Selecting one of the best backpacks for rucking (military-style walking with a loaded backpack) depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. These are some of the best options known for their durability, comfort, and functionality.
Whether you’re a seasoned Rucker or just getting started with this challenging yet rewarding activity, the right backpack can enhance your comfort and performance.
Best Backpacks For Rucking
Rucking, which involves brisk walking or hiking with a loaded backpack, has gained popularity not only among military personnel and first responders but also among fitness enthusiasts looking for a full-body workout.
It’s important to note that you can get ‘cheap’ backpacks for rucking that will do the job but they generally won’t have the same durability and robust construction that the more middle-ground and higher-end priced backpacks will. That’s why I’m mostly recommending backpacks from the middle ground of prices and a few pricier ones.
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5.11 Tactical Rush 24

The 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 is a popular and highly regarded backpack designed for a wide range of outdoor activities, including rucking, hiking, and tactical missions. Known for its durability, versatility, and organization features, the Rush 24 has become a favorite choice among outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
With a capacity of 37 liters, the Rush 24 provides ample space to carry all your essential gear and supplies for a day trip or an extended adventure. It features a well-organized interior with multiple compartments and pockets, allowing you to neatly store and access your belongings.
The spacious main compartment can accommodate larger items, while smaller pockets are perfect for organizing smaller accessories like first aid kits, pens, and electronics.
One of the standout features of the Rush 24 is its rugged construction. It’s built to withstand tough conditions and is made from high-quality, water-resistant 1050D nylon, which helps keep your gear dry in inclement weather. The YKK zippers and reinforced stitching further enhance its durability, ensuring it can handle the rigors of outdoor use.
Comfort is a priority with this backpack. It features contoured shoulder straps with a sternum strap and a padded, ventilated back panel, providing excellent support and airflow. The adjustable straps allow you to achieve a comfortable fit, even during long hikes or rucking sessions.
The Rush 24 also excels in terms of versatility. It comes with MOLLE webbing on the front and sides, allowing you to customize the backpack by attaching additional pouches and accessories to expand its carrying capacity and tailor it to your specific needs. This makes it an excellent choice for those who require flexibility in their loadout.
Another notable feature is the hydration compartment, which accommodates a water reservoir, keeping you hydrated during your outdoor adventures. Additionally, the sunglasses pocket on the top of the bag offers safe and convenient storage for eyewear.
The 5.11 Tactical Rush 24 is a dependable and versatile rucking backpack that offers exceptional durability, organization, and comfort. Whether you’re rucking for fitness, embarking on a day hike, or engaged in tactical operations, the Rush 24 is designed to meet your demands and help you perform at your best in various outdoor scenarios.
It’s also in the middle-ground as far as prices for rucking backpacks go so it won’t break your bank, so to speak. If there was one backpack for rucking to get started with then this is a good choice for a smaller size pack.
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Fjällräven Singi 28

The Fjällräven Singi 28 is a versatile and durable outdoor backpack designed for various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and day trips. It’s also great as a rucking backpack.
Fjällräven is a Swedish outdoor gear and clothing company known for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainability.
The Singi 28 has a capacity of approximately 28 liters, making it suitable for day hikes, short camping trips, or as a general-purpose outdoor backpack.
Fjällräven is known for using durable and environmentally friendly materials. The Singi 28 is typically made from their signature G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco fabric, which is a blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton. This fabric is designed to be rugged and resistant to wear and tear.
The backpack features a simple and functional design with a top-loading main compartment and a drawstring closure. There is also a snow lock at the top to keep snow and moisture out. The front of the pack has additional pockets for organizing smaller items.
The Singi 28 is designed for comfort during extended outdoor activities. It has padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel to provide support and cushioning. The sternum strap and hip belt help distribute the weight and improve stability and the hip belt is removable if you don’t want to use it.
You can expand the size of the pack as well up to 40 liters in total by buying and adding additional extra 4 liter pouches that attach to the outside of the pack. It’s possible to attach 3 of these extra pouches. It’s very versatile in this regard.
Fjällräven places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco fabric is part of their effort to use recycled and organic materials in their products.
I’ve had the Fjällräven Singi 28 for several years now and have not only used it out rucking but also for day hikes and occasionally around the town. It’s a great pack and very durable and comfortable.
But it here:
Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 32 Liter Backpack

The Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 32 is a versatile backpack designed for various outdoor activities, including rucking. It’s also a popular brand that comes highly recommended for its construction and durability
The Rip Ruck 32 has a 32-litre capacity, providing ample space for loading it up for rucking and it’s constructed with tough materials, including 500D CORDURA fabric, ensuring durability and resistance to abrasions.
Mystery Ranch places a strong emphasis on comfort in their designs. The Rip Ruck 32 is equipped with a comfortable harness system, padded shoulder straps, and a supportive hip belt. The yoke-style harness helps distribute the load evenly, reducing strain on the shoulders and back.
The Rip Ruck 32 comes with multiple pockets and compartments for organized storage. This includes a zippered lid pocket, a front zippered pocket, and side stretch-woven pockets for water bottles or other items.
The backpack is hydration-compatible, allowing you to use a hydration reservoir for convenient on-the-go hydration during your activities.
MT Military Alice Pack

The Military ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) Pack, is commonly known as the ALICE pack and is a type of backpack used by the United States military, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s. It has been widely utilized by soldiers for various purposes, including survival, combat, and general field use.
It is therefore also one of the best backpacks for rucking and a classic one at that. It also is great value for money.
The ALICE pack has a distinctive design with a large main compartment and several external pockets and is made of durable nylon material.
The pack is often used with an external frame, which helps distribute the weight more evenly and provides support for carrying heavy loads. The frame is usually made of aluminium.
The pack includes adjustable shoulder straps, a waist belt, and a chest strap to help secure the load and make it more comfortable for the wearer.
The exterior of the pack has multiple attachment points, allowing for the addition of extra gear or equipment. This modular design makes it versatile for different mission requirements.
ALICE packs are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. This makes them suitable for rugged environments and extended use and perfect as rucking backpacks
Although an old design many people still appreciate the ALICE pack for its robustness and reliability, and it remains popular in the civilian market for outdoor activities, survivalists, and ruckers.
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Direct Action Ghost Tactical Backpack 31

The Direct Action Ghost Tactical Backpack 31 is a tactical backpack designed for military, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts, making it also one of the best backpacks for rucking.
The Ghost Tactical Backpack 31 is designed with a 31-liter capacity, providing ample space for rucking as well as gear and equipment needed for various activities, including tactical operations, hiking, and everyday carry, when you’re not out rucking
Direct Action is known for producing durable tactical gear. The Ghost Tactical Backpack is typically constructed with high-quality materials, including 500D Cordura fabric, known for its strength and abrasion resistance.
The design of the Ghost Tactical Backpack is tactical and functional, featuring a MOLLE/PALS webbing system that allows for the attachment of additional pouches and accessories. It often includes multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage.
Direct Action pays attention to user comfort, and the Ghost Tactical Backpack is equipped with padded shoulder straps and a back panel. The harness system is designed to distribute the load effectively, reducing fatigue during extended use.
The backpack typically includes various organizational features, such as a main compartment, front admin pocket, and side pockets. This allows you to organize your gear efficiently.
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Karrimor SF Predator 30

The Karrimor SF Predator 30 is rugged and versatile which has earned a reputation for its durability and performance in various outdoor and tactical situations making it one of the best backpacks for rucking.
Designed by Karrimor SF, a company with a long history of producing high-quality military and outdoor gear, the Predator 30 is a favorite choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike.
This 30-liter backpack offers an ideal balance between capacity and mobility, making it suitable for day hikes, rucking exercises, and tactical missions. It features a well-thought-out design with multiple compartments and pockets, allowing you to organize your gear efficiently.
One of the standout features of the Karrimor SF Predator 30 is its robust construction. It’s made from high-quality materials that are not only resistant to wear and tear but also water-repellent, ensuring your gear stays dry in challenging conditions. The reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers add to its durability.
Comfort is another area where the Predator 30 shines. It has padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel, which helps distribute the weight evenly and reduce discomfort during long rucking sessions. Additionally, the adjustable waist and sternum straps provide stability and allow you to fine-tune the fit for your body.
MOLLE webbing on the exterior of the backpack allows for the attachment of additional pouches and accessories, making it a versatile choice for customization. Whether you need to carry extra gear or modify the bag to suit your specific needs, the Predator 30 offers flexibility in this regard.
The Karrimor SF Predator 30 is a reliable and durable rucking backpack that combines functionality, durability, and comfort. Whether you’re rucking for fitness, hiking in rugged terrain, or on a tactical mission, this backpack is designed to meet your needs and withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
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GORUCK GR1

The GORUCK GR1 is a favorite among ruckers. It’s known for its rugged design, durability, and comfortable carry. GORUCK backpacks are designed specifically for rucking and military-style activities
The GR1 is known for its exceptional durability. It is made from 1000D Cordura nylon, which is a rugged and abrasion-resistant material. The backpack is designed to withstand tough conditions and prolonged use making it one of the best backpacks for rucking.
The design of the GR1 is minimalist and functional. It has a clean, sleek appearance with a straightforward layout. The lack of excessive external pockets contributes to its streamlined look while maintaining a high level of functionality.
GORUCK pays special attention to the comfort of the wearer. The GR1 features a padded and contoured shoulder harness and back panel, providing comfort during extended wear. The backpack is designed to sit close to the body, reducing bounce and sway.
The GR1 comes with MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing on the front and sides, allowing users to customize and attach additional pouches or accessories.
While not entirely waterproof, the GR1 is water-resistant. The YKK zippers and the material itself provide some protection against light rain and splashes.
GORUCK stands behind the quality of its products, offering a lifetime guarantee on the GR1. This reflects the brand’s confidence in the durability and craftsmanship of their backpacks.
The GR1 comes in different sizes, with the GR1 (21L) and GR1 (26L) being the most common options. The size choice depends on your personal preferences and needs.
It’s a little bit more on the high-end price side of things which is its only downside, but you’ll get a great backpack.
You can buy it at their official store here:
The Best Rucking Backpacks
Remember to consider factors such as capacity, comfort, durability, and organization when choosing a backpack for rucking. Additionally, make sure the backpack fits well and can accommodate the weight you plan to carry during your rucking activities.
Although there are plenty of backpacks for rucking you can get, the ones listed here will be some of the best you can choose, and will last you for a long time.
For more gear guides take a look at the best axes and hatchets for backpacking.
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