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    9 Best Backpacks for Rucking

    Whether you’re sifting through all of the backpacks for rucking to find the a pack to ruck for fitness or to prep for a GORUCK Challenge, choosing the right rucking backpack is essential to staying comfortable, avoiding injury, and ensuring your gear doesn’t blowout before you do. 

    With all of the bags on the market claiming to be tactical or made for rucking, it can be hard finding a quality bag that’s right for your needs.

    In this article, we’ll make that search easier by giving you the 9 best backpacks for rucking for varying budgets and tastes and the 17 criteria to look for when hunting for your perfect rucksack.

    Note: This article contains affiliate links

    CONTENTS

    9 Best Backpacks for Rucking

    Why the right bag is important to rucking

    There are two primary characteristics of any good ruckpack: durability and comfort


    Durability

    With thousands of backpacks on the market, lack of durability is what rules out most options.  Rucking is simply walking with heavy weight (~25lb to ~50lbs) over long periods. 

    As simple as this sounds, it will be hard on you (making it a great f itness option) and just as hard on your gear.  With 30lbs of weight in your backpack, your average Jansport schoolbag will rip at every single seem within the first few miles.

    On top of the durability to carry significant weight for long periods, having a backpack that can stand up to the abuse of being thrown around and dragged opens up a whole new world of weighted backpack workouts for easily and cheaply building a bulletproof body.

    All of this starts with picking a durable bag that stands up to the abuse


    Comfort

    Rucking is an amazingly simple and convenient means of exercise that gets you outside and builds a durable body among countless other rucking benefits.  Despite all of these pros, having the wrong backpack can make those enjoyable miles outside suck unnecessarily. 

    Getting a ruck that is built with the right amount of padding in the right places, distributes loads well, and a few other tips will help ensure that any discomfort while rucking is that good, strength building kind


    Function

    Ensuring that your backpack for rucking has a few, good extras, like a laptop compartment, easy access pockets for electronics, and an intuitive setup, can make your chosen rucking backpack the perfect backpack for everyday use and travel.

    Some of the best backpacks for rucking can cost upwards of $200 and last a lifetime (literally).  Ensuring the bag functional enough for any situation you throw at it translates to getting more miles out of that great piece of gear.

    17 things to look for in a good rucking backpack


    1.      Wide, overly padded shoulder straps

    Wide straps distribute weight across more of the shoulder, instead of putting stress and pressure in a single spot

    The first thing on most packs to break will usually be the straps, especially when rucking with a bit of weight.  A small extra step of reinforced straps will extend the life of your pack immensely


    2.      Reinforced attachment between straps and main pack


    3.      Large, durable zippers that can handle weight, stress, and grime

    Rucking takes place in the outdoors, where dirt, grime, and amazing stuff thrives.  Big, durable zippers reduce the risk of dirt ruining your zippers…and ultimately your pack


    4.      Compression straps

    For safety and comfort, you want your ruck packed so that the weight doesn’t shift as you move and stays secure on your back.  Compression straps make tightening down that weight easy.


    5.      Thick, foam back padding

    Thick padding makes it easier to use a variety of weights (weight plates, sandbags, kettlebells, etc.) and remain comfortable as the thick padding distributes the pressure across your back.


    6.      Frame sheet or other support option

    A frame sheet achieves the dual goal of distributing the pressure of your ruck weights across your back and helps the backpack keep its shape, preventing it from moving around unnecessarily.


    7.      Rucking weight pocket

    Having a special pocket makes packing and securing your weights easier and quicker, and will make using the bag for other weighted workouts much easier


    8.      Tough, tested fabric – abrasion and tear resistant, water resistant

    Tear strength should be high to prevent the weights from ripping your bag over time.

    Abrasion resistance means you can throw the bag around, in other weighted backpack and travel workouts without abrading holes in it, adding upper body strength conditioning to your ruck workout


    9.      Well tested track record and solid reviews

    New isn’t always better.  When it comes to rucking backpacks, wherein durability is key and small lapses in comfort make a big difference in enjoyment, trust the word on the street.  Stick to bags with raving reviews, and skip bags with no reviews or bad reviews.  You’ll thank yourself at mile 10


    10.  Milspec nylon webbing

    In the compression straps, shoulder straps, handles, and elsewhere, ensure the strap used it up to a standard of military toughness or industrial grade to avoid having gear wherein the small bits fall apart.


    11.  Nylon throughout (not polyester)

    Nylon is much more durable than polyester, in abrasion resistance and tear resistance.  Some manufacturers create tactical looking designs that fool new buyers, and build them with inferior polyester cloth that will wear out easier and tear under loads.  Avoid this by sticking with nylon.

    1000D Cordura nylon is the standard.  Get a backpack with 1000D in all of its outer bits and you won’t go wrong.


    12.  Heavy duty nylon stitching

    After the shoulder straps, stitching is the next likely thing to break.  This is either due to weak stitching (thin, polyester instead of nylon) or poor craftsmanship.  Avoid these issues by ensure the stitching is nylon and doing the “pull test” to see how the stitching stands up to stress.

    Do the “stitching pull test” by simply grabbing the pieces of cloth on either side of the stitching and simply pull the two pieces apart.  If the stitching moves or stretches excessively then plan on that stitching blowing out at some point


    13.  Chest/sternum strap

    The chest strap allows you to shift how to load sits on your shoulders by cinching the shoulder straps together.  After a few miles, the ability to shift the load, change positions, and give your shoulders a rest will be a welcomed relief


    14.  Waist belt (optional)

    For heavier loads, a waist belt is great for taking the load off of your shoulders while staying moving.  This allows you to give your shoulders a rest while continuing rucking.


    15.  Protected laptop compartment (optional)

    Getting a backpack with the features you’ll need for daily life will allow you to put this ruck to even more use – whether that be replacing your old, inferior daily use backpack, or turning your daily chores and errands into short rucking exercises.

    In any case, a protected laptop compartment is a nearly essential plus


    16.  Water storage options (water bottle holder or water bladder pocket)

    If you’re rucking long enough for it to matter, you will need water.  You can always toss your water bottle in the bag, but having an easy access option let’s you stay hydrated without disrupting your momentum too much.

    If you’re the camelback type, look for a hydration bladder pocket.  Otherwise, ensure there is a water bottle pouch or MOLLE webbing to attach an external water bottle pocket


    17.  Reinforced drag handle and side handles

    Having heavily stitched, reinforced handles are good because they add durability, when moving the backpack around with weight in it, and these handles allow you to do other workouts by using your pack in place of a dumbbell or kettlebell

    A few extra tips for picking the right backpack for rucking and other use


    Aim for 20L to 30L for a daypack

    If you plan on only using this pack as an everyday carry backpack outside of rucking, 20L to 30L is the perfect size.  It will carry everything you need for a day without being too small

    Aim for 30L to 45L for travel

    If you’re traveling, whether for a weekend or a year, go for 30L at the minimum and 45L at the top end.  30L will fit most everything you need for a weekend and I’ve travel with only a 45L backpack for the last year.  Additionally, 45L is the largest allowable airplane carry on sized pack – making the 45L pack efficient, functional, and versatile

    Ensure there is a solid warranty

    Brands such as GORUCK, Spec Ops Brand, and Green136 warranty their backpacks for life.  This is what you want – not because you plan on breaking your pack, but you want a backpack from a company that has this kind of faith in its gear.  Skip the “1 year limited warranty” folks.

    The 9 Best Backpacks for Rucking


    The GORUCK GR1 & GR2

    GORUCK.  Arguably the brand that made rucking a mainstream activity via its GORUCK backpacks that were thoroughly tested out on hundreds of GORUCK challenges.  Though the full line has plenty of options, the two best GORUCK bags for versatile use are the GORUCK GR1  and the GORUCK GR2.


    The GORUCK GR1

    $395, 21L, 26L

    The GORUCK GR1 is the perfect rucking backpack that is the perfect size and has the perfect features for being a no nonsense daily backpack.  The GR1 comes in compact 21 liter and 26 liter sizes, making it perfect as a daily use backpack outside of rucking.

    The GR1’s “open flat design” makes loading and unloading this pack convenient and easy. A “bombproof laptop compartment” with heavy padding keeps your laptop safe while doubling as a tailor made compartment for GORUCK’s rucking weight plates.

    The high pricetag of $395 is balanced by the GORUCK lifetime guarantee, in which they will repair or replace your GR1 if it ever gets damaged…ever.

    What makes the GORUCK GR1 perfect for rucking?

    • Thick shoulder straps,
    • Durable, tear and abrasion resistant 1000D Cordura nylon outer
    • “Bombproof” laptop pocket doubles as a tailor weight compartment keep weights close to the spine.

    Differentiators: Durability, warranty, simplicity

    Features: 1000D Cordura, YKK zippers, MOLLE webbing, internal frame sheet

    Price: $395 at GORUCK.com


    The GORUCK GR2

    If you’ll be using your GORUCK for more travel than daily use, step it up to the GORUCK GR2.  At 34 liters or 40 liters, the GR2 gives more space (nearly double) over the GORUCK GR1 and 2 separate compartments for lot more organization making this bag as perfect for travel as rucking.

    The GR2 boasts all of the same features and tough build as the GR1 but with a fold flat design but adds several zippered compartments that are useful for easily zipping in weights and getting moving or staying organized without packing cubes.

    Of all of the backpacks for rucking I’ve tested, for rucking and travel, the GR2 is probably my favorite, due simplicity, durability, and intuitive design

    What makes the GORUCK GR2 perfect for rucking?

    • Heavily padded back panel
    • Thick shoulder straps
    • Durable, tear and abrasion resistant 1000D Cordura nylon outer
    • “Bombproof” laptop pocket doubles for carrying weight plates comfortably
    • Several internal zippered pockets keep everything you own organized without packing cubes.
    • Unlimited lifetime warranty – GORUCK will repair or replace free if the pack is ever damaged
    • Differentiator: Simplicity, organization, durability
    • Size: 34L, 40L,
    • Price:$495 at GORUCK.com
    • As great as these are, there are plenty of other options (I’ve been traveling with the 45L GORUCK GR3 for the past year, so be sure to check out the other GORUCK Backpacks.

    T.H.E. Pack by Spec Ops Brand (41L)

    The “Tactical Hold Everything” pack is a classic that proved itself as a rucking backpack in Iraq and Afghanistan.  It is an insanely durable and well built backpack for the price, due to high quality materials and stitching.  1000D Cordura, heavy duty buckles and plastic hardware.

    Consider purchasing the additional T.H.E Frame for back support (~$37) to stay comfortable when rucking heavier weight.

    What makes this bag  perfect for rucking?

    • Great value for the price
    • Comfortable
    • Durable
    • Proven track record
    • Size: 41 liters / 2550 cu. In.
    • Price: $160 on Amazon

    If you’re looking for something slightly smaller, checkout the 22.5 liter T.H.E. Everyday Carry Pack, which is the smaller, daily carry version of this proven pack.


    Greenroom136 Rainmaker

    The new kid on the block, originally designed for on the go entrepreneurs, but so durably built that its more than enough to ruck with.  The rainmaker has similar materials and construction quality as the GORUCK GR1 and GR2 but sells at a fraction of the cost ($125 for a Greenroom136 Rainmaker vs. $495 for a GR2). 

    The rainmaker also includes convenience features that make it more comfortable for rucking yet still very great for city life.

    The rainmaker is available in tactical, coated with a few rows MOLLE webbing for expandable external storage, drag handles, and Velcro, or the slick version with a low key, no webbing exterior.  The bags are also available in 22L, good for daily use, or 27L, also perfect for daily use and weekend travel.

    What makes the Greenroom136 Rainmaker perfect for rucking?

    • Ventilated and heavily padded back panel
    • Shoulder straps and drag handles reinforced with car seatbelts
    • Separate, travel friendly laptop compartment
    • Load lifters
    • Side compression straps to tighten down and stabilize loads
    • Heavily padded back panel using long lasting foam
    • The Rainmaker is available in 22L and 27L).
    • Size: 22L or 27L
    • Price: ~$137 for the 22L, ~$150 for the 27L

    Pickup the Rainmaker at Greenroom136


    Camelback H.A.W.G Mil Spec (23L) and Motherlode (40L) Packs

    Cambelback is a proven brand in the military and their line of combination hydration and storage packs have proven themselves on the trail, in GORUCK events, and beyond.  The Camelbak H.A.W.G. (20L) and the Camelbak Motherlode (35L) backpacks are solid options depending on the size that’s right for you. Both packs emphasize comfort (and the camelback hydration systems)

    What makes this bag perfect for rucking?

    • Good price
    • Breathable back panel

    Camelbak H.A.W.G

    Camelbak Motherlode

    Also consider these other Camelbak tactical backpacks


    Maxpedition Falcon II (23L)

    A tested classic that has been emulated repeatedly.  Compact, durable, and comfortable.  If you’re looking for a compact backpack for rucking, the Falcon II is an excellent candidate.

    What makes this bag  perfect for rucking?

    • Great price
    • Durable materials
    • Great compression strap system keeps loads in place with accordion design
    • Abrasion resistant coating on bottom of bag
    • Plenty of compartments make for easy organization
    • Size: 23L
    • Price: Get the Maxpedition Falcon II for $110 on Amazon.com

    Also consider the Maxpedition Condor with more traditional backpack style design with the same durable build and great function


    Tactical Tailor Fight Light Modular Operator Pack

    The Tactical Tailor operator pack is a non nonsense, 33L 3 day pack designed to be lighter than other options (500D Cordura nylon instead of 1000D) with strategically reinforced points throughout.  Tactical is a proven brand known for creating bombproof gear based on the needs of the guys who ruck for a living

    What makes this bag  perfect for rucking

    • Lighter than other rugged options
    • Proven track record
    • Simplicity of design
    • Size: 33L
    • Price: ~$200 at Optics Planet

    Kelty Redwing (32L, 44L, 50L)

    The Kelty Redwing is a durable classic, and more of a traditional backpack, that has gone unchanged for years…and with good reason.  Coming in sizes of 32L, 44L, and 50L, the Redwing comes in the perfect size for whatever you need.

    Though the Kelty Redwing is made of less durable materials (420 denier nylon compared to the 1000D of good tactical backpacks), the Redwing’s muted look and hiking/camping focused design make this a versatile option for those that want a rucking backpack that doesn’t look like a rucking backpack.

    The Redwing has a proven track record as well.  On my year long trip around the world, I saw the Redwing everywhere from Spain, to the Himalayas, to trekkers and “moto-packers” in SE Asia.  If you’re look for a neutral looking yet versatile and durable pack to ruck with now and adventure with later, the Kelty Redwing is probably the best rucking backpack for you.

    What makes this bag  perfect for rucking?

    • Price
    • Durability
    • Travel, hiking, and camping focused design
    • Proven track record with military, travelers, and outdoorsmen

    Prices


    5.11 Tactical Rush 24 (37L), Rush 12 (24L) and Rush 72 (55L)

    5.11 Tactical is another tested and proven brand among the military crowd.  The 5.11 team has created functional, durable bags fit for the needs of military use (lots of weight carried for long periods) and at a great price.  If you’re looking for a rucking backpack, the 5.11 Rush series is an excellent option.

    The 5.11 Rush series three packs are the 5.11 Rush 24 (37L), Rush 12 (24) and Rush 72 (55L).  All three packs maintain the same solid storage setup with plenty of pockets, durable 1050D nylon outer, compression straps, durable drag/carry handle, and external MOLLE webbing to adapt storage to your needs.

    The  Rush 12 will double as a great daypack, the Rush 24 could become your go to weekender bag, and the 72 is perfect for long trips.

    What makes the 5.11 Rush series great for rucking?

    • Excellent price
    • Durability and track record
    • Storage, pockets, and organization are on point and suited use outside of rucking

    Prices:


    ALICE Pack

    The ALICE pack has been around for nearly 50 years, and with good reason.  Though it is not still issued to military units, you can easily find an ALICE pack on Ebay for cheap – usually less than $50 with straps and frame.

    If you go with good ol’ ALICE, take note that you will at least need to purchase the straps.  Purchasing newer, upgraded straps, like the Tactical Tailor super straps is an excellent upgrade investment.

    Beyond straps, pair the ALICE pack with the right rucking weight option, like a ruck pill, to stay comfortable, and review the rucking tips to understand how to pack her properly.

    What makes this bag perfect for rucking?

    • Extremely proven track record
    • Cheap option
    • Nearly bulletproof

    Purchase your ALICE pack on eBay for cheap (~$25) plus a set of straps (~$10, or ~$30 for a good, comfortable pair).  Ensure it is genuine military issue (not replica) and you’ll have an awesome minimalist pack that will last for life

    Now that you’ve found the perfect rucking backpacks options for you, what next?  Get ready to ruck the right way with tips on packing, picking the right kind of weight to use, and getting moving safely. Don’t forget to pick up a solid pair of boots for rucking or comfortable but sturdy shoes suitable for rucking. Also, read this article on the best tactical backpacks for more cheap, durable, and rucking ready packs.

    If you need another way to keep your legs in shape, consider using these essential resistance band exercises for legs – the adapted resistance band deadlift.

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      About A Brother Abroad

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR

      Carlos is nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.