large volume, with generous side pockets
  • Mesh front pocket
  • Roll top closure

Cons
  • Somewhat heavy for a frameless pack
  • Not very water resistant
  • Only one back length (6" height OK)
  • Rigid hip belt - uncomfortable if not using sleeping mat as frame

 
Further Resources

3F UL GEAR Backpack
3FUL 40L+16 packed w/20ish lbs

Reddit
3F UL Backpack - Mod and Review
How to avoid slippery strap tensioner on 3F UL 40+16 backpack
Review (2018)
3F UL Gear 55l frameless backpack review
3F UL Gear backpack suspension options
Discussion thread about the backpack (and other aliexpress items)
Discussion thread #2
How to frame 3F UL pack?
Aloexpress UL pack sizing
The AliExpress 40L vs. The Vermont Long Trail

Youtube
3F UL GEAR 40 + 16 BACKPACK REVIEW
3F UL Mochila Backpack & BRS 3000 un año después (Subtitles)
CHEAP Ultralight Backpack For The Appalachian Trail From China...
3F 56L UL Backpack Review
What's in my pack (indication of how much you can fit inside)
Обзор легкоходного рюкзака 3F Ul Gear (foreign language - use autotranslate subtitles)

ULA CDT Backpack
breaking ultra review

Youtube 
ULA CDT Review