This is the Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Tactical Backpack for Your Needs, are you ready?

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable pack for a day hike or a more robust and durable bag to keep your concealed carry gun in, it can be difficult to find the right one.

Read on to learn more about finding the best tactical backpack for your needs. 

Review

5.11 Tactical All Hazards Prime Backpack (Designed by MACTAC instructors)

The 5.11 Tactical All Hazards Prime Backpack is a versatile and rugged backpack designed to cater to the needs of emergency responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and military personnel.

It has been engineered to offer superior functionality and organization for various situations. As one of the best tactical backpacks on the market, let’s dive into the features of this backpack to see if it’s the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Comfort: The backpack comes with well-padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap that help distribute the weight evenly, ensuring maximum comfort even during long hours of use.

• Material: Made from high-quality 1050D nylon material, this backpack is built to withstand harsh conditions and daily wear and tear.

• Size: With dimensions of 11.5″ x 7.5″ x 20.5″, the All Hazards Prime offers ample space without being too bulky.

• Durability: Reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers ensure that this backpack can handle heavy loads and rough handling without any issues.

• Capacity: The backpack boasts a total capacity of 1,768 cubic inches, providing enough room for all your gear and essentials.

• Weight: At just 4.8 pounds, the All Hazards Prime is lightweight for a tactical backpack, making it easy to carry around for extended periods.

• Storage Options & Ergonomics: This backpack features multiple compartments, including a main compartment, an admin pocket, and a dedicated eyewear pocket. It also has MOLLE webbing on the exterior for additional customization and attachment options.

• Organization: The All Hazards Prime is designed to keep your gear organized and easily accessible, with internal dividers, mesh pockets, and a loop panel for attaching accessories.

• Water Resistance: The 1050D nylon material offers a decent level of water resistance, protecting your gear from light rain and splashes.

Cons:

• Price: The 5.11 Tactical All Hazards Prime Backpack can be on the higher end of the price range when compared to other tactical backpacks in the market.

• Limited Color Options: The backpack is currently only available in a few color options, which might not cater to everyone’s preferences.

The 5.11 Tactical All Hazards Prime Backpack is an excellent choice for those looking for a tactical backpack that offers durability, organization, and comfort.

It is ideally suited for emergency responders, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable backpack to carry their gear and essentials.

However, if you are on a tight budget or prefer more color options, you might want to consider other alternatives in the market.

Mardingtop M6419: Best EveryDay Tactical Backpack

The Mardingtop M6419 Backpack is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and comfortable backpack. It is made of 600D polyester, making it durable and lightweight.

The 28L capacity provides plenty of space for all your belongings, while the YKK buckle and zipper ensure that everything stays secure.

The ergonomic design makes it easy to carry, while the multiple pockets provide plenty of storage options.

Pros:

• Made of durable 600D polyester
• 28L capacity provides plenty of space
• YKK buckle and zipper for security
• The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry
• Multiple pockets provide ample storage options
• Water-resistant material keeps items dry in the rain

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy loads due to its lightweight design
• No laptop compartment or other specialized compartments

The Mardingtop M6419 Backpack is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and comfortable backpack. It has a large capacity, multiple pockets for storage, and is water resistant.

However, its lightweight design means that it may not be suitable for carrying heavier loads.

This backpack would be best suited for light travelers who need a reliable bag with plenty of storage options. Those who need something more heavy-duty should look elsewhere.

5.11 TACTICAL RUSH 12 2.0 PACK (Most versatility and durability)

The 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Pack is a highly functional and versatile backpack designed for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, and tactical operations.

With its impressive features and durable construction, it has gained a reputation as one of the top choices in the tactical backpack market.

Let’s dive into the features of this backpack to see if it’s the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Comfort: The Rush 12 Pack comes with padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a closed-cell foam back panel for increased comfort and even weight distribution during extended use.

• Material: Made from high-quality 1050D nylon, this backpack is designed to withstand harsh conditions and daily wear and tear.
• Size: With dimensions of 18″ x 11″ x 6.5″, the Rush 12 Pack offers a compact yet spacious design that’s suitable for various uses.
• Durability: Reinforced stitching, self-repairing YKK zippers, and durable construction ensure that this backpack can handle heavy loads and rough handling without any issues.
• Capacity: The backpack has a 24-liter capacity, providing enough space for your gear and essentials without being overly bulky.
• Weight: At just 2.6 pounds, the Rush 12 Pack is lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods.
• Storage Options & Ergonomics: This backpack features multiple compartments, including a main compartment, a front admin pocket, and a hydration pocket. It also has MOLLE webbing on the exterior for additional customization and attachment options.
• Organization: The Rush 12 Pack is designed to keep your gear organized and easily accessible, with internal dividers, mesh pockets, and a loop panel for attaching accessories.
• Water Resistance: The 1050D nylon material offers a good level of water resistance, protecting your gear from light rain and splashes.

Cons:

• Price: The 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Pack can be on the higher end of the price range when compared to other tactical backpacks in the market.
• Limited Color Options: The backpack is currently only available in a few color options, which might not cater to everyone’s preferences.

The 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 Pack is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, versatile, and comfortable tactical backpack. It is ideally suited for everyday carry, outdoor enthusiasts, and military personnel who need a reliable backpack to carry their gear and essentials.

However, if you are on a tight budget or prefer more color options, you might want to consider other alternatives in the market.

Red Rock Ambush: Best Small Tactical Backpack

The Red Rock Ambush Tactical Backpack is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a versatile EDC.

With its air-mesh back panel and zippered hydration pocket, it offers both comfort and storage.

The backpack also features Molle webbing, making it easy to customize with additional pouches and accessories.

Pros:

• Air-mesh back panel provides comfort and breathability
• Zippered hydration pocket (hydration bladder sold separately)
• Molle webbing allows for customization with additional pouches and accessories
• Water-resistant material keeps contents dry in wet weather
• The lightweight design makes it easy to carry around all-day

Cons:

• The smaller size may not be suitable for larger items or long trips (22 liters)
• Not designed to carry heavy loads over extended periods

Condor 3-Day Assault Pack: (Impressive Utility Features)

The next on our list of the best tactical backpacks is the Condor 3 Day Assault Pack.

Pros:

• Storage capacity: With a whopping 50 liters of storage space, the Condor 3-Day Assault Pack is perfect for those multi-day adventures. You can pack everything you need without feeling like you’re leaving something important behind.

• Durability: Made from high-quality 1000 Denier nylon, this pack is built to withstand the test of time (and harsh outdoor conditions). So go ahead, get rough with it!

• Utility features: This pack is loaded with useful features like MOLLE webbing, compression straps, and multiple compartments for organization. Who doesn’t love a pack that helps keep all your gear in order? It also has hydration bladder compatibility.

• Comfort: With its padded shoulder straps, sternum strap, and removable waist belt, this backpack ensures comfort even during long hikes or heavy loads.

Cons:

• Weight: The Condor 3-Day Assault Pack is a bit on the heavier side, weighing in at around 5 lbs when empty. This might be a deal-breaker for some ultralight hikers.

• Price: While not the most expensive pack out there, it’s not the cheapest either. However, considering its features and durability, many users find it worth the investment.

Outdoor enthusiasts who frequently embark on multi-day hikes, camping trips, or hunting expeditions Military personnel or law enforcement officers looking for a reliable and durable pack for their gear.

Preppers and survivalists who need a sturdy backpack to store their emergency supplies

Blackhawk Cyane Dynamic Tactical Pack

The Blackhawk Cyane Dynamic Tactical Pack is an ideal backpack for those looking for a low-profile, tactical option.

It features multiple rows of S.T.R.I.K.E. webbing and several storage compartments, allowing you to configure it as a standalone backpack or attach additional pouches and accessories.

The pack also has a beavertail-style compartment with 595 cubic inches of storage space, as well as a hydration pocket with three elastic-covered tube ports that can accommodate a 100-oz hydration reservoir (sold separately).

Pros:

• Multiple rows of S.T.R.I.K.E webbing and several storage compartments
• Beavertail-style compartment with 595 cubic inches of storage space
• Hydration pocket with three elastic-covered tube ports

Cons:

• Hydration reservoir sold separately

CVLIFE: Best Budget Tactical Backpack

The CVLIFE Tactical Backpack is a great option for anyone looking for a budget tactical backpack.

It offers plenty of storage options, with one main large compartment, one front detachable bag which can be used as a tactical fanny pack separately, and two side detachable pockets.

The backpack also features adjustable shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap to ensure comfort and stability while carrying it.

It is made from high-density 600D Oxford fabric, making it highly durable and water resistant.

Pros:

• Plenty of storage options
• Adjustable shoulder straps and chest straps for comfort and stability
• High-density 600D Oxford fabric makes it highly durable and water resistant
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Not suitable for heavy loads due to lack of padding on the back panel

Overall, this tactical pack is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable everyday carry bag.

Hazard 4 PillBox: Best Laptop Tactical Backpack

Next on our list of tactical backpacks is the Hazard 4 PillBox. This is a great choice for those looking for a tactical bags that can carry their laptop with ease.

It features a padded laptop sleeve, adjustable shoulder straps, and an adjustable waist belt to provide maximum comfort and support.

Pros:

• The padded laptop sleeve provides secure storage for laptops up to 17 inches
• Adjustable shoulder straps and waist strap provide extra comfort and support
• Molle webbing
• Multiple compartments make it easy to store items securely
• Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
• Water-resistant material keeps your items safe from the elements

Cons:

• Not ideal for carrying large amounts of weight due to lack of frame support
• The price tag may be too high for some budgets

This pack is one of the best tactical backpacks for those who are looking for a reliable tactical backpack that can safely store their laptop.

However, if you’re looking for something that can handle heavier loads, this may not be the right pack for you.

Marchway: Best Hydration Pack

The MARCHWAY Tactical Hydration Pack is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and durable tactical hydration pack.

The 3L (100oz) bladder stored in the main compartment is designed to keep you hydrated in any environment and temperature.

It is ergonomically designed to fit your shoulders, chest, and waist with adjustable straps. This pack also has lots of storage space thanks to its zippered compartments and is easy to clean.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Comfortable with padded mesh
• Durable
• Breathable
• Two external zipper pouches
• Waist strap
• Easy to clean
• 3L (100oz) bladder keeps you hydrated in any environment and temperature

Cons:

• Not suitable for larger items

This may be the right tactical backpack for anyone looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and durable tactical hydration pack that can keep them hydrated in any environment or temperature. However, it may not be suitable for larger items.

Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack: Best Outdoor Hiking Tactical Backpack

The Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack is a great choice for those who like tactical backpacks while outdoor hiking.

It has adjustable straps and a padded hip belt, making it comfortable to wear for long periods. Here are some pros and cons of this pack:

Pros:

• Durable construction with 1000D Cordura fabric
• MOLLE attachment points on sides and front of pack
• Adjustable yoke shoulder straps for custom fit
• Padded hip belt for added comfort
• 27 liters capacity
• Good everyday carry bag

Cons:

• Zippers can be a bit sticky at times
• Not the lightest option at 3 pounds

The Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack is a great choice for those looking for a good tactical backpack.

It’s tough enough to handle any terrain and has plenty of space for all your essentials. However, if you’re looking for something lightweight, this may not be the best option.

Guide on How to Choose the Best Tactical Backpack

Gather ’round, backpack aficionados! We’ve scoured the vast landscape of tactical backpacks, and now it’s time to find the one that’ll be your trusty sidekick on epic adventures.

Brace yourselves for a rollicking ride as we embark on a quest to guide you on how to decide on which pack is your match made in outdoor heaven!

Defining a Tactical Backpack

A tactical backpack is a heavy-duty backpack designed for maximum durability and functionality. Made from high-quality materials like nylon or polyester, it’s built to resist wear and tear.

The bag boasts multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization, as well as adjustable straps and padded shoulder straps for added comfort when carrying heavy loads.

Perfect for Outdoor Adventures

Tactical backpacks are ideal for various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and more. They offer ample storage space to keep your essentials safe and secure.

Lightweight yet sturdy, they can handle even the most challenging terrain. Their water-resistant material and reinforced seams ensure your belongings stay dry in any weather condition.

Caring for Your Tactical Backpack

To extend the life of your tactical backpack, follow these simple maintenance steps:

1. Regularly clean it with a damp cloth or brush to remove dirt or debris from the fabric surface.
2. Check zippers regularly to ensure they function properly.
3. When not in use, store the bag in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures.

What are the different types of tactical backpacks?

1. Molle System Backpacks – These lightweight packs have a modular webbing system for attaching extra gear, giving you flexible storage capacity.
2. Hydration Packs – Equipped with a water bladder, these packs keep you hydrated on the go and have pockets for essentials like snacks, keys, and phones.
3. Everyday Carry Bags – Designed for daily use, these bags provide ample space for laptops, books, documents, and more, with multiple compartments for organization

What Factors Should Should You Look at for Tactical Backpacks:

Comfort

When searching for a tactical backpack, look for comfort features such as a padded shoulder strap for both shoulders, an adjustable waist belt, adjustable sternum straps, and additional padding or ventilation to ensure a comfortable fit during extended use. Just as with IWB holsters your pack needs to be comfortable

Material

You want a backpack that’s tough as nails but light as a feather, right? Look for materials like nylon or polyester fabric, which are durable and lightweight.

Size

Goldilocks had it right: size matters. Make sure the backpack is the right size for your needs. If you plan on carrying heavier items, go for a larger bag. If you’re all about that everyday carry life, opt for something smaller.

Durability

Nobody wants a backpack that falls apart after a few uses. Look for features like reinforced stitching for extra strength and durability.

Capacity

How much can the backpack hold? Consider what you’ll be carrying (laptop, books, documents, etc.)

Weight

A heavy backpack can feel like you’re carrying an elephant on your back. Features like a padded shoulder strap for both shoulders and a waist strap reduce strain when carrying heavy loads.

Storage Options & Ergonomics

Make sure the bag has enough storage options to keep your items organized like a hydration pocket or molle webbing. And don’t forget about ergonomic features like adjustable straps to distribute weight evenly across your body. Besides, both women and men not always store their gun on themselves.

Water Resistance

Let me tell you, my backpack-loving comrades, it’s like the icing on the cake! Picture this: you’re on an epic adventure, conquering mountains and trekking through jungles, when suddenly – SPLASH! – you’re caught in a downpour or crossing a river.

Fear not, for your water-resistant tactical backpack is here to save the day, keeping your precious gear dry and protected from the elements. So, embrace those aquatic surprises with a water-resistant backpack, and never let Mother Nature rain on your parade!

FAQ

• What does EDC mean for a backpack?

Let’s dive into the world of EDC – and nope, it’s not an electronic dance craze! EDC stands for Everyday Carry, which means all those nifty, can’t-leave-home-without items you stash in your trusty backpack. So, when we’re talking EDC in backpacks, imagine it as your bag’s survival kit – a collection of the raddest, most essential gadgets and gizmos that make you feel like a superhero on-the-go

• What is the best size backpack for EDC?

Ah, the million-dollar question – the best-size backpack for EDC! Well, my fellow backpack connoisseurs, it’s all about striking that sweet spot between space and comfort. Typically, a 20-30 liter backpack should do the trick, giving you ample room for your beloved essentials without turning you into a pack mule. So, find that Goldilocks-approved backpack, and strut like a champ with your perfectly-sized EDC companion!

• What should I carry for my EDC?

Any of the backpacks we listed above!

• Can I use a backpack at the gun range?

Why, of course, you daring backpack devotee! You can use a backpack for the gun range – just make sure it has specialized compartments or pockets to safely store your firearm, ammo, and other shooting accessories. Opt for a sturdy, well-organized pack, and you’ll be the talk of the range with your trusty, gun-ready backpack sidekick!

• What are backpacks and guns called?

Pack-A-Gun…IDK

• What backpack does the US Army use?

Listen up, backpack buffs! The US Army has a taste for the finest of backpacks, and they’ve been rocking the MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) system. These bad boys are rugged, durable, and customizable – perfect for those hardcore military missions. So, if you want to channel your inner GI Joe or Jane, grab yourself a MOLLE backpack and march on!

• What are tactical backpacks for?

Alright, backpack aficionados! Tactical backpacks are the Swiss Army knives of the bag world – versatile, resilient, and oh-so-cool. Originally designed for military and law enforcement use, these packs are now popular among adventurers and urban warriors alike. With their MOLLE-compatible design, oodles of compartments, and rugged materials, tactical backpacks are perfect for everything from outdoor escapades to surviving the concrete jungle. So, gear up and conquer the world with your trusty tactical sidekick!

• What packs do SEALS use?

These elite warriors opt for backpacks that are lighter than a feather (okay, maybe not that light), tougher than your grandma’s fruitcake, and as accessible as your best friend’s fridge. Favorites include the Mystery Dry Ruck, the COSCOOA Tactical Military Backpack, and the whopping 100L Outdoor Hiking Backpack. Waterproof? Check. More compartments than a magician’s hat? You bet! And with snazzy features like adjustable straps and nifty pockets, these backpacks will have you feeling SEAL-worthy in no time!

Wrapping up

So, if you’re looking for the perfect tactical backpack to accompany your everyday adventures and epic escapades, look no further! Consider comfort features like padded straps and a waist belt, choose a durable material like nylon or polyester fabric, find that Goldilocks-approved size, and check for reinforced stitching and plenty of storage options.

Oh, and don’t forget the water resistance! With all these features in mind, you’ll be rocking the coolest tactical backpack around. So, grab your pack, and let’s hit the road – it’s time to take on the world like a pro!