Table of Contents
Tactical backpacks have become increasingly popular due to their durability, versatile design, and multiple uses. Commonly chosen by outdoor enthusiasts and professionals, these backpacks have become recognized worldwide. However, like many other products, not all tactical backpacks are created equal. The difference between a high-quality backpack and a subpar one could mean the longevity and durability of your gear. It’s vital to select a backpack that will meet your individual needs and lifestyle while providing the necessary comfort and support.
When picking a tactical backpack, it should offer heavy-duty fabric and stitching, multiple compartments for specialized storage, MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) attachments, and comfortable straps and padding. Some backpacks may also offer unique features, like being water-resistant or a built-in hydration system. Ensuring that the backpack is constructed with top-quality material and the right features is vital to preventing wear and tear and to maximize its utility and lifespan.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best tactical backpack. We have spent a significant amount of time researching, testing, and using various tactical backpacks to determine those that deliver the best performance and durability. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to select a quality tactical backpack that will meet your needs and last for years.
Best Tactical Backpacks
Choosing the right tactical backpack is crucial to ensure that it meets your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences. It’s essential that the backpack is versatile, durable, and offers effective organization. With the numerous options available on the market, choosing the best one for your requirements can be a daunting task. That’s why we have put together a consolidated list of the best tactical backpacks, informed by our research, testing, and real-world use, to help you make an informed decision.
5.11 Tactical Backpack – Rush 12 2.0 – Military Molle Pack, CCW and Laptop Compartment, 24 Liter, Small, Style 56561, Black
If you’re looking for a tactical backpack that can hold all your gear, the 5.11 Tactical Backpack – Rush 12 2.0 is a great option.
Pros
- The backpack is designed to be MOLLE-compatible, allowing you to customize it with additional pouches and gear.
- It has a dedicated CCW compartment, making it easy to access your firearm when you need it.
- The laptop sleeve can fit up to a 15″ laptop, making it convenient for work or travel.
Cons
- The backpack’s dimensions may not meet airline carry-on size restrictions, so be sure to check before traveling.
- The front admin pocket may not be large enough to hold larger items, such as a water bottle or larger documents.
- The backpack’s weight may be a bit heavy for some users, especially when fully loaded.
We’ve used the 5.11 Tactical Backpack – Rush 12 2.0 for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its durability and functionality. The backpack is made with 1050D nylon, making it strong enough to withstand the rigors of daily use. The YKK zippers are also durable and won’t break easily.
The backpack’s MOLLE-compatible design is a standout feature, as it allows you to customize the backpack with additional pouches and gear. The dedicated CCW compartment is also a great feature, as it makes it easy to access your firearm when you need it. The laptop sleeve is also a convenient feature, as it can fit up to a 15″ laptop, making it convenient for work or travel.
One potential downside to the backpack is its dimensions, which may not meet airline carry-on size restrictions. Additionally, the front admin pocket may not be large enough to hold larger items, such as a water bottle or larger documents. Finally, the backpack’s weight may be a bit heavy for some users, especially when fully loaded.
Overall, if you’re looking for a tactical backpack that can hold all your gear, the 5.11 Tactical Backpack – Rush 12 2.0 is a great option. Its durability, functionality, and customizable design make it a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable backpack.
REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack Large Army 3 Day Assault Pack Molle Bag Backpacks
If you’re looking for a durable and spacious backpack for your hunting trips, the REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack is worth considering.
Pros
- The backpack is made of high-quality 1000D military-grade nylon, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- It has a large capacity of 53 cubic inches, allowing you to pack all the necessary gear for a 3-day hunting trip.
- The MOLLE design on the front and sides of the backpack provides endless customization options.
Cons
- The backpack is quite heavy, weighing 5.2 pounds, which may be a concern for some users.
- The lack of a dedicated compartment for a hydration bladder is a minor inconvenience.
- The price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious buyers.
We’ve used the REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack on several hunting trips, and it has performed well in all aspects. The high-quality materials used in its construction have held up well, even after repeated use and exposure to the elements. The MOLLE design on the front and sides of the backpack has provided endless customization options, allowing us to attach various pouches and accessories as needed.
One of the standout features of this backpack is its large capacity. With 53 cubic inches of space, we’ve been able to pack all the necessary gear for a 3-day hunting trip, including clothing, food, and camping equipment. The padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back panel have also made it comfortable to wear, even when the backpack is fully loaded.
While the backpack is quite durable, its weight may be a concern for some users. At 5.2 pounds, it’s not the lightest backpack on the market, which may make it a bit difficult to carry for extended periods of time. Additionally, the lack of a dedicated compartment for a hydration bladder is a minor inconvenience, but not a deal-breaker.
Overall, we would recommend the REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack to anyone in need of a durable and spacious backpack for their hunting trips. Its high-quality construction, large capacity, and customizable MOLLE design make it a great choice for any outdoor enthusiast.
MOLLE Assault Pack, Tactical Backpack Military Army Camping Rucksack, 3-Day Pack
If you’re looking for a tactical backpack that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the MOLLE Assault Pack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The MOLLE system on the pack allows for customization and flexibility in terms of gear organization.
- The pack is built with heavy-duty materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
- The pack is designed with a lot of thoughtful features, such as the padded back and shoulder straps, and the bungee cord on the outside for storing a helmet or other bulky items.
Cons
- The pack is quite heavy, which can be a problem if you’re planning to hike with it.
- The pack is quite large, which can be a problem if you’re looking for something more compact.
- The pack is quite expensive, which can be a problem if you’re on a budget.
We’ve used the MOLLE Assault Pack for a few camping trips and it has held up well. The MOLLE system is a standout feature, allowing us to customize the pack to our specific needs. The pack is also built with high-quality materials, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
One thing to note is that the pack is quite heavy, which can be a problem if you’re planning to hike with it. Additionally, the pack is quite large, which can be a problem if you’re looking for something more compact. Finally, the pack is quite expensive, which can be a problem if you’re on a budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a tactical backpack that is customizable, durable, and packed with thoughtful features, the MOLLE Assault Pack is definitely worth considering.
Tactical Backpack Military Army Daypack – Assault Pack for Men Molle Backpacks Bug Out Bag 3 Day Pack for Hiking Camping Travel Hunting Rucksack Trekking Black
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable tactical backpack, the Tactical Backpack Military Army Daypack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The MOLLE system allows for easy customization and attachment of additional gear.
- The backpack is made of high-quality nylon fabric that is water-resistant and durable.
- The adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap ensure a comfortable fit for individuals of various sizes.
Cons
- The backpack’s size may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger or bulkier items.
- The lack of padding in the back panel may cause discomfort during long periods of wear.
- The zippers may not be as durable as the rest of the backpack.
We’ve used the Tactical Backpack Military Army Daypack for a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and travel. The MOLLE system is a standout feature, as it allows for easy customization and attachment of additional gear. The backpack is also made of high-quality nylon fabric that is water-resistant and durable, which is essential for outdoor activities.
One potential downside is that the backpack’s size may not be suitable for those who need to carry larger or bulkier items. Additionally, the lack of padding in the back panel may cause discomfort during long periods of wear. Finally, the zippers may not be as durable as the rest of the backpack, which could be an issue over time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and durable tactical backpack that can handle a variety of activities, the Tactical Backpack Military Army Daypack is definitely worth considering.
Black Tactical Backpack, Military Backpack, Molle Backpack
This tactical backpack is a great option for those who need a durable and versatile bag for outdoor activities or emergency situations.
Pros
- The backpack is made of high-quality 1000D water-resistant nylon, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection against rain and snow.
- With a capacity of 52L, this backpack has plenty of room to carry all the necessary gear and supplies.
- The MOLLE system on the front and back of the backpack allows for easy customization and attachment of additional gear or pouches.
Cons
- The backpack’s weight is 3.97 pounds, which may be too heavy for some users.
- The lack of a hip belt may cause discomfort for some users during prolonged use.
- The price point is higher than some other tactical backpacks on the market.
This backpack is a great choice for those who need a reliable and spacious bag for outdoor activities or emergency situations. The high-quality materials and MOLLE system make it easy to customize and attach additional gear, while the water-resistant nylon ensures protection against rain and snow. However, the backpack’s weight and lack of a hip belt may cause discomfort for some users during prolonged use. Overall, the Black Tactical Backpack is a solid choice for those in need of a durable and versatile bag.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best tactical backpack, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider is the capacity of the backpack. This will depend on the intended use of the backpack and the amount of gear that needs to be carried. For tactical use, a capacity of at least 3000 cubic inches is recommended.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider. The backpack should be made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of tactical use. Look for backpacks made from materials such as 1000 denier nylon or Cordura.
Comfort
Comfort is also an important consideration when choosing a tactical backpack. Look for backpacks with padded straps and back panels to help distribute the weight of the load evenly. Adjustable straps are also important to ensure a proper fit.
Organization
Organization is another important feature to consider. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets to help keep gear organized and easily accessible. MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing is also a plus for attaching additional gear.
Rain Cover
A rain cover is also an important feature to consider. This will help protect gear from rain and other weather conditions. Look for backpacks with built-in rain covers or that come with a separate rain cover.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best tactical backpack for your needs.