by 
mindfarm
ANSWERS: 6
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As a matter of personal preference, external frame. It makes it so easy to tie on all the extra crap that I should really leave at home but am convinced I MIGHT need. Edit: I will agree that in rugged, narrow terrain, the external frame is more likely to snag something. But let's face it, I'm getting to old for the rugged stuff, and prefer my clutter and an easy trail.
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For a trip as you describe on the AT, either internal or external should do fine. Depending on your ability to re-provision, you may need to carry a lot of gear. Weight becomes a major consideration. At the store, a few ounces may not seem like a lot, but ounces add up in a hurry. There are many good quality packs available with internal and external frames... light weight, spacious and durable. They come in different sizes. so be sure to get a proper fit. The main advantage to an internal frame is not that it is narrower, it is that it hugs your back more closely and when climbing it keeps your center of gravity closer to your body giving you a little more control. The trade-off is that it also does not breathe as well as an external frame and can be taxing in warm weather. Both have the ability to attach gear to the outside. My own pack is a Jansport external frame large cruiser style pack. Shop around and see what you like. I'm sure either would be just fine for you.
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internal are better because with exteral frames 80% of the weight is on your back and internal frames 60% of the weight is on your your waist. (where the weight should be)
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I prefer external frame, because it's so flexible with the attaching of various items to the outside. The only hassle is checking it at the airport. To keep all the straps and buckles from snagging anything, I put it inside a huge duffel bag, with a few towels or clothes for padding.
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For women, hand's down it's internal frame. Women don't do well with all that stuff flopping around and away from the body. Women are more comfortable with things close to center of gravity. But even for guys, the internals really keep all the weight right close to your body and is so much more efficient and easy to carry for extended lengths of time.
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I would add one other consideration to this. it has been my experience that external frame packs have pad that hold the pace itself away from the body. This provides a little bit of air space to help keep one cooler. I, personally, don't have any experience with internal frame packs. (I like to be able to tie things to the frame.) So, I really don't know how much of a difference this makes, but it seems to me that it should make some.
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