When it comes to bug out bags they are definitely not “one size fits all”. Luckily we here at the Prepper’s Portal are ready to help cut through the noise and deliver a buyer’s guide to the best bug out bag available and where to get them.
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when considering the best bug out backpack to build a bug out bag for your particular situation. We have taken a look at the toughest, largest, most durable options available.
Why Do you Need the Best Bug Out Bag?
Whether you are looking to build a bug out bag, a get home bag, or just need a tactical backpack for various outdoor activities, finding the best backpack, duffel bag, or hold all bag is an absolute necessity.
There are several different factors that you should be concerned with when determining the best backpack for your specific needs. Some of these factors are size, durability, amount of pockets, comfort, carrying capacity, etc.
Having a bag packed and ready to bug out if the situation arises will give you and your family peace of mind that you will be able to handle any situation that could be thrown your way. Natural disasters, earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires are all situations that can come up with little or no warning. It is always better to have a bug out bag ready to go, and not need it, than it is to need to bug out and not have it.
This guide will not cover what you keep in a bug out bag, but we can help you with this as well. Download our free essential bug out bag packing list for a look at the no nonsense, must have items to pack in your bug out bag.
Our ultimate guide to the best bug out bags will give you all the knowledge you need to have in order to make an informed decision on the best bug out bag for your situation and needs.
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF)—To save you time from reading the entire guide we will always give you our personal favorite right up front. Our absolute favorite pick for the best bug out backpack is the 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Bug Out Backpack. This thing is a beast! The RUSH72 offers the best overall combination of size, durability, and comfort on the market.
The best bug out bag is unique to each person and their intended use, but it should have certain features that are common:
- The best bug out bags have a large capacity to carry items as you may need to be on the go for several days. Ideally it should carry enough supplies for you to survive the first 72 hours.
- You may be moving long distances for long periods of time. This means that the backpack must be comfortable to wear and hike with. Many tactical backpacks are built with well-padded shoulder straps, a waist strap, and a chest strap to improve comfort and weight distribution.
- They should have a large amount of zippered compartments to assist in properly organizing all your items for easy access. The last thing you want to do during an emergency situation is to dig through all of your items for the first aid kit that happens to be at the bottom of the bag.
- They should be modeled after tactical military style bags that are designed to weather the elements and rigors of extended outdoor use.
The Best Bug Out Bag in 2020
Making a choice about which bag will be the right one to carry in a bug out situation should not be taken lightly. This is the bag that will carry everything that you need to survive if you need to leave your home and head to a safer location. You don’t want to choose a backpack that is not well constructed, is too small, too large, or uncomfortable to wear.
Determining which bug out bag is best for you depends on a lot of different factors. Will you be in an urban environment, wilderness, hot environment, cold environment, on foot or in a vehicle. The possibilities are pretty much endless and the backpack choices seem to be also. We’ve done the homework for you and narrowed the choices down to the 5 best bug out backpacks in 2020.
5.11 RUSH72 Bug Out Bag
5.11 has become one of the top companies in tactical gear and is widely popular with members of the military and tactical communities. The RUSH72 is designed as a 72 hour bag and has plenty of room for carrying gear and accessories while maintaining a rugged and durable construction.
This bag is a fan favorite due to the unsurpassed durability and ample space for gear while maintaining a low profile and enabling the wearer to remain agile. Whether using this bag as a hiker, outdoor enthusiast, or dedicated bug out bag this one is a no brainer.
The versatility and flexibility of the RUSH72 is really hard to beat and its capability in a variety of tactical outdoor situations puts this bag at the top of our best bug out backpacks list.
Construction Features
The durability and ruggedness of the RUSH72 can be attributed to its construction from nylon 1050D which also makes it water resistant. The dual zippered front and main compartments have molded grip pulls which make it easier to access while wearing gloves. In addition, the zippers are guarded against breakage by being constructed of self-healing rugged YKK zipper hardware.
The grab and go handle on the top of this bag make it easy to handle in an emergency bug out situation and the Velcro straps on each shoulder strap will secure your hydration bladder tube making this bag ideal for bugging out on foot. This bag also has a hydration compartment ready to accept a bladder for on the go hydration.
The RUSH 72 is compatible with the 5.11 tier system allowing the wearer to add additional smaller bags to the outside of the main bag making it even more versatile. This bag is also compatible with the 5.11 Rush Tier rifle sleeve enabling you to safely and comfortable attach a rifle to the bag.
With dual density closed-cell foam shoulder pads and a clinching waist strap with dual compression straps, this bag is incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Storage Features
The RUSH72 has a large 55 liter carrying capacity and is thoughtfully designed with an assortment of compartments allowing for easy organization of items accessibility. The clam shell style main compartment is typical of well designed tactical backpacks allowing the user to easily pack and unpack items from the large compartment.
The main compartment also incorporates interior zippered pouches allowing for storage of smaller items within the larger compartment which are easily accessed.
One of the slickest parts of the RUSH72’s design is the outer compartment that extends away from the main bag allowing you to carry items outside of the bag that you may want to access quickly or have become wet. You can also use this feature to increase carrying capacity while saving the precious interior space for items that you do not want exposed to the elements.
The outer compartment is well equipped with webbing allowing for attachment of additional pouches and accessories. There are MOLLE pouches that are compatible with this design giving you the functionality and customizable options one would expect in a high end tactical backpack and bug out bag
The interior of each pocket is equipped with additional stuff pockets allowing for organization of smaller items such as a multi-tool or Firestarter.
The fleece lined upper pocket is perfect for storing small items that you don’t want scratched up such as sunglasses or googles.
Our Thoughts
The RUSH72 is the premier tactical backpack in its class. The overall construction and functionality is second to none and is our go-to choice for a bug out bag. If you are looking for the best bug out bag with a large storage capacity, MOLLE compatibility, and tactical ruggedness for extended periods in the elements, look no further.
Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
If you are in the market for a bug out bag designed for 3 days + with the versatility and storage options required for storing and organizing all of your essential bug out gear then the Condor should be near the top of your list.
This bag is designed with the survivalist/prepper in mind and has plenty of storage to accommodate gear suitable for 72 hours. With over 3,000 cubic inches of interior storage in the main compartments you could potentially live out of this bag for a week if packed correctly.
With a great combination of features and heavy-duty construction, the Condor is on the short list of major contenders in the tactical backpack arena.
Construction Features
The pack is equipped with foam shoulder straps and a padded lower area for improved lumbar support which makes this a surprisingly comfortable tactical backpack.
One of the great features of this backpack is the addition of carry handles not only on the top of the bag, but also the sides making it ideal for grab-and-go situations.
This bag is also equipped with a large amount of webbing and attachment points allowing the wearer to add additional pouches and accessories which increases the overall carrying capacity even more.
Storage Features
The Condor has a large carrying capacity with a total of seven compartments which includes 2 main compartments featuring internal storage compression and two side pouches. In addition the Condor boast a wide range of sorting pockets and external zipper pouches.
This pack is designed to carry two 3 liter hydration bladders and has holes to run the drinking tubes out of for ease of use on the go.
The various pockets and pouches on this backpack are thoughtfully designed to allow ease of packing and organization of tools and equipment. There are small pockets suitable for tools such as a multi-tool or pocket knife as well as radio pockets.
Our Thoughts
The Condor is extremely versatile for use as an everyday carry (EDC), tactical backpack, bug out bag, or general outdoor use. It is comfortable enough for lengthy hiking excursions with the tactical ruggedness required in a bug out bag. Large enough to carry every bit of gear you would need for 72 hours or more makes the Condor an excellent option.
Sandpiper of California Long Range Bug Out Backpack
The SOC Long Range Bug Out Backpack is a high quality and extremely durable tactical backpack. With an impressive 5,600 cubic inches of storage this pack is built for long range distances and extended periods on the go.
When considering what tactical bug out bag is best for you and your situation one of the major considerations has to be storage capacity and this one has plenty of it. It is designed for comfort while ensuring you will not leave any items behind when you need to bug out in a hurry.
Construction Features
The SOC Long Range Bug Out is extremely durable due to its construction of 600-denier abrasion resistant nylon. This tactical backpack will hold up to the most rugged of conditions and ensure your gear is protected from the elements.
The expandable main compartment is designed to accommodate a hydration bladder and all of your communication and organizational needs
The mesh lined back and padded lumbar area and padded waist belt deliver a level of comfort that is vitally important when covering long distances or carrying the pack for extended travel times.
A large amount of MOLLE webbing make it easy to accessorize to suit your individual needs and add storage to an already large bag.
Storage Features
The 5,600 cubic inches of space available in the main compartments will more than accommodate your every need when bugging out. There are multiple loops, attachment points and tie downs allowing you to increase this storage capacity with MOLLE pouches.
The front organizer pouches make it easy to sort and access your smaller items with ease. Being able to locate frequently used items or first aid items is important during an emergency scenario and this SOC backpack makes it easy to organize everything in an accessible way. Check out our buyers guide to the best first aid kits here.
Our Thoughts
The storage capacity of the SOC Long Range Bug Out backpack make this tactical backpack well suited as a bug out bag, or long range hiking backpack. The construction is second to none and will withstand all the rigors of the outdoors while not screaming tactical bag. If you are looking for a high quality and extremely versatile tactical backpack the SOC Long Range deserves serious consideration.
Maxpedition Vulture II 3-Day Backpack
The Vulture II is another great option combining the comfort and operational capabilities expected in this class of bag with the proper capacity and cargo size to accommodate enough gear to sustain 72 hours.
This pack sports a design that doesn’t overtly look tactical to allow you to blend in with a “gray-man” look, if that is of concern to you.
Construction Features
This bag is extremely durable and rugged thanks to its construction of 1000 denier ultra-strength nylon which will allow it to hold up to the abusing it is likely to get in harsh environments.
Strength and durability should be a major factor when making a decision on a backpack that is dedicated to emergency survival or heavy outdoor use and the Vulture II has it in spades. The YKK zippers will hold up to heavy use and continue to protect your gear when out in the field.
The Vulture II also has a nice amount of PALS webbing on the pack allowing the user to configure the backpack with additional MOLLE pouches for additional storage and versatility. The non-slip finish on the underside of the bag will ensure your gear stays dry no matter where you lay it down.
Storage Features
While the Vulture II doesn’t have the largest amount of storage space out of the bug out backpacks on this list it includes more than ample space for all the essential gear you may need. At just over 2,000 cubic inches the main compartment will allow you to store everything you need and keeps all of your items easily accessible.
The secondary compartment of the Vulture II is equipped with a variety of smaller pouches and stuff pockets allowing you to separate and organize gear efficiently.
The pack is hydration bladder ready with area to store a 3 liter hydration pouch and it has an exit port designed for the drinking tube.
Our Thoughts
The Vulture II combines all the features that could be desired in a tactical backpack. It is rugged and durable enough for every day carry and hiking use, to dedication as a 72 hour bug out bag. The durability is one of the key features of this pack and it will handle any situation you can throw at it and keep on going.
This pack is one of those backpacks with tactical application yet low-key looks allowing the wearer to blend in with surroundings and not draw the attention of others.
BONUS: Bug Out on a Budget—Our Budget Best Bug Out Backpack Choice
REEBOW Gear Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Bug out Bag
This 3 day tactical backpack by REEBOW Gear is our favorite option for a budget bug out bag. If you want to prepare for a potential emergency situation requiring an extended outdoor trip without breaking the bank this one is for you.
This bag has the functionality and MOLLE compatibility that you would expect from a tactical backpack and has a large amount of compartments and durable construction. This bag is suited for use as a bug out backpack, range bag, day hiker, or any other outdoor use that would require a tactical backpack.
With a 40 liter capacity the REEBOW gear bag is large enough to carry any item that you would need in an emergency bug out situation. It is durably constructed of high density fabric and is water repellant.
Construction Features
The REEBOW tactical backpack is water repellant and rugged enough to endure any elements being constructed of heavy duty materials. If you are going to be on the go for an extended period of time, durability in construction is of major importance to ensure it holds up to the rigors of extended use.
This bag is constructed with double-stitched, heavy duty zippers with utility style cord pulls allowing ease of use while wearing gloves as well as protecting your precious cargo from the elements.
This is a military style tactical backpack and is hydration bladder compatible, but seems like it may have been added to the design as an after-thought since there is not a great access point for it. As this is an entry level bag it shouldn’t be expected to compete with some of the top tier bags, but it will suit its purpose very well.
Another feature to consider with this bag is that it doesn’t scream tactical backpack so if the “gray-man” approach is important to you this bag fits the bill.
Storage Features
The main compartment has a large capacity of 40 liters which should be able to accommodate everything you would need for a 3 day bug out bag. One of the best features of this tactical backpack is the amount of pockets it has. This bag has a wide range of pockets with smaller stuff pockets inside each one to accommodate your smaller items.
The MOLLE system is fairly standard and will allow attachment of additional MOLLE pouches and accessories to add to the carrying capacity of this bag. Adding pouches and accessories to this bag make it extremely versatile for the money spent.
There is space for a hydration bladder which is vitally important in any bug out bag allowing you to carry water that can be accessed on the go.
Our Thoughts
This is an entry level bug out bag on a budget. The price point is outstanding for what you get and the durable rugged construction will hold up with extended use. As a bonus this bag is shipped with a Velcro American Flag patch to attach to the Velcro on the back of the backpack which is pretty cool. Overall, if you want to be prepared to bug out if needed but are on a budget this is our pick.
