The Best Bug Out Bags In 2022

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Do you know why the first 72 hours in a disaster situation is most important? Because it usually takes this long for the authorities and first responders to get to the scene. So how do you or others survive  an emergency situation? A time when supplies and resources are limited is when a bug out bag comes in handy.

A bug out contains the resources and supplies needed to survive that 72 hour period. With various items stored inside beforehand it can help the individual survive. Bug out bags can serve for other reasons too, like military, backpacking, and hunting..

Below is a compilation of the best bug out bags. This review is intended to provide a person with enough information to find the most efficient bug out bag.

In a Rush? The Winner after 32 hours of testing is:

Editors Choice icon

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

97.8/100our score
5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack
Why is it better?
  • The quality of the stitching is excellent.
  • There are plenty of pockets.
  • Can be used all year round.
  • It is accepted in airlines as well.
  • Heavy-duty zippers designed for the outdoors usage.
Our Top Rated
  1. 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack
  2. Eberlestock Skycrane II Bug Out Bag
  3. REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Assault Pack
  4. Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
  5. Maxpedition Vulture-II Bug Out Bag
  6. VooDoo Tactical Men's Mojo Bug Out Bag
  7. 4 Person Survival Kit Bug Out Bag
  8. Red Rock Outdoor Gear - Rebel Assault Pack
Table Of Contents

Quick Comparison

RANK
Bug Out Bags In 2022
Features
Rating
#1

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

  • The quality of the stitching is excellent.
  • There are plenty of pockets.
  • Can be used all year round.
  • It is accepted in airlines as well.
  • Heavy-duty zippers designed for the outdoors usage.

Style: 98
Feature: 98
Portability: 98
Effectiveness: 97
Durability: 98
Our Rating: 97.8

#2

Eberlestock Skycrane II Bug Out Bag

Eberlestock Skycrane II Bug Out Bag

  • Sturdy seams, zippers and the webbing.
  • There are 7 total hydration sleeves.
  • Best used for hunting, and military purposes.

Size: 97
Feature: 98
Portability: 98
Effectiveness: 97
Durability: 97
Our Rating: 97.4

#3

REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Assault Pack

REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Assault Pack

  • Affordable
  • It has a double stitched design.
  • Heavy-duty zippers.

Style: 97
Feature: 97.5
Portability: 97
Effectiveness: 98
Durability: 97
Our Rating: 97.3

#4

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

  • The lower back also has padding.
  • Perfect for hunting, daily commutes and travelling.
  • Space and capacity for 50 LIters.
  • Separate compartments for hydration.
  • Plenty of compression straps.

Style: 98
Feature: 96
Portability: 97
Effectiveness: 97
Durability: 95
Our Rating: 96.6

#5

Maxpedition Vulture-II Bug Out Bag

Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack

  • MOLLE compatibility.
  • Highly durable and comfortable.
  • This bag has a longer lifeline.

Style: 97
Feature: 96
Portability: 95
Effectiveness: 96
Durability: 98
Our Rating: 96.4

#6

VooDoo Tactical Men's Mojo Bug Out Bag

VooDoo Tactical Men's Mojo Bug Out Bag

  • PALS webbing installed.
  • Made for use for heavy duty.
  • Made in America.
  • Can be converted to a backpack.
  • Good storage for a laptop.

Style: 96
Feature: 96
Portability: 97
Effectiveness: 94
Durability: 96
Our Rating: 95.8

#7

4 Person Survival Kit Bug Out Bag

4 Person Survival Kit

  • Well-equipped and organized pack.
  • One bag can be bought for a family of four.
  • Aesthetically pleasing.

Style: 92
Feature: 98
Portability: 91
Effectiveness: 96
Durability: 98
Our Rating: 95

#8

Red Rock Outdoor Gear - Rebel Assault Pack

Red Rock Outdoor Gear - Rebel Assault Pack

  • MOLLE Webbing is provided
  • Cost effective.
  • Strap wraps on the end of the straps to control the excess.
  • Quite spacious for storage.

Style: 96
Feature: 93
Portability: 94
Effectiveness: 94
Durability: 96
Our Rating: 94.6

Our Reviews

1 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

Style 98%
Feature 98%
Portability 98%
Effectiveness 97%
Durability 98%
Our Rating 97.8%

The RUSH72 bug out bag is another tool from the RUSH family series. It has been designed to provide a person with 3 days sustenance. This bag can be used for hunting, military, survival, or as an everyday outdoors backpack. Weighing in at 5.5 pounds and total dimensions are 4” x 17” x 22”.

Aesthetic Quality

Available in grey, black and camel color, this pack is MOLLE (Modular lightweight load carrying equipment) compatible with multiple pockets that allow organization. With increased space and multiple pockets. In addition to a chest strap, there are lateral straps. This bag is designed to fit all the essential belongings of a traveler.

Special Features

Aside from being water resistant, there are pads in the back that provide friction to prevent movement. A “Shove-It” pouch in front provides storage for jackets or anything else you can put in without effort. This pack allows one to be organized without having to fumble through the whole bag. It also includes a separate easily accessible pocket for a comb/brush, toothpaste and a toothbrush.

Cost and Value

The RUSH72 Military Bug Out backpack is made of resilient materials. Added features like the “shove-it” pouch definitely make this bag worth the price tag. Precautionary care when using and storing it will allow this bag a longer life. This makes this bag the best bug out bag on our list.

Pros
  • The quality of the stitching is excellent.
  • There are plenty of pockets.
  • Can be used all year round.
  • It is accepted in airlines as well.
  • Heavy-duty zippers designed for the outdoors usage.
Cons
  • Not the lightest bag.
  • A bit pricey

2 Eberlestock Skycrane II Bug Out Bag

Eberlestock Skycrane II Bug Out Bag

Size 97%
Feature 98%
Portability 98%
Effectiveness 97%
Durability 97%
Our Rating 97.4%

The Eberlestock Skycrane II bug out bag Weighs in at 11 pounds and a total of 2400 cubic inches. It is equipped with MOLLE webbing a waterproof design. This bag is known for its comfort and agility. Provided in five different colors: Military Green, Dry Earth, Coyote Brown, MultiCam (Brown to light tan) and UniCam (Cambridge Blue). The dimensions of this bag are 24”h x 26”w x 11”d.

Adequate Storage

There are 7 total hydration compartments in the bag. It has a capacity of 2400 cubic inches. This bag provides more than adequate storage space.The compartments can also be used for a variety of purposes. Such as for storing your laptop or other notes in one pocket.

Versatility

This open loaded backpack comprises 3 bags: the J79 pack, the pull-out G1 pack and a removable courier/fanny pack. It is also integrated with a Cam Expansion system allowing the addition of more packs.

Cost and Value

The Eberlestock Skycrane II backpack has much more than monetary value. Equipped with MOLLE webbing, excessive space and quality. It is especially made for military purposes, hence rugged usage, and for a long duration.

Pros
  • Sturdy seams, zippers and the webbing.
  • There are 7 total hydration sleeves.
  • Best used for hunting, and military purposes.
Cons
  • Main compartment is not easily accessible.
  • Accessories are sold separately.

3 REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Assault Pack

REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical Backpack 3 Day Assault Pack

Style 97%
Feature 97.5%
Portability 97%
Effectiveness 98%
Durability 97%
Our Rating 97.3%

This bag also has MOLLE compatibility. It is designed as a three-day assault. The bag weighs around 3 pounds and can easily carry items for two people. The dimensions for this bag are approximately 13” x 20” x 11”.

Materials

It is made with highly dense materials, making it water resistant. Also, constructed to be extremely durable and provide plenty of space. This bag has heavy-duty zippers and a compression system on the sides and front to compress belongings. The bag is small enough to meet the criteria for carry-on luggage at the airport. Available in two colors– tan and black. Ranked number one in “Tactical Bags”.

Durable Support

The double stitched design and heavy duty zippers give a longer lifeline to the bag. This also provides easier access and use.

Cost and Value

The REEBOW Gear 3 Day Assault Pack has greater value than monetary cost. You are going to love how this product is water resistant. Also, you will love how aesthetically pleasing the design is.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • It has a double stitched design.
  • Heavy-duty zippers.
Cons
  • Waist straps are not padded.
  • No hydration bladder.

4 Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

Style 98%
Feature 96%
Portability 97%
Effectiveness 97%
Durability 95%
Our Rating 96.6%

Condor 3 day assault is available in 5 different colors. it has a large load capacity with multiple easily accessible compartments. Weighing at around five pounds, dimensions of 22” x 17” 11” and capacity of 50 liters, it is made for heavy duty carry and drag handle.

Adjustable and Removable Straps

There are several features added to this bug out bag. For example, the waist straps are removable, which provides a huge relief for those that find most waist straps uncomfortable. The shoulder straps can also be modified according to the build of the person. This bag has MOLLE compatibility and includes pockets for storing pens, documents and radios.

Support and Comfort

Aside from the shoulder straps, there is also a waist strap, which is removable. Both straps are adequately padded and easily adjustable. The lower back of the bag has padding allowing ease to the back of the individual.

Cost and Value

The Condor 3 Assault Pack is much more valuable than the cost. It is made with water-resistant material. Also, it has a separate compartment for storing documents and pens. It has a capacity of 50L making this bag truly one of a kind.

Pros
  • The lower back also has padding.
  • Perfect for hunting, daily commutes and travelling.
  • Space and capacity for 50 LIters.
  • Separate compartments for hydration.
  • Plenty of compression straps.
Cons
  • The material is easily tear-able at the seams.
  • Zippers can be easily separable.

5 Maxpedition Vulture-II Bug Out Bag

Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack

Style 97%
Feature 96%
Portability 95%
Effectiveness 96%
Durability 98%
Our Rating 96.4%

This backpack weighs around 4 pounds with dimensions of 20.5” x 16” x 17.5”. It has external PALS webbing and well adjustable straps. There is a 34L/2110 cubic inches storage space. This pack was fundamentally made for practical purposes with a good hydration system.

Larger Size 

This bug out bag is specially designed for people of larger sizes. As well as those who plan to haul a large amount of gear. The increased space and size allows one to carry a variety of gears without damaging or cramping it.

There is a concealed carrying pocket to store belongings in safety. There is also a camel drinking tube. Just like the other bags, it has adjustable shoulder straps and waist straps to balance out the weight.

Durable Material

The material of this bug out bag is coated with Teflon. This coating provides water resistance and protects your belongings from damage. Additionally. It is made of durable material making it resistant to wear and tear.

Cost and Value

The Maxpedition Vulture-II backpack has a value greater than monetary. It is different from other products because of a concealed carrying pocket, camel drinking tube. All these features give it effectiveness worthy of the price.

Pros
  • MOLLE compatibility.
  • Highly durable and comfortable.
  • This bag has a longer lifeline.
Cons
  • Not enough padding.
  • The material may cause abrasions and rashes to the skin.
  • Simple design

6 VooDoo Tactical Men's Mojo Bug Out Bag

VooDoo Tactical Men's Mojo Bug Out Bag

Style 96%
Feature 96%
Portability 97%
Effectiveness 94%
Durability 96%
Our Rating 95.8%

One of the biggest advantages that come with this bug out bag is the fact that it is provided with a lifetime warranty. Although it comes with a price tag of 200 dollars, it has adjustable padding and shoulder straps. It comes in only in one color: black. Weighing about 8 pounds, it has the following dimensions: 40” x 20” x 15”.

Accessibility

It has 11 assorted exterior pouches with easy access and can store anything one desires.  The shoulder straps with D-Rings are adjustable, easily removed if need be. There is also a concealed, reachable shoulder harness one can unveil as needed to carry extra weight.

Ideal Compaction

Double compression straps are attached to ease the load. This allows the bag to be minimized to a smaller size making it easier to carry.

Cost and Value

The Voodoo Tactical Men’s Mojo Load-Out bag has a value greater than its cost. Made durable materials in America gives it additional value. It also has a separate storage for a  laptop, meaning if you are a travel logger or YouTuber, you can work from any location.

Pros
  • PALS webbing installed.
  • Made for use for heavy duty.
  • Made in America.
  • Can be converted to a backpack.
  • Good storage for a laptop.
Cons
  • No waist/hip belt.
  • No hydration section.

7 4 Person Survival Kit Bug Out Bag

4 Person Survival Kit

Style 92%
Feature 98%
Portability 91%
Effectiveness 96%
Durability 98%
Our Rating 95%

Out of all the bags, this bag is particularly made for an emergency disaster situation. In a disaster situation, this bag should be packed and stored in an easily accessible place. Ready to grab and run.

This is a survival kit for four,  weighing about 45 pounds (loaded).  It is ranked 31 among the Home Emergency Survival Kits.

Unique Design

This survival kit is a stand-alone bag for 4 people. It can be used in any situation such as camping. However, the reason it was made is for emergency and natural or man-made disasters. The expiration date for the products is 5 years from the purchase date.

Capacity

This bug out bag has the capacity to carry all the essential items needed for 4 people to survive 72 hours. This includes room for snacks, water, and a first aid kit. This is important because each individual does not need to buy or store a separate bug-out bag for themselves.

Cost and Value

This 4-person survival kit provides emergency item storage for an emergency. Aside from the fact it will help you in a disaster, it has an expiry date of no less than 5 years. This bag proves a good investment to everyone who buys it.

Pros
  • Well-equipped and organized pack.
  • One bag can be bought for a family of four.
  • Aesthetically pleasing.
Cons
  • Can be heavy for some people
  • It is ready-made, so no need to prepare for this kit
  • Expensive Price tag

8 Red Rock Outdoor Gear - Rebel Assault Pack

Red Rock Outdoor Gear - Rebel Assault Pack

Style 96%
Feature 93%
Portability 94%
Effectiveness 94%
Durability 96%
Our Rating 94.6%

The Red Rock Outdoor Gear Assault Pack weighs in at around 25 pounds, it is 100% polyester and has a storage capacity of 28 liters. The dimensions of this product are 9.5” W x 18” H x 9.5” D.

It has MOLLE webbing with four expanding compartments and four compartments that also enlarge. There are compression straps on three sides and there is padded mesh for extra support. Although there is no secret pocket, the hydration compartment can be used for that purpose.

Visually Pleasing

The color contrast of the bag is eye catching, giving it a visual appeal. It is easy to identify when out camping or hiking. One will not lose it easily nor get this pack mixed up with another person.

Ease of Use

Since it is smaller in size when compared to the other products on our list, it is easier to carry. The smaller dimensions allow easy transport and meet carry-on luggage requirements.

Cost and Value

This Red Rock Outdoor gear bug out bag offers a great deal of value with the purchase. It has MOLE webbing, and various expanding compartments. Extremely cost effective for many individuals looking for a bailout session from their lives. The color contrast provides easy identification and is pleasing to the eye.

Pros
  • MOLLE Webbing is provided
  • Cost effective.
  • Strap wraps on the end of the straps to control the excess.
  • Quite spacious for storage.
Cons
  • No drinking tube provided in the bag
  • Not enough padding in the shoulder straps.
  • It is smaller in size (bag).

Buying Guide

Style

Bug Out bags should be styled in a way that is efficient in the event of an emergency. Style is rated according to brand, color coordination, and how the pockets are arranged. One of the most popular brands for survival gear is the RUSH brand. The style of the bag affects its quality and type.

Features

Each bag listed in this review is differentiated by the various features used to create each brand. The various numbers of pockets and the way they are organized allows one to choose which bag suits their purpose. Since each bag is made for distinctive purposes, added  features make these bags stand out for a number of reasons.

Portability

A bug out bag should be easy to carry and transport in a variety of situations. The ability to carry these bags depends on the individual’s strength. It also has to do with the support provided by the padding on shoulder, chest and waist straps. The padding and straps allow an even weight distribution when carrying.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of these survival bags comes from the ability to store items in an organized, efficient way without damaging any gear. However, when packing one’s belongings it should be done in a way that does not cause damage to the belongings. An example would be if a person must take their laptop, they want to ensure there is a pocket designed for such use.

Durability

In order for a bug out bag to be durable it needs to be made of materials that provide strength. This material should not easily tear at the seams when adding any weight. These bags are made for the purpose of bailing out for at least three days. It should  have room to store enough materials to last at least 72 hours.

Expert Tips

Quality

A bug out bag should be made from the best materials. It should be sturdy enough to carry the weight of a person’s supplies without the seams tearing. If the quality of the product is not top-notch it could prove difficult to manage especially in an emergency situation.  Then one could be left with a damaged bag with limited resources in the wilderness.

The Weight of a Bug Out Bag

The weight of the bag should be manageable so that one can carry all their essential items, not feeling too much like a burden to carry. Depending on the build of the person, this bag should be ideal and easy to carry. Weight is important because different bags have different weights. The weight is important according to any extra features that might be added, because if it is too heavy to pick up or tote for any distance then it is useless.

Other Factors

Size

Since every person has a different build; the height and size of a bag matters when choosing which one is the best bug out bag. A person having a smaller build, may prefer a considerably smaller bag and still be able to carry enough items for 72 hours.

Comfort

During a bailout session, comfort is a privilege yet very important even in the toughest situations. The backpack one buys if proven to be uncomfortable, may slow progress prove to be burdensome. Comfort is provided by the padding of the straps, weight distribution and air ventilation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why a Bug Out bag and not a regular backpack?

A: A bug out bag is also known as a bail out bag or a pre-packed bag used in case of emergencies or disaster situations. However, bug out bags are not just for survivalists, they can be used in times when you are just bugging out to the wilderness or exploring a new place. It will come in handy even when you are short in money, cause it will contain all your essentials. While regular backpacks may be light and easier to carry, bug-out bags offer enough space for essential materials to last for three days.

Q: What size bug out bag is the best for you?

A: Typically, a three-day provision bag is best. However, the size of the bag mainly depends on a number of factors like the number of total people travelling, the setting in which the travelers will be going and most importantly what resources will be available.

Q: How to prepare for a trip as a survivalist or a regular trekker?

A: Practice being a survivalist before going out as a first timer or at least attend a workshop. There are many tips and tricks that can come in handy for survivalists or a trekker when resources are limited, however one must practice or take workshops before going out on their own. The reason being, wherever a traveller goes they can only depend on themselves whether in wilderness or a bustling city. One should be prepared enough in order not to endanger or put themselves in a dangerous situation.

Q: What to store in a bug out bag? What is classified as an essential item?

A:

  • Water
    • Life straw (Water filtering system)
  • Food:
    • Snacks like energy bars
    • Cooling Pot
    • Utensils
  • Clothing
    • Head Wrap
    • Jacket
    • Gloves
    • Socks
    • Undergarments
    • Change of clothes
    • Sewing Kit
  • Shelter (Tent)
  • Basic Gear
    • Butane Lighter
    • Insect Repellent
    • Waterproof map or just a map
    • Some sort of Identification
    • Money
  • First Aid Kit
  • Hygiene
    • Hand Sanitizer
    • Toilet paper
  • Navigation
  • Transmission/Communication
  • Self Defence
  • Packing Equipment

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Jim Parson
Jim Parson
Let me introduce myself briefly, I am Jim Parson – the founder of Savvy Survivor. I am 29 years old and have always had a strong passion for all things outdoors. These activities include climbing, hiking, and camping.

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