5 Best Tactical Backpacks: The Ultimate Guide

Tactical backpacks are uniquely personal things and what you purchase is based on what you need. Some people need tactical backpacks that have a lot of storage space while others might need compartmentalized storage.

For a trekker, a large pocket for a fluid bladder might be essential. Others might find modularity more to their liking.

To help you decide what to get, USAMM has created our top five best tactical backpack list. The packs are not listed in any particular order which means that just because a pack is listed as number one in our best tactical backpack list, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best tactical backpack on our list.

The 3-Day Op Pack
This tactical backpack is number one on our best tactical backpack list. The tru-spec multi-came three-day assault pack is fully compatible with the M.O.L.L.E. system and compatible with a hydration system.

It is made of Denier nylon and has fully padded shoulder and waist straps as well as an adjustable sternum strap. It also includes hook-and-loop strips for tapes for name and rank.

Alice Pack with Frame
This tactical backpack is number two on our best tactical backpack list. This old reliable has been issued in the U.S. military for decades and while they are available in different sizes, the large is the best one to get.

It includes a frame with kidney pads and shoulder straps. This one comes in two colors, green and tan. It has great large pockets on the outside for ready access to gear when you need it.

Tactical Tailor Multi-Cam Fight Light Modular Operator Pack
This tactical backpack is number three on our best tactical backpack list. The Modular Operator Pack is the mid-level, three-day pack style entry in our Operator line of packs. Comparable in size to a regular three-day pack, but with many more features than you would find in the competition's packs. For storage, you will find a large main compartment, with reinforced bottom for durability as well as a medium sized front pocket with accessory pocket and key keeper.

A large hydration pocket fits a three-liter hydration bladder and includes covered ports to route a drinking hose. The outside is covered with modular webbing on the front, sides and bottom for attaching pouches as well as loop fastener for attaching patches and nametapes. Padded back and contoured shoulder straps are lined with air mesh for comfort. Side compression straps, large drag handle, heavy duty zippers, sternum strap and removable waist belt round out this already impressive pack.

Fight Light Multi-Cam (OCP) Removeable Operator Pack
This tactical backpack is number four on our best tactical backpack list. The Removable Operator Pack in our Operator Series of packs is designed as a ‘Quick Attach Assault Pack’ to attach directly to modular vests or larger packs. The pack features a large main compartment as well as a side entry front pocket. The outside has modular webbing for attaching additional pouches and padded shoulder straps stow away when not in use.

This pack includes heavy duty zippers, sternum strap, grab handle, loop material for patches and three-liter hydration pocket. All hardware needed to attach the pack to other gear is also included. This pack makes a great addition to our Extended Range Operator Pack, attach it to military issue vests or use it alone as a small day pack.

Tactical Tailor Fight Light Coyote Tan Modular Operator Pack
This tactical backpack is number five on our best tactical backpack list. The Modular Operator Pack is the midlevel three-day pack style entry in our Operator line of packs. Comparable in size to a regular three-day pack, but with many more features than you would find in the competition’s packs. For storage, you will find a large main compartment, with high visibility lining and double reinforced bottom for durability as well as a medium sized front pocket with accessory pocket and key keeper.

A large hydration pocket fits a three-liter hydration bladder and includes covered ports to route a drinking hose. The outside is covered with modular webbing on the front, sides and bottom for attaching pouches as well as loop fastener for attaching patches and nametapes. Padded back and contoured shoulder straps are lined with air mesh for comfort. Side compression straps, large drag handle, heavy duty zippers, sternum strap and removable waist belt round out this already impressive pack.

Tactical backpacks can be used as part of your military duties if you’re infantry, military police, aircrew, armor, public affairs and just about any military occupational specialty. The best tactical backpack for you is easily determined by what you need to bring to work and the rigors of what your job will throw at you and the backpack.

But tactical backpacks can also be used off duty for hiking, fishing, camping, sports and even to haul your books if you’re attending college or vocational classes. The best tactical backpack should fit your life completely.