To accomplish any mission, Navy SEALs, Special Forces, Army Rangers, and other military members need to have the right tools and gear to succeed.
This means you need to not only have enough space to carry all the gear that you require, but the pack needs to be constructed out of materials that can withstand the harshest of environments.
What Makes an Excellent Tactical Backpack or Rucksack?
When deciding on what backpack or rucksack you will purchase, it is essential to know what your mission is.
Based on your mission, the amount of storage space required, what features you need, and the materials used to construct the pack will change.
Capacity
You measure storage space for backpacks or rucksacks in liters or cubic inches.
If you are looking for a day pack, the amount of space required will be lower, and the pack will be less bulky.
If you spend several days in the field, you will need enough space to store your food, supplies, warming layers, tools, and sleeping system.
Materials
The field is harsh on packs, and if your pack is made with substandard materials, you can quickly lose gear, leading to mission failure.
Features
If you are stalking a target or going on a ruck run, the type of pack you will want will change.
Some packs offer dedicated weapon storage compartments, while others allow you to add weights.
It is important to note that Sailors are only allowed to wear black or navy blue backpacks in uniform.
Below are the top 15 Backpacks / Rucksacks Navy SEALs Use.
Table of Contents
#1. Rush24 2.0 Backpack 37L
- Capacity: 37 Liters
- Material: 1,000 Denier Nylon
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 3.84 lbs.
- Color(s): Ranger Green, Black, Double Tap, Kangaroo, Dark Navy
- Price: $130.00
The Rush24 2.0 Backpack 37L by 5.11 Tactical has everything you would want out of a day pack.
They constructed it out of 1000 denier nylon, which is tough against tears and is water-resistant.
5.11 Tactical offers features not seen in other brands, such as a fleece-lined eyewear/media pocket and a concealed carry compartment.
Another excellent thing about this pack is the multiple rows of MOLLE stripes to allow you to customize your go-bag in a hurry.
It also includes a padded internal laptop sleeve that stores up to a 15″ laptop.
You can stay hydrated with the included rear hydration pocket.
You get everything you want plus more with the Rush24 2.0 Backpack 37L by 5.11 Tactical.
It is available at 5.11 Tactical. Here’s where to buy it: www.511Tactical.com
#2. Venture 2300
- Capacity: 37.69 Liters
- Material: 330 Denier Cordura Ripstop
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 3.59 lbs.
- Color(s): Valo, Verde, Vias, Steel
- Price: $219.00
The Venture 2300 by KUIU is a standalone daypack that has an internal aluminum and polycarbonate frame.
With a storage capacity of 37.69 liters, this pack is perfect for a day in the field or a day hunting.
For superior organization, the Venture 2300 comes with two side pockets, two external zipper pockets, three internal mesh pockets, and built-in waist belt pockets.
They construct the pack out of 330 Denier Cordura Ripstop, making it extremely durable by being resistant against tears, rot, and sun damage.
The DWR and PU coating provides a waterproof and breathable membrane.
If the pack gets wet from your sweat or poor weather, the moisture quickly evaporates from the pack, keeping you and your gear dry.
With a customizable frame and waistband, you can quickly adjust the pack to fit you perfectly.
The Venture 2300 by KUIU has an excellent balance of features that will quickly make it your go-to daypack.
It is available at KUIU. Here’s where to buy it: www.KUIU.com
#3. Rucker 3.0
- Capacity: 20 Liters, 25 Liters
- Material: 1,000 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: Not Specified
- Color(s): Coyote, Black, Black Multicam, Multicam, Black/Red, Black/Blue
- Price: $185.00 – $215.00
The Rucker 3.0 by GORUCK provides a premium experience with its many features that enhance durability and comfort.
With the Rucker 3.0, you are ready to take on any training challenge with the included elevated ruck plate pocket that can handle up to 30 lbs. with the 20L version and 65 lbs. in the 25L variant.
While training, you will stay comfortable with the padded design.
It has a padded top, bottom, and sides for added comfort, and the 10mm EVA foam lumbar support padding will evenly distribute your pack’s weight.
If you are the type of person who enjoys rucking without a shirt on, the new Cordura design will not irritate your skin with friction burns.
Training in low-light environments can be dangerous, but the Rucker 3.0 includes reflective straps across the front.
If you are ready to take your training to the next level, the Rucker 3.0 by GORUCK is a must have pack.
It is available at GORUCK. Here’s where to buy it: www.GORUCK.com
#4. GR3 – USA
- Capacity: 45 Liters
- Material: 1,000 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 5.15 lbs.
- Color(s): Black, Steel, Black Multicam
- Price: $395.00
The GR3 – USA by GORUCK takes the concept of the GR1 and increases its capacity and features for a solid overnight pack.
Not only does it have a 45-liter capacity, but it also fits all requirements for a carry-on.
With its TSA-approved design, the storage space makes it perfect for overnight trips in the woods or visiting your family for the weekend.
If you are going to be traveling light, do not worry about having your gear bounce around in your pack.
The two included compression straps will cinch down your gear, pulling it closer to your body.
It comes with a removable hip belt, which will help secure your pack to your body, or you can remove it for a lower profile.
GORUCK crafted the pack with 1,000 Denier Cordura, which is resistant against water, rot, and abrasion damage.
Like the GR1, the main compartment opens flat, allowing you to quickly grab your gear and keep it organized.
The GR3 – USA by GORUCK is an excellent choice, with its impressive features that are TSA carry-on compliant.
It is available at GORUCK. Here’s where to buy it: www.GORUCK.com
#5. Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 Day Pack
- Capacity: 21 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 2.8 lbs.
- Color(s): Black, Coyote, Forest, Shadow, Wood Waxed, Hunter, Wildfire Black, DPM Camo
- Price: $125.00
Mystery Ranch designed the Urban Assault 21 Day Pack to be a lightweight ruggedized everyday use pack.
They constructed the pack out of 500 denier Cordura, which is resistant against sun, rot, and physical damage.
With 21 liters of storage space, you get enough room to securely put a 15″ laptop and a large tablet and still have tons of space with two internal accessory pockets.
The three-zipper exterior allows you to access your gear quickly when you need it.
With eight colors to choose from, you can pick a design that matches your style.
The Urban Assault 21 Day Pack by Mystery Ranch is an excellent pack for a day trip on the trails or going to class.
It is available at Black Ovis. Here’s where to buy it: www.BlackOvis.com
#6. AMP72 Backpack 40L
- Capacity: 40 Liters
- Material: 1,050 Denier Nylon, 500 Denier Dobby Nylon
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 4.4 lbs.
- Color(s): Black
- Price: $210.00
The AMP72 Backpack 40L by 5.11 Tactical is truly something special.
Not only does this pack have a concealed carry pocket, but it also has a side opening compartment where you can fit a 24″ carbine or rifle with a MOLLE-based platform.
Other notable features include a HEXGRID mounting platform, a clamshell opening, and an aluminum frame with thermoformed ergonomic panels.
With a 40-liter storage capacity, you can fit all your gear for a multi-day trip to the field.
It also has a rear compartment, which fits a hydration system or a laptop perfectly.
The AMP72 Backpack 40L by 5.11 Tactical is your every mission bag, which can be customized to fit any situation.
It is available at 5.11 Tactical. Here’s where to buy it: www.511Tactical.com
#7. Mystery Ranch Pop Up 28 Hunting Backpack
- Capacity: 28 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 4.9 lbs.
- Color(s): Coyote, Foliage, Optifade Subalpine
- Price: $325.00
Mystery Ranch’s Pop Up 28 Hunting Backpack provides all the features you want in a day pack.
The pack has a 28-liter capacity that can handle up to an 80 lb. load, which is perfect for hauling all your gear for a day hunt or intense hike.
You may wonder how a 28L daypack can handle up to 80 lbs. while being comfortable.
It features a new POP-UP frame system that is fully adjustable to pull your load close to your body.
It also features a Futura Yoke for a completely customized fit.
The included compression straps pull the load closer to the frame for improved mobility.
A nifty feature is that it is hydration reservoir compatible for an all-in-one pack.
If you are looking for an expandable daypack that can carry all your gear, the Pop Up 28 Hunting Backpack by Mystery Ranch is an excellent pick.
It is available at Black Ovis. Here’s where to buy it: www.BlackOvis.com
#8. Divide 1200
- Capacity: 19.66 Liters
- Material: 330 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 1.94 lbs.
- Color(s): Valo, Verde, Vias, Black
- Price: $139.00
KUIU constructed the Divide 1200 out of durable 330 denier Cordura, which is resistant against water and abrasions.
Weighing in at just under 2 lbs., this pack will be light on your feet and will provide a comfortable all-day wear.
With a storage capacity of 19.66 liters and five internal mesh compartments, you will have plenty of space for all the essentials.
They craft the back panel out of Spacer Air Mesh for added breathability and comfort.
The pack is also hydration system compatible, allowing you to stay hydrated in the field.
Accessory connection webbing loops allow you to attach your bow or weapon holder for an easy hike in the woods.
If you are looking for a lightweight day pack that is packed with features, the Divide 1200 by KUIU is an excellent choice.
It is available at KUIU. Here’s where to buy it: www.KUIU.com
#9. Stone Glacier Kiowa 3200 Backpack
- Capacity: 52.4 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 4.1 lbs.
- Color(s): Foliage
- Price: $329.00
Stone Glacier’s Kiowa 3200 Backpack has 52.4 liters of storage capacity, perfect for overnight hunts or hikes.
It is compatible with all SG frames, which allow you to carry a load of over 150 lbs.
The vertical zipper allows easy access to your gear, while the main compartment offers multiple internal pockets for superior organization.
With an internal frame, removable waistband, and heavy-duty 1″ duraflex military webbing and buckles, Stone Glacier offers a pack that allows you to secure your load for enhanced comfort and mobility firmly.
They construct the pack out of 500 denier Cordura, making it lightweight and resistant to damage.
The Kiowa 3200 Backpack by Stone Glacier is a complete package that offers endless applications in the field.
It is available at Black Ovis. Here’s where to buy it: www.BlackOvis.com
#10. Mystery Ranch Beartooth 80 Hunting Backpack
- Capacity: 85 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Lite Plus Cordura
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 6.7 lbs.
- Color(s): Coyote, Foliage, Optifade Subalpine
- Price: $550.00
Mystery Ranch’s Beartooth 80 Hunting Backpack has a massive load capacity of up to 85 liters, making it perfect for multi-day operations or hunts.
The pack includes a removable lid with zipper pockets, side stretch outer pockets, and two inner zipper pockets for maximum organization.
The pack has an impressive Light MT Frame that allows you to carry your load in comfort.
The OVERLOAD feature of the frame allows you to secure most of the load closer to your body for better comfort.
With a five-point flexible waist belt and a Futura Yoke, you can easily adjust the frame to fit you perfectly.
Besides offering maximum load distribution, the belt provides MOLLE straps to add accessories such as a knife or bear spray.
If you are looking for a multi-day rigid frame pack, the Beartooth 80 Hunting Backpack by Mystery Ranch is a solid choice.
It is available at Black Ovis. Here’s where to buy it: www.BlackOvis.com
#11. Pro 6000 Full Kit
- Capacity: 98.32 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Cordura Ripstop
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 7.76 lbs.
- Color(s): Valo, Verde, Vias, Ash Phantom
- Price: $569.00
KUIU’s Pro 6000 Full Kit combines their 98.32-liter bag, Carbon Fiber Frame, Pro Suspension Harness, and Pro Hip Belt Pouches.
This complete package is perfect for overnight trips in the woods, hiking, and operations.
They craft the Pro 6000 Bag out of rip-resistant 500 denier Cordura Ripstop, which has a K-DWR coating that repels water and dirt.
The bag is load tested over 150 lbs. and can handle all your gear and keep it organized with the ten included pockets.
Its carbon fiber frame is lightweight, comes in three different sizes, and has a complex internal foam core.
The pro suspension harness has a raised lumbar support, Spacer Air Mesh for added breathability and comfort, and power pulls for easy tightening.
With the included Pro Hip Belt Pouches, you can have quick access to your essential gear or ammunition.
This package has all the features and storage that you would want for a multi-day pack.
It is available at KUIU. Here’s where to buy it: www.KUIU.com
#12. GR1 – USA
- Capacity: 21 Liters, 26 Liters
- Material: 1,000 Denier Cordura
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 2.9 lbs.
- Color(s): Coyote, Black, Wolf Grey, Grey, Tan
- Price: $325.00
The GR1 – USA by GORUCK will keep up with you in the harshest of environments.
Made with high-quality 1,000 Denier Cordura, the pack is resistant against rips, tears, mildew, and water.
Besides the rugged design, the pack has three internal pockets, one external pocket, and a reinforced laptop compartment, which will fit all your essential gear.
The pack’s exterior comes with three rows of MOLLE straps, allowing you to customize your loadout.
You can keep your gear organized while on the move with the open flat main compartment, making it easy to grab medical supplies or other essentials.
You can take this pack with you wherever you go with the low-profile TSA-compliant design.
GORUCK packs are built in the United States and come with a lifetime warranty.
The GR1 – USA by GORUCK is a solid choice for all operators looking for a high-quality day pack.
It is available at GORUCK. Here’s where to buy it: www.GORUCK.com
#13. Pro 7800 Full Kit
- Capacity: 127.82 Liters
- Material: 500 Denier Cordura Ripstop
- Water Resistant: Yes
- Weight: 6.06 lbs
- Color(s): Valo, Verde, Vias, Ash Phantom
- Price: $589.00
The Pro 7800 Full Kit is essentially KUIU’s Pro 6000 kit, but with a much larger 127.82-liter bag.
You get the same great components, such as the Carbon Fiber Frame, Pro Suspension Harness, and Pro Hip Belt Pouches.
With 127.82 liters of storage space, you have enough space to pack enough gear and supplies for up to two weeks in the field.
The 500 denier Cordura ripstop and the water-resistant are essential features for this pack because it will be exposed to the elements most of the time.
For $20 more, you are getting a decent upgrade in storage compared to the Pro 6000, and it is recommended for those who plan to be in the field for more than a few days.
It is available at KUIU. Here’s where to buy it: www.KUIU.com
#14. Rush100 2.0 Backpack 60L
- Capacity: 60 Liters
- Material: 1,050 Denier Nylon
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 5.73 lbs.
- Color(s): Ranger Green, Black, Kangaroo
- Price: $250.00
5.11 Tactical’s Rush100 2.0 Backpack provides 60 liters of easily accessed storage space.
The pack includes a 270-degree zip opening to the main compartment for easy organization and quick access to your essential gear.
With a front admin pocket, you have plenty of space for notes, maps, and tools.
A unique touch that 5.11 Tactical has with the Rush100 2.0 is the fleece-lined top pocket, which is perfect for your sunglasses or cellphone.
It also includes a custom aluminum and fiberglass frame, which provides better weight distribution.
If you want an overnight pack with the quality that 5.11 Tactical is known for, and a price that can not be beat, this is your best bet.
It is available at 5.11 Tactical. Here’s where to buy it: www.511Tactical.com
#15. All Hazards Nitro Backpack 21L
- Capacity: 21 Liters
- Material: 1,050 Denier Nylon
- Water Resistant: No
- Weight: 3.8 lbs.
- Color(s): Black, Sandstorm
- Price: $140.00
The All Hazards Nitro Backpack 21L 5.11 Tactical has unique features that set it apart from its competition.
For a 21 Liter day pack, you can shove a lot of gear into it, while staying organized.
The dual main compartments have a 180-degree opening to access your essential gear quickly.
One main compartment has an orange low-vis liner that helps you identify your gear in poor lighting conditions.
It also includes an over-sized sunglass pocket to keep your shades scratch-free.
With the included admin pocket, it is easy to organize your gear.
Another unique feature is the pass-through compartment, which allows you to attach batons or breaching tools.
This daypack is perfect for travel, the field, or a day trip.
It is available at 5.11 Tactical. Here’s where to buy it: www.511Tactical.com
See Also
10 Best Tactical Messenger Bags
References / Resources
How to Choose a Backpack: Sizing & Fit Guide
How to Pack and Hoist a Backpack
He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and has served over 18 years as a communications maintenance technician with three deployments to the Middle East.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in Information System Security with a concentration in Digital Forensics from American Military University.
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