The 10 Best Military Backpacks

With so many different types of military backpacks out there, choosing the right one can be tricky. But as long as you choose one that matches your needs, you should be fine with whatever pack you go with—whether it’s a framed pack, external frame pack, assault pack, or battle backpack. To help make your decision easier, we’ve rounded up the best military backpacks on the market right now based on their

durability, portability, and price. Take a look at these selections and see if they’re right for you!

What is a MOLLE Backpack?

A MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) backpack is a backpack that allows soldiers to attach and detach various compartments and pouches, creating an almost infinite variety of custom load-outs. MOLLE packs were developed by Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center in 1997 as a replacement for older systems such as ALICE Packs. The name MOLLE comes from Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment but is often mispronounced as Molly; a common misconception. This is due to Natick's poorly executed marketing which put a y at the end instead of an e. Because of their robust durability, they are favored by troops deployed overseas.

What Is an ALICE Pack?

An ALICE Pack is a military backpack designed in 1973 and still being used today. It was designed to carry everything needed for a soldier during a deployment: food, water, extra ammo, etc. In case you were wondering why it’s called ALICE it stands for All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment. The name is also fitting because of its versatility as one of the best military backpacks you can buy for civilian use. To learn more about ALICE Packs, check out our extensive guide here.

What Are the Different Types of Tactical Bags?

Before we dive into a list of tactical bags and packs, let’s talk about what differentiates these military-style backpacks from more traditional backpacking packs. The short answer is durability, capacity, and adaptability. For example, many of these bags feature YKK water-resistant zippers to protect their contents against harsh elements like rain or snow. These packs are also made to be durable in combat zones, which means they will be pretty resistant to tearing or other damage while you’re out in nature—unless you try to take a tree down with it...which brings us to our next point: capacity!

What Are Hydration Packs and Why Do I Need One?

If you’re hiking, climbing, or just going on a long run, it’s critical to stay hydrated. Unless you enjoy carrying around heavy water bottles that slip and bounce every time you make a turn, get a hydration pack. A hydration pack is a lightweight backpack that comes with built-in water reservoirs and drinking tubes. They can be attached to your belt or fit comfortably on your back—just make sure they’re comfortable and give you enough room for all of your gear.

How to Choose Between a Backpack or Messenger Bag for EDC?

One of your biggest considerations in choosing a backpack for EDC is where and how you carry it. Are you comfortable enough with an everyday carry backpack to wear it throughout your day? Or do you prefer a bag that's worn across your body? If you choose to go with an everyday carry backpack, what size should you get? In general, small backpacks are about 20 liters, midsize are about 30 liters and large backpacks are over 40 liters. However, there's no real way to know how much stuff will fit into anyone's bag until you try it out. Decide what kind of pack is right for your EDC needs basing on where and how you'll be carrying it, then select one from our list of best military backpacks below.

What Are Some Other Options for EDC in Combat Boots?

The Bug Out Bag is a go-bag that contains enough supplies to sustain you for 72 hours in case of an emergency or natural disaster. This kit could prove invaluable if you're forced to evacuate at a moment's notice. A well-stocked bug-out bag also makes an excellent addition to your vehicle or boat, providing a convenient way to stay prepared on road trips and during other outings. By making room in your pack for carefully chosen essentials, you can ensure that you'll be able to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store. Read on for tips about which gear should be at the top of your bug out bag checklist: (Note: This list isn't all-inclusive) A knife: A survival knife with multiple tools is ideal; ideally one with a compass built into it too.

What Is in the Ultimate Bug Out Bag Checklist?

You’ve heard it a million times, but there are no two ways about it: you need to be prepared for anything at all times. In today’s world, that means having an Ultimate Bug Out Bag Checklist. But what makes up an ultimate bug-out bag checklist? There is more than one way to build an ultimate bug-out bag checklist! This post takes you through several options and gives you tips on picking your own bags. What Are The Top Survival Bags?: This post outlines which survival bags are simply essential and why they are important items in your bug-out bag list! It also talks about how to choose them and why they are needed in your pack.

What Should You Look For in a Concealed Carry Backpack?

Unlike traditional backpacks that you can take to school or use as a hiking pack, concealed carry backpacks are designed to be lightweight, small, and concealed. These bags look like a regular backpack on the outside but have extra pockets and straps on them to hold your handgun. When choosing your bag, you’ll want to look for these qualities: - Material: Most of these bags are made out of nylon or nylon blends because they are lightweight, waterproof, affordable, and durable. But not all nylon is created equal; 600D parachute nylon (used in many of these bags) is super strong and durable but costs more than regular nylon so only high-end bags will be made from it.