Many of the best tactical backpacks are hydration pack compatible and include multiple compartments. These packs range from simple daypacks to 3-day packs which, if packed correctly, can store resources up to a week. They are also designed to be durable and keep your gear protected, as well as sit on your upper body comfortably.
Tactical backpacks can range from $30-$300. When choosing how much you are willing to spend, you need to consider what you will be using the pack for. More expensive packs will use better materials and have more added features whereas cheaper packs will be kinder on your wallet, but more simply made and less durable over time.
Best Tactical Backpack for Hiking
Best Overall
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Most Durable
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Best Value
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Tactical Hiking Backpacks (Detailed Reviews)
We reviewed over 20 packs for this article. Below are the best military backpacks that made our short list.
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH24 Backpack - Best Overall
- Condor 3-day Assault Pack - Most Durable
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Pack
- Red Rock Large Assault Pack
- Hannibal tactical 36L MOLLE Assault Pack - Best Value
Read our complete buyers guide for tactical backpacks.
Best Overall Tactical Rucksack
1. 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 Backpack
4.8/5 Overall Rating
The 5.11 Tactical RUSH24 Backpack is arguably the best tactical daypack on the market at the moment.
It certainly is the most popular option. It is a full-sized daypack that will fit everything you need for a 24-hour trip; including water, food and accessories.
This is a smaller version of the 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack.
It has 37 liters of storage. The pack is durable and waterproof as well as MOLLE compatible.
The pack has a main compartment that is flexible with dividers as well as a front pocket and hydration pocket.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The creators of the 5.11 Tactical RUSH 24 Backpack certainly know what they are doing when it comes to making tactical backpacks. Whether you want to go for the Rush 72 or the Rush 24, you are bound to find the right pack for you. The only downside is that the price is quite steep.
Most Durable Tactical Backpack
2. Condor 3-day Assault Pack
4.7/5 Overall Rating
This is a pack that was built for extreme situations. The Condor 3-day Assault Pack is a heavy-duty backpack that is both tough and versatile. It can carry almost everything and anything.
The pack includes seven different compartments, including two main storage areas with internal gear compression and sorting compartments, as well as two side packs and external zipper pouches.
The pack allows for great organisation and with 50 liters of storage can store supplies for up to one week if packed correctly.
It also can store two 3 liter hydration bladders and has integrated tubing parts.
The pack has horizontal and vertical webbing along the shoulder straps which includes D-ring attachments. The pack also includes a foam cushion back panel for extra support as well as waist and sternum straps..
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The Condor 3-day Assault Pack has everything you could want in a tactical backpack, and at an affordable price. If you don’t want to splurge on the 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack, this option will give you everything you need without the price tag.
3. 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack
The 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Pack is a versatile, rugged and full-featured tactical backpack.
The backpack has enough storage space to store supplies for up to 72 hours. The backpack has a large stuff-it pocket as well as excellent internal organisational pockets.
The strategic pockets will keep you organised no matter what the occasion.
The backpack as side mounted lanyards and three-sided MOLLE webbing which allows for customized use.
The full zip front and rear compartments contain a padded laptop sleeve and hydration storage system.
The backpack is only 4lbs and is water resistant and durable.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
You cannot go wrong with the 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 pack. If you have the cash to spend and need a rugged tactical backpack, this backpack is a no-brainer. Although the pack has a few short-comings, the pros certainly outweigh the cons. It is no surprise that this is such a highly-rated tactical backpack.
4. Red Rock Large Assault Pack
The Red Rock Large Assault Pack is just a larger version of the company’s popular assault pack.
The pack has four expanding compartments for all your gear without becoming bulky or overbearing.
The pack has 35L of storage space and the three main compartments have zippers and organizers. The back panel can hold a 2.5L hydration pack.
This is a rugged and spacious 3-day backpack. It is MOLLE compatible and is easily adjustable to fit your individual needs.
It has contoured mesh padded shoulder straps as well as waist and sternum straps for even weight distribution.
It is made out of 600 denier PVC lined polyester, so it may not be as durable as other tactical backpacks on the market. But it is at a very attractive price point..
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The Red Rock Large Assault Pack is a sturdy, spacious pack with many winning features. Its only downfall is that it isn’t made with the strongest material. But at such an attractive price point, it is certainly worth it.
Best Value Tactical Backpack
5. Hannibal Tactical 36l MOLLE Assault Pack
The Hannibal tactical 36L MOLLE Assault Pack is an affordable and quality assault pack that is very popular and highly rated amongst consumers.
The pack has 36L of storage space and is made of 600x600 density fabric.
The pack has two main compartments, two small compartments in the front with a back pocket for a 3L hydration bladder. Each compartment has a variety of pockets to help with organisation.
The large compartment has an elastic strap which is perfect for keeping your laptop in place.
Each compartment has two zipper pulls and one of the compartments can fully open all the way down.
The pack has padded shoulder straps and an expandable waist belt. The pack is also MOLLE compatible for additional customization.
Main Features
What we like
What we dislike
Key Takeaway
The Hannibal tactical 36L MOLLE Assault Pack has substantial storage, top-notch comfort and extreme customizability at a very attractive price. However, it is not made of ultra-durable Nylon and has a lower Denier count. But at such an affordable price, it is to be expected.
Tactical Backpacks - Buyer's Guide (Key Features)
It is important that you are able to single out the characteristics that separate a good tactical backpack from a great one. You also need to be aware of your specific needs and which characteristics fit your needs.
Price
Tactical packs can range from $30-$300. When choosing how much you are willing to spend you need to consider what you will be using the pack for.
In general, more expensive packs will use better materials and have more added features.
If you are just looking for a simple daypack to use once in a while, there is no need for the pack you purchase to break the bank.
Direct Sun Access
Remember that the solar panels need direct sun exposure in order to generate the required power needed. If you are using the pack in conditions that don’t allow this, the pack will not work as desired.
MOLLE Compatibility
MOLLE webbing gives you the opportunity to add accessories to your tactical backpack, so you are able to carry more gear. You can add straps, compartments and other customised features. MOLLE webbing allows you to mould the pack to fit your own individual needs and customize your pack for each activity. They allow you to organise your pack and find your easily.
Compression
Compression straps help to compact your gear and pack once the pack has been completely packed. Compressing your gear into a denser package centers the weight of your pack on your back and body more easily, which will reduce fatigue and allow you to cover more ground more quickly and easily.
Size and Capacity
The sizes of tactical backpacks range from a daypack to 3-day large packs. Typically, packs will have storage space from 35-40L, but they can get much larger, with some packs having enough storage space to stay out for a week or longer without having to resupply.
If you are looking for a pack to suit a long-distance trip, lookout for packs with storage from 55-65L.
Check out our comprehensive backpack size guide for more information on what size backpack you should get.
Durability
The durability of a pack is dependent on the materials and construction. For a durable pack, you want to find one with a denier count between 500-1200. Cordura Nylon is a well-regulated fabric and X-Pac is also a good option. You’ll want to avoid packs made from polyester or Kodra.
The stitching and zippers also play a role, you cannot go wrong with the classic YKK zippers. Nylon thread is stronger than polyester thread. You also want a pack that has straight stitching instead of zigzag stitching.
Campfort
A tactical backpack needs to be comfortable, especially because you are likely to be carrying a lot of gear. You will want to look out for a quality suspension system, padding on the shoulder straps and hip strap as well as the breathability of the back panel.
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See more outdoor equipment reviews and our detailed bags for hiking guide. Or check out these reviews:
