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Small tactical backpacks are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and military personnel who need to carry essential gear while keeping their hands free. These backpacks are designed to be compact and lightweight, providing a convenient way to carry everything you need for a day trip or a short hike.
When choosing a small tactical backpack, there are several critical factors to consider, such as the size, weight, and durability of the backpack. You’ll want to make sure the backpack is spacious enough to hold all your gear without being too bulky or heavy to carry comfortably. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the backpack is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
The best small tactical backpacks offer a range of features, such as multiple compartments, MOLLE webbing, hydration bladder compatibility, and sturdy zippers. These features can make it easier to organize your gear and access it quickly when you need it.
We spent hours researching and testing several small tactical backpacks to identify the ones that offer the best combination of size, weight, and features. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at our top picks and explain why they stand out from the competition.
Table of Contents
Best Small Tactical Backpacks
If you’re looking for a small tactical backpack that can carry all your essentials without weighing you down, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the internet to find the best small tactical backpacks on the market. Whether you’re heading out on a day hike or need a reliable pack for your daily commute, our list has got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top small tactical backpacks you can buy right now.
ArcEnCiel Mini Tactical Backpack
If you’re looking for a compact backpack that’s perfect for day hikes and outdoor activities, the ArcEnCiel Mini Tactical Backpack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- High-quality, waterproof material
- Multiple compartments for easy organization
- MOLLE system design for added versatility
Cons
- Smaller than some may prefer
- Molle webbing is not 4-wide
- No hydration bladder compartment
This backpack is made from high-intensity military-style nylon fabric with a waterproof coating, making it durable, breathable, waterproof, and scratch-resistant. It features a front zippered patch pocket, a side water bottle mesh bag, and a main inside zipper bag that can hold a wallet, 6-inch mobile phone, 12-inch laptop, A4 magazines, and three bottles of drinks. The backpack also has a MOLLE system design that can be used in combination with other equipment, making it convenient to mount accessory bags, kettles, hang bags, glasses, interphones, carabiners, small flashlights, and other outdoor equipment on the front of the backpack.
The padded back and shoulder straps, inner mesh breathable fabric, high resilience, and water-repellent characteristics effectively alleviate the shoulder muscles and spine pressure, making carrying more comfortable. It’s perfect for hiking, casual, travel, camping, shopping, college, and more.
In summary, the ArcEnCiel Mini Tactical Backpack is a great choice for those looking for a compact, durable, and versatile backpack for day hikes and other outdoor activities.
SOG Ninja Daypack
If you’re looking for a versatile backpack that can handle everyday use as well as outdoor adventures, the SOG Ninja Daypack is worth considering.
Pros
- The backpack is water-repellent, making it great for outdoor activities.
- It has a variety of compartments, including a large main compartment and a front zippered pocket, to keep your items organized.
- The backpack is designed for comfort, with yoke-style adjustable, padded straps and a contoured foam back with multiple air channels.
Cons
- Some customers have reported issues with the zippers and other hardware, indicating that the backpack may not be as durable as other options.
- The hydration bladder pocket is sold separately, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
- The backpack may be too small for users who need to carry a lot of gear.
The SOG Ninja Daypack is a solid choice for those who need a backpack that can handle a variety of activities. It’s water-repellent, has plenty of compartments for organization, and is designed for comfort. However, some customers have reported issues with the durability of the zippers and other hardware, and the backpack may be too small for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile backpack that can handle everyday use as well as outdoor adventures, the SOG Ninja Daypack is worth considering.
REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag
If you’re looking for a small tactical backpack that can carry your essentials on a daily basis, then the REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Durable and water-resistant 600D polyester material
- Large Velcro pad in the concealed main and back compartments
- Adjustable and comfortable shoulder strap with two smaller straps to reduce sway
Cons
- Limited storage capacity
- Not suitable for heavy loads
- Zippers can be difficult to operate with one hand
This sling bag backpack is perfect for carrying items such as an iPad, small notepad, keys, wallet, cell phone, flashlight, gloves, bottle of water, and more. It’s also great as a pistol range bag or tactical assault pack.
The large Velcro pad in the concealed compartments allows you to store your items securely, while the adjustable and comfortable shoulder strap with two smaller straps helps reduce the sway of the bag while moving.
One downside of this backpack is its limited storage capacity, which may not be suitable for those who need to carry heavy loads. Additionally, the zippers can be difficult to operate with one hand, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, the REEBOW GEAR Tactical Sling Bag is a great option for those who need a small tactical backpack for everyday use or for short trips. Its durable and water-resistant material, large Velcro pad, and adjustable shoulder strap make it a reliable and comfortable choice.
G.P.S. Tactical Range Backpack
If you’re looking for a durable and secure backpack to transport your handguns, ammunition, and accessories to and from the range, the G.P.S. Tactical Range Backpack is a perfect choice.
Pros
- The backpack features 3 separate removable pistol storage cases with integrated magazine storage, offering storage space for 3 pistols and 12 magazines in total.
- The rigid honeycomb frame of the backpack along with the lockable YKK oversized self-tacking zippers ensure your stored pistols remain secure.
- The backpack is equipped with a Visual I.D. Storage System, which includes clearly marked pockets for ear plugs, shooting safety glasses, shooting targets, ear muffs, tools, and more.
Cons
- The backpack might be too bulky for some users, especially if they only need to carry a few items to the range.
- Some users might find the backpack a bit heavy, especially when fully loaded with handguns, ammunition, and accessories.
- The backpack might not be suitable for long hikes or walks, as it might cause discomfort or fatigue.
The G.P.S. Tactical Range Backpack is a durable and versatile backpack that can help you transport your handguns, ammunition, and accessories to and from the range. The backpack is made of 1000 Denier heavy-duty material with DuPont Teflon stain-resistant coating, and features Dura Flex buckles and hardware with no UV compounds – this makes them invisible in night scope operations. The backpack is also equipped with a waterproof pull-out rain cover to help keep your tactical gear dry during rainy weather.
The backpack features 3 separate removable pistol storage cases with integrated magazine storage, offering storage space for 3 pistols and 12 magazines in total. The pistol cases are padded and offer storage space for 1 pistol and 4 magazines each. The backpack also features 4 outside zippered pockets for ammo and other accessories, as well as MOLLE webbing for adding accessories.
The rigid honeycomb frame of the backpack along with the lockable YKK oversized self-tacking zippers ensure your stored pistols remain secure. The backpack also includes a front pocket that unzips flat to offer a working surface at the range, and a chest strap and padded waist belt that help ensure load stability on your back.
Overall, the G.P.S. Tactical Range Backpack is a great choice for shooters who need a durable and secure backpack to transport their handguns, ammunition, and accessories to and from the range.
LHI Military Tactical Backpack
If you’re looking for a durable and spacious backpack for your outdoor activities, the LHI Military Tactical Backpack is a solid choice.
Pros
- Made of durable and water-resistant 900 oxford nylon fabric
- Ventilated mesh padded back area & shoulder strap for comfortable wear
- Multiple compartments and zip closure pockets for easy organization
Cons
- Bulky when fully expanded
- Hip belt is not suitable for long treks
- Shoulder strap adjustment may not stay in place
The LHI Military Tactical Backpack is a versatile backpack suitable for fitness, travel, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. The backpack is made of 900 oxford nylon fabric, which is durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. The backpack features a ventilated mesh padded back area and shoulder strap, which provides breathability and comfort during long hikes or activities. Additionally, the backpack has multiple compartments and zip closure pockets, including interior zip pockets and mesh pockets, which allow you to put almost all necessities inside.
The backpack also has a molle system, which provides plenty of mount points on the outside of the backpack for add-on pouches. This feature is designed to be used in combination with other equipment, such as pockets, water bottle bags, and accessory kits. The backpack is also suitable for military hobbies, and it can be used as a 3-day assault pack, bug-out bag backpack, army backpack, hunting backpack, military survival backpack, trekking backpack, or day pack for daily use.
In conclusion, the LHI Military Tactical Backpack is a great option for anyone looking for a durable and spacious backpack for their outdoor activities. Although it may be bulky when fully expanded, it offers plenty of storage space and is made of high-quality materials.
Mardingtop Tactical Backpack
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile tactical backpack, the Mardingtop Tactical Backpack is a great choice.
Pros
- Made of 600D polyester with YKK buckles and zippers for durability
- Hydration compartment with space for a 2-liter bladder (not included)
- Molle webbing throughout for attaching additional gear
Cons
- Waist belt is stitched in and may need to be adjusted for a snug fit
- Patch area on top may not be useful for everyone
- Some users have reported that the backpack is smaller than expected
This backpack is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, and hunting. It features compression straps that can hold a sleeping bag, tripod, or tent, and a chest strap for added support. The ventilation pads on the back area and shoulder straps make it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
One of the standout features of this backpack is the hydration compartment, which can hold a 2-liter bladder (not included) and has a tube that can be fed through the top of the bag near the grab handle. The molle webbing throughout the backpack allows you to attach additional tactical pouches or gear, making it a versatile choice for a variety of activities.
The waist belt of this backpack is stitched in, but can be slid into the middle space behind the back padding support if needed. It can be a snug fit and won’t slide back out on its own. The patch area on the top of the backpack can be used to paste your favorite patches, but may not be useful for everyone.
Overall, the Mardingtop Tactical Backpack is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and versatile tactical backpack for outdoor activities.
HUNTVP Mini Daypack Military MOLLE Backpack
If you are looking for a compact and durable tactical backpack, the HUNTVP Mini Daypack Military MOLLE Backpack is a great option.
Pros
- The backpack is made of high-intensity military-style nylon, which is scratch-resistant and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- The MOLLE external expansion system allows you to attach other equipment to the backpack, such as pockets, water bottle bags, and accessory kits.
- The backpack is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, but it still has enough room to fit an iPad, 10″ tablet, 5.7″ phone, and a 500ml bottle.
Cons
- The backpack is only 10L, which may not be enough space for some people.
- The backpack is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
- The side pockets are too small to fit wider water bottles.
In my experience, the HUNTVP Mini Daypack Military MOLLE Backpack is a reliable and practical backpack for outdoor activities. The backpack is made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear, and the water-resistant feature is a plus when you are out in the rain. The MOLLE external expansion system is also a great feature as it allows you to customize your backpack according to your needs. However, if you need to carry more items, you may want to consider a larger backpack as the 10L capacity may not be enough. Overall, I would recommend the HUNTVP Mini Daypack Military MOLLE Backpack to anyone looking for a compact and durable tactical backpack.
EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Outdoor Hydration Backpack
If you’re looking for a small tactical backpack that can carry your hydration bladder and other essential gear, the EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Outdoor Hydration Backpack is worth considering.
Pros
- Made of high-quality and durable 500D Cordura Nylon material
- Dual-use design that can be used as a hydration backpack or accessory bag
- Multiple MOLLE straps for attaching extra pouches and extending storage space
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a hydration bladder
- No shoulder straps included
- Some users reported issues with the zippers
This backpack is made of high-quality and durable 500D Cordura Nylon material, which ensures that it can withstand tough outdoor conditions. Its dual-use design allows it to be used as a hydration backpack or accessory bag, making it versatile and practical. The multiple MOLLE straps on the front and side of the backpack provide ample space for attaching extra pouches, such as an ammo pouch or first aid pouch, to extend your storage space.
One downside to this backpack is that it doesn’t come with a hydration bladder, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. Additionally, some users reported issues with the zippers, so it’s important to be careful when opening and closing them. Finally, this backpack doesn’t come with shoulder straps, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a small tactical backpack that’s versatile, durable, and practical, the EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Outdoor Hydration Backpack is a solid choice.
Samurai Tactical Wakizashi Tactical Backpack
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable small tactical backpack, the Samurai Tactical Wakizashi Tactical Backpack is a great option.
Pros
- The backpack is made of high-density fabric that is durable and has a 24L capacity.
- It features MOLLE webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear.
- The backpack is comfortable to wear, thanks to its heavy-duty zippers, utility-style cord pulls, load compression system, top carry handle, ventilated mesh padded back area, and shoulder strap.
Cons
- The backpack doesn’t come with a hydration reservoir and it needs to be purchased separately.
- The backpack may not be suitable for people who need a larger capacity backpack.
- The backpack may not be suitable for people who need a backpack with a lot of internal organization pockets.
The Samurai Tactical Wakizashi Tactical Backpack is a great addition to your adventure. It has a lot of compartments to provide superior storage capacity and organization without slowing you down. The backpack is perfect for camping, hiking, trekking, traveling, or anyone who is a fan of outdoor, survival adventures.
The backpack is made of high-density fabric that is durable and has a 24L capacity. It features MOLLE webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear. The backpack is comfortable to wear, thanks to its heavy-duty zippers, utility-style cord pulls, load compression system, top carry handle, ventilated mesh padded back area, and shoulder strap.
The backpack doesn’t come with a hydration reservoir and it needs to be purchased separately. The backpack may not be suitable for people who need a larger capacity backpack. The backpack may not be suitable for people who need a backpack with a lot of internal organization pockets.
In summary, the Samurai Tactical Wakizashi Tactical Backpack is a great option for people who need a reliable and durable small tactical backpack. It has a lot of compartments to provide superior storage capacity and organization without slowing you down.
HUNTVP 10L/20L Mini Daypack Military MOLLE Backpack Rucksack Gear Tactical Assault Pack Bag
If you’re looking for a small tactical backpack for your outdoor activities, the HUNTVP Mini Daypack is a great option. It’s durable, water-resistant, and has a MOLLE external expansion system that allows you to add more pockets and accessories.
Pros
- The backpack is made of high-intensity military-style nylon that is scratch-resistant and not easy to fade.
- It’s water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet in wet environments.
- The MOLLE external expansion system allows you to add more pockets and accessories to the backpack.
Cons
- The backpack is small, so it may not be suitable for people who need to carry a lot of items.
- The side pockets can only fit a 500ml bottle, not a wider one.
- The chest strap is not adjustable.
The HUNTVP Mini Daypack is perfect for those who are looking for a small tactical backpack for their outdoor activities. It’s durable, water-resistant, and has a MOLLE external expansion system that allows you to add more pockets and accessories. If you need to carry a lot of items, this backpack may not be suitable for you as it’s small. The side pockets can only fit a 500ml bottle, and the chest strap is not adjustable.
Buying Guide
When looking for a small tactical backpack, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the backpack will depend on what you plan to use it for. If you need a backpack for a day hike or a short trip, a smaller backpack with a capacity of 20-30 liters may be sufficient. However, if you plan to use the backpack for longer trips or to carry more gear, a larger backpack with a capacity of 40-60 liters may be more suitable.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of the backpack are important factors to consider, especially if you plan to use it in rugged or harsh environments. Look for backpacks made of high-quality materials such as nylon or polyester, which are durable and water-resistant. Additionally, look for backpacks with reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers to ensure that the backpack can withstand wear and tear.
Comfort and Fit
A comfortable and well-fitting backpack is essential, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods. Look for backpacks with padded straps and back panels, which can help distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure points. Additionally, look for backpacks with adjustable straps and waist belts, which can help ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Features and Accessories
Finally, consider the features and accessories that come with the backpack. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets, which can help you organize your gear and access it easily. Additionally, look for backpacks with MOLLE webbing, which can allow you to attach additional pouches and accessories to the backpack.
In summary, when looking for a small tactical backpack, consider the size and capacity, material and durability, comfort and fit, and features and accessories to ensure that you get the best product for your needs.
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