With numerous backpack options available in the market, selecting the optimal bug out backpack can prove to be quite difficult. The decision should not solely be based on the bag’s appearance, but rather on how effectively it can store your emergency bug out kit.
Statistical data demonstrates that a significant portion of the American population is inclined to place their trust in local government agencies during a disaster, resulting in a misleading feeling of safety. However, it is important to note that these agencies often face immense challenges, as essential utilities may become dysfunctional or deactivated.
In order to increase your chances of surviving a disaster, it is beneficial to have a bug out bag prepared and easily accessible for immediate use.
Bags We Recommend
Osprey Farpoint 55 / Fairview 55
If you are someone who plans ahead for bugging out, then the Osprey Farpoint 55 for men or the Osprey Fairview 55 for women is the perfect pack for you. These 55-liter packs are designed with the gray man concept in mind and are also suitable for backcountry use. Made from ripstop nylon, these packs provide a strong barrier against the elements for your gear. The packs have a semi-custom internal frame that works together with the adjustable, padded shoulder straps (which include a sternum strap) and padded hip belt to ensure weight is distributed evenly and comfortably. With multiple compartments and pockets, accessing your items is made easy, and the pack’s versatility is enhanced by the zip-off daypack. Additionally, these packs are great for air travel due to their compression straps and lockable zippers.
Tacticon Armament 24BattlePack
The Tacticon Armament 24BattlePack is a versatile ruck that can be used for bug out or getting home situations. It has a minimum capacity of 20 liters and a maximum capacity of 40 liters, and it also has MOLLE-compatible webbing to increase cargo space. The bag has a waterproofed cotton lining to protect sensitive gear and valuables, and it is reinforced with double-stitched seams for durability. The waist belt, padded shoulder straps, and sternum straps ensure a secure fit, while the hydration bladder pouch, CCW holster, and glove-friendly zippers add practicality. With a maximum carrying weight of over 100 pounds, this ruck can handle any task, and the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty covers all aspects of the pack to give you peace of mind.
5.11 RUSH72
With the 5.11 RUSH72, you can avoid the chaos and swiftly escape when things go wrong. This backpack has a capacity of 3342 cubic inches (55 liters) and boasts 30 different compartments and pockets, all MOLLE-compatible. Made from tough and water-resistant 1050 Denier nylon (1000 Denier for the MultiCam versions), it can withstand any weather condition and offers long-lasting durability. The main compartments have dual zippers, and the whole backpack features self-healing YKK zipper hardware with easy-to-use tabs for quick access to essential gear. The shoulder straps and hip belt wings are padded with dual-density, closed-cell foam for enhanced comfort, while the sternum strap provides stability and security. Additionally, this pack includes a Shove-It compartment, numerous admin pouches, and other features to further enhance its functionality.
Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
The Condor 3-Day Assault Pack is one of the bigger backpacks I have on my list, and it’s a great choice if you’re putting together a 2-person survival kit because of the ample space it offers. It has a spacious main compartment with two mesh pockets and compression straps to secure the contents. Along with large front and back pockets, side pockets, and a hydration bladder compartment, the backpack has seven organization spaces, including external MOLLE webbing, for all your gear. I appreciate the padding on the back and shoulder straps, which makes it comfortable to carry. When fully packed, it is a heavy bag, but the designers have included chest and waist straps for a comfortable fit. The pack is constructed with high-quality Cordura Nylon, which is a premium fabric often used in military-grade and high-end backpacks.
Mardingtop Tactical Backpack
Mardingtop is a tactical backpack that is reasonably priced and makes for an excellent choice for your bug out gear. It is available in three different sizes, and for emergency preparedness, I recommend the 35L pack. It is well-constructed and offers multiple compartments, allowing you to easily organize your survival gear. The backpack is made with 600D polyester fabric, which is considered to be of lower quality for a tactical backpack. However, polyester does have the advantage of retaining colors well, which is why the Madingtop is available in various attractive colors. On the downside, polyester is prone to tearing and does not provide water resistance. On the brighter side, the zippers and buckles on this backpack are of high quality. It also offers sponge padding on the shoulder straps and waist belt for added comfort. Additionally, the pack includes adjustable sternum straps to balance the shoulder straps, as well as MOLLE webbing and bottom straps for attaching extra storage items.
Osprey Stratos 34 Hiking Backpack
In my opinion, the Osprey Stratos-34, a 34L hiking backpack, would be an ideal choice for a bug out bag. Despite lacking tactical elements like MOLLE webbing, it still offers ample storage for your survival essentials, showcasing its versatility.
One aspect of this backpack that I found impressive is its dual zipper panel access to the main compartment. Similar to the Mystery Ranch backpack, this panel opening offers greater convenience compared to a top-access backpack. However, the backpack’s tube frame limits the interior space and lacks the expandable feature found in the Mystery Ranch pack. The Stratos-34 boasts adjustable shoulder straps and waist strap, allowing for a customized fit. Moreover, the waist strap includes two zippered pockets for storing small items that are needed on the go. Additionally, the backpack is constructed with high-quality materials, such as 420HD Nylon fabric, which offers excellent tear resistance and waterproof properties. Another positive attribute is the well-ventilated mesh back panel and lightweight air suspension frame, which not only supports the bag’s weight but also ensures a comfortable carrying experience.
Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 Premium Emergency Survival Bag
Although most serious survivalists advise purchasing and assembling a DIY bug out bag, there are various pre-packaged alternatives available that can serve as a starting point, such as the Sustain Supply Co. Comfort4 Premium Emergency Survival Bag. Designed for a group of four individuals, this kit contains the essential supplies needed to survive for 72 hours in an emergency situation. The package includes 48 packets of drinking water, four water purification straws (similar to the LifeStraw), 24 Mountain House meals, a portable stove, and a set of bowls and utensils for four people. To provide lighting and heat, the bag incorporates a ferro rod, fire starters, an LED lantern, and Cyalume SnapLight glow sticks. Additionally, it includes indispensable items like a first aid kit, emergency blankets, whistles, a fixed blade knife, and a bag to conveniently carry everything. Although this bag may not encompass every single item necessary, it does come remarkably close to meeting all your needs.
