There's absolutely no secret that choosing the best tactical backpack can make or break your ability to carry important gear. You never know when you may need to throw down for a bug out, or just take it along with you for your next outdoor adventure.
Either way, you want to be prepared for any situation, and finding or searching for the best tactical backpack can be a struggle. That's why we've gone out and put together a complete comprehensive list to match your specific needs.
Here's a quick list of our top picks for the best tactical backpack:
Additionally, military backpacks have different types and features that vary, and are best suited for certain environments.
Whether that be an EDC backpack (every day carry), bug out bag, hiking, or camping, we're bringing the heat with exactly what you need to know.
Now, let's begin.
Best Tactical Backpack / Military Backpacks - What You Need To Know
First, when deciding how to choose the best tactical backpack for you, it comes down to a few important decisions:
- How much gear do you need to carry?
- What do you plan on taking with you?
- What's your environment look like?
As well as some key categories that you'll need for your tactical bag setup.
- Backpack Style
- Add-On's & Pouches
- Other Accessory Equipment
All of these factors can contribute to what kind of tactical backpack suits your needs best. We'll be taking a look at all the different types and features, to help find the best tactical backpack for you.
Finding The Best Tactical Backpack Style For You
Notably, the tactical backpack itself is the main item in your backpack building process. This choice will depend on your personal needs, just like how every soldier has different uses for their bag.
In this section of the guide, we'll be organizing all the backpacks from each different type available. Therefore, allowing you to decide what's best for how much gear you plan to carry and your personal style.
Military Style Outdoor 30L Waterproof Rucksack/Backpack
This very popular choice includes excellent main features such as:
- Waterproof 600D Nylon
- MOLLE system
- 30L Storage Capacity
- Chest and shoulder straps
- 11+ Storage compartments
- Compact Size and Lightweight Design
Not to mention, this tactical backpack can even serve as a tactical laptop bag with it's internal padding system. There are so many compartments to store and organize all your stuff.
This is the best military backpack for someone who wants a decent amount of space without too much bulk in their bag. It's small tactical backpack size allows for easy transport and can be taken along for travel.
Military Style Outdoor Compact Shoulder Sling Backpack
This next tactical bag features a shoulder sling strap. This makes for the best EDC backpack. It's small, compact, and easy to throw over your shoulder.
Whether it be camping, hiking, or traveling, this tactical sling backpack has 3 carrying styles (Shoulder Bag, Chest/Back Sling, and Hand Carry).
It also has multiple easy attachment points for modular expansion. Not to mention this bag's also waterproof, containing 600D Polyester Nylon.
This small tactical sling backpack can also carry all your tech. This bag has support for an iPad Mini, and your smart phone.
Moreover, it's a perfect addition to your tactical rucksack collection. With many different color options, you're sure to find one that matches your personal style.
Rated 10/10 for a small tactical backpack.
ST-MP40 Large Military Style Outdoor 40L Backpack/Daypack
Now we start to get into the large tactical backpack section. This military bag is best suited as a tactical day pack for regular carry.
This backpack has five expanding compartments that provide up to 40 liters of storage.
Internal dividers and zippered pockets are built in the three largest compartments. The mesh padded back panel can hold up to a 2.5 liter hydration bladder. Which rates this bag, the best survival backpack.
The contoured shoulder straps are constructed with mesh padding and are also fully adjustable. The adjustable waist strap and sternum strap evenly distribute the weight of the load.
Furthermore, this tactical backpack provides the very best protection for all your gear. With it's extended storage options, you're sure to fit everything you need on your adventures.
STB-40™ - Military Style Outdoor Large 40L Backpack
with MOLLE Webbing
The next military style backpack is the same size of the previous bag in the list. Yet in contrast - this tactical bag features the most MOLLE webbing and is by far the best MOLLE backpack.
The STB-40™ features 600D Waterproof material, as well as a large central compartment for your gear.
Additionally, the bag features MOLLE compatible webbing, as explained in the video below. MOLLE allows for many add-on's and attachment pieces. All of the backpacks in this list feature a MOLLE system.
This feature gives you the ability to expand and customize the bag to your liking.
If you want to deck your tactical backpack out with all the best add-on gear and MOLLE pouches, then this is the bag for you.
We'll be taking a look at more add-on's and MOLLE packs for your military style backpack in the next section of this guide.
As you can clearly see, having MOLLE on your tactical pack or rucksack is absolutely essential. This makes carrying all your gear even easier. Not to mention, it also allows for full customization of your tactical backpack.
ST-3M50 Large Military Style Outdoor 50L Backpack/Daypack w/ 3 MOLLE Bags
Now, this next one is the best tactical backpack if you want maximum carrying capacity and storage for your gear.
At a whopping 50L, you can pack your all your stuff in one single backpack.
Not to mention, this bag also includes 3 MOLLE packs attached and ready to go.
The rear pouch can also allow this backpack to serve as a tactical laptop bag.
Additionally, this bag includes a detachable bug out bag that can be used as a waist, fanny or shoulder pack & two removable side packs, allowing you multiple different configurations for your adventure.
Add-On's and Pouches For Your Tactical Backpack
Not only is your tactical backpack important... but also the add-on's and pouches you couple with it. This is where your customization comes in.
In this section of the guide, we'll be organizing all the add-on's and MOLLE pouches to use with your tactical backpack. Moreover, allowing you to decide what's best for the gear you plan to carry, and your best tactical backpack.
Military Style Outdoor EDC Waist/Belt/Molle Bag
You'll want to keep your phone safe. This is by far the best and most useful add-on tactical pack you can throw onto your backpack's MOLLE system.
Not to mention, this bag also allows you to pack important small items securely.
You could even use this small MOLLE pack like a wallet to carry your credit cards, cash, identifications, or passport.
Additionally, there is an adjustable belt loop hook if you desire to carry this pouch as a standalone on your waist.
An ideal organizer for accessories, cell phone, keychain, small gadget, and everything else you need readily accessible.
If you're on the go, carry this all-in-one EDC bag. Pack your iPhone or Android safely for your travels.
Not only that... fit your charging cable, power bank, pens, and more!
Military Style Compact EMT Medical First Aid Waist/Belt/Molle Bag
If you want to be safe and secure, there's nothing better than packing a first aid bag. You never know when disaster could strike and you need medical attention for a wound.
In other words, be prepared with this Compact EMT Medical First Aid Bag. The bag comes equipped with MOLLE, so you can strap it right onto your tactical backpack.
This military style first aid bag is the best tactical backpack add-on/pouch you can have if you want to be prepared.
The first aid MOLLE pack does not come with medical supplies, so you do have to supply them yourself.
All in all, you never know when you may need medical supplies.
With this EMT medical MOLLE pack, you can keep all your emergency supplies secure and in one location.
Hydration Bladder 2L 2.5L 3L Tactical Water Reservoir
When you're outside or on the go, you're going to need water. Why not supply yourself with a handy hydration pouch?! Now, you can carry water easily.
This tactical hydration water reservoir can fit right into your backpack and will provide you with a convenient water supply.
The ST-MP40 Tactical Backpack in the list above, also includes a built-in compartment for use with the hydration bladder.
Whenever you need water, this pouch is at the ready. It's also BPA-Free so you don't have to worry about any harmful chemicals.
For one thing, you'll never be without water again, unless of course you forget to fill up your reservoir.
As can be seen, slide this hydration bladder right into your tactical backpack for maximum ease of access to your water supply.
The pouch also includes a water line from the bag to your mouth for simple drinking.
ST-P5 Compact Military Style MOLLE System Pouch
Notably, every backpack could always use a few extra pouches. In fact it also helps with organization of your gear and keeps items easy to find.
This compact EDC military pouch can attach right to your backpack with it's MOLLE system to expand your storage.
Not only organize more effectively... keep your stuff protected in a form factor pouch.
This MOLLE pack features strong 1000D waterproof cordura nylon fabric.
The straps can be threaded through the loops on the back for a tight fit on the belt or any combination of wear options and belt sizes. There's a loop on top for easy attachment.
ST-X7 Compact Military Style MOLLE System Pouch
Surely you want to be set up with the best tactical backpack. There's no better way than for you to have this tactical MOLLE pack to carry your gear.
This tactical MOLLE pack can hold a tactical flashlight, ammo, battery pack, or any other small items you need kept easily accessible.
Additionally, you can keep your stuff protected in a hard shell pouch.
Simply strap this MOLLE pack right to your tactical backpack or military bag.
The ST-X7 keeps your small gear in an easy compact spot, right where you need it. Coupled with a few, you can carry loads of gear, safely protected.
Tactical Water Bottle Pouch Military MOLLE System
Water is crucial to your survival. Of course, you need to carry it with you. If you're not into carrying an entire hydration bladder, just carry a water bottle.
This tactical MOLLE pack water bottle pouch can carry your water bottle easily.
Not to mention, it's got a drawstring top so you can be sure that your water bottle is secure inside the pouch.
Now carry your water easily, all you have to do is strap this MOLLE pack right to your tactical backpack or military bag.
The tactical water bottle pouch keeps your water bottle safe, in easy access, and ready to go. Together with the MOLLE pack attachment, it makes carry simple.
Accessories / Equipment For Your Tactical Backpack
Of course your add-ons and pouches are important... but also the gear and tech you equip with it. This is where you build what goes in and on the bag!
In this section of the guide, we'll be organizing all the accessories and equipment to use with your tactical backpack. Equally giving you the decision to what's the best gear to carry to create the best tactical backpack for you.
Survival Tech Tact-350 XML Q5 Flashlight
If you're out in the dark, you know that the most annoying thing is to not have a flashlight. Why not be prepared with the Tact-350 LED Flashlight?!
This tactical LED flashlight provides a solid light, while being portable. It even clips right onto your tactical backpack. Or even stow it away in your ST-X7 MOLLE pack.
Uniquely, instead of a traditional smart phone flashlight, you are given a better range of sight right on hand.
Too many times you're stuck and you need a flashlight to see. Yet, not just a regular standard LED flashlight. The Tact-350 is one tough light.
This flashlight makes for the perfect addition to building the best tactical backpack. Take a look at its durability! A Humvee runs over it!
You know you can depend on the Tact-350 in your time of need.
Portable 10,000mAH Waterproof / Shockproof Solar Dual-USB Charger and LED Light
When you're carrying your phone or battery powered gear, it sucks when you run out of a charge. Say no more, with this solar-power portable charger!
This portable dual-USB solar charger is excellent for any military bag build.
Regardless of the conditions, if you're got sunlight, you can charge your devices.
This is perfect if you're out in the woods with no outlets in sight. Add this 10,000mAH power bank right onto the outside of your tactical bag to charge as you move.
Rather charge all your devices, that be left with something dead and useless. Not to mention, the dual-USB charging feature. You can charge more than one device at a time!
This 10,000mAH solar charging power bank makes for the perfect addition to building the best tactical backpack.
Oh, and it's waterproof! Feel free to take this rugged tech anywhere.
ST-RC1 Military Style Hooded Rain Poncho & Multi-Purpose Waterproof Shelter / Tent / Picnic Mat
When you're trying to build the best tactical backpack for your outdoor adventures, this is surely one item you don't want to miss.
If rain hits your skin, you're no longer a happy camper. Instead you can protect yourself with this versatile military style hooded rain poncho.
Despite the weather conditions, you can keep your body warm and stay away from full body annoying wetness.
Not to mention, this rain poncho also folds open to a full on rain cover tent! This feature is excellent when setting up a full on base camp.
With this in mind, toss this multi-purpose military rain poncho right in your tactical backpack to stay prepared.
Best Tactical Backpack - The Final Word
Ultimately when it comes to building the best tactical backpack for you, there are a large variety of different options. As a result every day there is a new choice available.
With so many exciting things available, we enjoy sharing with you the new gear and helping you choose the best tactical backpack. Not only that... but also the best MOLLE pack for you, and other survival gear and gadgets.
Yet, we need your help. Our subscribers and readers are one of the best resources to tell us about new best tactical backpack ideas as they come across them.
So if you know of a tactical backpack or military bag style that needs to be on this list - tell us in the comments below.
We'll add it to the list and continue to grow it again and again.
Keeping you ready for anything,
Brennan 🙂