The 6 Best Bug Out Bags: A Complete Guide

Do you have the best bug out bag prepared for when everything goes south?

Whether it’s from a natural disaster, fire, or tactical situation, you need to be ready. This isn’t just geared for survivalists either. Every family needs a ready bag in the event of emergency. Simple as this sounds, not all go bags are made the same. You need one that can stand up to whatever challenges are on the way. From waterproofing to specialized Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) compartments, you should have complete confidence in your bug out bag.

So, to help you find the best bug out bag, I checked out the top ones on the market and listed them in order. Also, as a heads-up, I did use Amazon Associate links inside this article – which just helps to offset the cost of all those bags.

And with that… Here are our picks for the best bug out bags!

List of The Best Bug Out Bags?

• Voodoo Tactical Mojo Loadout
• Tru Salute Tactical Backpack
• Maxpedition Falcon III
• Condor 3 Day Assault Pack
• Red Rock Large Assault Pack
• Mardingtop Molle Hiking Backpack

Reviews Of The Best Bug out Bags

There are a lot of different ways that people can be prepared for an emergency situation, and one of the most popular is to have a bug out bag. Below are the individual reviews for our favorite bug out bags with different capabilities that should meet your needs.

Voodoo Tactical Mojo Review – Best Large Bag

The Voodoo Tactical is one of my favorite bug out duffels, and gets my top recommendation.

It is the smaller version of the popular Mojo load out bag, but it has the same great features at just 3/4 the size of the larger version. I find that I can get just about everything I need for a proper bug out bag such as a survival kit, weapons, ammo, water and more. Featuring 11 assorted size exterior pouches, lots of webbing to attach more pouches, double-zip access to the main compartment, double compression straps on each end, metal “D” ring attachment points abound. Adjustable removable shoulder strap with movable pad and when the load gets too heavy, including a padded, adjustable shoulder strap harness that conceals in the bottom of the bag when not needed.

I think that this is the perfect bag to pickup and toss in the trunk of your car. You’ll rest easy knowing that you’re driving around with a bag with plenty of storage in it. Its size is advantageous as it is as you just might prefer a back pack. But the Mojo’s got you covered. The duffel can be converted into a backpack or slung across the shoulder via high-grade D-rings and rigging.

This bag is built like a tank and may be one of the best bug out bags you’ll ever own.

VOODOO TACTICAL MOJO PROS AND CONS

Tru Salute Backpack Review – Best Priced Carry Bag

The 3-Day Tactical Assault Pack is a great bugout Bag for many reasons. I really love the glove-friendly pull-tabs which make it easy to get to the waterproof storage compartments quickly. This pack is perfect for prepping for survival, hiking, camping, or even as an EDC pack. Although smaller, it can carry the necessary items like a full on survival kit. This bag is sturdy and comfortable, and also has a handle that is reinforced so you can grab it and go quickly.

The Molle / SlickStick web platform backpack lets you attach your survival gear to carabiners, ropes, or any other type of secure fastening. It has comfortable contoured padded shoulder straps, a breathable and cool mesh padded back, and side and front load compression straps. This backpack is designed to be durable enough to withstand a beating in the woods while protecting your body against harm.

Think of this as the smaller option. It’s cheaper than the Voodoo, but also much smaller. I’d get this one if you want something that is easier to carry or store in your car, but it won’t carry everything.

Tru Salute Backpack Pros and Cons

Maxpedition Falcon III Review: Best Quality Bug Out Bag

I personally like Maxpedition bags – it’s a solid company. However, they are pretty expensive when compared to the Tru Salute above. Sure, I think the Maxpedition is a better bag for a smaller carry bag, but not as good of an ROI when you compare the prices.

So, what makes it a good bag? The Falcon is made of better material and is more comfortable. It has foam-padded double shoulder straps, an adjustable waist belt, and a sternum suspension system for lightening your load and getting out of there quickly.

In the end, the Falcon-III is a more spacious than the Tru Salute. The pack features a 35L overall capacity, including a lockable CCW (concealed carry) compartment for larger handguns. It’s also the smart organization that makes this an excellent bag.

So, in the end, if you have the money and want to go with the high bag, then the Maxpedition Falcon III is a better choice than the Tru Salute. However, if you are more price conscientious, then go with the Tru Salute.

MAXPEDITION Falcon III PROS AND CONS

Condor 3-Day Assault Pack Review

You may hear some people comparing this Condor 3 Day Assault pack to the Falcon III above. And that may have to do with the fact that this Condor takes it comfort level just as seriously. Complete with sternum straps, adjustable waist band, and body contour shoulder straps, I think that the Condor doesn’t sacrifice when it comes to its ease of carry. However, what I really love about the Condor’s construction is the rear foam pad that not only provides maximum relief to the wearer but optimizes air flow. Not saying it’s going to eliminate a hot, sweaty back…but it sure does help.

Coming in at 50L, this holds more than the Maxpedition. However, I don’t think its pocketing systems are as smart as Maxpeditions. It does have some pretty neat features as well such as document holding pockets, radio pockets, and even pen holsters. And those of you laughing over pen holsters… it’s always pertinent to have something to write with in the event of emergency. Perhaps one of the nicest features of the Condor is its capacity for hydration.

That being said, I’m not a fan of the zipper pull tags. They aren’t the most dependable and I already broke one. Mind you, these aren’t the zippers themselves–just the tabs.

So, if you’re looking for a cheaper option than the Falcon III, but larger than the Tru Salute, then this would be the bag for you.

CONDOR 3-DAY ASSAULT PACK PROS AND CONS

Red Rock Large Assault Pack Review

The Red Rock Large Assault Pack is by far one of the most budget-friendly options on our list of best bug out bags. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t carry its weight–pun intended. It’s a reliable pack made out of durable material that can carry just about everything you need.

And while not as showy or tactical comparatively, the Red Rock has some pretty neat features that help it make our list.

First, I always love a good hydration or CCW pocket–an essential in any emergency or survival situation. The hydration pocket along the back of the bag can carry up to a 2.5 liter bladder depending on bladder style or be easily converted into a CCW compartment. There’s also the Molle attachment webbing along the outside. It doesn’t have as many Molle points as other bags, but do you really want too much stuff just hanging? And I’ve just got to mention its unique clamshell style main compartment. This is is nice for ease of pack/loadout.

This being a budget bag, it’s not without its criticism. The Molle webbing isn’t stitched quite as well as other packs and has a tendency to break when put through some wear. It’s also the same size as the Tru Salute and a bit more expensive. So, if this is your type of bug out bag, then it is best to go with the Tru Salute.

RED ROCK ASSAULT PACK PROS AND CONS

Mardingtop Molle Hiking Backpack Review

The Mardingtop rounds out our list of best bug out bags, and it’s a beast of a bag with its huge carrying capacity.

Aside from its ability to carry all of your necessary gear and provisions, the Mardingtop comes equipped with numerous Molle loops that you can use to attach just about anything. Thankfully, the whole rig is supported via an internal frame so you don’t have to worry about your bag caving in on you.

Another great attachment is the rain cover. A rain cover is provided for the Mardingtop to keep all of your gear dry.

The biggest gripe I have about this bag is the lack of included hydration system. I do know that many folks prefer their own water bladders to built-in systems. However, it would have been a nice add-on. But if you downgrade to a smaller version of this pack, Mardingtop does provide a built-in hydration system–again, a survival must-have. So, that could be an option if you so desire.

MARDINGTOP MOLLE HIKING BACKPACK PROS AND CONS

Bug Out Bag Buyer’s Guide

In case you’re not sure of which features you should look for, or exactly what kind of bug out bag is best for you, then here is a guide to help you. What would be the ultimate bug out bag for one person, wouldn’t necessarily bet the best bug out bag for another.

WHO NEEDS A BUG-OUT BAG?

Contrary to popular belief, bug out bags aren’t just for military snipers and survivalists.

They’re for everybody. You absolutely need to have a bug out bag.

You never know when disaster will strike. Whether it’s an Act of God or a man-made catastrophe, you need to be prepared. And this is doubly important for those with families. It can be difficult to acquire supplies in the event of an emergency. There’s no reason to be unprepared. We’ve all seen the news reports and pictures of those Walmart shelves come time for a hurricane to make landfall.

They’re barren. So why wait to fight over necessary supplies and provisions when you can be sufficiently prepared for whatever may come?

WHAT IS A BUG OUT BAG?

A bug out bag (aka go-bag, ready bag, BOB, etc.) is a pre-packed bag that carries everything you or your family would need to survive for a full 72-hours in the event of an emergency such as natural disaster, outbreak, war, or other emergency.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUG OUT BAG FOR YOU

When determining what type of bug out bag you need, you should focus on some key criteria when choosing.

What size bag do you need?

Typically, you want to pack enough provisions for three full days. This includes everything from food and water purification tablets, first aid kit, and even toiletries. And this might seem relatively simple–until your you start factoring the number of people who will be using this pack. As far as individual backpack styles, I would recommend each person has their own.

Do you need a CCW or Hydration Pocket?

Being that this is Gun University, I’d imagine that a CCW pocket is a big deal. However, what makes a good CCW pocket? It should be easily accessible to you (not others), concealable, secure, and comfortable to wear. These pockets are often integrated as part of (or are one in the same) as the hydration compartments. A hydration compartment on a bug out bag is where you’ll store water bladders to carry enough water for you to find safety. They won’t necessarily provide you with as much water as your body needs for three days. But it’s absolutely better than not having them at all. If you’re looking for extra hydration capabilities, check out this Molle compatible Camelbak system over at Brownells.

What’s the reason you’re using this bag?

This might seem like a stupid question. For an emergency, right? But what kind of emergency? Most of us aren’t actually confronted with the threat of nuclear holocaust or all-out zombie apocalypse. In all reality, the ultimate bug out bag for you may just be more for emergency wildfire, earthquake, or hurricane evacuation.

Keep comfort and fit in mind.

If you’re actually going to have to wear your bug out bag, you’re going to want a bag that fits your body and is comfortable. And sometimes, that doesn’t necessarily mean go with the one with the most padding. While all that foam padding does help, it only helps if the bag fits you. There’s no sense in buying a bag three times your size or one that’s way too small.

Internal Frame vs External Frame Bug Out Bags

When shopping for a backpack-style bug out bag, you’re going to run into two different types. Those with internal frameworks and support systems and those who have external frames. The major thing you need to consider when deciding between these two is how much stuff are you going to carry?

FAQ

Are premade bug out bags worth it?

Premade bug out bags can be a great place to start if you want peace of mind knowing there is something ready while you continue to research. Making a list of things you need and then finding something as close to that as possible is a great idea. You can then adjust and amend the contents of the bag as you see fit.

How long should a bug out bag last?

Typically BOBs are designed to last 72 hours. They’re designed for emergencies and any time you’re required to evacuate.

What food do you take in a bug out bag?

Great question! As discussed, you need a minimum of 72 hours worth of non-perishable food. You’ll potentially be using a lot of energy in that time depending on your circumstances so covering the food groups is essential–protein, fat and carbohydrates are going to fuel you the best. Consider canned items such as fish and beans and vegetables, nuts and nut butter, dehydrated food like fruit and crackers or whole grain chips.

So, What’s Next

Now that you have your survival backpack picked out, it’s time to prepare it for the time we hope never comes. The best place to start is with a bug out bag checklist. Checking out that bug out bag list, you’ll find things like survival kit, survival tool, and a bunch more.