In uncertain times, the wisdom of being prepared cannot be overstated. A well-packed bug out bag—an emergency kit filled with essential items to sustain someone for 72 hours—is considered crucial for any unexpected situation, from natural disasters to sudden evacuations.
The idea here is to have at the ready all the tools and provisions one might need if there’s no time to gather belongings or if access to everyday comforts is cut off.
Choosing the right bug out bag is a balance between portability and capacity. It needs to be robust enough to carry necessities like water, food, first aid supplies, a change of clothes, and other survival gear, all while being comfortable to carry possibly over long distances.
While the concept of self-sufficiency in crisis has a timeless appeal, modern bug out bags have evolved to incorporate materials and designs that enhance durability, comfort, and organization.
When evaluating options, one must consider factors such as the material’s resilience to harsh weather, the bag’s weight when empty, the comfort of its straps and backing, as well as its compartmentalization abilities.
The capacity of the bag also matters, as does its adaptability to different body types and scenarios. Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone looking to prepare for emergencies, choosing a bug out bag that suits your needs is imperative.
Table of Contents
- Comparison Table of the Best Bug Out Bags
- 5.11 Tactical Rush72 Backpack
- Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
- Maxpedition Vulture-II 3-Day Backpack
- Paratus 3 Day Operator’s Pack
- Monkey Paks Tactical 3 Day Backpack
Top Bug Out Bags for Emergencies
In uncertain times, being prepared is paramount, and that’s why we’ve curated a selection of top bug out bags for you. These bags are packed with features to help us endure unexpected emergencies or adventures.
From spacious compartments to durable materials, we’ve considered it all, ensuring you’re well-equipped when the need to pick up and go arises.
Whether faced with a natural disaster or planning an off-grid weekend, our guide intends to help you find the bug out bag that suits our needs perfectly.
| Best Bug Out Bag - 5 we like! | Details |
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5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Bug out Backpack
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Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
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Maxpedition Vulture II 3 Day Backpack
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Paratus 3 day Operators Backpack
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Monkey Paks Tactical 3 Day Backpack
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What makes a Military Style Bug Out Bag a Better Option than a Regular Backpack?
While regular backpacks are available in large sizes and can offer decent storage capacity, the best option is to always get a dedicated pack. They are better equipped, both in design and functionalities, for dealing with the rigors and the treatment often experienced when used as a bug out bag. These often ‘military-style’ survival backpacks will hold up against the toughest of conditions and situations, and are made with only the strongest and most durable materials.
As you will undoubtedly discover, a well-designed and well-made survival backpack will have the necessary qualities to help you get through the worst that nature, or mankind, can throw at you. Whether that is a tornado, hurricane, biological outbreak, period of civil unrest, or any other situation that forces you to quickly leave the safety of your own home.
Necessary Requirements:
- First and foremost, a reliable bug-out bag will hold up to 72 hours’ worth of supplies comfortably. Providing you with enough space to keep your food, water, and all other essential gear required for your survival, protected, and secure.
- Some of the best bug out bags match specifications recommended and upheld by the military. This means you can be confident they offer the best level of quality that the commercial market can offer.
- A high-quality bug out bag will have a variety of pockets and compartments to store numerous types of items. Such as phones and hi-tech sensitive gear to snacks, lighters, flashlights, and compasses. They also have latching-on points for attaching other equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, hatchets, shovels, etc.
- Many bug out bags have excellent weight distribution, so there is not a problem with one of your arms or shoulders having to carry too much weight.
- Designed to withstand hard knocks and scrapes in the harshest environments. And to endure the worst types of weather. Even some of the more affordable bug out bags will resist rainfall and water damage effectively.
Useful Tips to Help You Choose the Best Bug Out Bag
These days, high-end bug out bags are more readily available at a decent price than ever before. Our list of the best bug out bags even includes some bags that cost less than $150. Though they still provide the same quality that the leading brands in the industry can offer.
To find the best bug out bag, you have to think which one is most suitable when it comes to what you need it for. Do you want a cheaper bag that you can take on camping trips “just in case”. Or would you prefer a serious backpack that will protect your supplies and belongings under extreme conditions?
The next step is to think about your bug out plan and consider what items you’ll actually need to carry. Make a list and prepare an inventory of food supplies, helpful gadgets, flashlights, batteries, hand crank radios, and any other item you will need to survive an extreme SHTF situation.
Finally, choose your price range. Determine the size and weight limit of the bug out bag you need. The terrain and the weather conditions you will, in all probability, face. This will also help you determine the best color for your bag.
Once you have compiled that information, checking for an appropriate bug out bag should be relatively easy. Alternatively, you can check our list of FIVE of the best bug out bags currently available in 2021.
Best Bug Out Bags – Our Top 5
5.11 Tactical Rush 72 2.0 Backpack Bug Out Bag
A list is not fit for purpose if it does not include the RUSH72 backpack from 5.11 Tactical. After reading just a few user reviews you will quickly realize that you are dealing with one extremely reliable, versatile, and well-made survival backpack.
The RUSH72 exemplifies preparedness and is definitely one of the best, if not THE best bug out bag currently available on the market. That becomes a definite ‘best’ when compared against similarly priced survival bags.
For this reason, the RUSH72 deserves some serious consideration.
In fact, it’s extremely difficult to find anything with the RUSH72 with which to pick fault, it really is that good a backpack! Not only does this backpack offer a huge amount of storage capacity, but it is also at the very pinnacle of quality backpack construction. Made using only the strongest and most reliable materials.
Construction
The survival pack has dual compression straps on either side of the bag. An excellent feature when on the move as they will tightly secure all your gear. This will stop your gear from moving around whilst keeping your backpack rigid at the same time.
The carrying yoke has adjustable padded shoulder straps that are quite wide. This helps with weight distribution. It also has a wide adjustable padded waist belt, and sternum straps.
There are numerous latching points located around the pack which are great for attaching additional pieces of equipment such as a sleeping bag or a tent.
As with all 5.11 Tactical Survival packs, the RUSH72 is MOLLE and 5.11 Tier compatible. This means other attachments can be added to the bag, like the RUSH TIER Rifle Sleeve and RUSH MOAB 6 Sling pack, for example. Any of which will either increase storage capacity or improve functionality.
Another often overlooked design feature of the RUSH72 is the addition of quick-release buckles on the main shoulder straps. This feature makes it possible to release and drop the backpack almost instantly. Which can save your life in an emergency.
Specifications:
- Main Compartment: 23” x 13.5” x 8.5”
- Hydration pocket 21” x 13.5”
- Front pocket 15.5” x 11.5” x 2”
- Side Pockets 16.5” x 6” x 1.75”
- Item Weight: 4 pounds
- Shipping Weight: 5.2 pounds
- Bag Closure System: YKK zippers
- Capacity: 55 liters / 3342 cubic inch
Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Rush 72 Backpack is perfect as a 72-hour bug out bag, big enough for all your essential survival gear. It is a reliable bag and extremely rugged and will withstand very heavy use without issue. The RUSH72 features a name-tape-flag holder, compression straps, hydration compartment large enough to hold a 60oz hydration bladder, device pocket, a MOLLE-5.2 web exterior, and a padded waist belt.
In addition to this, the RUSH72 3-day bug out bag has a large front admin panel and a fleece-lined pocket, excellent for storing sun or reading glasses. It also has a handy front panel, which has three zippered pockets for keeping specific items separate, and a rear hydration compartment with hose ports that is accessible using one’s right or left hand.
Our View
If you are looking for a tough, rugged, and extremely reliable bug out bag with plenty of storage capacity but without breaking the bank, then you would be hard-pressed to find a better pack than the RUSH72.
Condor 3 Day Assault Pack Bug Out Bag
The 3-day assault pack by Condor as its name suggests is for use as a 72-hour survival pack although when packed with purely essential gear it could outstrip those 72 hours pretty easily.
The pack comes with side compression straps that are extremely useful for securing your gear as this will stop any unwanted movement which would make the pack extremely uncomfortable to carry, particularly when you are trying to move along at pace.
You can use the pack like a duffel bag thanks to grab-handles, incorporated on the top and the sides of the bag. This is a big bonus if you have to move extremely quickly and haven’t got time to put your pack on properly. In fact, because of the grab handles and compression straps, many people use the pack as a “carry-on” when flying on commercial flights.
Construction
The pack has multiple latching points, including D-rings and MOLLE webbing for attaching extra equipment and MOLLE pockets/modules, which are ideal for increasing the overall storage capacity of the pack.
The waist belt, lumbar support at the base of the back panel, and the back of the bag itself all have contour-hugging foam padding inserted to make carrying the pack much more comfortable. The foam-padded back panel also protects a hydration pocket that is large enough to hold two 3l hydration bladders.
Inside the large compartment, there are internal straps for securing gear and two mesh pockets.
The front pouch has three internal pockets which are ideal for holding maps etc; there are also radio, and pen pockets. Each of the double zipper side pockets provides 112.5 cubic inches of space and each is large enough for most small and some mid-sized pieces of equipment.
Specifications:
- Main compartment: 22″ x 13″ x 8″
- Front Pockets: 12.5″ x 6″ x 3”
- Side Pockets: 9″ x 5″ x 2.5”
- Hydration Pocket: 21″ x 13.5“
- Capacity: 50 liters
- Material: 1000D Nylon
Our View
Condor Outdoor Products make exceptionally good packs and sell them at exceptionally good prices, and the Condor 125, or the 3 Day Assault pack, falls perfectly into that description. We only place it behind the 5.11 RUSH72 it has slightly less capacity and uses slightly less durable nylon fabric than that used in the RUSH72. However, it does cost less so I suppose it evens itself out!
Maxpedition Vulture-II 3-Day Backpack Bug Out Bag
It stores all your supplies needed for a multi-day trip, easily packed within its combined 2,810 cubic inches of storage capacity.
The Maxpedition Vulture II comes in a variety of military colors; black, foliage green, khaki, and OD green.
This backpack has a variety of compartments that can easily store a multitude of different types of gear. The main compartment has an internal zipped mesh compartment for fragile items.
The medium-sized compartment, situated on the front of the pack, has an organizer and hook for keys. There are other compartments for maps, notes, and small items like cell phones. It also has a hydration compartment large enough to store a 3-liter water bladder.
The zippers are high quality and keep the noise levels down when opening and closing the pockets and openings. The reinforced seams inside the pack are very strong which helps prevent leaks and internal tears in the bag.
The contoured shoulder straps and the sternum suspension belt fit well to the body and distribute weight evenly.
The Maxpedition Vulture-II 3-Day Backpack is made for larger men and women but the adjustable straps mean it can fit smaller people too. It has the ability to snap and attach additional pouches and accessories for extra storage as there is ample webbing for MOLLE attachments and other latch points for additional gear.
Specifications:
- Main Compartment: 14″(L) x 7″(W) x 19.5″(H)
- Hydration pocket: 14″(L) x 7″(W) x 19.5″(H) Can hold a 3 liter bladder
- Front pocket 11.5″(L) x 15″(H) diagonal zippered pocket
- Item Weight: 3.7 lbs
- Capacity: 34 liters / 2100 cubic inch
Our View
The Maxpedition Vulture II 3 Day backpack is equally at home being used for mountain climbing expeditions, hiking, wilderness camping, travel, and everyday use as it is as used as a bug out bag.
It is a high-quality backpack as are all Maxpedition packs, we at Alpha Survivalist think it lacks the strength and options that the RUSH72 and Condor 125 offer and is more expensive than other options on this list. We do however like the quality feel of this bag and increased capacity is possible with the addition of added pouches. A very good pack though.
Paratus 3 Day Operator’s Pack Bug Out Bag
This heavy-duty bug out bag has been intricately designed with double-stitched seams throughout its entire structure.
The Paratus has simply become a go-to backpack for many hardcore hikers and hunters, as well as survivalists, from right across the nation.
The Paratus backpack has been made with durable 600D fabric that has been treated with high-grade PVC for the utmost superior weather-resistant capabilities.
Everything you’ll need to carry during your adventurous outdoor excursions will fit into this versatile 4-in-1 backpack.
The Paratus has strong cushioned shoulder straps and clever side-release compression straps to conveniently execute quick adjustments when needed.
You can carry this tactical backpack by its durable waist belt, shoulder belt, or hefty grab handle. Its grab-and-go Rapid Deployment Pack allows you to get to all of your essential items such as a first aid kit, weapon, and ammo in less than a minute.
There is a special molded EVA back panel specifically crafted to allow for natural airflow as you trek during the haziest of days. This EVA back panel was also engineered to additionally help strengthen the backpack’s core structure.
The Paratus is hydration system compatible and the EVA back panel also acts as an insulating protective layer between your body and a pocket designed specifically to hold a 2-liter hydration bladder.
The Paratus is available in Olive Drab, Black, Foliage Grey, and Coyote Tan.
Specifications:
- Main Compartment: 20″H x 12″W x 5.5″D
- Hydration pocket: Can fit a 2-liter bladder
- Front pocket 13″H x 12″W x 3″D
- Side Pockets 5″x 2.5″x 8″
- Item Weight: 4.45 lbs
- Capacity: 40 liters / 2,420 cubic inch
Our View
Although not at the top of our list of the best bug out bags it is certainly one of our favorites. The Paratus 3 day tactical backpack would certainly be a good choice as an entry-level bug out bag.
Not only is the Paratus amazingly good value for money, but it is also comfortable, durable, and perfectly capable of handling all of the elements and is ideal for whatever Mother Nature can throw at it!
Monkey Paks Tactical 3 Day Bug Out Bag
Although we have placed the Monkey Paks 3 day tactical pack at the end of our list of the best bug out bags that doesn’t necessarily mean it isn’t as good as those packs as those before it.
The ‘Big Monkey’ features pretty much all the benefits that the previous four bug out bags on this list featured but at a lower price! So why then is it not at the top of our list instead of at the bottom? Well, it comes down to how the pack is put together, the construction materials used, and personal choice really.
The bag is made with 600D nylon which is, even though it is still a good strong fabric, nowhere near as durable as the material used in the other four bags on this list.
As well as the hydration bladder the pack comes with three external MOLLE pouches which add nicely to the overall capacity of the bag.
What did users have to say?
A few reviewers although happy with the bag in general have mentioned that they felt the plastic used to make the belt buckles felt a little bit weak, although others seemed fairly happy with the strength.
Some reviewers pointed out that the exterior webbing is not true MOLLE webbing as it incorporates Velcro attachments and that the compartments lack any partitioning, meaning that there is a lot of rummaging to find things in a fully packed bag.
Compartments Specs:
- Main compartment: 20” x 12” x 5.5”
- Front Pocket: 12.5” x 6” x 3”
- Side Pockets: 9” x 5.5” x 2.5”
Our View
All in all, if you are looking to buy a pack that you could use as a bug out bag but you are limited by how much you can spend, then you could do a lot worse than opting for the Monkey Paks 3 day tactical pack.
To Summarize…
We are fully aware that we have only covered 5 bags here and to be completely honest several others could quite easily have made it onto our list because once you get past the top two or three, there is very little to separate any of the TOP bug out bags on the market apart from personal preference.
Who knows, we may even add more bags to our list over time, especially when we start to get people commenting that their “pride and joy” BOB isn’t on the list when it should have been.
That being said, we will resolutely stick with our choice of the 5.11 Tactical Rush72 Backpack as being our pick for the best bug out bag and would highly recommend that you check it out!