What is a Bug Out Bag?
Bug out bag (also known as “BOB”) is a survival kit to store all items that you need to survive when disasters like tropical storm, flash flood, hurricane and tsunami strike and you are forced to leave home for an undetermined period. Bug out bag is often referred as 72-hour kit, personal emergency relocation kit (P.E.R.K) and get home bag.
The term bug out was first used in military combat by the U.S. army units. They were directed to bug out when they risked being overrun and needed to withdraw quickly but survive in the field. Hence, the main reason of a bug out gear is so that one can prepare and evacuate swiftly when disasters strike. In this article, I will be comparing a bug out bag list based on their design, build material and cost. Choosing the best bug out bag is important because a badly designed BOB would hurt your back especially during hiking and impede your chances of survival. Let’s get right into it!
Bug Out Bag Buyers Guide
What features do you look out for in a perfect BOB? Here are few key attributes that I think are important:
Weight
As a rule of thumb, your BOB should be around 15% of your body weight. If you are at an excellent fitness level, you can carry up to 20% of body weight.
Bag Frame
Straps play an important role as it needs to be comfortable and made of strong material. Padded, wide and contoured straps are key features to look for in your assault pack. The top of shoulder strap should sit 1 or 2 inches below the shoulders while the bottom of the pack should rest nicely on your back, never more than 4 inches below your waistline. A waist belt is a bonus to help distribute load evenly and take pressure off your back and shoulders.
Material
Few essential features that you need to consider are wear-resistant and water splash resistant. If your focus is to keep the BOB contents dry. As a general rule of thumb, your tactical survival gear should be made from 500D – 1200D CORDURA nylon fabric (or better). Not 200D, Kodra or polyester.
Capacity
Extra capacity allows you to hold bulky items like a sleeping bag and fire kit. A BOB should be roughly the size of an airplane carry which is roughly 40 to 50 litres and sufficient to carry all the items in your bug out bag checklist.
MOLLE
Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) allows you to attach other gear such as knife, paracord and pouches onto the bag. MOLLE webbing can also enable you to organize your expensive gear on the interior
Best Bug Out Bag Comparison Table
| Product Image | Product | Capacity | Rating | Benefits | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5.11 RUSH 72 Backpack | Check Latest Price | 55 Liters | 5.0 / 5.0 | This is a SOLID tactical backpack that allows efficient organization and its built like a tank |
 | GoRuck GR2 | Check Latest Price | 40 Liters | 4.9/5.0 | Made with durable and indestructible materials |
 | REEBOW Tactical Backpack | Check Latest Price | 40 Liters | 4.5/5.0 | Made from sturdy materials coupled with MOLLE system |
 | Direct Action | Check Latest Price | 25 Liters | 4.7/5.0 | Perfect for every day carry where its water resistant and lightweight |
 | Maxpedition Vulture-II | Check Latest Price | 34 Liters | 4.5 / 5.0 | Cheaper backpack that's great for 3 to 5 days survival situation |
 | CONDOR Assault Pack | Check Latest Price | 50 Liters | 4.0 / 5.0 | Capable of carrying a large load and it comes with heavy duty carry handle |
 | SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack | Check Latest Price | 24.2 Liters | 4.5/5.0 | Ideal assault pack for an AFFORDABLE budget |
 | CVLIFE Tactical Backpack | Check Latest Price | 60 Liters | 4.0/5.0 | Besides being priced reasonably, this backpack has a HUGE storage space and a 12-month warranty |
Best Bug Out Bags
5.11 Tactical RUSH 72 Backpack
Background – The Rush 72 is a tactical gear that has lots of pockets, allowing you to organize your gears more efficiently. Also, this bug out bag can fit into the overhead compartment on planes, making it really convenient while you travel. ’72’ means the bag is made to store supplies which is sufficient for 72 hours (3 day assault pack).
Backpack Storage – This large military backpack is made for heavy-duty tasks. The front pocket has a volume of 15.5″ x 11.5″ x 2″.
The admin panel can fit everyday essentials like a notepad, pen, important documents, boot knife, keys, cards, etc.
For the main compartment, it has a volume of 23″ (H) x 13.5″ (L) x 8.5″.
Also, the bug out bag features three zippered pockets so you can organize your survival tools accordingly. The hydration is 21″ x 13.5″, the left side pocket and the right side pocket both having the volume of 16.5″ x 6″ x 1.75″.
The pockets allow you to organize your gear systematically. This bag may even rival most electronics backpacks, allowing easy organization.
If you still feel that the bug out bag is too small for you, not to worry. The main body of the bag and the front is an expandable compartment to stow a helmet or jacket. To top things off, the top of the bag has an extra gadget pocket to fit devices like a camera or glasses which you would need quick access to.
What is it suitable for – This bug out backpack is suitable for travel and camping due to its sturdy features and PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System) webbing which is handy to hold devices. The webbing is really durable, and is capable of holding up to everyday use.
This bug out bag is built like a tank, suitable for a bugging out scenario. The Rush 72 will be capable of storing a huge load of your clothing and important gears. Hence, it is also why it is the best bag for bugging out among the other choices.
What is the bag made of – The bag is made from 1000D nylon which is of 55 liters. Built with dual-zippered front and main compartments with grip pulls.
Also, the bag comes with a metal rod for support (and it can be removed too).
Straps – The bug out bag has foam shoulder straps, waist strap, compression straps to keep your bug out bag secure and tight.
When tightened, the weight of the bag is evenly distributed and it feels fairly comfortable that you would not have issues carrying it around the whole day.
Furthermore, there’s a belt that sits perfectly on your hips, which helps to remove most of the weight from your shoulders. The only downside is the belt may not be rigid enough to support loads that are too heavy.
Features – The color of the bag is great (dull color) because it does not absorb excessive heat, which causes the stuff inside the bag to be hot.
Suggested Tweaks – Since the zippers are black, I would recommend changing the zippers to something that has a bright color. The black zippers tend to camouflage with the pack, making it difficult to locate the zippers.
Things to look out for – The shoulder strap is around 10cm wide. It is possible that the shoulder strap may rub against your skin, causing you to feel uncomfortable.
My Take – The 5.11 Rush 72 backpack can be utilized as a multipurpose pack, bug out bag, army backpack, survival backpack or even an outdoor backpack.
Even if you use it for long-term travelling, the bag will turn out fine. The material of this bug out bag will not easily wear off.
This bag is really sturdy because of the excellent back support design and high-quality material. It’s definitely great for people who like to pack more stuff for their weekend trips. I am sure you can work comfortably with this backpack despite the heavy load.
If you are looking for a lighter duty backpack, you can also check out the 5.11 Tactical RUSH 24 backpack and 5.11 Tactical RUSH 12 has the exact same features as the RUSH 72 but smaller size and capacity.
GoRuck GR2 Tactical Backpack
Famous for their durable and indestructible material…it’s bombproof. At 40 liters, the GR2 is a great military rucksack to use for one bag travel. If you’re willing to put up with a little more weight, the durability of the GR2 is off the charts. Designed by a Former Green Beret, Jason McCarthy—this bag speaks for itself and is not messing around. GR2 is made using YKK zippers and 1000 denier CORDURA. This gives the survival rucksack a high strength to weight ratio and durability. This makes them one of the best tactical rucksack available in the market.
Direct Action Dragon Tactical Backpack
Background – The Direct Action Dragon is designed for Military and Law enforcement, and it is a 2-day backpack which is a great survival bag that is suitable for tactical duties.
This bug out bag is versatile enough to function as an EDC (everyday carry) because it only has 25 liters capacity compared to a 72 hour backpack.
Backpack storage – This backpack comes with 4 compartments: (1) The Main compartment (with internal pocket); (2) The Back Compartment; (3) The Front pocket and (4) The side pockets.
The Main Compartment comes with an internal pocket to help keep your things static. This compartment is compatible for hydration bladder too.
The Back compartment comes with padded sleeves, heavy-duty YKK zippers and Duraflex hardware (plastic buckles).
The Front pockets have a detachable waist belt, and it comes with a Velcro ID Panel. The Velcro keepers are for extra strappings, ensuring that things look neat and tidy when those straps are not in use.
As for the side pockets, the MOLLE / PALS system on the sides allow you to put gears too. The side pockets are expandable too.
Straps – The back shoulder straps are relatively thin. I will definitely recommend this bag to you if you have a smaller body-frame because your neck wouldn’t feel that stiff if you carry this bag for a prolonged period.
The bag comes with high-quality padding too. The back padding is firm and thick, which makes the bag comfortable for you to carry around, be it a hike up the mountain or a walk to your office premises.
You can be sure that the Dragon Egg has the most comfortable shoulder straps you can see on an assault pack.
Features – The “Egg” shape allows the pack to have a smaller height and width, although it has similar capacity with most backpacks that has greater width and height. The “Egg” shape makes this bag suitable for office environment too, making sure that you do not catch too much unnecessary attention.
You will be able to fit all you need into the bag, because the bag is capable of stretching out like an egg.
Also, the Direct Action Dragon Tactical Backpack comes with belt kits or ballistic vests.
The bag comes with a MOLLE / PALS system that is lightweight, snag-free and it does not absorb water.
What is the bag made of – The bag is made with Cordura 500D fabric. It has a water-resistant coated skin and it’s lightweight.
This bag is made for abuse! Although you have thrown the bag around, it should be able to withstand the rough treatment.
Furthermore, it has elastic side pockets that can fit your water bottles or gadgets.
The bag manufacturer had patented the combat vent system design for the direct action dragon for better user comfort, especially during prolonged use.
This means that what you are getting is not just another ordinary bag designed for tactical duties and comfort, it’s definitely MADE for bugging out!
The contoured foam profiles with multiple air channels help keep the pack off the user’s back preventing heat build-up and sweating.
The zipper pulls are made with 550, and the best part is that the bag handle is also made using braided on a heavy plastic loop, forming a flawless loop pattern.
Also, the zipper pulls have rubber as a protective sheath. The zipper tabs are made from heavy-duty plastic and are curved to fit the contour of your fingers.
My Take – This tactical bug out bag is suitable to act as a larger EDC backpack or a basic assault backpack.
I would definitely recommend this bag to any survival enthusiasts that are looking for a bug out bag that is smaller in size.
If you are looking out for an everyday carry bag, this would be a great fit too, because it can systematically store your everyday accessories.
Maxpedition Vulture-II Rucksack Backpack
Background – This bug out bag is built for larger individuals due to its large compartment size and wide bottom design. The Maxpedition Vulture-II is great for long hikes, bugging out and deployment because it can technically be considered as a 3 to 5 days pack and still has some room to spare for your survival equipment.
Compartments – For the Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack, it has 3 huge compartments and a wide bottom design.
The main compartment has a volume of 20.5″ (H) x 16″ (W) x 7.5″ (D). This compartment is large enough to hold quite a lot of gears.
At the top, there are small zippered pockets for quick access items.
The front pouch has a capacity of 15.5″ (H) x 12″ (W) x 2.75″ (D). This secondary compartment is really spacious, and it’s suitable for putting socks and toiletries.
As for the slip pockets, they are 15.5″ (H) x 12″ (W). This is great for stuffing notebooks.
In total, the capacity of the bag is 2100 cubic inches, which is around 34 liters. The weight of the bag is 3 lbs. (8 oz.) Although this bag is HUGE, it’s still really comfortable even if you carry it around for long hikes.
Straps – The straps are made to keep you comfortable even after a long hike.
The integrated chest and belt clips are meant to keep your backpack extra secure.
The additional clips on the side of the bag helps you to keep your bag packed tightly, which helps you to keep it into overhead compartments in airplanes.
Features – There is a small pocket on the top for quick access items and a Velcro square opening the drinking tube.
Furthermore, this bag is waterproof too, which is great for a bug out situation.
I think it’s important to highlight the ergonomic design of this bug out backpack, where it’s designed to not drag you down. Maxpedition does this by adding a curvaceous, foam-padded double shoulder straps contour to your chest, making it really easy to carry around.
Also, the sternum suspension belt helps distribute weight evenly throughout your upper body, so you can carry a load without falling behind.
The whole bag completely modular with MOLLE straps, where you have the option of adding weight on it.
Things to look out for – The material used to build this bag is pretty stiff (1000D nylon – a tough fabric), so it will take some time for the bag to loosen and fit your your body. This stiff outer material may be abrasive to your bare skin too.
Also, you need to pull back some overlapping fabric so that you can unzip the zippers, which is not ideal for an emergency situation.
My Take – The bag has spacious compartments, loads of little pockets and tuck away panels, making the investment in this bag worthwhile. However, the material is stiff and it might take a while for the bag to loosen and fit your body.
It can function as a camping bag too, because it’s big enough to store most of your gears.
If you plan to haul a lot of gears with you, this is definitely a suitable bag for you. Since this bag is compatible for storing concealed carry weapons, it would be a great addition to your everyday carry collection as well.
CONDOR 3 Day Assault Pack
Background – The Condor Outdoor Assault Pack has large load cargo capacity compartment, suitable for backpackers with larger body frame who intend to carry more goods.
Total Capacity – The bag has a total capacity of 50 liters. To be more precise, the total dimension o
Pockets – This bag has a huge pocket on the back frame where you can fit two hydration kits, various mesh pouches and your bug out bag essentials.
This bag is designed in a way which allows easy access to your gears and quick-organization. The Condor Outdoor Assault Pack comes with 7 pockets to fit your survival tools such as maps, notebook and pen.
Features – This outdoor backpack also allows you to size down and adjust according to your body size and height which is a big bonus.
The Condor also has a foam pad on the back panel for comfort and airflow. It is equipped with shoulder straps, sternum strap and a removable waist belt to secure the bag onto your body.
Just to highlight some features of the shoulder strap, it aligns with the body contour and it comes with a D-Ring that can be used for equipment attachment.
Furthermore, this bag is hydration-pack compatible, where it’s capable of storing a pack which can hold 2L or 3L bladder.
There’s an individual foam padded back panel so that you can carry the bug out bag with extra comfort as it will maximize air flow.
This bag is highly adjustable. Even if you are built with a smaller frame or you have a larger built, this bag can fit you just fine. You will be surprised at how flexible it is.
Handle – If you are worried that the handle will become faulty halfway when you are bugging out, then this bag is the bag for you. The bag comes with a
Downsides – After considering the good, let’s take a look at possible issues. The zippers and material of the bag is not as durable as it may break apart after a few months of light-moderate usage, so this might not be the best bag to get if you are carrying a
My Take – This bag would be suitable for survival enthusiasts who feel like being ‘extra-prepared’. You can store the bag to the brim and still carry it comfortably to your bug-out location.
Do note that this bag may not be to withstand too much weight. If you have a tight budget and you are looking something decent to put your items in, then this bag will be suitable. However, if you have some spare case, I will suggest looking at other options because this bag may not be as lasting.
REEBOW Gear Military Tactical Backpack
Background – The REEBOW is made using sturdy material on the bag exterior coupled with thick metal zippers and MOLLE system. It is functional and priced well compared to the rest of the pack.
Storage – It has a built-in capacity of 40 liters. In more technical terms, this bag has a size of 13 inches x 20 inches x 11 inches.
This is plenty of room for storing food for 3 days, backpacking cookware, clothing and water bottles.
The pocket for the hydration tube is a bonus but it does not come with the bag itself.
Organization – There are little storage pockets inside the pockets and yes, the cool American flag patch comes with the bag.
Since the interior of the bag is filled with many pockets, it’s recommended that you get this bag if you are enthusiastic about organizing your stuff into little pockets. Also, each pocket has two zipper pulls.
Materials – This bag is made from 600D fabric, which is durable and water-resistant too.
The outer-layer of this bag is made of good quality materials, which feels thick too. The inner-layer is malleable, which makes storing things easy.
For the zippers, you will find that it’s firmly threaded onto the bag, and it’s attached to thick metal zippers. Even with it being thick, you can still open and close the zippers with ease because they are smooth.
The buckles are made with plastic which is sturdy enough to support the heavyweight which the bag carries.
Features – This assault backpack comes with heavy duty zippers and cord pulls. The bag also features side and front-load compression system. This features can be useful when you are carrying larger items and require to secure the items tightly.
Similar to other backpacks, the REEBOW also has mesh padded back to ensure user comfort with airflow at the back. Also, the shoulder straps has thick padding which help you by allowing you to carry heavyweight without feeling sore.
Generally, the straps are comfortable and adjustable.
However, the waist strap that goes across the torso between the shoulder straps are not sewn on one end making it removable.
This is a molle tactical backpack that contains molle webbing throughout. This is excellent for attaching additional tactical pouches or self-defense gears.
Things to note – So, is it a suitable bag to bring along for travel on a plane? If you fill this bag to the brim, it will be difficult to fit under the seats. However, it does meet the carry-on regulations.
If you have a large built and you are hesitating to buy this bag, please don’t! Even if you are 6 foot tall, the chest and shoulder straps will fit you fine. However, the tummy strap may be a bit tight.
Downsides – The waist strap for the torso is pretty short especially for a person which is heavier in weight or has a larger stomach. However, they are removable because they are not sewn on one end.
My Take – Due to its affordable price and features, I would say this bag makes a great tactical assault pack. You can bring it as a trekking backpack, hunting backpack or just day pack for daily use. It’s a big and sturdy bag to help fulfill your needs.
This bag can help you hold a lot of stuff safely. It’s definitely a bag that’s suitable for emergencies such as tornadoes or hurricanes. This is definitely one of the top-recommended bags if you are looking out for a 72-hour emergency kit.
SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack
Background – If you are looking to build an ideal assault pack on an affordable budget, the SOG Ninja can be considered. The SOG Ninja shares similar features as other packs such as the MOLLE webbing but it is only 24.2 liters. If you prefer a larger compartment size, SOG also offers 33 Liters Prophet Backpack which has a sleek design.
Storage – This 24.2-liter (13 inches x 18 inches x 3.5 inches) tactical backpack features a large main compartment and a front accessory pocket with organizer. There is also a small accessory pocket for flat item storage and a top pocket for eyeglasses and electronic devices.
There’s even a soft-lined electronic device pocket, a small accessory pocket and a zippered front organizer pocket.
To be more precise, on the front, there is a small accessory pocket for flat item storage (it comes with an organizer too).
On the side, there are stretchy pouches which can fit most water bottles.
Although some people may claim that this bag is small, the fact of the matter is that the backpack has contains plenty of compartments for you to keep your gears.
Materials – The bag is made using water-resistant polyester, not nylon. With the price paid, the difference in material strength is expected. The backpack is water-repellent so you don’t have to worry about it getting wet.
However, the SOG ninja carries comfortably on your shoulders with its adjustable straps and sternum slider.
Straps – The bag should be comfortable to carry because it’s fitted with a yoke-style adjustable and padded strap.
Also, there’s an adjustable sternum slider too.
Features – This bag also features a contoured foam back to support multiple air channels to prevent excessive heat build-up. There is also a stretchable side pouch to fit your water bottle.
In addition, you could also use the SOG Ninja hydration bladder pocket to fit a water bladder for hydration purpose. With this functionality, you will be able to quench your thirst no matter where you go.
What’s cool about this bag? There is a velcro patch holder on the front of the pack to attach a flag patch!
You can opt to add the SOG accessory pouch (small) if you are looking to increase the size of the backpack which can be easily attached to the mole webbing outside your pack. The SOG pouches are elastic inside making it suitable for storage of flashlights, pen knife and multi-tools as well as mesh pockets to keep loose items.
If you are looking for some tactical features, look no further! This bag include MOLLE webbing for attaching a variety of optional accessories.
Also, there’s a tubing port that allows you to access the hydration bladder pocket. Do note that the reservoir is sold separately from the bug out bag.
The bottom of the pack has 2 grommeted drain holes, and it has four points to attach a sleeping bag.
Warranty – This bag is even backed with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. You don’t have to worry about the bag giving way as long as it’s not abused unreasonably.
My Take – This is a reasonably-priced backpack that is even great for daily commute, travel and hiking. This bug out bag will definitely keep you organized for any adventure!
This is a versatile and function bug out bag which is suitable for outdoor adventures, or even for school-use by your kids too!
CVLIFE Outdoor Military Tactical Backpack
Background – CVLIFE pack comes with one main bag, 2 side bags and one front bag. With its low price, it is definitely not military-grade or heavy duty bag, but it gets the job done. Suitable for bugging out, travelling and hiking as the bag has ample space (60L) to keep your extra water, first aid kit, fire starter kit and wet weather kit. This bag weighs around 1750 grams, which is more suitable for people with a larger built.
Materials – This tactical backpack is made using 600D nylon material which is water-resistant.
But, do note that the material used to make this backpack is not as strong as most $200 backpack. If you want a bug out backpack with higher durability, I would suggest setting a higher budget and get a bag which can last.
However, I would say that generally the construction for this bag is sturdy and the stitching is of reasonable quality.
Design – The design of the bag is similar to an army camouflage backpack, it can be used as a hiking backpack, trekking or camping rucksack and EDC outdoor backpack.
Storage – This bug out bag is pretty spacious, where it contains one main large compartment, one front detachable bag (you can use it as a tactical fanny), and two side detachable tactical backpack accessories pouches. This bag has around 60 liters of space for you to manouvre.
To break it down further: The Main Compartment has a volume of 19.7 inches (50 cm) x 13 inches (33 cm) x 8.7 inches (22 cm). As for the front pockets, it has a volume of 5.1 inches (13 cm) x 12.6 inches (32 cm) x 3.9 inches (10 cm). Finally, for the side pockets, it has a volume of 7.9 inches (20 cm) x 4.7 inches (12 cm) x 2.4 inches (6 cm).
There are 2 detachable side bags which can be used as a first aid kit bag to store medical items such as alcohol wipes and bandages. You can even use one as a fire starter kit too.
Since this bag is huge, where it comes with 3 detachable small packs, you will definitely have enough space to keep your items.
You will be able to adjust the bag to your liking, putting your packs at suitable places. Even if you carry 30 pounds of gears, things should still feel comfortable.
Straps – The bag also comes with adjustable shoulder straps, chest belt, waist straps and dual compression straps to secure your items onto your body.
Features – This is a military molle backpack which allows you to attach your outdoor gears with ease. You can even add tactical pouches or sleeping pads.
The bag comes with rain diverting flaps so that you can keep your backpack safe from water.
Also, the bag has 2 clips which helps hold the bladder in place, ensuring that the water line do not crimp.
The large inside pocket will be able to hold your hydration bag with ease, and the clips will help keep your bag upright too.
Warranty – This bag comes with a 12 months warranty. The customers are really happy with their customer service too. If your bag is faulty, all you have to do is report and you will likely get your bag replaced.
Downside – What are the cons? You may find that the zippers are large and sometimes noisy.
Also, there may be extra threads sticking out of the stitching, which I will suggest that you cut out. However, with the price you are getting for this pack, I would say that these downsides are insignificant.
My Take – If big and customizable is what you are looking for, this bug out gear might be just right for you! This detachable tactical backpack allows easy customization. Its superior molle system allows you to attach things which are necessary too.
If you are short on budget and you are looking for a bug out bag, the CVLIFE Outdoor Military Tactical Backpack definitely top the list. If you are looking to go for a hike up the hills or go for a camping trip, this bag will be a good fit.
Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack
Background – Generally, Maxpedition backpacks are built for you to haul gears. The bag is made to ensure that you are able to carry your load with ease.
The Maxpedition Falcon-II is one of the successful Maxpedition backpacks, built for rough-use. It’s made to have high durability and good ergonomics.
Storage – This bag is relatively large, with a capacity of 1520 cubic inches (25 liters).
To be more specific, the main compartment has a volume of 18 inches (H) x 9.5 inches (W) x 4.75 inches (D). The Secondary Compartment has a volume of 16 inches (H) x 8 inches (W) x 3 inches (D). The upper front pouch has a volume of 10 inches (H) x 7 inches (W) x 2.5 inches (D), while the lower front pouch has a volume of 10 inches (H) x 7 inches (W) x 2.5 inches (D).
This bag has independent compartments with various pockets, pouches and PALS attachment points, which shows that this bag has more functionality than most bags with twice its size.
For people desiring more storage, they have the option to unzip the YKK Zippers and further expand the main compartment. You will be surprised at how much room you can get with this bag. I am sure that it’s capable of accommodating your camping essentials and even store extra water supply.
This size of this bag would be perfect for you if you like a bag with moderate capacity. For purposes of clarity, I will lay out the 5 compartments again: (1) the main compartment; (2) the middle compartment; (3) two smaller pouches on the exterior of the bag and (4) the hidden compartment which is for hydration.
Material – This backpack is wholly made from 1050-Denier, which is both water and abrasion resistant. Also, this bug out bag has a Teflon fabric protector made for grime resistance and allows easy maintenance.
I can assure you that the materials used to make this bag is high-quality. The bag may feel a bit stiff and compact at first, and it will take awhile for it to soften up. This bag is definitely ready to suffer wear and tear, which means you don’t have to be too careful with it. You can cramp you bag with stuff and still be sure that this bag last for years.
Straps – The straps are really well-made, but there is no thick padding. Carrying a large amount of weight may be a bit straining for your arms.
Furthermore, there’s a well-made handle on top of the bag, giving you the option to carry the bag using it. Don’t worry about the handle spoiling because it is strong.
Features – This bug out bag comes with an ergonomic shape, padded shoulder straps and sturdy waist support.
Downsides – The stitching of the bag is rather low-quality.
Also, this backpack does not have side pockets to put your water bottles. I would suggest using the water bladder compartment to store your drinking water.
This bag is not suitable for carrying heavy items. I would suggest not carrying anything more than 30 pounds, because it will feel pretty uncomfortable. However, the bag itself should be able to withstand up to 50 pounds of things, but you will feel uncomfortable carrying this amount of weight with this bag.
There are also many straps hanging from the bag, and you may want to remove a few for ease of movement. You can remove the cross-body straps. Or, you can tie those loose straps to ensure that it doesn’t get in your way.
My Take – This bag is rather sleek and compact. If you are looking for a bag that lets you squeeze into tight places, this is definitely the bag for you.
This is a long and narrow backpack, which wouldn’t feel too bulky. Since nothing sticks out from your back, it would be great if you are carrying this bag for cycling too.
Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon-II Backpack
Background – This backpack is laid out as the tenth best bug out bag because I thought it would be helpful to put this bag as a potential option. If you are looking for something sleek for your bug out bag, I would highly encourage you to check out the Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon-II Backpack.
This is a compact rectangular urban pack is definitely something you should consider if you are built with a small frame.
Materials – This bag is made from a thick vinyl material which is waterproof. If water were to get on your pack, you should be able to see water beading on the surface of your pack. This ensures that the electronics in your backpack is safe and sound.
You can be sure that the quality of the cloth used and the zippers are high-quality. It should is made to last.
Straps – The bag comes with a Y-compression strap which is made from a 1-inch webbing. The straps are pretty stiff so you may want to loosen it up a bit.
The bag carriers pretty high, which is usually better for your back. This is especially the case if you bend over often because there wouldn’t be any movement by the bag.
This bag should fit perfectly even if you have a small frame. You should be able to remove the sternum strap if you like to make sure it doesn’t get in your way.
Features – The bag has a bungee cord retention. This backpack also has breathable padding too, which makes it easier for you to carry weight.
There are external PALS webbings too for any attachments. You can be sure that there’s sufficient Molle Loops for you to hang things on the bag too.
Storage – This backpack have a volume of 1100 cubic inches (or 18 Liters). Comparatively, this backpack has a lower volume so I would suggest keeping only things that are urgently required. This backpack may be ideal to carry 1 or 2 day’s worth of things, but it may be a bit overstretched for 3 day’s worth of things.
Also, there are two side mesh pouches where you can store a 1 liter water bottle. These side pockets are made to carry your bottle of water.
Downside – There’s no extra compartments on this bag. This means that there’s no concealed storage which you can use, and there’s no place for fitting a hydration bladder too.
Conclusion
Comparing all 8 bags from the table, I would definitely recommend the 5.11 Tactical RUSH 72 Backpack as the best bug out bag this year. The bag has 1000D Nylon material, ample space (55 liters), expandable compartments and reasonable cost. If you are looking for military-grade material and cost does not matter much, then the GORUCK GR2 (40 liters) would be the best survival kit for you.
However, for folks on a tight budget and wanting to get a bug out bag as a gift. The Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack (34 liters) or REEBOW Gear Military Tactical Backpack (40 liters) would be ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack
- GoRuck GR2
- Direct Action Dragon Tactical Backpack
- Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack
- Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
- Reebow Gear Military Tactical Backpack
- SOG Ninja Tactical Day Pack
- CVLIFE Outdoor Military Tactical Backpack
- Water Supply (water purification tablets, Personal water filter, Emergency water pouch)
- Survival food and utensils (Food Ration bar, Emergency food supply or food kit, camping stove)
- Shelter (Shelter Tube Tent, Mylar Blanket and Poncho)
- Medical Supplies (First Aid Prepared kit)
- Survival Tools (Multi-tools, Tactical Flashlight, Garmin GPS, Boot Knife and Paracord)