Backpacks have been a staple for many people who love the outdoors. You can use it to pack your things and go for a hike, travel, go camping, or climb a mountain. It’s true that you don’t need any special backpack when going outdoors, but if you’re of the extreme kind, then the best tactical Backpack should be considered. This tactical backpack reviews article will give you complete buying guidelines, and we recommend the top 5 backpack list.
Our Recommended Top 3 Best Tactical Backpack Comparison:
| Images | Tactical Backpack | Feature Details |
|---|---|---|
(2023 Editor's Choice) Check Price | 5.11 Tactical Rush 12 tactical backpack Read Review | |
(Lightweight Backpack) Check Price | 3V Gear Outlaw Shoulder Day Tactical Bagpack Read Review | |
(Best Hikers Choice) Check Price | Mountaintop 40L Water-resistant Hiking, Travel, Camping Backpck Read Review |
Our Top Pick 5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 Backpack Video Review
Summary of Contents
Related: Best Waterproof Backpacks – Top Rainproof Backpack
Our Recommended Top 5 Best Tactical Backpack Reviews
The tactical bags can be said to be modular that is customize-able, and can adapt based on different environments.
On top of that, they are durable and can be used in rough terrains such as deserts and jungles. After considering all this, here are some of the tactical Backpacks on the market:
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Military-style Paratus 3v Backpack Review (Our Top Pick)
This tactical military-style Backpack is the best for those who are going into extreme environments as it has features like the material which it’s made out of, which is a rugged 600 denier PVC-backed nylon that adds to its durability.
Technical Specifications of the Paratus 3-Day Operator’s Pack:
| Features | 3V Gear backpack |
| Padded laptop sleeve : | – fits most 17″ laptops |
| Waist belt measures : | 52″ |
| Built to: | exacting standards from heavy-duty 600D PVC backed polyester |
| Hydration pocket Durable: | 1050D nylon (MultiCam: 1000D nylon) |
| Handle: | Heavy-duty, padded carry, and drag handle |
| Hydration compatible: | Yes |
| water-resistant construction: | Yes |
| adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: | Yes |
| Front pocket : | 13″H x 12″W x 3″D |
| Main Compartment: | 20″H x 12″W x 5.5″D |
| Compatibility: | MOLLE/PALs Compatible |
| Left and Right Side Pockets: | Morale Patches Included |
| Total Capacity: | 2,500 cubic inches |
| Molded EVA Back Panel | Yes |
| Weight: | 3.9 pounds |
In addition, it has features that make it customize-able for the user, such as 2 attached MOLLE pouches, 2 large zippered compartments, and interior pockets and organizers to store extra equipment. The Paratus 3V backpack has also been well designed to meet the standards and requirements for air travel. The material used to make the bag also makes it weather-resistant, still adding to its durability aspect.
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PROS
- It’s rugged weather resistance.
- The modular design makes it easier to put more things inside it.
- Heavy-duty military PVC nylon is used for Building.
- MOLLE attachment compatible straps.
- Great build Self-Healing Coil Zippers.
CONS
- The MOLLE in some areas is too thin for the straps.
VERDICT
The Backpack by 3V is good for those long hiking trips in extreme areas. The straps might have been made a little longer, but that isn’t much of a problem as you get a lot more advantages. The bag’s modular design allows for more materials to fit inside it. The material is also a definite plus as it allows the bag to be sturdy as well as durable.
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The Mountain Top- Best Tactical Backpack Under $50
The mountain top backpack is amazing for those that love hiking and going for adventures. It has a front adjustable strap that can be used to hand a trekking pole or tripod. On top of that, the bag has six adjustable straps that work to your advantage and can be used for hanging sleeping bags and some select gear. The coating is the Polyester fabric which makes mountaintop the best tactical Waterproof Backpack.
The bag also has easy zippered access from the front. That is, you can use the zipper from the front to access the main compartment of the bag. The Mountain Top is also meant to provide as much comfort as it can to the user as it has padding in all the right places. The shoulder straps and hip belt have intense padding.
Technical Specifications of the MOUNTAINTOP 28L/40L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping:
| Features | MOUNTAINTOP 28L/40L |
| Padded laptop sleeve : | -fits most 17″ laptops |
| Waist belt measures : | 25–55 inches |
| Material: | Polyester |
| Zipper: | YKK |
| Buckle: | YKK |
| Hydration compatible: | Yes |
| Backpack Rain Cover: | Yes |
| adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: | Yes |
| Color Options: | black, gray, blue, sky blue, fuchsias, khaki, orange, lake green, camouflage, Silver gray |
| Dimensions: | 21.7 x 13.8 x 6.3 inches (55 x 35 x 16 cm) |
| belly strap is not removable: | yes |
| breathable molded foam back panel: | Yes |
| Total Capacity: | 40 Liters |
| S-shaped shoulder straps: | Yes |
| Weight: | 2.1 pounds |
The back area also has the proper padding to make the bag as comfortable to carry as possible. The multiple pockets that the Backpack allows for more materials to fit the bag, plus make it easy to separate and organize the items in the bag.
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PROS
- The pack is well designed.
- It has a large room for the storage of equipment.
- It’s sturdy
- Great tactical Backpack for 17-inch laptop
- Waterproof Tactical Backpack.
CONS
- Some customers have complained about the size of the individual pockets.
VERDICT
The Mountain top is fine if you’re going for a hike or doing any outdoor activity. The zippered access is very convenient as it allows you to go through your bag without fidgeting too much in finding your stuff. The padding on the shoulders also brings a bit of comfort when carrying the bag and makes a difference in terms of the burden on your shoulders—mountain top is one of the cheapest Tactical Backpack.
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Compact fox outdoor backpacks review
Fox outdoor backpacks might not be as huge as all the other backpacks on this list, but they can meet the demands of any tactical bag. It’s made of polyester that, although not as strong as nylon, can be very sturdy as well. It has a flexible, modular design to it, allowing the user to have more space to carry their equipment. The product has a hydration pocket which has the function of providing a safe place to store fluids for the user.
The design of the back allows for it to be expandable, and it also aims to make it as comfortable as possible for the user with its stay-cool mesh backing.
Technical Specifications of the Fox Outdoor Products Compact Tactical Backpack for School & College:
| Features | Fox Outdoor Products Compact Modular Hydration Backpack |
| Complete with : | 2.5 hydration bladder |
| Front face: | Modular attachment points |
| Material: | Cordura Nylon |
| Hydration pocket Durable: | with hook and loop closure |
| Handle: | Top carrying handle |
| Hydration compatible: | Yes |
| water-resistant construction: | Yes |
| adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: | Yes |
| Expandable design: | Yes |
| stay-cool mesh backing: | Yes |
| Pockets: | 1 front pocket with inside mesh accessory pockets |
| Compartments: | 1 large main compartment |
| Dimensions: | 8 x 5 x 17 inches |
| Weight: | 1.9 pounds |
The Fox Outdoor has one large main compartment and a front pocket that has mesh accessory pockets. Thus, fox outdoor Modular Hydration is known as a compact backpack.
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PROS
- It’s durable.
- It’s comfortable to use.
- The straps are efficient at keeping the bag in place.
CONS
- The strong plastic tastes like a hydration bladder when it’s new.
VERDICT
The Fox Outdoor is definitely one you should consider having if you’re an outdoor kind of a guy. The plastic taste might be a problem, but nothing some lemon water won’t fix. The bag is comfortable to use for those long hikes, and you don’t need to worry about weight shifts as the bag keeps it in place.
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Military-grade Direct action backpack egg review
This bag has been specially designed for law enforcement and military personnel with camo color as well as other color options. Some provisions have been made for outdoor enthusiasts as well. The Direct Action has been designed well with a low-profile look that helps the bag blend in as an everyday bag. It is the best tactical Backpack for everyday use.
Technical Specifications of the DIRECT ACTION Dragon Egg Tactical Backpack:
| Features | DIRECT ACTION Dragon Egg |
| Material: | 100% Cordura 500D |
| Application: | 2-day EDC Backpack |
| Paracord drag handle: | contains (2) 2.5m cords |
| Fabric: | Water resistant coated Cordura 500D |
| Combat Vent System: | Yes |
| Hydration compatible: | Yes |
| water-resistant construction: | Yes |
| adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: | Yes |
| Lightweight and versatile: | Yes |
| Durable, water-resistant coated: | Yes |
| Compatibility: | Unique laser-cut MOLLE/PALS system |
| Padded sleeve compartment (Laptop/Tablet): | 9.5 x 15 inches |
| Total Capacity: | 25 Liters / 1526 cubic inches |
| Main compartment dimensions (WxHxD): | 27 x 48 x 18 cm / 10.6 x 19 x 7 inches |
| Weight: | 3.57 pounds |
In addition, Direct action has a patented combat bent system that is aimed at providing comfort to the user when using the bag. It does this through the use of a contoured foam pattern that has air channels together with an airy mesh. These two together allow for the bag to be off the user’s back and help reduce the burden of the weight.
On top of that, the front pocket has an internal organizer that helps accommodate things such as GPS and other small essentials. For overall features, and functionality the Direct action backpack egg has gained a reputation as the best military-grade Backpack.
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PROS
- Top-quality material and stitching
- The MOLLE/PALS system is sturdy and looks sleek
- It has a large enough storage room
CONS
- The locks on the bag rattle when moving around.
VERDICT
Unless you’re on a very sensitive mission that requires nothing but quiet, then this bag is good for you.
The material and stitching are great, plus the patented venting system goes a long way in making a movie with the bag easier. If you’re an outdoor person, you can try this bag for your next trip. You might be surprised at how good and helpful it can be. Its price is higher than any other on our list, but it is the best tactical Backpack made in the USA, no doubt about that.
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3v gear outlaw sling pack review – best sling bag
3V gear outlaw sling is the last bag on our list, and this bag was made for the purpose of making users as prepared as possible. The 3v gear outlaw has a sling pack design that allows for the contents to be accessed easily while sitting. In addition, you could still carry the bag in the front and access the contents in the bag with no worries at all. The 3V gear outlaw main compartment, as well as the hydration sleeves, can be used to carry accessories for your concealed weapon. The materials used to make the bag that is heavy-duty 600D PVC nylon make it ideal for rough terrains as well as use. This is perfect who is looking for a small messenger bag.
Technical Specifications of the 3V Gear Outlaw II Gear Slinger Tactical Pack:
| Features | 3V Gear Outlaw II Gear |
| Padded laptop sleeve : | – fits most 15″ laptops |
| Water bottle pocket size: | fit 24 oz. bottle (3″ wide bottle) |
| Available in: | Black, Foliage Grey, Olive Drab, Coyote Tan |
| Sling Strap Length: | 43 |
| Handle: | two reinforced padded grab handles |
| Hydration compatible: | Yes |
| water-resistant construction: | Yes |
| adjustable shoulder and sternum straps: | Yes |
| Padded Laptop Sleeve: | Yes |
| CCW Pocket: | Yes |
| Compatibility: | MOLLE/PALs Compatible |
| Left and Right Side Pockets: | Morale Patches Included |
| Total Capacity: | 15 Liters |
| Molded EVA Back Panel | Yes |
| Weight: | 2.1 pounds |
The 3v gear outlaw tactical laptop backpack also aims to keep the thieves out using theft deterrent devices that are built-in so as to secure the zippers. The product also has an extra stabilizer strap for those days carrying heavy equipment. This strap is meant to keep the bag steady and stable, making for an easier carry.
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PROS
- It’s comfortable.
- OutLaw sling is sturdy.
- It’s easy to access the contents of the bag due to the sling pack design.
CONS
- It’s smaller than the standard Backpack.
VERDICT
The 3V Gear Outlaw Sling Pack has a lot to offer. It might not be as big as the other bags. But the materials and stitching ensure that you get to use it for a long time. On top of that, the bag’s design allows you to easily access the contents of your bag when placed on the front and not the back. Thus, 3V outlaw is the best sling bag on my list.
What Size Backpack Do I Need?
Since there are different sizes of backpacks, one should select a size that stores everything that they need on their journey or trip. Acquiring a backpack that carries all the items that you will use or may need is vital. That’s why a backpack that falls between 30L to 40L is considered the standard size for traveling or backpacking. Bags of this size are normally large enough to keep most of your items, but at the same time, they are compact. So, if you are undecided about which bag size to choose, then pick a standard backpack.
Campers, hikers, backpackers, and other travelers know that it is vital to have some extra space as you may come across a lovely picture, a souvenir, or some valuable item that you may be tempted to carry on your way. Therefore, before you select a bag, know the ideal size of the Backpack that you want. Below is a guide that may help you make the right choice.
0 to 20 liters
This is the best backpack size to carry for an individual who is going out for a day hike or something similar. Things to carry in this bag include a few snacks, gels, two liters of water, a tactical torch, a hydration pack, a lightweight rain shell, and lumbar packs. Normally, it is used to carry light things and easily fits on the back.
20 to 40 liters
If you plan on going out on a trip for the whole day or overnight, then a 20L to 40L Backpack is suitable for you. This size allows you to carry a little bit of the extras and whatever you may need for at least 12 hours to 24 hours. Things to pack in this kind of bag include a headlamp/torch, rain shell, 2 liters of water or more, space blanket, light insulation layer, hammock, food bag, and additional pair of socks or some light clothes. If you have such items, you can spend the whole day or an overnight soundly and well.
40 to 60 liters
Planning to go camping or hiking on the weekend, then this is the right backpack size for you. The volume is enough to have you carry all the items that you might need for two days or even more. All you need is to ensure that you keep it lightweight so that you don’t go through a lot of hardship when carrying items to use on your trip. Things to place in such a backpack include a water filter, pot for cooking, stove, fuel, pillow, hammock, camp shoes, tactical light, additional clothes, jacket, food bag, sleeping pad, and many more.
60 to 80 liters
Carrying a big backpack implies that you have carried lots of things from your home to the camp. If you plan on spending days in the wild, then this is the best bag to have with you. This is also ideal if you have many heavy items to carry. Besides the items that we’ve highlighted in the above 40L to 60L Backpack, one can add food that can sustain a person for ten days, three-plus-person tent, a sleeping bag, cushioned sleeping bag, extra cookware, and many more.
Knowing the exact size of the Backpack that you want is important so that you can carry all the things that you need. From hiking, camping, hunting, mountaineering, and traveling, ensure you have the right size. An ideal size is between 30L and 40L. But if you intend to carry a few things or spend a day out, a 20L to 30L size bag is great. But if you’re going out for the weekend, a 60L plus bag is the most ideal so that you can carry all the needs that you may need for survival.
But if you are looking for the best tactical Backpack under 100 dollars, then you have enough budget to get the best one.
Tactical backpack have military-level rugged design, Water-resistant coating, durability and adjustable flexible functionality.
These tactical backpacks could prove to be the difference during your time outdoors, so always go for one that you know is quality and one that is trusted by many. These backpacks can be used for a variety of purposes depending on the activity that you’re going to do.
Related: Best Ultralight Backpack Review – Lightest backpacks
Why do you need to use tactical backpacks?
There are many reasons people choose to get the best tactical backpack for the money, and here’s why:
Emergency preparedness backpacks:
One of the reasons to have a tactical backpack is so that you’re prepared for what you’re going to face. As said earlier, they are best suited for people going to extreme environments. These kinds of situations require that you’re ready and well prepared. The rigid quality backpack can help you with just that. It can carry a large amount of equipment and material and can be your very own bug-out bag.
Related: Ultralight Backpacking Tent Reviews – Best family tents
Lightest Backpack Makes your equipment lighter:
A tactical backpack is not like your everyday carry backpack. It has been specially designed to carry heavy loads and is meant to help its users have an easier time moving around with them. Many users of these backpacks are military personnel who carry a number of items during their missions.
Ultralight backpack 2-3 time more comfortable than traditional heavy backpack
They use tactical backpacks to help take the load off slightly. One of the reasons that can be stated for the load being easier is the straps that keep things in place and hence control the weight instead of having the weight shift as you move. Thus, an ultralight backpack is always recommended.
Firearm carrying Backpack:
If you’re a hunter or gun enthusiast, then you should consider having yourself a good backpack. Many hunters would go with quite a bit of equipment when hunting. You’ll need this kind of bag to fit them all in. These backpacks will help ensure that all your gear is in tow waiting to be used.
What to look out for in a military-quality backpack?
A good tactical backpack will have a few features that will separate itself from the rest, and here they are:
A good number of backpacking straps:
An ideal tactical Backpack should have a good number of straps on it. One strap backpack or single strap backpack is not recommended to use. However, these straps will help keep the equipment’s in place whilst in the bag and, in addition, will keep the bag in place while in use. The last thing you want is in the Backpack to move about as you’re on a mission or doing a sensitive activity. Be wary of one that has too many straps, as it might get you caught on branches.
Material types – Cordura and Ripstop nylon:
Many military-grade backpacks are made out of this material. The material makes it tactical so that the Backpack is water-resistant and doesn’t get affected when the rain hits. This adds to the durability of the backpacks. On top of that, the nylon helps increase the Backpack’s resistance, allowing for the user to go through extreme terrain such as caves without the Backpack tearing up.
If you’re an outdoors enthusiast who loves traveling or going to places with extreme weather/environment, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right Backpack to keep you alive and moving.
Extra loops on backpack straps:
You can never have enough gear for whatever you’re going to do, and this is why you need some extra loops around the bag. These loops will be the place you put any extra accessories that you need or feel will be important for the task ahead.
Comfortable Size:
A good backpack will be big, but not too big. There should be a balance in between. It should be big enough for you to be able to fit your necessary equipment, but not too big that it becomes more of a burden than anything to you.
Who uses these backpacks?
There are many beneficiaries of these backpacks. It just depends on what outdoor activity you are going to do. It has to be noted that the major beneficiaries of the best tactical Backpack have always been the military. The men and women in the army always have to carry quite a bit of equipment for their missions and are always going through very rough environments. The Backpack is suitable for Military use, Police, Security guard, Hikers, Campers, Cyclists, Bikers, Travelers, Mountaineers, Hunters, and for everyday use.
This has always made the need for them to have durable backpacks from the start of the mission to the finish, thus the tactical backpacks. There have also been other people who have found the backpacks pretty helpful, and they are firearm enthusiasts.
They have used these bags to carry their equipment when going to do activities such as hunting and things of the sort. The backpacks have proven useful to them to help them carry their guns and other accessories. Other notable mentions would be people who do extreme outdoor activities such as rock climbing and mountain climbing. These people have definitely found the tactical Backpack to be a welcomed innovation.
Difference between a tactical backpack and a normal backpack:
A tactical backpack is definitely a lot different from a normal backpack. To start off, they have wider shoulder straps. These straps ensure ease for the user even though they are carrying heavy equipment.
In addition, they allow the user the ability to wear body armor or cold weather clothing without impeding on their comfortable shoulder placement. Another difference between the two is that the best tactical Backpack also has a water source within it. One cannot go and do tough activities carrying so much without having a supply of water, and these bags provide it. In addition, they have many compartments that are used to stash equipment. This is the case for military personnel as they have to carry a lot of things when going through their missions.
These bags might also have quick-release latches for when the soldier needs to engage in combat so that they can quickly drop the bag and pick it up once they are done.
Tactical Backpacks body material, structure, versatility, pattern, molle straps, padding, etc. much better than normal backpack
Conclusion
In the end, it all comes down to personal taste and preferences. These are what we feel are probably the best tactical Backpack that you can find online. Of course, there are many, but these are the ones that made our list. These bags did meet the standards for us. A good backpack can be used for those hiking trips that involve going through some tough terrains. The bags are durable and have a lot to offer.
Still, have a question after reading this tactical backpack reviews article? Comment below.
