In 2023, the best tactical backpacks aren’t just for soldiers anymore. Every man needs a tactical backpack to be prepared for any situation. A tactical backpack is designed to provide the wearer with a secure and comfortable way to store and transport essential items. Tactical backpacks are designed with compartments and pockets for organizing and storing items like food, first-aid kits, survival gear, and other important items. The packs also feature adjustable straps and sternum straps for maximum comfort, and many have extra padding for added protection in the event of a fall or other impact. Tactical backpacks are perfect for the outdoorsman, providing a secure, comfortable way to store and transport the essentials.
So, whether you’re hiking, mountaineering, fishing, or just want a solid “bug out bag” – a bag that that contains everything you need to survive for 72 hours in an emergency situation – tactical backpacks have you covered.
What to look for in the best tactical backpacks
In the abstract, tactical backpacks are equipped to keep you alive in emergency situations. In a more concrete sense, tactical backpacks are more rugged, more durable, and have more pockets than normal backpacks.
The best tactical backpacks have two central qualities:
Durability
Above all, tactical backpacks should be able to handle any situation the elements or the universe may throw at them. They’re designed for military missions, and they should be constructed from high-quality materials (such as high Denier nylon or Japanese YKK zippers).
Compartment Design
The compartments – both interior and exterior – of a tactical backpack need to allow you to organize your gear efficiently and intuitively. In an emergency, you have to know where your stuff is, as it’s not hyperbolic to say that your life may depend on it.
Now that we’ve cleared up the basics, we’ll break down five of the best tactical backpacks in existence in 2022.
Tier 1 (Under $150)
1. Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack
- Redwing is a tried & true trail value for all day hikes or a quick overnight, a true multipurpose pack from international travel to a day on the trail
- Perfect Fit Suspension supplies you w/ customized comfort without the hassle, accurate on body adjustments w/ 3 simple steps for pack fitting success
- Features: Top Loading,Zippered side pockets, front pocket w/ organization, Stretch front pouch, Hydration Compatible, Side compression straps
- Suspension Features: Perfect Fit Suspension, HDPE frame sheet, Hex Mesh back panel, ventilating back , Sternum strap, Load lifter strap
- Dimensions: Size (L x W x D) 26 x 16 x 12 in, Weight 3 lbs 11 oz, Volume 50 L, Torso Size 15.5 - 21 in.Reinforcement fabric:Poly 75x150D tasser coal
The Skinny: Kelty is also a label that you can find in your neighborhood REI, meaning it carries a mainstream gravitas that makes some hardcore users balk; nevertheless, the best-selling Redwing 50 is an accessible, lightweight pack that gets the job done on shorter jaunts.
This Kelty model is all about trademarked features. The LightBeam single aluminum stay will make your journey extra pleasant, keeping your load from shifting around on you. Moreover, many users swear by the Dynamic AirFlow back panel, which really does keep your back aired out and cool all day long.
You can also get a great deal of mileage out of your Redwing 50 in everyday situations – it certainly wouldn’t look too out of place just walking around the city, backpacking through Europe (many users used it for just that purpose), or even heading to class or your job.
It was nearly impossible to find a user who had anything bad to say about the Redwing 50. Though it’s not the biggest bag, it carries everything you need and nothing you don’t with remarkable dependability.
2. The 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 Backpack
- Quite simply the best tactical military backpack on the market. This Rucksack bug out bag features a roomy main storage area, dual zipping side pockets and a stuff-it pocket with integrated draw cord...
- Rush24 Tactical Molle bag has a reinforced grab-and-go handle, hydration pocket, zippered fleece-lined eyewear pocket and wrap-around MOLLE/SlickStick web platform
- Military Backpack has 2275 cubic inch / 37 liter total capacity with Twin drainage grommets, and self-repairing YKK zippers. Perfect to use as a patrol backpack or trekking pack
- Also has three mesh admin compartments, zippered side water bottle pocket and a hook and loop area for nametape and flag patches. Water-repellant coating and has two external compression straps and a...
- The Rush24 tactical military backpack can be used as a multipurpose pack, bug out bag, range bag, hunting backpack, survival back pack, army backpack, sling bag, hiking rucksack, or every day outdoor...
The Skinny: On Amazon, the 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 has been reviewed by 703 different people. Despite that immense volume, the Tactical Rush 24 is averaging a 5-star review. That right there should tell you all you need to know about the pack’s quality.
A number of different sources have called this one of the absolute best tactical backpacks on the market. And they’re not wrong.
Holding up to 2275 liters of your most important gear, the Tactical Rush 24 keeps it simple with four pockets: a main compartment, two dual-zipping side pockets, and a stuff-it pocket with a drawcord.
The fleece handle and the Japanese YKK zippers are of the highest quality – 1050 Dernier nylon is the highest we’ve seen so far – and the water-resistant coating, the comfortable shoulder straps, and the compression straps that can strap on extra gear all give this pack a little something extra.
Ultimately, the Tactical Rush 24 is just built from the best materials in a simple and intuitive design that’s everything you need out of your pack. If we could pick just one pack from our list, the Tactical Rush 24 is the chosen one, no questions asked.
3. Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack
- [ Rugged Durability ]: Made from durable 1000D ballistic nylon with Teflon coating, the Falcon-II is water- and abrasion-resistant, ensuring your bug-out gear stays safe and dry in the harshest...
- [ Smart Organization ]: With a 1400 cu in / 23L capacity, layered compartments, and a full clamshell opening, this EDC pack offers easy access to your gear while keeping everything organized.
- [ All-Day Comfort ]: Featuring padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and an adjustable waist belt, the Falcon-II ensures weight is evenly distributed for maximum comfort during extended use. ADD TO...
- [ Fully Customizable ]: Exterior MOLLE webbing allows for easy attachment of extra pouches and gear, ensuring this survival backpack adapts to your customized mission requirements.
- [ Durability & Craftsmanship ]: Built to last, the Falcon-II boasts high-quality YKK #10 zippers, Duraflex hardware & reinforced stitching, providing unmatched reliability & craftsmanship that stands...
The Skinny: Though the Tactical Rush 24 is a pretty much impossible act to follow, the Maxpedition Falcon-II puts up a darn good fight.
Coming in a wider variety of colors than any of the other packs on the list, the Falcon-II expresses a visual personality, both in color and in design.
Boasting Japanese YKK zippers that are top of the line and 1000 denier nylon, the Falcon-II is certainly well constructed, if not quite as well as the Tactical Rush 24. With polyurethane and Teflon coatings, the Falcon-II stands up to the elements as well as any other pack. The shoulder straps contour to your chest and the simple compartments expand in a way that contours perfectly to whatever load you’re carrying.
One drawback – the pack itself is pretty heavy, even when it’s empty. Though this isn’t a game breaker, the longer you use the pack, the more you’ll notice the extra weight you’re carrying.
That said, nearly everything else about the pack is exceptional. Certainly worth an investment if you like the design.
Tier 2 (Over $150)
4. Eberlestock Halftrack Hunting Pack
- The F3M Halftrack is an extremely versatile and popular 3-day pack. It features two levels of varying-sized tuck-pockets lining its interior, MOLLE-style Padlock webbing racks inside and out, and a...
- The pack has a Gossamer polycarbonate frame, is comfortably padded with deep-cut airmesh foam, and is well ventilated. This pack also includes a removable raincover that is deployed via a zipper on...
- Pack Specs: Total Volume: 2,150 c.i. | Weight: 6 lbs 7 oz | Dimensions main bag: 24"h x 11"w x 7"d
- It will carry two 3-liter hydration kits, mounted in side pockets, or two 2-liter bladders in side-sleeves if you want to keep the main side pockets free for other gear.
- RECOMMENDED FOR: Law Enforcement General | Military 72 hr. Assault
The Skinny: Very small and minimalist – perfect for 2-3 day use, and used by many as a bug out bag – the Halftrack Hunting Pack is certainly one of the gold standards of the tactical backpack industry.
Coming in a variety of black, tan, green, and camouflage colors, the Halftrack is built from 1000 Denier nylon. It contains two hydration kits (3 liters each) in addition to two hydration sleeves (2 liters each), so you’ll have enough water to get you home safely.
The zippers are big and easy to use, and the Halftrack even includes a pull-out rain cover. A number of different compartments make your stuff relatively easy to organize.
A few drawbacks – it could use straps on the bottom to carry a sleeping bag or other gear and the water bottle pouches aren’t well thought out. Nevertheless, the main compartment is excellent, and the auxiliary compartments can hold oddly shaped things. Overall, it’s a highly versatile pack that is an excellent bug out bag
Here are 5 more of the best sellers to check out:
- Military Tactical backpack size approx.:13"*20"*11" / 33*50.5*28CM (W*H*D),Capacity: 40L; Military backpack is made of high density fabric--durable and water-resistant
- Molle tactical backpack has molle system, Molle webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear as 3 day assault pack backpack combat molle backpack.
- Assault pack backpack with double-stitched, Heavy duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls, Side and front load compression system, Ventilated mesh padded back area & shoulder strap,breathable and...
- Military backpack has hydration compatible that works great for a hydration bladder (backpack didn't include hydration bladder) as hydration backpack or outdoor camping hiking backpack.
- Tactical assault pack backpack can be used as 3 day assault pack, range bag, hunting backpack, survival backpack, army backpack, Snuopfy trekking backpack or day pack for daily use
- 【THE SPACE YOU NEED】This Military Tactical backpack size appro：15.7inch x 9.8inch x 9.8inch / 40cm x 25cm x 25cm dimensions and appropriately sized 25L capacity, this pack has room for all of...
- 【DURABLE & WATERPROOF】Military grade backpack is made from 900D polyester material, tactical assault backpack is reinforced and double stitched at all stress points. Resistant and tough and our...
- 【MOLLE MODULAR DESIGN】 The Laser Cut Molle Webbing Design making this tactical backpack special. it uses Two Layers Fabric Laser Cutting MOLLE Hang System to allow all range of tactical pouches...
- 【MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS】designed with 3 compartments for storing different stuff: two front pockets for small items, large compartments with built-in zippered pocket and mesh pocket for big and...
- 【COMFORT & FUNCTION】This sports fitness daypack double stitched, padded shoulder straps and back area with mesh backing for comfort, ventilation, and strength during travel. high-quality brand...
- LARGE CAPACITY - Military tactical backpack size approx.:12"*20"*13" / 30*50*33CM (W*H*D) Capacity:40L, This tactical military assault backpack is made of quality and water-resistant High Density...
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL - This tactical assault pack have 2 main compartments, 2 small compartments in front, and a back compartment for a hydration bladder. Each of the compartments has variety pockets to...
- COMFORTABLE & TOUGH - The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable and the waist belt expands enough. The thick mesh padding back area and shoulder straps will not pinch you under heavy duty. Thick...
- ARMY MOLLE SYSTEM - The front and both sides come with MOLLE system, Molle webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear as 3 day assault pack backpack combat molle backpack....
- PACKAGE INCLUDED - 1 Tactical backpack, US Flag patch, 2pcs D-Ring, 1pc MOLLE Webbing Dominators. Should you have any additional problem, please let us know without hesitation at any time.
- Rugged Durable Construction: The tactical backpack is made from strong water-resistant materials and features double stitching and heavy duty zippers, providing exceptional durability and long-lasting...
- Ample Storage and Organization: 50L, measuring 21.6" x 12.9" x 12.6", large enough for your 3-5 days outdoor activities or daily use. This work backpack for men offers ample storage space with...
- Comfortable and Ergonomic Design: Our army assault pack is designed with comfort in mind, featuring padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and adjustable straps for a customized fit. The...
- Enhanced Tactical Features: The molle backpack incorporates tactical features such as reinforced handles, attachment points for accessories and compression straps. Molle system allows for additional...
- Versatility: The rucksack backpack is designed for a wide range of applications. It can be used as a 3-day assault pack, bug-out bag backpack, army backpack, hunting backpack, military survival...
- COMPARTMENTS - Tactical Backpack featuring 29 individual inner and outer compartments, a roomy main storage area, a hydration pocket, padded book compartment, large sunglass pouch compartment, and a...
- DURABLE - Made from durable 1050D nylon, this military backpack is water-resistant and features self-repairing YKK zippers. Equipped with an adjustable height sternum strap, two external compression...
- TACTICAL - Molle compatible with the wrap-around molle/5.11 slick stick web platform, internal multi-slot admin compartment, hook and loop nametape, flag patches and glove-friendly pull tabs perfect...
- DIMENSIONS Main Compartment 20" x 12.5" x 8", Front Admin Pocket 12.5" x 11" x 2", Hydration Pocket 17" x 12.5", Total Capacity 2275 cubic inch / 37 liter total. Weight: 4.2 lbs. Customize your bag...
- NEW 5.11 RUSH 24 2.0 - Can be used as a military or army pack, range bag, hunting backpack, survival backpack, hiking backpack, or everyday outdoor backpack. This assault pack is ready for any rescue...
Get Your Tactical Backpack Today!
A tactical backpack is essential for anyone who needs to be prepared for any situation. It provides a reliable and convenient way to store and transport all the necessary gear that one might need in an emergency or in a situation where one must be prepared. The tactical backpack is much more than simply a bag to store items; it is designed to provide the user with a quick and easy way to access their gear and supplies in an efficient manner. Additionally, a tactical backpack often includes various compartments and pockets that make organizing and storing items easier and more organized. This allows the user to quickly identify and access the items that they need without having to rummage through the entire bag. Furthermore, many tactical backpacks are designed to be waterproof and are constructed out of highly durable and tough material, ensuring that the user’s gear remains safe and dry in any weather. Ultimately, a tactical backpack is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for any situation.
