BEST TACTICAL BACKPACK

When you’re looking for a backpack that can handle both day hikes and your everyday needs, the ideal tactical rucksack should combine spacious storage, practical features, and lasting comfort throughout the day.

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The best tactical backpacks in the United States

If you expect to carry a backpack on your shoulders for a significant amount of time, go for a reliable option.

best tackical backpacks

Looking for The Best We May Have Found It Here

Tactical backpacks stand out from other backpack types because they can serve multiple purposes, making them suitable for activities like long hikes, military missions, travel, and even cycling.

More thank 2,000 Sold This Month

The best tactical backpacks in the United States



tactical backpack for day hike

BEST TACTICAL BACKPACK For 2024

When you’re looking for a backpack that can handle both day hikes and your everyday needs, the ideal tactical rucksack should combine spacious storage, practical features, and lasting comfort throughout the day.

Tactical backpacks stand out from other backpack types because they can serve multiple purposes, making them suitable for activities like long hikes, military missions, travel, and even cycling.



If you expect to carry a backpack on your shoulders for a significant amount of time, go for a reliable option.

More thank 2,000 Sold This Month

The best tactical backpacks in the United States

  • Prioritize Reliability for Extended Backpack Usage

  • Choose a Trustworthy Backpack for Prolonged Carrying

  • Opt for a Dependable Option if You’ll Be Wearing a Backpack Frequently

  • Ensure Your Backpack Choice Is Reliable for Extended Wear

top tactical backpacks
ApplicationMethods of UseTesting EmphasisVS “Tactical Pack” CriteriaVSOngoing Industry Involvement

Weekend Getaways
 
 
 
Daily Carry Needs

 

 
 
Medical Kits

User-Friendliness, Durability, Comfort, Value

User-Friendliness, Durability, Comfort, Value

User-Friendliness, Durability, Comfort, Value

Traditional Military Aesthetics, MOLLE, Concealed Compartments

Traditional Military Aesthetics, MOLLE, Concealed Compartments

Traditional Military Aesthetics, MOLLE, Concealed Compartments

Stay Current with Tactical Backpack Developments

Stay Current with Tactical Backpack Developments

Stay Current with Tactical Backpack Developments

Premium tactical backpacks come with a bunch of pockets, compartments, and smart features. These features can include external ports for cables, compatibility with hydration bladders, places to store two-way radios, dedicated spots for medical supplies, and more.

Now, what exactly makes a backpack “tactical” can be a bit subjective. Unlike other backpacks designed for lightweight outdoor use or daily commutes, tactical backpacks prioritize versatility above everything else. They often have camouflage patterns, tough materials, and lots of attachment points on the outside.

Whether you need a tactical backpack for professional or recreational use, they’re designed to keep your stuff well-organized, make carrying comfortable, and provide secure storage even when you’ve got a heavy load.

We’ve put in a lot of effort to evaluate and review the options in the tactical backpack market to figure out which ones are the best in 2023. While making this list of recommendations, we carefully looked at the specs and features to find the ones that deserved hands-on testing. Members of our AO Tactical Gear team use these backpacks in various roles, like; first-aid kits, hunting gear, everyday laptop carriers, and more.

Take a look at our list to find our top picks. And if you need some help deciding, check out our buyer’s guide and FAQ for extra insights on picking the perfect tactical backpack for your needs. We also have a handy side-by-side comparison chart for a quick look at specs and prices.

Editor’s Note: This article was revised on December 5, 2023, to incorporate an additional product and an extensive array of fresh, in-depth purchasing guidance.

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Tactical Backpacks Use Chart

Our Testing Process For Tactical Backpacks

The AO Tactical Gear team is always putting tactical backpacks to the test, whether it’s for quick weekend trips or everyday use. We’ve used these backpacks for various purposes, from carrying medical supplies to hauling hunting gear and serving as travel companions. The products we’re recommending in this list have undergone years of rigorous testing.

In our testing process, we pay close attention to factors like how easy they are to use, how long they last, how comfortable they are, and whether they provide good value for your money. Sometimes, features that sound impressive on paper don’t perform as well in real-life situations. So, our testing is all about revealing a backpack’s true usefulness.

The term “tactical pack” can mean different things to different people. When putting together this list, we specifically looked for models that have a classic military look and features, such as MOLLE webbing systems and concealed carry compartments.

 

As the industry keeps improving designs and bringing in new products, we’re dedicated to staying ahead of the curve when it comes to tactical backpacks. We’ll keep an eye on any new styles that have the potential to stand out. So, this list of recommendations is always changing to include the best tactical backpacks currently available in the market.

Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Tactical Backpack

In 2023 with 2024 approaching in days, there’s a wide variety of high-quality tactical backpacks available in the market. These backpacks come in different sizes, styles, brands, and colors, which can make it a bit challenging to choose the perfect one for your needs.

Before you go on a shopping spree for a tactical backpack, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the specific features you require. Some of the backpacks on our list are designed for particular purposes, like field medics and military personnel, while others are versatile and suitable for both professional and recreational use.

For example, if you’re looking for a small and inconspicuous bag for quick day missions, you wouldn’t want a bulky 60-liter backpack. On the flip side, if you need a backpack to carry camping supplies for three days, you should avoid backpacks designed primarily for students on the go.

The main goal of this buyer’s guide is to give you the knowledge you need to distinguish between the various characteristics and features available in the tactical backpack market. With this information, you’ll be better prepared to make a smart and well-informed decision when purchasing a tactical backpack. Key factors to consider when choosing the right tactical backpack for your needs include the materials, your budget, the capacity, and any extra features it offers.

Extra Features

Apart from the fundamental ability to transport your gear, tactical backpacks offer a plethora of supplementary features, each designed with unique applications and purposes in mind. When evaluating these features, prioritize those that will genuinely enhance your day-to-day life.

Among the commonly encountered features are the capacity to accommodate hydration bladders, dedicated storage for laptops, the presence of MOLLE webbing for customization, specialized compartments for organized storage, integrated concealed carry holsters, and more. If your requirement revolves around enduring long hikes in the scorching summer sun, focus on securing ample water storage. In preparation for a military deployment, select a backpack tailored to your mission’s specific demands.

For instance, some packs, like the Mystery Ranch Mole, are laden with features meticulously crafted for medical applications. While this might be immensely beneficial for medical professionals, it may prove relatively redundant for those with different vocations. It’s essential to recognize that the array of features and their arrangement is what sets one tactical backpack apart from another, so choose wisely based on your unique needs and preferences.



What are tactical backpacks for?

Tactical backpacks serve a multitude of distinct applications and fulfill various purposes. In essence, a tactical backpack can be defined as a specialized rucksack renowned for its durability, modularity, and an abundance of practical features.

Certain tactical backpacks are meticulously tailored for hunting enthusiasts, while others find favor among field medics. It’s worth noting that tactical backpacks draw inspiration from military design principles, yet not all of them are exclusively intended for military personnel.



Who should be responsible for carrying a tactical backpack?

In summary, tactical backpacks cater to individuals seeking a dependable and robust backpack. Although tactical backpacks exhibit a distinct appearance compared to backpacks designed for recreational purposes, they frequently emerge as excellent choices for camping and backpacking excursions.

Moreover, a substantial number of individuals opt to incorporate tactical backpacks into their professional endeavors. These versatile bags find favor among law enforcement officers, medical practitioners, and military personnel alike. Additionally, tactical backpacks are a preferred choice for those in need of “go bags,” which are pre-packed and prepared for swift deployment in emergencies or evacuations.



What kind of backpack does the military use?

The military employs a diverse array of backpacks, contingent upon the branch and the particular application. It’s noteworthy that many military rucksacks closely resemble the options showcased in this compilation.

What should you include in your tactical backpack?

You have the freedom to pack anything you desire! Similar to a standard backpack, a tactical backpack will accommodate any gear you decide to load into it.

Nonetheless, numerous tactical backpacks are meticulously crafted to accommodate specific types of gear. Some of the options presented in this list are adept at holding camping equipment, while others are better tailored for transporting medical supplies.



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