Survival Backpack: A Guide for Survivalists

June 20, 2023June 21, 2023

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Introduction to Survival Backpacks

Hi there, fellow survivalists! As someone who’s been passionate about the art of survival for many years, I can tell you that having a well-equipped survival backpack is absolutely essential. It’s your lifeline when you’re out in the wilderness, and it can make the difference between a close shave and a disaster. But what makes a good survival backpack, and how do you pack it properly? Let’s dive in and explore this critical survival gear together.

What Makes a Good Survival Backpack?

Choosing the right survival backpack is more than just picking something to carry your gear. It’s about finding a pack that’s an extension of you – a trusty companion that can handle the rugged demands of survival scenarios. So let’s dissect the attributes of an ideal survival backpack even further.

Size

The size of your backpack is not just about capacity but also about balance and movement. You want a backpack that can comfortably hold all your essentials, yet it shouldn’t be so big that it hinders your ability to move around swiftly. A 50-70 liter pack is usually adequate for extended stays in the wilderness. Also consider compartments and pockets – having multiple ways to organize your gear makes it easier to locate items when needed.

Durability

Your survival backpack is going to take some beatings, whether it’s from harsh weather, rough handling, or being scraped against rocks and branches. Therefore, it should be constructed with strong, durable materials that can handle such abuse. Nylon, polyester, and other synthetic materials are often used for their combination of strength, water resistance, and lightweight properties.

Furthermore, pay attention to the stitching. Double-stitched seams and reinforced stress points increase the bag’s resilience. Also, the zippers should be strong and not prone to catching or breaking.

Comfort

Comfort may seem like a luxury when it comes to survival gear, but a comfortable pack can make a significant difference in how far and how long you can travel. Padded shoulder straps help distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, reducing the risk of strain or injury.

The backpack should also have a padded, preferably ventilated back panel to prevent discomfort from items poking against your back and reduce sweating. A hip belt is another beneficial feature as it transfers weight from your shoulders to your hips, allowing you to carry more weight for extended periods.

An adjustable backpack is more likely to give a better fit. Being able to adjust the straps and belt allows you to customize the pack to your body shape and size, enhancing comfort and stability.

Weather Resistance

A good survival backpack should be weather-resistant to protect your gear from getting wet. Waterproof or water-resistant materials are a must, but consider a pack with a built-in rain cover for additional protection.

Accessibility and Design

The best survival backpacks have multiple compartments for organized storage. The ability to separate your gear into distinct areas means you can grab what you need quickly without having to rummage through the entire pack. Look for a backpack with a clamshell design or panel-loading capability which allows you to access the entire main compartment at once, instead of digging down from the top.

MOLLE Compatibility

Many modern survival backpacks feature a MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) system. This is a system of heavy-duty nylon stitched onto the backpack to allow for additional pouches or gear to be added. It’s a beneficial feature for customization and expanding carrying capacity as needed.

Color

The color of your backpack might not seem like a major concern, but it can have practical implications. Bright colors like red, orange, or yellow can help rescuers spot you more easily in an emergency situation. On the other hand, more subdued earth tones like green, brown, or black are better for staying inconspicuous, particularly if you’re trying to avoid drawing attention to yourself in a survival situation. This choice largely depends on your specific needs and the scenarios you think you’re most likely to encounter.

Hydration Compatibility

If you’re planning on being out in the wilderness for extended periods, having an easily accessible source of water is critical. Many survival backpacks come with built-in hydration bladders or are compatible with aftermarket hydration systems. This allows you to sip water directly from a tube connected to a water reservoir in your pack, without having to stop, take off your pack, and dig out a water bottle. Remember, staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your physical health and mental clarity, especially in survival situations.

Versatility

A good survival backpack should be versatile, able to adapt to various situations and environments. It should have features like multiple attachment points for gear like sleeping bags or tents, external pockets for quick-access items, and internal compartments for organizing your kit. Versatility also applies to its usage – a great survival backpack can function as a hiking pack, a hunting pack, or an emergency bug-out bag, depending on the situation.

Stealth

Stealth is another attribute you might want to consider, particularly if you are trying to avoid detection. This is not just about the color of your backpack, but also how much noise it makes when you’re on the move. High-quality survival backpacks often feature quiet fabric and zipper pulls, reducing noise as you move. This can be a beneficial feature when you’re trying to remain unnoticed, whether it’s from wildlife or potential threats in a survival scenario.

In essence, an ideal survival backpack is durable, comfortable, appropriately-sized, weather-resistant, and offers a good organization. Remember, this backpack could be your lifeline in a survival situation, so choose wisely!

Top 10 Best Tactical and Survival Backpack

5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Backpack

Pros: Known for its spacious 55-liter capacity and rugged construction. Comes with a water-repellent coating and offers a variety of compartments for organization. It’s highly praised for its comfort even when fully loaded.
Cons: It’s a bit on the heavier side, even when empty, due to its durable construction.

Maxpedition Falcon-II Backpack

Pros: Compact and sturdy, this 23-liter pack is ideal for shorter trips. It features a unique clamshell design that fully opens for easy access and has MOLLE webbing for additional attachments.
Cons: Its smaller size may not be ideal for longer trips, and it may be too compact for those needing to carry larger amounts of gear.

TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack

Pros: A fantastic choice for beginners with its 55-liter capacity, comfortable padded straps, and integrated rainfly. It’s known for its adjustability, which allows for a customized fit.
Cons: Some users have noted that the zippers can be finicky, and the material, while durable, isn’t as robust as other tactical packs.

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

Pros: It’s a popular choice with its 50-liter capacity, seven different compartments, and hydration bladder compatibility. It’s also equipped with a foam back panel for comfort and increased ventilation.
Cons: This pack can get quite heavy when fully loaded, and some users have reported issues with strap durability over time.

Direct Action Dragon Egg Tactical Backpack

Pros: This 25-liter backpack stands out with its unique egg shape, providing a compact but roomy interior. It’s made with durable Cordura 500D fabric and features a patented Combat Vent System for increased comfort.
Cons: While the shape is unique, it may not accommodate all types of gear. The pack is also on the pricier side.

Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Backpack

Pros: Known for its impressive build quality and innovative 3-Zip design for easy access. This 27-liter backpack also offers excellent load distribution, enhancing comfort.
Cons: While praised for quality, it’s one of the more expensive options. The size may also be a limiting factor for longer trips.

Kelty Redwing 50 Backpack

Pros: This 51-liter backpack is loved for its perfect blend of comfort, durability, and affordability. It features a handy front pocket that opens into a large panel, providing easy access to your gear.
Cons: It lacks the tactical look of other packs, and its hip belt isn’t as padded as some users would like.

Osprey Packs Stratos 50 Backpack

Pros: Offers excellent ventilation with its innovative AirSpeed back panel. This 50-liter pack is also known for its impressive comfort and ergonomic design, and Osprey’s reputation for quality is a major plus.
Cons: It’s not as durable as some more tactical-focused packs, and it’s not suitable for very heavy loads.

Vanquest Markhor-45 Backpack

Pros: A 45-liter backpack with a clamshell opening and impressive organization options. It features durable construction and a comfortable suspension system.
Cons: The design may be too complex for those wanting simplicity. It’s also at the higher end of the price spectrum.

Camelbak Motherlode 100 Ounce 3 Liter Long Mil Spec Hydration Backpack

Pros: This pack is not only a sturdy tactical backpack but also a high-capacity hydration system. With a 40-liter capacity and an integrated 3-liter hydration bladder, it’s perfect for arid environments.
Cons: It’s primarily designed with hydration in mind, so other design elements may be lacking. It’s also on the heavier side.

Essential Components of a Survival Backpack

Now that we know what to look for in the backpack itself, what about the contents? Here are the key components that every survivalist should include in their pack.

Water and Food

Water purification tablets, a water filter, or a LifeStraw can turn almost any source of water into drinkable H2O. For food, pack high-calorie survival bars and dehydrated meals which only require water to prepare.

Shelter and Warmth

A compact tent or a survival blanket can provide shelter from the elements. Also, pack some spare clothes for warmth. Think about what kind of weather you’re likely to encounter and plan accordingly.

First Aid Kit

Every survival backpack needs a comprehensive first aid kit. This should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, painkillers, and any personal medications you might need.

Tools and Equipment

A multi-tool, knife, or hatchet is crucial for various survival tasks. Also, consider packing a sturdy length of paracord, it’s incredibly versatile and lightweight.

Additional Items for Your Survival Backpack

In addition to the essentials, here are a few extra items you might want to consider.

Navigation Tools

Pack a reliable compass and a map of the area you’ll be traversing. Although GPS units and smartphones are handy, they can run out of battery or lose signal.

Fire Starters

Matches, a lighter, or a flint striker can be lifesavers when you need to start a fire for warmth or to cook food.

Emergency Signal Devices

In the worst-case scenario, you might need to signal for help. Whistles, flares, or a mirror can be used to attract attention from rescuers.

Maintaining Your Survival Backpack

Once you’ve assembled your survival backpack, remember to maintain it. Check the contents regularly, especially perishables like food and medical supplies. Also, make sure your tools are clean and sharp, and your fire-starters are dry.

Conclusion

A well-prepared survival backpack can be your best friend in a survival scenario. As survivalists, we need to be ready for anything, and that means equipping ourselves with the right gear. Remember, the best survival gear is the gear you have when you need it, so choose wisely, pack carefully, and maintain diligently.

Good Resources for Survival Backpacks

FAQs

Q1: How heavy should my survival backpack be?

A: Your survival backpack should weigh no more than 20-25% of your body weight. Any heavier and it could slow you down or cause injury.

Q2: What’s the best way to pack my survival backpack?

A: Distribute weight evenly and pack your gear according to the frequency of use. Essentials should be easily accessible.

Q3: What kind of food is best for a survival backpack?

A: Opt for high-calorie, long shelf-life food like survival bars and dehydrated meals.

Q4: Do I need a weapon in my survival backpack?

A: While not necessary for survival, a weapon can provide an added level of security. At a minimum, a sturdy knife or hatchet is recommended.

Q5: How often should I check and maintain my survival backpack?

A: It’s a good practice to check and refresh the contents of your survival backpack at least once every six months.

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