Tactical Backpacks for Survivalists – 7 Key Things to Consider when Choosing your Backpack
When it comes to survivalism, one of the most critical pieces of gear you’ll ever need is a reliable, durable, and well-designed tactical backpack. Whether you’re preparing for an emergency situation, going on a multi-day hiking expedition, or simply want a versatile bag for everyday use, a tactical backpack offers the perfect balance of functionality, toughness, and versatility. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about tactical backpacks for survivalists, including their features, what to look for, and some top-rated products available on Amazon.
Why You Need a Tactical Backpack
A tactical backpack is much more than just a bag to carry your stuff. It’s a tool that can help you manage your survival gear, organize your supplies, and keep you prepared for any situation that may arise. The core design of tactical backpacks is centered around military and law enforcement use, meaning these bags are built to withstand rough conditions and are designed for efficiency, comfort, and organization.
Key Benefits of Tactical Backpacks:
- Durability: Tactical backpacks are made from high-quality, tough materials that are built to last. Most are crafted from heavy-duty nylon or polyester, with reinforced stitching and waterproof coatings.
- Organization: These backpacks come with a variety of compartments, pockets, and MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) systems that allow you to organize your gear efficiently.
- Comfort: Designed for heavy loads, tactical backpacks are equipped with padded shoulder straps, hip belts, and back panels to ensure maximum comfort during long treks.
- Versatility: They’re not just for survivalists; tactical backpacks can also serve as excellent hiking packs, daypacks for work or school, and bug-out bags for emergency preparedness.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive deeper into what you should look for when choosing a tactical backpack for survival.
7 Key Features to Look for in a Tactical Backpack
When selecting a tactical backpack, you want to ensure it meets your specific needs. While there are many different models and brands out there, the best tactical backpacks for survivalists will share certain features that make them stand out. Here’s what you should pay attention to:
1. Material
The material of the backpack is one of the most important factors in determining its durability and water resistance. Most tactical backpacks are made from:
- Nylon (500D or 1000D): Known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. Nylon backpacks are lightweight but tough enough for most survival situations.
- Polyester: Another popular option, though not as durable as nylon. Polyester backpacks are often water-resistant but not always waterproof.
- Cordura: This is a tough, abrasion-resistant fabric often used in high-end tactical backpacks for its durability and resistance to rips and tears.
2. MOLLE System
MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) is a webbing system that allows you to attach additional pouches, accessories, and gear to the exterior of your backpack. This feature is a must-have for survivalists who need to carry a variety of gear.
3. Capacity
Tactical backpacks come in a range of sizes, from small daypacks to larger, multi-day packs. For a survivalist, it’s essential to choose a backpack that fits your needs:
- Daypacks (15–25L): Perfect for short trips or bug-out bags, providing just enough space for essentials.
- Medium (30–50L): Ideal for longer hikes or multi-day trips where you’ll need more gear.
- Large (60L and above): Best for extended survival situations or those requiring more gear and provisions.
4. Comfort and Fit
When it comes to survival situations, comfort is key. A poorly fitting backpack can cause back pain and fatigue, especially during long treks. Look for backpacks that have:
- Padded shoulder straps: These help distribute the weight evenly across your shoulders.
- Padded hip belt: A good hip belt helps transfer the weight from your shoulders to your hips, reducing strain on your upper body.
- Ventilated back panel: A breathable mesh panel will reduce sweat buildup and improve comfort during long hours of wear.
5. Water Resistance/Waterproofing
Survival situations often come with unexpected weather, so having a backpack that can handle the elements is crucial. Look for backpacks that come with water-resistant coatings, waterproof zippers, or even a rain cover. Some models are fully waterproof, while others are water-resistant but still capable of handling light rain.
6. Organization and Compartments
One of the main reasons to choose a tactical backpack is the exceptional organization it offers. These backpacks typically have multiple compartments for gear, clothing, food, and other supplies. Some of the best backpacks include:
- Main compartment: Often the largest, this compartment should have enough space for bulkier items.
- Front pocket: Smaller items, such as flashlights, knives, and first-aid kits, can be stored here for easy access.
- Side pockets: Ideal for water bottles, a multi-tool, or even a fire starter.
- Hydration bladder compartment: Many tactical backpacks have a built-in sleeve for a hydration system, so you can stay hydrated on the go.
7. Security Features
Security is another important consideration when choosing a tactical backpack. Look for features such as:
- Lockable zippers: These can help keep your gear secure and deter thieves.
- Hidden pockets: Useful for storing valuables like passports or cash in emergency situations.
- Reflective patches or accents: These increase visibility in low-light conditions.
Top Tactical Backpacks for Survivalists
Now that you know what to look for in a tactical backpack, let’s explore some of the top-rated backpacks available on Amazon. These options are highly rated by users and are trusted for their quality, durability, and functionality.
1. 5.11 Tactical Rush 2.0 72 Backpack
The 5.11 Tactical Rush 2.0 72 Backpack is a popular choice among survivalists due to its versatile design, durable materials, and ample storage space. With a 55-liter capacity, this bag is large enough to hold all your essential survival gear, yet still compact enough for day trips.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 55L
- Material: 1050D nylon, this military backpack is water-resistant and features self-repairing YKK zippers
- MOLLE webbing: Multiple attachment points for additional gear.
- Compartments: 16 individual inner and outer compartments, a roomy main storage area, a hydration pocket, padded book compartment, large sunglass pouch compartment, and a CCW Conceal Carry Weapon compartment
- Compression straps: Keep your gear secure and organized.
- Water-resistant: Helps keep your gear dry in light rain.
- Hydration pocket: Designed for a hydration bladder.
- Comfort and Fit: Equipped with an adjustable height sternum strap, two external compression straps and contour yoke shoulder strap system.
- Price: Around $170
This backpack is a great all-rounder for survivalists, hikers, and tactical enthusiasts alike. It is a great choice for a bug out bag for preppers. It’s one of the best-rated tactical backpacks on Amazon, and its reputation for durability and practicality precedes it. It is a new product (Rush 2.0) and already has hundreds of positive reviews.
Buy on Amazon – You can purchase your 5.11 Rush 2.0 72 Tactical Backpack here
2. Condor 3-Day Assault Pack
If you’re looking for a tactical backpack that still has a lot of space but is more affordable, the Condor 3-Day Assault Pack is an excellent option. With a 50-liter capacity, this bag is perfect for extended survival trips or bug-out bags.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 50L
- Durable material: Made from high-quality polysester with a water resistant coating.
- MOLLE system: Compatible with additional pouches and accessories.
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel: For maximum comfort.
- Hydration compartment: Includes a sleeve for a hydration bladder.
- Price: Around $100
The Condor 3-Day Assault Pack is known for its ruggedness, making it a top choice for long-term survival situations. This product has almost 2,000 positive reviews on Amazon.
Buy on Amazon – You can purchase your Condor 3-Day Assault Tactical Backpack here
3. SOG Ninja Tactical Backpack
For those who prefer a smaller, more compact tactical backpack, the SOG Ninja Tactical Backpack offers a great balance of size and functionality. It’s perfect for short trips or as a lightweight bug-out bag. This is a top rated backpack for build quality and has over 3,000 positive reviews on Amazon.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 24L
- Material: Polyester with a water resistant coating – keeps your gear dry during light rain.
- MOLLE webbing: Allows for customization with pouches.
- Multiple compartments: Helps keep your gear organized.
- Padded straps and back panel: For comfort during extended use.
- Price: Around $32–$35
The SOG Ninja Tactical Backpack is an affordable option for those who need a compact and versatile tactical bag.
Buy on Amazon – You can purchase your SOG Ninja Tactical Daypack here
4. QT&QY 45L Military Tactical Backpacks Molle Army Assault Pack 3 Day Bug Out Bag
For those seeking another affordable option, the QT&QY 45L Tactical Backpack is a popular choice. Designed for military professionals and survivalists, this bag offers excellent quality and functionality.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 45L
- Material: 900D polyester material, this tactical assault backpack is reinforced and double stitched at all stress points. Resistant and tough and has a special coating that makes it both water resistant and scratch proof.
- MOLLE webbing: Full MOLLE compatibility for adding extra pouches.
- Compartments: two front pockets for small items, two large compartments with built-in zippered pocket and mesh pocket for big and important supplies, dedicated laptop/device compartment (17”), a hidden back pocket for frequently-used items, army military backpack opens flat to 180 degrees for easy packing/unpacking
- Padded straps: double stitched, padded shoulder straps and back area with mesh backing for comfort, ventilation, and strength during travel.
- Price: Around $36 – $40, depending on color choice (15 different colors to choose from).
This backpack is very popular, as evidenced by over 10,000 positive reviews on Amazon.
Buy on Amazon – you can purchase your QT&QY 45L Military Tactical Backpack here
5. Maxpedition Falcon-III™ Backpack (Black)
Maxpedition is known for making some of the most rugged tactical gear, and the Falcon III Tactical Backpack is no exception. With a 35L capacity, this bag is a great mid-size option for survivalists looking to carry a solid amount of gear without going overboard.
Key Features:
- Capacity: 35L
- Material: Durable 1050D nylon, known for its tear-resistant properties. This is an extremely durable material. It is water and abrasion resistant lightweight ballistic nylon fabric.
- MOLLE system: Compatible with additional accessories and pouches
- Comfortable: Padded shoulder straps, waist belt, and back panel for support.
- Water-resistant coating: Keeps your gear safe from light rain.
- Zippers: Genuine high quality YKK brand zippers with paracord zipper pulls.
- Comfort: 3D breathable mesh padded back and shoulder straps
- Price: Around $160
The Maxpedition Falcon III is a highly versatile and durable tactical backpack, ideal for longer expeditions or extended survival scenarios. It is made of premium materials.
Buy on Amazon – You can purchase your Maxpedition Falcon III Tactical Backpack here
6. REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack Large Army 3 Day Assault Pack
The REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack is currently the #1 best selling tactical backpack on Amazon, with a staggering 25,000 positive reviews.
This is a 40 liter tactical backpack allowing for a reasonable capacity and at a very affordable price point.
Key Features
- Capacity: 40L
- Material: Polyester that is high density making it durable and water resistant
- MOLLE system: Compatible with additional accessories and pouches
- Comfortable: Side and front load compression system, Ventilated mesh padded back area & shoulder strap, breathable and comfortable.
- Price: Around $40
Buy on Amazon – You can purchase your REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack here
Conclusion
Choosing the right tactical backpack for your survival needs is essential for staying prepared and organized during emergencies or outdoor adventures. Look for features like durability, comfort, capacity, and organization when making your decision. Whether you’re looking for a compact daypack or a larger bag for extended trips, there are plenty of excellent options available on Amazon.
By investing in a quality tactical backpack, you’ll ensure that you’re always ready to face whatever challenges come your way.
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