Tactical backpacks are tough and durable bags that are designed for use outdoors and with military, law enforcement and EMT personnel. They are made to be extremely durable, comfortable and offer enough space and compartment to accommodate all your gears. So, what is the best tactical backpack?
There are several factors to consider if you are looking to purchase a reliable tactical backpack. The construction and material are vital aspects of a tactical backpack but you should not forget about its capability to withstand various types of outdoor conditions as well as its overall storage capacity.
First let us discuss the features that you should be aware of when choosing a pack for yourself.
Difference between Front and Top Loader
Choosing between a front loader backpack and a top loader one all depends on your needs. The front loader backpack will be larger as it will feature numerous pockets that will help you organize all your essential tools and give you easy access to each item. The top loader on the other hand is lighter and offers more mobility thanks to the exterior strap down buckles. Simply put, pick a front loader if you need your items organizes and accessible while pick the top loader if storage capacity is more important.
The Capacity
The optimum size for a tactical backpack should be 30 liters or within that number. This will give you enough room for a daytime trekking gear and will allow you to bring necessary tools as well as food and water. If you need something larger then try looking at multiday backpacks which will have an above 40+ capacity.
Comfort
This one will play a major role once you are actually in the field carrying around your full outdoor gear. In order to get the best comfort out of your tactical backpack you should factor in your body’s length. Use one that offers a snug fit on your body and avoid wearing loose backpacks. Loose backpacks might feel comfortable at the start but after a few hours of constantly re-adjusting the strap it will cause you more trouble than it is worth.
Now that we have given you some simple pointers as to what to look for when choosing the best tactical backpacks, we have prepared a list of the top 5 tactical backpacks at the moment to help narrow your choice even further.
The Best Tactical Backpack — 5 Reccomendations
Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack
Red Rock is one of the premier outdoor gear manufacturers in the market today which makes it no surprise that they are in this list. The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack is the number one product in their tactical bag catalogue and it more than proves itself.
This outdoor backpack uses fabric polyester material and utilizes two utility pockets on the front for easy accessibility. It is also equipped with an organizer sleeve that helps you keep all your items in their place and prevent your equipment from devolving into a cluttered mess.
It uses the clam shell style with its main compartment and has mesh sleeve pockets as well for added protection. The contoured shoulder straps with the easy release sternum and waist strap allows it to be adjusted quite easily and will fit to almost all body type sizes.
Buy Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack here!
5.11 Tactical Rush Backpack
Another well-known name in the realm of outdoor gears, the 5.11 Tactical Rush Backpack is a beast in the field when you consider its durability and reliability. It uses highly durable 1050D nylon material which gives it a tough exterior but keeps weight at a minimum.
It incorporates a water resistant coating which further enhances its overall outdoor use. The main compartment measures 20 x 12.5 x 8 inches, more than enough to contain all essential outdoor gear. It has an overall 2070 cubic inch storage capacity.
The zipper is usually one of the biggest concerns in outdoor backpacks as the natural elements can take a toll on this key and often used part of the backpack. In this regard it is nice to know that the Tactical Rush Backpack is equipped with the YKK self repairing zippers.
It features double external compression straps and twin drainage grommets. This is definitely one of the best tactical backpack options available today, bar none.
Buy 5.11 Tactical Rush Backpack here!
Monkey Paks Tactical Backpack with Water Bladder
The Monkey Paks Tactical Backpack features a compartment specifically for the water bladder. This is a handy addition especially for those who are going on lengthy hike without any water source. It comes with its own 2.5L water bladder as well which means no need to find the perfect compatible bladder.
This tactical backpack is also designed for the long haul. It features a huge storage capacity and high quality MOLLE webbing for all your equipment. The MOLLE webbing is perfect for organizing your gear and prevents it from being a cluttered mess.
It uses 600D nylon material with big teeth zippers with paracord interwoven to keep the zippers moving smooth and quiet. Another big draw of the Monkey Pak tactical backpack is the guarantee offered by the manufacturer.
Buy Monkey Paks Tactical Backpack with Water Bladder here!
G4Free Tactical Backpack (40L)
The G4Free Tactical Backpack is exactly the type of tactical backpack one needs if they are planning on a long duration camping or hiking activity. The 40L capacity of this outdoor backpack offers more than enough room to include all essential equipment and then some.
This tactical backpack uses 600D polyester fabric that is known to deliver high grade durability. It measures at 18.9 x 11.8 x 8 inches and can carry 40L. This is a perfect bag for camping, hiking or even for vacations and school.
Buy G4Free Tactical Backpack (40L) here!
Mil-Tec Tactical Combat Backpack (36L)
The Mil-Tec Tactical Combat Backpack is designed for use with both outdoor lovers and military or EMT personnel. It utilizes the sturdy 600D polyester material and features 2 main compartments and 2 front pockets as well.
It has a carrying capacity of 36L and measures at 51 x 29 x 28 inches making it one of the larger sets of tactical bag in the market today. The 600D polyester is also coated with PVC which keeps water out and your equipment safe and dry.
It features several MOLLE attachments such as D-rings, shoulder straps and loops. The built-in Velcro pocket can also be used as a hydration pack.
If you want a durable bag for a cheap price, then this could be the best tactical backpack for you!
Buy Mil-Tec Tactical Combat Backpack (36L) here!
These are some choices for the best tactical backpack in the market today. There are dozens of other outdoor backpacks out there as well. Use our guidelines when choosing and you are guaranteed that you will be able to get a great tactical bag for all your outdoor activities.