Whether you&#;re looking for a bag for day hiking or everyday use, the best tactical backpack should offer a perfect combination of ample storage, practical features, and all-day comfort.
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Destined for more demanding situations, tactical packs need to be made from heavy-duty materials. They also need to be comfortable as they may be worn for longer periods of time while carrying heavier gear. Unlike many other backpack categories, tactical backpacks need to offer utility for a wide variety of activities, including long hikes, military deployment, traveling, and even your daily commute.
Tactical backpacks are designed to be versatile, comfortable, and, in some cases &#; inconspicuous. Combined with ample storage, organization, and practical features, the best tactical backpack will be well-suited for a day hike, deployment, or everyday use.
We&#;ve examined and reviewed options from across the tactical backpack market and determined which packs rank among the best in . While coming up with this list of recommendations, we pored over lists of specs and features to identify the packs worth testing in person. Folks on the GearJunkie team regularly test and deploy tactical backpacks in the field &#; as first aid bags, hunting packs, everyday laptop haulers, and more.
Scroll through our list to view our top picks. If you need help deciding, refer to our Buyer&#;s Guide and Price & Value section below for more tips on how to choose the best tactical backpacks for your needs. For a quick look at specs and prices side-by-side, check out our Comparison Chart.
Editor&#;s Note: We updated this article on November 19, , to include additional packs, including the versatile Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 and the extremely comfortable Eberlestock Little Trick.
The Best Tactical Backpacks of
Best Overall Tactical Backpack
Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack
check price at mystery ranch
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Capacity:
27 L
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Weight:
3 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Budget Tactical Backpack
REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack
$40 at Amazon
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Capacity:
40 L
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Weight:
N/A
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
Austin Beck-Doss
Most Versatile Tactical Backpack
Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0
check price at mystery ranch
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Capacity:
26L / cu-ins
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Weight:
4.10 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
Austin Beck-Doss
Most Comfortable Tactical Backpack
Eberlestock Little Trick
$199 at Amazon
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Capacity:
22-31L / - cu-ins
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Weight:
3.80 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Large Capacity Tactical Backpack
5.11 Tactical RUSH 100
$260 at AmazonCheck Price at 5.11 Tactical
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Capacity:
60 L
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Weight:
5.74 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
No
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
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Lots of pockets for ease of organization
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Heavy-duty fabrics and zippers
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Many options for modular customization of storage systems
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Adjustable torso strap includes quick release and load lifters
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Main compartment opens all the way for convenient packing and unpacking
Austin Beck-Doss
Best Tactical Waistpack
Eberlestock Bando Bag
$39 at Amazon
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Capacity:
2.5L / 250 cu-ins
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Weight:
2 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
No
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Plenty of room for your essentials and a handgun
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Lightweight and convenient
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Great as a sling bag
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Gun pocket doesn&#;t impede the capacity of the main compartment
Austin Beck-Doss
Other Tactical Backpacks We Tested
Kelty Redwing
$110 at Amazon
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Capacity:
30, 44, 50 L
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Weight:
2.75 lbs. (30 L)
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Carry-on size:
Yes (30 and 44 L)
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
Austin Beck-Doss
Mystery Ranch Mole Pouch
$745 at Mystery Ranch Backpacks
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Capacity:
22 L
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Weight:
4.9 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
No
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Highly configurable
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Lots of tactical features for military personnel or medical professionals
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Internal main pocket is easily customizable
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Designed with quick access to essential medical equipment in mind
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Heavy duty and compact
Austin Beck-Doss
24 BattlePack
$62 at Amazon
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Capacity:
Up to 40 L
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Weight:
2.7 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
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Collapsible and expandable design
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Internal features include a concealed carry holster and laptop storage
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Waterproof lining and rugged metal zippers
Austin Beck-Doss
5.11 Tactical AMP12 Backpack
check price at 511
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Capacity:
25 L
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Weight:
2.9 lbs.
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Carry-on size:
Yes
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Hydration bladder compatible:
Yes
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Lightweight and durable
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Compatible with 5.11 gear sets
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Full clamshell zipper for easy packing and unpacking
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Hydration and laptop-compatible
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Heavy-duty and water-resistant 500-denier outer material
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Fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket
Austin Beck-Doss
Tactical Backpacks Comparison Chart
Organization is a big part of any backpack, but important in tactical packs; (Photo/Nick LeFort)
How We Tested Tactical Backpacks
Our Expert Tester
For this update, we tapped regular contributor and gear junkie Nick LeFort. LeFort&#;s background in product development and design, as well as his desire to wander around as much as possible with a variety of different types of gear made him a welcomed addition to this round of testing. He got into the nooks and crannies of remote places where a firearm is a requirement, not a recommendation. In doing this, he was able to showcase some of the lesser talked about features of these packs.
Our Testing Process
Between quick-hit weekend trips and everyday carry, the GearJunkie team is constantly testing and using tactical backpacks. We&#;ve used tactical backpacks as medical kits, hunting gear haulers, for day hikes, and even our commute to the office. The recommended products on this list are the result of long-term testing in our day-to-day lives.
When testing packs, we pay careful attention to ease of use, long-term durability, comfort, and overall value. Impressive-sounding features might look good on paper, but they don&#;t always translate to actual performance. Our testing aims to determine a pack&#;s true utility.
The definition of &#;tactical pack&#; is up for interpretation. It covers a broad range of bags that can be used in the military, as part of your everyday civilian life, as well for outdoor adventures like hiking and backpacking. When selecting packs to consider for this list, we sought out models with traditional military styling and features such as MOLLE webbing systems and concealed carry compartments.
As design updates and new products roll out across the market, we&#;ll make sure to keep our fingers on the pulse of the tactical backpacks and test out any new styles that have the potential to stand out. This list of recommendations is always in flux &#; it includes the best tactical backpacks on the market at any given time.
Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Tactical Backpack
Tactical waist packs, like this Eberlestock Bando Bag, are a nice alternative when carrying the essentials; (Photo/Nick LeFort)
There are many high-quality tactical backpacks on the market in . These packs come in various sizes, styles, brands, and colors, and it can be difficult to figure out which one best meets your needs.
It&#;s important to understand which features you most need from a tactical backpack before purchasing one. Some backpacks on this list, like the Eberlestock Little Trick, are a little more purpose-built compared to the equally tactical but more versatile Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0. Both packs are built to exceed your expectations but may not be dialed in for your particular situation.
The purpose of this buyer&#;s guide is to help you determine the different characteristics and features available in the tactical backpack market and help you make an educated purchase. The essential considerations for purchasing the best tactical backpack for your needs include materials, budget, capacity, and extra features.
Materials and Durability
Abrasion and tear-resistant materials and water-repellant zippers are common with tactical packs; (Photo/Nick LeFort)
Most technical backpacks have an outer material made from abrasion-resistant polyester, nylon, or oxford. These materials typically come with a denier rating, which basically rates how thick and sturdy the material is overall. While denier rating can be a clue, we don&#;t view the number as the end-all-be-all marker of durability. In general, shoot for a denier rating of at least 500.
Tactical backpacks are made to be more durable than &#;regular&#; backpacks. Ideally, your next pack will last a lifetime. On this list, the Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack and their Carryology Dragon 2.0 offer unmatched durability. Where the 2 Day Assault Pack features the industry standard 500D Cordura, the Carryology Dragon 2.0 features X50 Tactical Cordura with a 400D aramid X-Ply. Both are 500D Cordura materials, but the materials used on the Dragon 2.0 represent innovations in fabric that improve on standards.
If you are concerned with waterproofing, make sure you buy a pack with a water-resistant coating. A good coating will force water to bead on the surface instead of absorbing into and soaking your bag.
Capacity
Liters (L) and Cubic Inches (cu-ins) denote the volume of a pack&#;s carrying capacity. While every bag on this list has an efficient design that is meant to maximize the available storage, the total volume varies greatly. The greater the backpack&#;s volume, the more gear it can haul.
Everyday-use backpacks usually range in size from 15 to 30 L. This volume is great for day trips, school, carry-on luggage, and work. On this list, the Eberlestock Little Trick and Kelty Redwing are stellar and versatile day packs.
Multiday packs &#; sometimes known as assault packs in the tactical world &#; hover around 35-60 L. This larger capacity allows you to store enough gear for up to three nights. Both the Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack and 5.11 Tactical RUSH 100 sport plenty of space and padding for carrying lots of gear for those extended adventures.
Assault packs are often specifically designed to store sleeping bags, cookware, water, food, weapons, and tents. Usually, packs of this size also include a built-in hydration system and a port for a drinking tube that can be accessed on the go.
MOLLE
MOLLE is an acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. Backpacks with MOLLE have a series of fixed points sewn into the pack&#;s fabric. The advantage to MOLLE is the ability to expand your pack&#;s capacity. Everything from small organization pouches to water bottle pockets and rifle scabbards can be attached to the outside of your pack with MOLLE.
MOLLE allows you to make your pack more modular as well. This allows you to easily adapt to your next adventure in a matter of minutes.
The possibilities with MOLLE are endless; (Photo/Nick LeFort)
Extra Features
In addition to the basic ability to carry gear, tactical backpacks come with a whole host of extra features. These features vary in their application and purpose, so look for features that will have actual value in your life.
Along with MOLLE, common features include hydration bladder and laptop sleeves, organizational compartments, external pockets, and larger zippered openings. Additionally, you can expect beefed up and waterproof zippers, external compressions straps, and added benefits for concealed weapons carry.
Firearms
One thing that is common with tactical packs &#; that&#;s not found in your average daypack &#; are areas, attachment points, and access points for firearms.
Concealed carry is the best option, and sometimes the only legal one, for carrying firearms in a city or town. Having a back that can accommodate your firearm while keeping it concealed can be advantageous. Eberlestock has done a great job of accommodating short-barrelled rifles with their Little Trick and compact handguns with their Bando Bag. Both bags are designed to be used in a multitude of environments while concealing your firearm.
The Eberlestock Bando Bag allows you to conceal your handgun and retain easy access to it; (Photo/Nick LeFort)
Price & Value
The tactical packs on this list range from $40 to $600. With any backpack, you want to make sure you&#;re spending your money on a pack that meets your needs. In terms of tactical packs, those needs could be staying alive.
With that being the case, it&#;s harder to break these packs down into price categories, but we&#;re going to do it anyway to give you an idea of what you can expect from a budget, mid-tier, and premium tactical backpack.
Budget
Tactical packs that fall into the budget range generally cost under $100. They&#;re made from durable materials but may lack some advanced characteristics like abrasion resistance or an advanced frame for load management.
In the case of the REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack ($40), it looks action-packed and has some of the desirable characteristics we&#;ve gone over in this guide. However, without the company sharing the specific material, and having tested it, we can tell you that it&#;s not as sufficient as 500D Cordura.
Does this mean that the pack didn&#;t earn its spot on the list? No. In fact, for a pack whose description online is very vague, we&#;ve been very happy with the experience we&#;ve had with the pack.
Mid-Tier
As with most outdoor equipment, most of us usually shop in the mid-tier price category. Tactical packs in the mid-tier range are made of field-tested materials and often have more bells and whistles.
The Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack is a great example of a mid-tier pack. It&#;s made from 500D Cordura, an industry standard in tactical backpack fabric. It also provides easy access via its tri-zip opening and has an ample amount of MOLLE for expansion.
You can expect to pay anywhere between $200-300 for the standard mid-tier tactical pack. But keep in mind, with organization being one of the main focuses of tactical carry, you can expect to pay more for additional pouches.
Premium
Tactical packs that fall into the premium range feature new and innovative materials and features that improve their resilience to a multitude of demanding conditions. These packs are comfortable and versatile with the ability to be adjusted and modified for whatever adventure you plan on going on.
At $400, the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 is an example of a premium tactical pack. Its materials are beyond compare &#; designed to be abrasion, rip, and weather-resistant. It also has a considerable amount of onboard organization and an adjustable harness that aids in the pack&#;s adaptability. Another type of premium tactical pack are those that are purpose-built for a particular task. On this list, the Mystery Ranch Mole Pouch, which rings the bell at $615 at retail, is built to be an effective medical pack. Though this pack may not be your first choice for your next day hike, if you&#;re deployed, it might be your job to carry around a pack like this.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are tactical backpacks for?
Tactical backpacks offer several different applications and purposes. Simply put, a tactical backpack is a specialized backpack that is durable, modular, and packed with useful features.
Some tactical backpacks focus on hunting, with field medics using others. Tactical backpacks take after designs originating in the military, but not all tactical backpacks are for military personnel.
Who should carry a tactical backpack?
In short, anyone who wants a reliable and heavy-duty backpack. While tactical backpacks look different than recreation-focused backpacks, they are often great options for camping and backpacking trips.
Many people choose to utilize tactical backpacks in their professional lives. Tactical bags are popular among law enforcement, medical professionals, and military personnel. Many people use tactical backpacks as go bags &#; bags that are packed and ready to go in the event of an emergency or evacuation.
What kind of backpack does the military use?
The military uses a variety of backpacks depending on the branch and the specific application. Many military rucksacks are very similar to the options featured on this list.
What should I pack in my tactical backpack?
Anything you want! Just like a normal backpack, a tactical backpack will hold any gear you choose to stuff into it.
However, many tactical backpacks are specifically designed to hold certain kinds of gear. Some options on this list hold camping gear, while others are better suited for carrying medical supplies.
Are you interested in learning more about Custom Tactical Backpack? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
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