The 5 Best Tactical Backpacks of 2024

Destined for more demanding situations, tactical packs need to be made from heavy-duty materials. They also need to be comfortable as they may be worn for longer periods of time while carrying heavier gear. Unlike many other backpack categories, tactical backpacks need to offer utility for a wide variety of activities, including long hikes, military deployment, traveling, and even your daily commute.

Tactical backpacks are designed to be versatile, comfortable, and, in some cases — inconspicuous. Combined with ample storage, organization, and practical features, the best tactical backpack will be well-suited for a day hike, deployment, or everyday use.

We’ve examined and reviewed options from across the tactical backpack market and determined which packs rank among the best in 2024. While coming up with this list of recommendations, we pored over lists of specs and features to identify the packs worth testing in person. Folks on the GearJunkie team regularly test and deploy tactical backpacks in the field — as first aid bags, hunting packs, everyday laptop haulers, and more.

Scroll through our list to view our top picks. If you need help deciding, refer to our Buyer’s Guide and Price & Value section below for more tips on how to choose the best tactical backpacks for your needs. For a quick look at specs and prices side-by-side, check out our Comparison Chart.

Editor’s Note: We updated this article on November 19, 2024, to include additional packs, including the versatile Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 and the extremely comfortable Eberlestock Little Trick.

The Best Tactical Backpacks of 2024

Best Overall Tactical Backpack: Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack
Best Budget Tactical Backpack: REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack
Most Versatile Tactical Backpack: Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0
Most Comfortable Tactical Backpack: Eberlestock Little Trick
Best Large Capacity Tactical Backpack: 5.11 RUSH100
Best Tactical Waistpack: Eberlestock Bando Bag

Specs

Capacity: 27 L
Weight: 3 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Durable materials
Highly versatile for overnight adventures or everyday use
Easy-to-use three-zip opening
Lightweight

Cons

Not fully waterproof

With this latest update, we had a hard time deciding if the Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack (2 DAP) ($229) was going to retain the top spot or if the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 ($399) was going to take its place. In the end, the 2 DAP edged ahead due to its ease of access via the tri-zip zipper design.

That being said, we are certain that this 27L pack is the most versatile tactical pack on the market today. Thanks to its lightweight profile, compact size, ease of access, and ample opportunities for external storage, the 2 DAP is the perfect choice for a weekend of camping when you don’t want to lug around a full-size backpacking pack.

The 2DAP is both comfortable and stays secure to your back whether you’re wandering the trail or walking down the street. Its large main cavity with storage pockets and top lid with organizational pockets make it easy to switch from activity to activity.

Though it may look a little too tactical for professional and urban use, it is more than suited for the job. The 2 DAP features both a padded laptop sleeve and an oversized water bottle pocket that can carry much more than your favorite Kleen Kanteen bottle. Additionally, the pack has a water bladder sleeve, which allows you to forgo a water bottle and dedicate those side pockets to bulkier items.

With such a broad array of features, this pack can easily serve as a bonafide quiver of one. Whether you’re about to set off on a few months of international travel or simply need an everyday pack that’ll hold up for years, you can’t go wrong with this beauty.

We love that this pack is made from hardy material. Its premium 500-denier Cordura fabric is field-tested and built to last.

For quick overnight adventures or practical everyday use, the Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack offers great features and overall value.

Specs

Capacity: 40 L
Weight: N/A
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Affordable
Good capacity for 2- or 3-night trips
Durable for the price
Hip and sternum straps for heavy loads

Cons

Waist belt not large enough for some users

For $40, the 40-liter REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack is a great balance between spacious and affordable. For those looking for a backpack designed for up to three days in the wild, this pack is well-built and our choice for the Best Budget Tactical Backpack.

Made from high-density, water-repellant fabric, this pack was built not only to hold up to the elements but also to protect against the use and abuse you’ll bestow on it. In testing, the REEBOW was both comfortable and conformed to our backs. However, it can get a little unruly if you pack it with more than 25 lbs of gear. With current and emerging gear being lighter and lighter each season, you should have no problem keeping the internal weight down while utilizing the ample size.

The REEBOW features two large compartments for bulkier items and two smaller front pockets that provide easy access and organization for smaller, needful items like headlamps, hand-held GPS units, and first aid kits. The pack also features an adjustable frame, sturdy shoulder straps, and the ability to be synched down for lighter hikes where you don’t need to carry much clothing or gear.

Given the price and feature set, we especially recommend this pack as a school bag or road trip knock-around. It’s the antidote to everything wrong with the ultralight craze. This is a classic, affordable backpack. What you see is what you get.

Specs

Capacity: 26L / 1585 cu-ins
Weight: 4.10 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Modern innovative materials
Futura harness
Versatility
Removable front panel (Stick It)

Cons

Stick It Panel needs to be removed to open the pack fully

The latest collaboration between Mystery Ranch and Carryology, the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 ($399) is a love affair of a tactical pack. From the materials used to the overall design and carry, it’s very obvious to us that a lot of thought went into both the form and function of this pack. We enjoyed using it out in the woods, for our daily commute, and saw no end in sight in regards to what the pack can do.

Part of the appeal of the Dragon 2.0 is the Futura harness. Comfort plays a part in versatility and Mystery Ranch consistently gets comfort right with their packs due to this conforming harness. The same shoulder harness featured on their 2-Day Assault Pack, the Futura harness keeps even an overloaded pack comfortable and in place — allowing it to hug your body and move with you. In testing, we removed the waistbelt as the combo of the harness and load lifters kept the weight off our hips.

The Dragon 2.0 features a main compartment with internal pockets, a laptop sleeve, and a water bladder sleeve. The top of the pack features one large pocket and two smaller pockets. The large top pocket is ample for gloves, a journal, and maps, whereas the smaller pockets worked great for a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and spare batteries for our headlamp.

Its unique opening allows the pack to be fully opened, or you can open it so only the top flaps over, giving you the same access you would have with a top loader. And everything is easy to access — with the one caveat that if you use the detachable front Stick It panel, you will need to disconnect it if you want to open the main compartment without fully unloading it for deeper items.

The overall appeal of the Dragon 2.0 is the materials used to make it. We tested the Ranger Green variant, which is made from X50 Tactical Cordura with a 400D aramid X-Ply, 210D CO DWR PU 20G, and 500D DWR PU 70G. What that all translates to is waterproof, rip-proof, and abrasion-resistant. But not bulky, stiff, or hard to work with. It’s a nice balance, which also allows the pack to keep its form when fully loaded.

Specs

Capacity: 22-31L / 1300-1900 cu-ins
Weight: 3.80 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Easy access to contents on the go
Expandable for rifles
Lots of internal organization
Sleek design

Cons

Pack appears much smaller than it is

With all of their packs, it’s obvious that Eberlestock understands not only the term “tactical” but also the needs of its users. That big star shines bright in their expandable EDC pack, the Little Trick ($249). This is a pack designed for concealed weapons carry without being obvious. In fact, unless the scabbard is extended a passerby might not even consider this pack tactical due to its streamlined design.

In testing, we loved how compact the Little Trick felt on our back, and, at 1300 cu-ins, it is a smaller pack. But it worked out great for commuting and day hiking. Also, because it’s designed for concealed carry — and has an ample amount of organization throughout, especially in the lid, it makes a great range bag as well.

Like the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 the front of the Little Trick is designed to be fully opened. This further aids in both the organization and access features of this pack which reign supreme over the rest of the packs on this list. It also makes packing and unpacking easy, and if you are carrying a rifle, gives you quick access if you find yourself in a jam.

The main reason this pack is on this list is because of how comfortable it is. We’re sure it would have fit into another category, but when you consider that you can carry firearms and ammunition in the Little Trick, as well as your personal EDC items, we were really impressed with how it carried up on a few day hikes in the Green Mountain National Forest earlier this fall. The weight of a rifle and a surplus of ammo can add up really quickly. Rifles alone can impact the way a pack handles. In the case of the Little Trick, that didn’t cause any stress or strain or keep it from hugging our back when we were roaming around.

Elephant in the room: if you’re not carrying a rifle, should you get this bag? We’re not sure why you would need to. However, it is a well-made, compact day pack built for your EDC life, in and out of society. So, we wouldn’t tell you to limit your options.

Specs

Capacity: 60 L
Weight: 5.74 lbs.
Carry-on size: No
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Lots of pockets for ease of organization
Heavy-duty fabrics and zippers
Many options for modular customization of storage systems
Adjustable torso strap includes quick release and load lifters
Main compartment opens all the way for convenient packing and unpacking

Cons

Not very water-resistant
Not the most comfortable waist strap

Designed specifically for military deployments, the RUSH100 from 5.11 ($255) is a versatile, heavy-duty bag with plenty of capacity for gear-intensive pursuits.

Compatible with any size hydration bladder, this pack thrives in hostile environments where water is scarce, and large volumes must be carried on your back. Also beneficial for rugged environments, a 500-denier outer material holds up well to repeated abuse, UV exposure, and abrasions.

With a 60L capacity, this is one of the larger packs on this list. The large internal storage is easy to organize thanks to an internal zipper admin compartment. Further, a custom aluminum and fiberglass internal frame supports heavy loads by transferring the load to the padded waist strap.

A 270-degree zipper allows the main compartment to fully open for easy packing and unpacking. On the outside of the pack, webbing stitched in a MOLLE configuration allows for modular customization and endless options for additional external storage.

Though it’s a bit overbuilt compared to traditional backpacking packs, the RUSH100 could certainly be used for multi-day trips on trail. Its hip straps are well-padded and contoured — purpose-built for hefty loads. When the time comes to haul a lot of water in the desert or a hunk of meat following a hunt, this pack shines.

For $255, the 5.11 RUSH100 is one of our more expensive tactical backpack recommendations, but it’s so well crafted that we feel it deserves a mention. For those looking for a bag capable of packing out an overnight camping trip or storing lots of heavy supplies, the 5.11 RUSH100 is one of the best tactical backpacks money can buy.

Specs

Capacity: 2.5L / 250 cu-ins
Weight: 2 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: No

Pros

Plenty of room for your essentials and a handgun
Lightweight and convenient
Great as a sling bag
Gun pocket doesn’t impede the capacity of the main compartment

Cons

Frequently sold out

Growing up, we always called these things fanny packs, but as marketing has evolved, we can confidently say that the Eberlestock Bando Bag ($49) is one of the best waist packs around. This one has a tactical flair and is designed for concealed carry — which it does incredibly well.

How incredible, you ask? So incredible that when you have a handgun loaded in its specific compartment, it doesn’t impact the capacity of the main pocket. That’s pretty incredible for something as compact as the Bando. Especially when you’re carrying it around all day — hiking, shopping, roaming around, etc. You don’t need to pick and choose what you pack inside.

It’s also a nice alternative to a concealed carry holster in your waistband. It’s arguably just as easy to access your piece and eliminates the issue of imprinting, which can cause a stir in some social scenes.

When we received our test samples in August, the Bando Bag was the first one we put into rotation. And, no — we didn’t always carry a handgun around in it. But when we did, it went unnoticed and was thankfully never needed. When you’re not carrying a handgun, the back pocket doubles as a great place to carry a power bank, journal, map, or handheld GPS.

The Bando Bag works great as either a waist pack or a small form-factor sling bag. It’s designed to carry a subcompact pistol — in this case, a Springfield Armory Hellcat. If you’re someone who’s got a bigger smoke wagon you like to carry around, Eberlestock also makes the Bando XL.

Specs

Capacity: 30, 44, 50 L
Weight: 2.75 lbs. (30 L)
Carry-on size: Yes (30 and 44 L)
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Durable
Comfortable
Versatile hybrid-loading U-zipper design
Well cushioned shoulder and hip straps

Cons

A little heavy for its size

Kelty has been making packs since 1952. The brand is traditionally associated with recreational hiking and camping gear; tents, camp chairs, etc. However, Kelty also has an extensive history with tactical style and military spec equipment. Over 70 years ago, Kelty’s first packs were made from leftover WWI parachute pack fabric. To this day, Kelty maintains a thriving tactical gear division and regularly fills contracts for the U.S. military.

The Redwing pack ($120) doesn’t sport a blatantly military-esque aesthetic, but it certainly does everything that a good tactical pack should. Made from rugged abrasion-resistant nylon with a waterproof coating, the Redwing is fit for all forms of outdoor use and extreme conditions. All of the traditional wear points that backpacks suffer from — zippers, buckles, and straps — are reinforced and reliable on the Redwing.

We tested the smallest Redwing — 30 L and close to three pounds. It isn’t ultralight, but the extra weight is a natural byproduct of the robust build quality. It’s not ideal for light and fast thru-hiking, but it works well for just about everything else.

During testing, we found that the Redwing carries heavy loads exceptionally well. Generously padded shoulder and hip straps are rare on a tactical backpack, and the Redwing is easily the most comfortable that we’ve used. We loaded 40 pounds of food, water, and camera gear into the Redwing and took it on a lengthy day hike. At times, we almost forgot it was there.

Thanks to the effective pads and highly customizable fit, the Redwing sits close to the body, moving with the wearer rather than against it.

As for its pockets and layout, the Redwing is impressively adaptable. A padded laptop sleeve doubles as a spacious water bladder slot. The U-shaped main opening makes the pack easy to load and unload, and a handy flat front pocket is perfect for maps, snacks, notebooks, and other nickknacks.

The Kelty Redwing‘s supreme comfort may be its best feature, but the pack performs well across the board.

Specs

Capacity: 22 L
Weight: 4.9 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: No

Pros

Highly configurable
Lots of tactical features for military personnel or medical professionals
Internal main pocket is easily customizable
Designed with quick access to essential medical equipment in mind
Heavy duty and compact

Cons

Expensive compared to other similarly sized packs
Specific function that does not offer versatility outside of medical applications

The Mole is the smallest medic pack that is made by Mystery Ranch. The Mole ($615) is a compact and feature-packed medical 22L backpack. Designed for quick emergency access to orderly medical supplies, the Mole splays open to expose removable pockets that allow you to work directly out of your pack.

On the front of the Mole, MOLLE webbing offers plenty of opportunity for modularity, and a removable “Stick It” flap creates an ideal place to store a helmet. Padded shoulder straps and a 1-inch waist strap fit securely to your body while on the go.

At $615, you’d think the pack would come stocked with medical supplies. The price will certainly be a deterrent for some, but others will understand that purpose-built medic packs that truly work in the field don’t come cheap.

For EMS professionals or military personnel, this niche bag does exactly what it was designed to do. For users with needs that aren’t strictly medical, this bag is probably not the best choice since its design is so purpose-focused. Still, in its class, the Mystery Ranch Mole Pouch is a truly standout tactical backpack.

Specs

Capacity: Up to 40 L
Weight: 2.7 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Collapsible and expandable design
Internal features include a concealed carry holster and laptop storage
Waterproof lining and rugged metal zippers

Cons

Short straps are not ideal for taller users

The 24 BattlePack ($62) is heavy-duty and intentionally configured for heavy loads. Compared to the competition in this price range, this bag is tough, durable, and very military-minded.

An expandable interior storage compartment can accommodate 20 to 40 L of volume, while proprietary compression straps let you cinch the pack down so it stays compact even when it isn’t full.

Notably water-resistant on the inside and out, this bag is well-suited for wandering about in inclement weather. In addition to its heavy-duty quality and tactical appearance, the 24 BattlePack is full of internal features, including a laptop sleeve and hooks to hang a hydration bladder.

Like most tactical backpacks, the BattlePack is seriously lacking in the hip strap padding department. If it had better padding around the hips, it would immediately become far more capable as an overnighter.

A built-in concealed carry holster, insulated hydration bladder compartment, and a padded laptop storage area round out the bag. Built with features for various occasions, this bag is a handy everyday companion.

For $62, the 24 BattlePack is a solid value.

Specs

Capacity: 25 L
Weight: 2.9 lbs.
Carry-on size: Yes
Hydration bladder compatible: Yes

Pros

Lightweight and durable
Compatible with 5.11 gear sets
Full clamshell zipper for easy packing and unpacking
Hydration and laptop-compatible
Heavy-duty and water-resistant 500-denier outer material
Fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket

Cons

More expensive than other bags of its size

In a lightweight and compact package, the 5.11 AMP12 Tactical Backpack ($150) offers advanced modularity that gives this small pack the versatility of a much larger one.

The AMP 12 is a great addition to any tactical gear kit. An innovative hook-and-loop front panel provides attachment points for various 5.11 gear accessories. Unlike traditional sewn webbing attachment points, the hexagonal loops can mount gear at different angles for improved ergonomics.

On the bag’s interior, hook-and-loop paneling offers endless potential configurations, and multiple mesh-lined pockets allow for quick organization of your smaller gear.

For professional use, laptops up to 15 inches can be stored alongside the back panel. A four-way zipper makes for easy access to every area of the main compartment.

Built with 500-denier Dobby nylon, the AMP manages an ideal balance between weight and durability. Additionally, thermoformed back panels form to your body and offer unmatched support.

A truly advanced and well-considered tactical backpack, the 5.11 AMP12 manages to be overt and covert simultaneously. $150 is a steep price tag for 25L of storage, but this pack really does live up to its tagline: “One bag, all missions.”

Tactical Backpacks Comparison Chart

Tactical Backpack	Price	Capacity	Weight	Carry-on Size	Hydration Bladder Compatible
Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack	$229	27 L	3 lbs.	Yes	Yes
REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack	$51	27 L	N/A	Yes	Yes
Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0	$399	26L	4.10 lbs.	Yes	Yes
Eberlestock Little Trick	$249	22-31L	3.80 lbs.	Yes	Yes
5.11 RUSH 100	$255	60 L	5.74 lbs.	No	Yes
Eberlestock Bando Bag	$49	2.5L	2 lbs.	Yes	No
Kelty Redwing	$120	30, 44, 50 L	2.75 oz.	Yes (30 and 44 L)	Yes
Mystery Ranch Mole Pouch	$615	22 L	4.9 lbs.	Yes	Yes
24 BattlePack	$60	40 L	2.7 lbs.	Yes	Yes
5.11 Tactical AMP12 Backpack	$150	25 L	2.9 lbs.	Yes	Yes

tactical backpacks interior — Organization is a big part of any backpack, but important in tactical packs; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

How We Tested Tactical Backpacks

Our Expert Tester

For this update, we tapped regular contributor and gear junkie Nick LeFort. LeFort’s background in product development and design, as well as his desire to wander around as much as possible with a variety of different types of gear made him a welcomed addition to this round of testing. He got into the nooks and crannies of remote places where a firearm is a requirement, not a recommendation. In doing this, he was able to showcase some of the lesser talked about features of these packs.

Our Testing Process

Between quick-hit weekend trips and everyday carry, the GearJunkie team is constantly testing and using tactical backpacks. We’ve used tactical backpacks as medical kits, hunting gear haulers, for day hikes, and even our commute to the office. The recommended products on this list are the result of long-term testing in our day-to-day lives.

When testing packs, we pay careful attention to ease of use, long-term durability, comfort, and overall value. Impressive-sounding features might look good on paper, but they don’t always translate to actual performance. Our testing aims to determine a pack’s true utility.

The definition of “tactical pack” is up for interpretation. It covers a broad range of bags that can be used in the military, as part of your everyday civilian life, as well for outdoor adventures like hiking and backpacking. When selecting packs to consider for this list, we sought out models with traditional military styling and features such as MOLLE webbing systems and concealed carry compartments.

As design updates and new products roll out across the market, we’ll make sure to keep our fingers on the pulse of the tactical backpacks and test out any new styles that have the potential to stand out. This list of recommendations is always in flux — it includes the best tactical backpacks on the market at any given time.

Buyers Guide: How to Choose a Tactical Backpack

Best Tactical_Bando Bag Sling — Tactical waist packs, like this Eberlestock Bando Bag, are a nice alternative when carrying the essentials; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

There are many high-quality tactical backpacks on the market in 2024. These packs come in various sizes, styles, brands, and colors, and it can be difficult to figure out which one best meets your needs.

It’s important to understand which features you most need from a tactical backpack before purchasing one. Some backpacks on this list, like the Eberlestock Little Trick, are a little more purpose-built compared to the equally tactical but more versatile Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0. Both packs are built to exceed your expectations but may not be dialed in for your particular situation.

The purpose of this buyer’s guide is to help you determine the different characteristics and features available in the tactical backpack market and help you make an educated purchase. The essential considerations for purchasing the best tactical backpack for your needs include materials, budget, capacity, and extra features.

Materials and Durability

Abrasion and tear-resistant materials and water-repellant zippers are common with tactical packs; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

Most technical backpacks have an outer material made from abrasion-resistant polyester, nylon, or oxford. These materials typically come with a denier rating, which basically rates how thick and sturdy the material is overall. While denier rating can be a clue, we don’t view the number as the end-all-be-all marker of durability. In general, shoot for a denier rating of at least 500.

Tactical backpacks are made to be more durable than “regular” backpacks. Ideally, your next pack will last a lifetime. On this list, the Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack and their Carryology Dragon 2.0 offer unmatched durability. Where the 2 Day Assault Pack features the industry standard 500D Cordura, the Carryology Dragon 2.0 features X50 Tactical Cordura with a 400D aramid X-Ply. Both are 500D Cordura materials, but the materials used on the Dragon 2.0 represent innovations in fabric that improve on standards.

If you are concerned with waterproofing, make sure you buy a pack with a water-resistant coating. A good coating will force water to bead on the surface instead of absorbing into and soaking your bag.

Capacity

Liters (L) and Cubic Inches (cu-ins) denote the volume of a pack’s carrying capacity. While every bag on this list has an efficient design that is meant to maximize the available storage, the total volume varies greatly. The greater the backpack’s volume, the more gear it can haul.

Everyday-use backpacks usually range in size from 15 to 30 L. This volume is great for day trips, school, carry-on luggage, and work. On this list, the Eberlestock Little Trick and Kelty Redwing are stellar and versatile day packs.

Multiday packs — sometimes known as assault packs in the tactical world — hover around 35-60 L. This larger capacity allows you to store enough gear for up to three nights. Both the Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack and 5.11 Tactical RUSH 100 sport plenty of space and padding for carrying lots of gear for those extended adventures.

Assault packs are often specifically designed to store sleeping bags, cookware, water, food, weapons, and tents. Usually, packs of this size also include a built-in hydration system and a port for a drinking tube that can be accessed on the go.

MOLLE

MOLLE is an acronym for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. Backpacks with MOLLE have a series of fixed points sewn into the pack’s fabric. The advantage to MOLLE is the ability to expand your pack’s capacity. Everything from small organization pouches to water bottle pockets and rifle scabbards can be attached to the outside of your pack with MOLLE.

MOLLE allows you to make your pack more modular as well. This allows you to easily adapt to your next adventure in a matter of minutes.

The possibilities with MOLLE are endless; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

Extra Features

In addition to the basic ability to carry gear, tactical backpacks come with a whole host of extra features. These features vary in their application and purpose, so look for features that will have actual value in your life.

Along with MOLLE, common features include hydration bladder and laptop sleeves, organizational compartments, external pockets, and larger zippered openings. Additionally, you can expect beefed up and waterproof zippers, external compressions straps, and added benefits for concealed weapons carry.

Firearms

One thing that is common with tactical packs – that’s not found in your average daypack — are areas, attachment points, and access points for firearms.

Concealed carry is the best option, and sometimes the only legal one, for carrying firearms in a city or town. Having a back that can accommodate your firearm while keeping it concealed can be advantageous. Eberlestock has done a great job of accommodating short-barrelled rifles with their Little Trick and compact handguns with their Bando Bag. Both bags are designed to be used in a multitude of environments while concealing your firearm.

The Eberlestock Bando Bag allows you to conceal your handgun and retain easy access to it; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

Price & Value

The tactical packs on this list range from $40 to $600. With any backpack, you want to make sure you’re spending your money on a pack that meets your needs. In terms of tactical packs, those needs could be staying alive.

With that being the case, it’s harder to break these packs down into price categories, but we’re going to do it anyway to give you an idea of what you can expect from a budget, mid-tier, and premium tactical backpack.

Budget

Tactical packs that fall into the budget range generally cost under $100. They’re made from durable materials but may lack some advanced characteristics like abrasion resistance or an advanced frame for load management.

In the case of the REEBOW Gear Tactical Backpack ($40), it looks action-packed and has some of the desirable characteristics we’ve gone over in this guide. However, without the company sharing the specific material, and having tested it, we can tell you that it’s not as sufficient as 500D Cordura.

Does this mean that the pack didn’t earn its spot on the list? No. In fact, for a pack whose description online is very vague, we’ve been very happy with the experience we’ve had with the pack.

Mid-Tier

As with most outdoor equipment, most of us usually shop in the mid-tier price category. Tactical packs in the mid-tier range are made of field-tested materials and often have more bells and whistles.

The Mystery Ranch 2-Day Assault Pack is a great example of a mid-tier pack. It’s made from 500D Cordura, an industry standard in tactical backpack fabric. It also provides easy access via its tri-zip opening and has an ample amount of MOLLE for expansion.

You can expect to pay anywhere between $200-300 for the standard mid-tier tactical pack. But keep in mind, with organization being one of the main focuses of tactical carry, you can expect to pay more for additional pouches.

Premium

Tactical packs that fall into the premium range feature new and innovative materials and features that improve their resilience to a multitude of demanding conditions. These packs are comfortable and versatile with the ability to be adjusted and modified for whatever adventure you plan on going on.

At $400, the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 is an example of a premium tactical pack. Its materials are beyond compare — designed to be abrasion, rip, and weather-resistant. It also has a considerable amount of onboard organization and an adjustable harness that aids in the pack’s adaptability. Another type of premium tactical pack are those that are purpose-built for a particular task. On this list, the Mystery Ranch Mole Pouch, which rings the bell at $615 at retail, is built to be an effective medical pack. Though this pack may not be your first choice for your next day hike, if you’re deployed, it might be your job to carry around a pack like this.

The Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 2.0 is well-designed and excels in form and function; (Photo/Nick LeFort)

Frequently Asked Questions

Tactical backpacks offer several different applications and purposes. Simply put, a tactical backpack is a specialized backpack that is durable, modular, and packed with useful features.

Some tactical backpacks focus on hunting, with field medics using others. Tactical backpacks take after designs originating in the military, but not all tactical backpacks are for military personnel.

In short, anyone who wants a reliable and heavy-duty backpack. While tactical backpacks look different than recreation-focused backpacks, they are often great options for camping and backpacking trips.

Many people choose to utilize tactical backpacks in their professional lives. Tactical bags are popular among law enforcement, medical professionals, and military personnel. Many people use tactical backpacks as go bags — bags that are packed and ready to go in the event of an emergency or evacuation.

The military uses a variety of backpacks depending on the branch and the specific application. Many military rucksacks are very similar to the options featured on this list.

Anything you want! Just like a normal backpack, a tactical backpack will hold any gear you choose to stuff into it.

However, many tactical backpacks are specifically designed to hold certain kinds of gear. Some options on this list hold camping gear, while others are better suited for carrying medical supplies.