Our top made in the USA backpack brands are:

Inside Line Equipment
North St. Bags
Chrome Industries
Mission Workshop
Timbuk2
Velo Transit
Road Runner Bags
GORUCK
Triple Aught Design 
Kifaru
Stone Glacier
Mystery Ranch
McHale Packs
Hill People Gear
CiloGear
Alpine Luddites
Hyperlite Mountain Gear
Zpacks
DSPTCH
The Brown Buffalo
DEFY
Recycled Firefighter
Rucksack Village
Colfax Design Works
Remote Equipment
Rickshaw Bagworks
BaileyWorks
Mafia Bags
Truce Designs
Bradley Mountain
Rivendell Mountain Works
Tannergoods
Kletterwerks
Frost River
Filson
Topo Designs
KILLSPENCER
Lotuff Leather
Outlier
Tom Bihn
Red Oxx

Bike Backpacks Made in the USA

Inside Line Equipment

One of California’s lesser-known bike carry brands, ILE are burly and bomber, and, in our book, deserve more cred. Founded in 2012 by Eric Fischer, it’s a brand that keeps it simple. Clean, no BS design, with a focus on easy functionality. Everything’s US-made, from the super tough Cordura to the threads that stitch it together, and built in-house to rigorous standards. If you want a rugged, made in USA backpack for commuting (and nowadays travel and camera gear), ILE are a local brand to check out.

Best backpacks by Inside Line Equipment:

Default, $240: ilequipment.com; velotastic.co.uk

ASNMNT, $260: ilequipment.com

Radius Mini, $160: ilequipment.com

North St. Bags

Lots of great things are coming out of Portland, Oregon, and North St. Bags are no exception. Founded in 2009 by Curtis Williams, their bags are simple and classic and made in-house, right on the store floor. In their early days, they drew acclaim for their ingenious Woodward backpack/pannier hybrid, and have now branched off into noteworthy collabs (recently with Kiriko Made) and experiments with technical fabrics like X-Pac sailcloth.

Their American made backpacks are built with mostly USA-made materials and backed by a lifetime guarantee. And if you fancy a little personalization to your pack, there are custom colorway options too.

Best backpacks by North St. Bags:

Belmont, $175: northstbags.com; 

Flanders, $235: northstbags.com; keus-store.com

Davis, $145: northstbags.com; keus-store.com

Chrome Industries

SF’s infamous Chrome Industries have been carried on the shoulders of tattooed couriers since 1995 and it’s a brand that sparked a new movement into technical lifestyle cycling bags. Instantly recognizable with its Russian-star red hits and Pegasus logo, it’s a brand known for crazy tough bags built to take a beating – and all backed by a lifetime guarantee.  In their stable, you’ll find backpacks for travel, commuting, or hitting the blacktop on a bike, of course. Many of their bags are made in Chico, California. And if you’re local to one of their Chrome Hubs, we’d suggest rolling in and asking them to craft you a custom bag like no other.

Best backpacks by Chrome Industries:

Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 30L, $160: chromeindustries.com; amazon.com

Barrage Cargo, $160: chromeindustries.com; amazon.com

BLCKCHRM 22X Bravo 3.0, $200: chromeindustries.com; amazon.com; rei.com

Mission Workshop

Few brands have had such influence on an entire category as Mission Workshop. From their very first pack, the Vandal (the first-ever expandable bike pack), to their Arkiv System, they’ve blazed a trail of innovation like no other. Designed in San Francisco, made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty, theirs is some of the finest, burliest and aesthetically pleasing carry you’ll find, period. 

Best backpacks by Mission Workshop:

The Rhake, $380: missionworkshop.com; urbankitsupply.com; condorcycles.com

The Rambler, $335: missionworkshop.com; urbankitsupply.com; condorcycles.com

The Sanction, $215: missionworkshop.com; amazon.com

Timbuk2

One of the original cycling carry brands, Timbuk2 has been going strong since 1989. Forever experimenting and playing with new forms, the San Francisco brand backs their bags with a lifetime warranty and crafts bike-friendly backpacks that embrace work, travel and play. Although, nowadays, if you’re after US-made, you’ll have to invest in one of their custom packs – their non-custom products are now all produced off-shore.

Velo Transit

While weather-resistant bags work for a lot of environments, sometimes you need more protection. And that’s what Velo Transit are dedicated to providing with their waterproof laptop and cycling bags. The bags are made by hand in Seattle and feature RF welded liners for 100% waterproof protection. Even better? They’re backed by a lifetime warranty too. And realizing that people aren’t built the same, Velo Transit also creates gender-specific bags and harnesses to suit different users. If you need a top-notch waterproof bag that organizes and protects your tech and gear no matter what the elements have in store, Velo Transit should definitely be on your carry radar.

Best backpacks by Velo Transit:

Edge Pro 40, $299.95: velotransit.com

Edge Molle 40, $259.95: velotransit.com

Road Runner Bags

Road Runner started with a dream for better bike carry and a tiny manufacturing studio in founder Brad Adams’s bedroom. Founded in 2010, the brand has subsequently flourished and is dedicated to crafting bags for a variety of cycling-related needs. Bike touring? Cycle commuting? Chilled weekend rides? Large loads? Just the essentials? Whatever you need, they’ve got a bag for you. The bags are handmade in Los Angeles using USA-made materials and hardware.

Best backpacks by Road Runner:

Large Anything Pack, $270: roadrunnerbags.us

Evil Mini, $130: roadrunnerbags.us

Large Roll Top Backpack, $255: roadrunnerbags.us

American-Made Tactical Backpacks

GORUCK

GORUCK have made a name for themselves by creating some of the toughest American-made backpacks around. Founded by a Green Beret and made with military-grade toughness in mind, their gear is built to take a beating and keep on performing. Backed by their Scars Lifetime Guarantee, you’ll find GORUCK bags embracing everything from GORUCK Challenges to everyday commutes and day hikes. Rugged 1000D Cordura is the material of choice for their bags, and legions of loyal fans will testify to the bags’ hard-wearing durability and adaptability.

Best backpacks by GORUCK:

Rucker 4.0, $215: goruck.com; huckberry.com

GR1, $335: goruck.com

GR2, $395: goruck.com

Triple Aught Design

Triple Aught Design build gear to help people live more adventurously. It’s reliable and adaptable gear that will get you through the task at hand, whether that’s scaling a summit or commuting to work. Based in Dogpatch, San Francisco, the brand has been one of constant progression. Experimenting with technical fabrics, modularity and expansion, their packs are some of the most exciting on the market. You’ll find packs with military-grade toughness for demanding travel and outdoor use, to sleeker offerings that employ stealthy aesthetics.

Best backpacks by Triple Aught Design:

Axiom 24, $425: tripleaughtdesign.com

FAST Pack EDC, $395: tripleaughtdesign.com

Azimuth Pack, $185: tripleaughtdesign.com

Kifaru

Kifaru is a brand that flies under the radar for most folks, with little spent on marketing and everything invested in crafting the best gear possible. And from that, they’ve built an incredible reputation in durable and reliable hunting and military backpacks. The brand was founded in 1997 by Patrick Smith (also the founder of Mountainsmith) and builds packs to order, focusing on comfort and functionality to ensure years of dependable use.

Best backpacks by Kifaru:

X-Ray, from $454.25: kifaru.net

Stryker XL, from $310.50: kifaru.net

Antero 2.0, from $415: kifaru.net

Stone Glacier

Stone Glacier focus on creating a range of made in USA backpack options that blend lightweight performance with durability and functionality for hunting and backcountry environments. Based in Bozeman, Montana, the brand offers over 15 years of experience refining US-made packs that will stand up to demanding use year after year.

Best backpacks by Stone Glacier:

Kiowa 3200, $329: stoneglacier.com; mountain-archery.com

Avail 2200, $289: stoneglacier.com; scheels.com; blackovis.com

Serac 1700, $239: stoneglacier.com; scheels.com; blackovis.com

Outdoor Backpacks Made in the USA

Mystery Ranch

If you haven’t heard of Mystery Ranch, then you haven’t been reading Carryology.com for very long. Whether they’re making for the military, fire department, or taking those learnings to their everyday line, their packs have a following at cult level. Revered throughout the carry world for their laser-like attention to detail, bomber builds, and comfort when carrying loads, they’re some of the very best packs in the world, bar none.

Note, while many of their packs are now made in the Philippines, Mystery Ranch does build some of their outdoor packs, tactical and fire packs in the USA.

Best backpacks by Mystery Ranch:

3DAP CL, $450: mysteryranch.com

ASAP, $300: mysteryranch.com

Komodo Dragon, $435: mysteryranch.com

McHale Packs

Most might not have heard of McHale Packs. But if you scratch away at the backpacking world (and its burrow-like forums), you’ll discover the army of Dan McHale disciples who swear they’re the greatest UL packs around.

And the best part: they’re reportedly built in his garage. All by hand, using Dyneema and Cordura. Completely custom-built to each individual’s precise measurements. No two are alike. A word of warning, you’ll need to navigate your way through his archaic website to make contact, but trust us, it’s worth it.

Best backpacks by McHale Packs:

All custom

Hill People Gear

Hill People Gear knows that when you’re in the backcountry you need dependable gear that won’t let you down. That’s why they prioritize efficiency in their designs, creating gear for backcountry travelers that focuses on functionality, effective load carriage, flexibility, and long-lasting durability. While they are aware that the do-it-all pack is likely never achievable, they do believe in crafting gear that adapts to a wide variety of needs. In addition to making gear in the USA, they also use American suppliers and are dedicated to maintaining American manufacturing.

Best backpacks by Hill People Gear:

Tarahumara Pack, $150: hillpeoplegear.com

Ute Backpack V2, $377: hillpeoplegear.com

Umlindi Pack V2, $297: hillpeoplegear.com

CiloGear

CiloGear crafts their American-made backpacks in Portland, Oregon on a built-when-ordered process. For them ,‘In Stock’ means they have all of the sub assemblies of the pack. Then they build it for you. Lean and mean, and we like that. While their focus is on crafting lightweight alpine climbing and hiking packs, you’ll find UL urban commuter packs in the mix too, and they’re darn great! 

Best backpacks by CiloGear:

30L Commuter II, $219: cilogear.com

20L WorkSack, $79: cilogear.com

Ski Pack, $299: cilogear.com

Alpine Luddites

John Campbell is Alpine Luddites… quite literally. AL’s a one-person operation. Every pack or bike bag is built to order by him, with his famed attention to detail and quality. John’s waiting list can bounce from 6 to even 12 weeks at times, but you’re getting something special when you wait, especially if you go the custom route, so we recommend you roll into his Colorado workshop with a little patience, and a big plan for your perfect pack.

Best backpacks by Alpine Luddites:

White Light / White Heat, $385: alpineluddites.com

Alpine Machine, $750: alpineluddites.com

Pinnacle Rucksack, $250: alpineluddites.com

Hyperlite Mountain Gear

If you’ve ever been passed by a hot white pack hammering up the trail, it’s most likely come from the Maine workshop of Hyperlite Mountain Gear. Building for alpinists, backpackers, thru-hikers, and other adventurers, their made in USA backpack offerings are stripped back and minimal, ultralight, and dialed to increase speed, distance, and efficiency. One of our favorite UL brands. And well worth a closer look.

Best backpacks by Hyperlite Mountain Gear:

2400 Ice Pack, $359: hyperlitemountaingear.com

Daybreak, $229: hyperlitemountaingear.com

Summit Pack, $199: hyperlitemountaingear.com

Zpacks

Zpacks was founded in 2005 by Joe Valesko, a man who knows all about long-distance thru-hikes and the gear needed to conquer them. The brand builds ultralight backpacking gear that finds that tricky balance of shedding grams while remaining comfortable and durable enough for extensive use. Their designs cater to day hikes, short trips and long-distance hikes, with optional modular accessories and a choice of sizes to tailor them to specific users. The bags are made in West Melbourne, Florida.

Best backpacks by Zpacks:

Arc Blast

Arc Scout

Nero

American-Made Backpacks for Urban / Everyday

DSPTCH

DSPTCH is a great example of humble beginnings to global success story. Beginning life in an apartment, their first product (a camera strap) was launched in 2010. They’ve come a long way, with stores in San Francisco, New York and Tokyo and a solid offering of gear that caters to EDC, work, travel, photography and workout carry needs. Products are cut and sewn entirely in the USA, mostly in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Built to be durable, timeless and functional, their gear mixes military inspiration with urban styling and functionality and comes with a lifetime guarantee too.

Best backpacks by DSPTCH:

Daypack

Ruckpack

Bookpack

The Brown Buffalo

The Brown Buffalo is a carry brand based in California, crafting seriously slick and considered pieces. Founded by our good friend and master designer Douglas Davidson (whose extensive experience includes Burton and The North Face), the brand creates quality, functional pieces for urban everyday and travel needs. The USA-made ConcealPack is a fine example of understated aesthetics, excellent craftsmanship and practical design that reliably handles work, travel and play requirements.

Best backpacks by The Brown Buffalo:

ConcealPack

DEFY MFG. Co.

DEFY is a brand built on, well, defying expectations. Founder Chris Tag defied remaining in a “safe” but soulless corporate job in favor of venturing into the unknown with the aim of creating a top-notch American manufacturing company. And he’s done just that. The brand defies fast fashion in favor of what they like to call “slow manufacturing” and an appreciation of enduring quality, building their gear by hand in Chicago. Overbuilt to take years of demanding use and keep on thriving, their backpacks feature rugged materials such as Martexin Original Wax Canvas, M35 Military Truck Tarpaulin, and 1000D Ballistic Nylon. Ruggedly suave style, excellent durability and straightforward functionality lets their packs adapt easily to diverse urban settings and needs.

Best backpacks by DEFY:

VerBockel Rolltop 2.0

Bucktown

Menace Backpack 2.0

Recycled Firefighter

Dig into the history behind Recycled Firefighter and you’ll find a pretty darn inspiring story. It was founded by full-time firefighter Jake Starr who wanted additional part-time work he could do from home to support his family. He taught himself to sew and went through hundreds of failed products and prototypes before getting his big break in the carry community through a wallet made from decommissioned fire hose. Countless hours of work month after month (and learning from plenty of mistakes along the way) allowed him to grow the brand. Now Recycled Firefighter offers a range of bags and wallets, made by hand in the USA. The packs are crafted with 1000D Cordura, USA-made hardware and reinforced stitching in high-stress areas. Designed for everyday use and short trips, these tough packs offer an appealing mix of functionality and dependable durability you can count on for years to come.

Best backpacks by Recycled Firefighter:

24hr Battalion

12hr Battalion 

Battalion Duffelpack

Rucksack Village

Rucksack Village is a custom carry brand founded by James Kamo. Bags are designed based on a thorough understanding of each user’s carry needs as well as influences from their personalities and preferences. Though James is super busy and the packs are a side project now, there’s still a chance to get your own (just be prepared to wait for the carry goodness).

Best backpacks by Rucksack Village:

All custom

Colfax Design Works

Military inspiration meets everyday versatility with Colfax Design Works’ gear. Made with adaptability and durability in mind, CDW bags feature technical fabrics and mil-spec components. All brought together in functional designs that don’t shy away from demanding EDC and travel needs. Their gear is made in small batches, giving nods to modularity and multifunctionality so it’s ready to tackle present and future carry needs equally well.

Best backpacks by Colfax Design Works:

Project T.O.A.D.

Recon Pack

Remote Equipment

Remote Equipment was founded with the goal of creating adaptable gear for urban mobility needs. Gear that could handle active commutes and weekend adventures, embrace the elements, and carry comfortably throughout the day. All while celebrating simplicity and functionality. And while they’re a young brand, it was founded by a designer with over ten years of industry experience. And it shows in their first offering. The Alpha 31 was successfully launched through Kickstarter and is a fine example of technical design honed for everyday use. An impressive debut that has us keen to see future creations by this up-and-coming brand.

Best backpacks by Remote Equipment:

Alpha 31

Bravo 18

Charlie 25

Rickshaw Bagworks

Rickshaw Bagworks are a customizable bag manufacturer based in San Francisco. Founded by Mark Dwight in 2007, Rickshaw Bagworks was born from an appreciation and passion for the maker culture and interaction with customers. But it’s also a brand fully aware that accountability falls on them, driving them to create quality bags and a good employee working environment. Bags are crafted with urban mobility, simple functionality and enduring quality in mind.

Best backpacks by Rickshaw Bagworks:

Sutro Backpack

Potrero Backpack

Medium Velo Backpack

BaileyWorks

BaileyWorks have been in the business of making tough, utilitarian bags since 1993. The brand was inspired by California’s bike messenger culture and their need for rugged, functional bags that could take a beating and keep on performing. Turns out, that kind of bag had widespread appeal beyond bike messengers. So BaileyWorks set out to deliver simple, practical and durable bags for a range of urban carry needs. Over two decades later, you’ll find those design principles haven’t changed. Each bag is made by hand in Newmarket, New Hampshire, and can be customized to suit your particular style and requirements.

Best backpacks by BaileyWorks:

The Nomad

Citi Pack

Upcycled Backpacks Made in the USA

Mafia Bags

Mafia Bags got its start in 2012 in Buenos Aires, founded by brother-and-sister team Marcos and Paz Mafia. As a former professional kitesurfer, Marcos came across piles of sails in storage and knew they could be put to new use. The brand expanded to San Francisco in 2014, now their HQ, and has an in-house production facility. Mafia Bags has a strong commitment to sustainability and uses upcycled sails to make their bags, guaranteeing gear with a lifetime warranty. The certified B Corp offers a variety of unique bags for urban carry requirements, including backpacks, duffels, messengers, and totes.

Best backpacks by Mafia Bags:

Discover

Deep Blue Bag

W-Pack

Truce Designs

Truce was founded by Luke Mathers, who learned to sew industrial-grade fabrics while crafting boat covers and repairing sails at North Sails Oregon. In 2016 Truce Designs joined the TREW family, an Oregon-based outdoor company. Truce still holds true to its commitment to environmentally responsible design and manufacturing, using reclaimed materials such as sailcloths and drysuit fabrics to create unique bags. Made in Portland, Oregon, and designed to offer high-performance functionality, Truce bags are also backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best backpacks by Truce Designs:

Drop Liner Backpack

20L SL Backpack

American-Made Heritage Backpacks

Bradley Mountain

Heritage-inspired carry has enjoyed a huge resurgence during the past few years. But while plenty of brands jumped on the bandwagon of heritage aesthetics, many toppled off hitting functionality and quality stumbling blocks. Not so with Bradley Mountain. Founded in 2012, the brand aims to inspire adventure not just through travels but in everyday life, crafting gear that embraces whatever the day brings. Bags are designed with a considered mix of functionality and durability in addition to handsome heritage aesthetics. Their bags are made by hand in San Diego, California, and where many other brands have fallen short Bradley Mountain keeps going strong, backing their commitment to long-lasting quality by offering free repairs too.

Best backpacks by Bradley Mountain:

The Wilder

The Biographer

Muir Pack

Rivendell Mountain Works

One of the original cottage industry carry brands, RMW was founded in 1971 and has influenced numerous designers and brands within the outdoor industry. While it dropped off the radar in the ’80s, RMW has enjoyed a brand resurgence over the past decade. Staying true to their heritage roots, the brand makes gear by hand through what they like to call a “village” manufacturing process. In addition to the iconic Jensen Pack (a true game changer in the carry industry), RMW offers a variety of backpacks to handle outdoor and urban environments alike.

Best backpacks by Rivendell Mountain Works:

Jensen Pack

Mariposa

Larkspur

Tanner Goods

Based in Portland, Oregon, Tanner Goods was founded on the principle of crafting gear that’s worth holding onto. They do this through gear that fuses heritage styling, modern-day functionality, and long-lasting construction that will have you sighing in appreciation. Made for day-to-day and travel needs, the carry range features quality materials such as waxed 18 oz. filter twill canvas and vegetable-tanned leather, brought together in practical and durable designs built to last for years to come.

Best backpacks by Tanner Goods:

Voyager Daypack

Koru Rucksack

Kletterwerks

Kletterwerks was founded by the legendary Dana Gleason in 1975, his first endeavour in pack design and manufacturing. Though the brand stepped off the carry stage for many years, it was resurrected as part of the Mystery Ranch family. While the enduring, simple designs merited a resurrection, there have been new additions (such as padded laptop sleeves) to set these bags up for modern-day use while still retaining their heritage charm.

Best backpacks by Kletterwerks:

Flip

Drei Zip

Frost River

Born from the need to traverse the terrain of the Northern Wilderness, Frost River builds its gear to withstand just about anything. Handmade in Duluth, Minnesota, their bags are crafted with care and precision, using American-sourced materials, such as Martexin Original Wax Canvas and leather from the SB Foot Tannery. And, the fun part, you’ll never have trouble spotting one from afar. See that brown waxed canvas, chestnut leather and solid brass combo above? That’s the signature vibe, and they darn well stick to it.

Best backpacks by Frost River:

Summit Expedition Pack

Isle Royale Bushcraft Packs

Arrowhead Trail Rolltop

Filson

When you think of heritage-style carry, Filson’s name always crops up. Not surprising when you consider they’ve been creating quality gear for demanding outdoor use since 1897. The brand has a manufacturing facility in their Seattle HQ and backs its gear with a lifetime guarantee. Pore over their packs and you’ll find hard-wearing, functional pieces that accommodate work, travel, outdoor and everyday needs.

Best backpacks by Filson:

Journeyman

Rugged Twill Rucksack

Tin Cloth Backpack

Topo Designs

Founded in 2008, Topo Designs was born in a basement in Fort Collins (and continues to make a lot of bags in Colorado) but now enjoys a global fan base. They set themselves apart in the industry by finding that sweet spot between urban and outdoor functionality. Rather than making you choose the city or the wilderness Topo gear embraces both, balancing heritage style with fun and modern practicality. You’ll find designs catering for everything from day hikes to work commutes to weekend getaways, all backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best backpacks by Topo Designs:

Klettersack

Daypack

Rover Pack

Luxury Backpacks Made in the USA

KILLSPENCER

Founded by Spencer Nikosey, KILLSPENCER have been crafting covet-worthy carry since 2009. A suave mix of clean styling, premium materials and excellent construction ensures low-key luxury in every piece. But the Los Angeles brand puts a focus on utility too, so their California-made pieces don’t just look good but perform reliably day in and day out. Their range of fashion-friendly yet functional packs are well suited to work and everyday use in urban settings, featuring chic silhouettes and quality materials such as premium full-grain leather, waxed canvas, and fire retardant and weatherproof nylon.

Best backpacks by KILLSPENCER:

Special Ops Backpack 3.0

Daypack

Utility Daypack

Lotuff Leather

Based in Providence, Rhode Island, Lotuff Leather crafts uber-luxurious leather carry pieces by hand. Many of the team members are artists who create Lotuff’s meticulously crafted pieces – pieces that nail that appealing balance of luxe style and everyday functionality. Each piece is backed by a lifetime guarantee and features premium vegetable-tanned leather.

Best backpacks by Lotuff Leather:

Leather Zipper Backpack

Leather Knapsack

Leather Backpack

Outlier

Brooklyn-based Outlier stand out from the crowd through their commitment to innovative, technical apparel and fabric experimentation, but check out their carry offerings and you’ll find them impressive too. Pieces such as the Ultrahigh Dufflepack, Ultrahigh Duffle and Ultrahigh Backpack have delivered eye-catching modern aesthetics with premium technical fabrics. Made in small batches, their bags sell out fast, so keep an eye out. One better, sign up to their newsletter to be one of the first to know.

Best backpacks by Outlier:

Ultrahigh Backpack

Ultrahigh Dufflepack

American-Made Travel Backpacks

Tom Bihn

Tom Bihn combines over three decades of design experience (four if you consider the founder has been making bags since 1972) with a dedication to eco-conscious production and a rad company philosophy (that they actually genuinely follow). Their gear is known for its functionality and durability and is made in their Seattle factory. Tom Bihn’s travel backpacks handle diverse needs and trips, from outdoor excursions to urban carry-on use. But they also make a variety of other packs that handle work and EDC needs. All backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Best backpacks by Tom Bihn:

Synapse 25, $235: tombihn.com

Aeronaut 45, $320: tombihn.com

Synik 30, $320: tombihn.com

Red Oxx

Red Oxx makes some of the burliest travel bags out there, backed by their legendary “No Bull” lifetime warranty. The bags exude a military level of toughness and dependability (not surprising since the founder and current CEO both have military backgrounds). Wherever you’re going, these bags will get there and back again, multiple times over. Their bags are made by hand in Billings, Montana, using trusty 1000D Cordura, rugged #10 YKK zippers and reinforced stitching for dependable durability.

Best backpacks by Red Oxx:

Sky Train

Tres Hombres

C-ruck Carry-on Rucksack

Originally published in September 2018 and recently updated

The post The Best ‘Made in the USA’ Backpack Brands of 2022 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Triple Aught Design Spectre Carry System

Triple Aught Design build gear to help you live a more adventurous lifestyle. And when it comes to outdoor performance pinnacles, they don’t get much better than the Spectre Carry System. Carefully designed to keep carry weight to a minimum without sacrificing durability, the agile system provides a modular platform that builds out or shrinks down to adapt to changing needs. Three backpacks and a core harness form the base of the system, intended to accommodate minimalist loads, day trips, weekend adventures and extended journeys, and additional carry rigs (including a hydration carrier and chest rig) can be secured to the packs or harness to customize and nail different scenarios.

The LS-42 and VX1 fabrics are cutting edge, the builds are rugged yet clean, and the modularity is intuitive and exceptionally adaptable. Maybe you enjoy trail running. Perhaps your passion is fly fishing or kayaking. Or multi-day treks and day hikes may be your preferred way to explore the outdoors. However you want to get out there, and whatever you need to bring, this system caters to your needs. And in an elegantly simple way that will withstand years of adventuring.

Massive props, TAD, this is an outstanding achievement!

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Highly Commended

These are the pieces that just missed out, and in most cases, by the smallest of margins. To them, we award a High Commendation. The below were of outstanding quality, displaying fine craftsmanship and design flair. With honor, we bow our heads in the utmost respect and kudos. If this were a dais, they’d be biting their teeth into silver medals, while their flags were hoisted into the horizon – a feat not to be overlooked. And we’re sure they’ll be back, to take it one notch higher, next year.

EVERGOODS MPL30

EVERGOODS was founded with a focused aim: to create crossover gear without compromise that adapts to multiple environments. And the MPL30 is an accomplished offering that does just that. Designed with an outdoor mentality, but adaptable to urban and travel use, the MPL30 is a stellar option for users seeking a solid all-rounder. The access is on point, with the full panel opening allowing easy packing and gear retrieval throughout the bag, as well as the flexibility to reach gear from the top or side of the pack on the go. The ergonomic fit hugs the body and provides comfortable load stability on the move. And its hydration bladder compatibility, quick-access pockets and rugged, weather-resistant build keep you prepped for an active day out. EVERGOODS are a relatively young brand, and the MPL was born from their very first collection. And if this is a starting point, then look out. Their potential is immeasurable, and expect a fine tuning and more accomplishments to come.   

Exceptional work, EVERGOODS!

Hill People Gear Aston House Backcountry

You won’t spot a Hill People banner following you round the Internet. Or a feature in a leading lifestyle mag. HPG are too busy building rugged load-bearing gear for that. To find them, you really have to dig, locate someone ‘in the know’. And that’s part of their charm. But only a part… their product, engineered in the field, and built not to fail, is truly why they’re special. Enter the Aston House Backcountry. A no-nonsense backcountry panel loader, built to last, adapt to your carrying style and needs, and carry your gear, inside and out, day after day.

Big enough to support big daytrips and long overnighters, the Aston is reinforced with dual full height aluminium stays and a hdpe framesheet for ultimate load transfer. Internal and external PALS allow for modular packing and gear attachment. And with its handy panel-loading access and well-placed pocketing you can quickly reach items without rummaging. All in all, it’s well-executed combination of flexible organization, rugged durability, access and adaptability. This is a fine pack built by a team who walks the walk. So we commend you, Hill People Gear!

The post Best Active Backpack – The Sixth Annual Carry Awards appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Our 12 Best Active Backpack Finalists take their roles seriously, all delivering noteworthy performances in their different ways. But only one will successfully scale the summit to active pack glory. Which one will you choose?

The post Best Active Backpack Finalists – The Sixth Annual Carry Awards appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

First and foremost, it has to be comfortable.

Being outside can challenge you not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally. The last thing you want to deal with is equipment that hinders your experience and/or your mission. For me, that’s moving from point A to B gracefully and with intention. I don’t want to use any additional energy adjusting my load carriage trying to mitigate any undue fatigue and discomfort my system creates.

This Granite Gear Kahiltna has one of the plushest suspension systems I’ve ever worn. That makes it an easy pick for a cold weather day hike.

A bag has to have a viable suspension system. Anything that holds the bag to your body has to be well considered. An awesome pack will carry a half load as well as it does an over-load. Are the shoulder straps easy to get in and out of? Does the hip belt evenly distribute weight? Does the frame drive the weight into your lumbar and provide a rigid loading platform for heavier outings? I’m always looking for ways to travel through the backcountry more comfortably, and how my pack rides is the first thing I consider.

It has to make sense.

In line with comfort is design. A pack should support you and add value to your experience. If it’s poorly designed, if the features aren’t well thought out, if the actual end user isn’t kept in mind, it shows. I hate getting my hopes up by potentially great bags only to be let down by a “What? Why would they do that? That doesn’t make any sense,” design oversight.

One of my favorite outdoor packs is the Ultimate Direction A.K. Mountain Vest 3.0. Killer pocket placement gives you access to everything you need for a day on the trails without ever taking the pack off.

I’ve abraded too many face fabrics because of rogue hook panels that have adjusted out of place of their corresponding loop panels and seen too many accessory pockets rendered useless from overlaying compression straps. R&D. R&D. R&D.

The last thing you want to deal with is equipment that hinders your experience and/or your mission. For me, that’s moving from point A to B gracefully and with intention.

Pocket placement and size, zipper orientation, compression strap location, access choices: every decision the design team makes tells a story. That story has to make sense, and as consumers, we have to buy into it. Design choices that create excitement add value to our experiences. Being excited brings us closer to the brand and lays the foundation for a good relationship with the bag, and that’s important because we end up spending a lot of time with our outdoor bags.

The Crown2’s simple design, with three exterior pockets and one in the lid, keeps everything nice and orderly in the pack and in my head.

Further, I should say that additional features do not equal additional value. Feature-rich bags are great—but there’s a lot to be said for simplicity.

It has to be versatile.

Versatility is born from good design. Climbers, skiers, and all the other breeds of dirt bags are super resourceful folks. Mission-specific bags are awesome, but they can also box you in.

Draw up a sub 2kg pack with a workhorse suspension, throw two columns of daisy chain down the front, create a smart and flexible compression system to hold a bunch of awesome stuff on the outside, add a few stretch woven stash pockets, and sprinkle a few smaller organizational pockets throughout. We’ll figure out the rest.

A loaded up pre-release Crown2 proved to be flexible when I wanted to run the top lid as a chest pack.

Durability, warranty, and customer service.

Blown seams, chintzy hardware, cheap fabrics…blah. There are no shortcuts to quality. I’m not particularly hard on my stuff, but I use it, and sometimes the environment gets the better of my gear.

The Mystery Ranch Stein 62 is made out of a 400D nylon, which I’ve found to be durable enough in the PNW, Canyonlands, and Appalachia most recently.

A lot of the time, it’s user error, like dropping a pack on chossy granite and ending up with small holes in the bottom of your pack and wand pockets. That’s not a big deal to me, but major components need to endure. The main pack bag’s integrity, the suspension, and the compression should last for the reasonable lifespan of the pack.

I don’t buy anything for serious outdoor use that doesn’t come with a lifetime warranty. That’s pretty standard protocol for me. If I’m going to go out on a limb and try a new system and spend my money on a product that I’m going to rely on in a wilderness environment, it better be covered by the manufacturer. A solid customer service team of experienced outdoorsmen and women doesn’t hurt either.

The Mountain Standard 28L Utility Pack was one of the more bomber bags I’ve ever test driven. A 500D, urethane-coated nylon body and Hypalon bottom panel make it an excessively tough pack.

Great outdoor bags have personality.

It’s hard to place my finger on it, but there’s something about a great pack that just speaks to you. It wants to be worn. We file this under the X-factor in our reviews. Sometimes I look at bags the same way I look at cars and what they symbolize, and I ask myself, “Would I want to drive that?” If it doesn’t raise your heart rate or make you daydream about adventure, is it even worth it?

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Additional features don’t always equal additional value. Feature-rich bags are great—but there’s a lot to be said for simplicity.

Features that I look for?

I really like removable top lids and beaver tails or compression panels. Versatility for me is a really big deal, and both these features do a lot in terms of keeping me adaptable.

A removable top lid allows me to stash something between the main pack compartment and the lid. It also serves as a ditty bag for me to take into the tent at the end of the night.

The Gregory Denali 75 top lid serves as a great in-shelter organizer for my personal items when it’s too cold to rifle through the main pack bag in the middle of the night.

Beaver tails/compression panels are great because they can again be used to hold additional items outside the main pack bag and provide additional organization.

The beaver tail and removable lid on the Granite Gear Leopard A.C. 58 make it one of the more versatile packs I’ve owned.

Again, there’s no definitive list to characteristics of truly epic outdoor packs. If you’ve got your own criteria list and we missed something, comment below and add to the conversation. To get you started on finding your own great outdoor pack, here’s a few brands we’re digging right now: Hill People Gear, Seek Outside and Granite Gear.

Keen on more handy outdoor insights and advice? Check out Ace-Outside on Facebook and Twitter.

The post What Makes a Great Outdoor Pack? appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

“Whether you worry about an earthquake, tsunami, extended power outage, or civil unrest, there are plenty of reasons to have a go bag ready to get you through the uncertainty of the next 72 hours.”

Each to their Own…

This is a totally personal go bag that I’ve curated to complement my skill set, comfort levels, and preferences.  There’s more info out there on bug out bags than pretty much any other vein of carry and/or preparedness.  So do your homework!  Figure out what challenges you’re likely to face in your geographic area, in your climate, and in relation to your abilities.

Make a Plan

First and most importantly, you need to have a plan.  Where do you work? Is your go bag with you at the office?  Do you have to account for loved ones?  Perhaps you should consider meeting up with friends if the need to bug out arises; there are, after all, benefits to working as a team.  Do you have a rally point?  Plan A, B, and C?  Do you have a means to communicate?  All this is to say, “Do you have a protocol established?”  If you don’t, I think that’s more important than anything else so I’d have a real conversation with yourself and those you love.  Draft a plan in the event of a disaster.  Print that out with locations, check lists, contact info, etc. and tape it to the inside of your gear closet. 

“First and most importantly, you need to have a plan.  Where do you work? Is your go bag with you at the office?  Do you have to account for loved ones?”

Cool.  Now we’re onto the fun stuff. 

Clothing

Clothing really depends on your climate, but a couple extra pairs of socks and underwear and an extra change of clothes will do you well.  Stay away from cotton if you can, it holds on to water like a sponge.  Synthetics like polyester, elastane, and acrylic are generally better; wool is also very good at maintaining heat even when wet—it’s also antimicrobial so you won’t stink so bad after day three.  A hat and gloves are a good idea even if you live in warmer climates; adverse sleeping conditions will certainly merit covering your extremities.

“Clothing really depends on your climate, but a couple extra pairs of socks and underwear and an extra change of clothes will do you well.” 

Water

Water is the most crucial aspect to a bug out scenario.  Not only should you have water to get you through any immediate hazard/challenge, but you should also have a way to treat water in the future should you run out.  I’m only packing three liters from the get-go, but I’m also taking 224oz of storage space that I plan on filling as needed.  I have at least five ways to treat water in my kit, six if I have the wherewithal and time to throw in some bleach before running out of the house.  This works for me because I live in the PNW and there’s water everywhere.  If I lived in the desert I would have to reconsider my approach here.

“Water is the most crucial aspect to a bug out scenario.  Not only should you have water to get you through any immediate hazard/challenge, but you should also have a way to treat water in the future should you run out.” 

Food

As a frequent backpacker, I’m fortunate to have some freeze dried food on hand.  I’ve stashed three days of calories and some other basics to keep me moving.  I need to throw some bars in here for the “I need food now” tummy rumbles.  Realistically, you can ration calories out depending on the severity of the disaster, but three days is typically enough to get you in the mental space to prepare for what’s next.  Since I’m choosing to pack freeze dried food, I’m also packing a stove and isobutene fuel to boil water (this is one of my five ways to treat water) to “cook” the food.  I say “cook” because you can add cold water and just let it rehydrate for twice as long—will it suck?  Maybe.  Will it keep you fed?  You bet.

“As a frequent backpacker, I’m fortunate to have some freeze dried food on hand.  I’ve stashed three days of calories and some other basics to keep me moving.”

Shelter

So much of this list is dependent on your local environment.  If you live in Chicago, you’re going to need a different setup than someone who lives in Melbourne.  You may need something to sleep in or protect you from the elements, especially if you’re going to be relatively stagnant (perhaps waiting for help) during a disaster response.  A tarp and some cordage can provide you cover from the elements and an insulated sleeping pad will keep the ground from sucking the body heat right out of you.  With any luck and decent weather, a light blanket and a puffy jacket will get you through the night.  Though I’ve never had any luck or decent weather, so I pack accordingly. 

“You may need something to sleep in or protect you from the elements, especially if you’re going to be relatively stagnant (perhaps waiting for help) during a disaster response.”

There is no greater value in outdoor gear than the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol.  It’s waterproof (closed cell foam), it’s got a reflective coating that gives it an R value of 2.6, and a short can be had for 35 bucks.

I also packed a gigantic Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm because I believe that there’s an inherent value and performance factor to a good night’s sleep.  It’s got an R value of 5.7 which is ridiculous.  I also highly recommend a Sea-to-Summit Comfort Plus Insulated with an R value of 5.  For warmth I’ve chosen a versatile 40-degree synthetic blanket; I can double it over as a sleeping bag or leave it loose if it’s warmer.  I like synthetics for a go bag because they’re cheaper and perform better in wet conditions than their goose/duck down counterparts. 

“A tarp and some cordage can provide you cover from the elements and an insulated sleeping pad will keep the ground from sucking the body heat right out of you.”

First Aid

This is huge.  Lots of people will have food and water but be unable to treat even basic musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses which can really hurt you over the course of days.  Take a class.  Build a kit.  Check out our previous work on first aid kits here.

“Lots of people will have food and water but be unable to treat even basic musculoskeletal injuries or illnesses which can really hurt you over the course of days.”

Hygiene

This will differ for everyone, but I’m packing:

Contacts + saline + glasses

Tooth brush + tooth paste

Soap + toilet paper

Personal medications

Moist towelettes 

Pack towel

Hand sanitizer

Tools

General things MacGyver would want if he were escaping kidnappers include:

Multi-tool—Leatherman OHT, I dig the newer Signal as well.

Cordage—I prefer the high viz stuff so I can see and be seen. I’ll change my tune if I make it to season two of The Walking Dead.

Ways to make fire—Carry a Bic lighter or three, a ferro rod if you know how to use one, matches obviously, and a simple candle makes an awesome fire starter and heat source.  I make my own fire starters out of jute and wax, more on those here.

Duct tape—No explanation needed.

“Carry a Bic lighter or three, a ferro rod if you know how to use one, matches obviously, and a simple candle makes an awesome fire starter and heat source.”

Camp Knife—My requirements for a good camp knife: fixed blades only, blade length 5-6 inches, blade width 3/16-1/4 inch, and high carbon steel.  I’ve been carrying an ESEE 5 for four years now and it’s the last knife I’ll ever need to buy (really, it has a lifetime warranty on it).  I’ve also had good success with SOG and Ka-Bar knives for general camp use.

Headlamp—Nothing fancy here, just a hundred or so lumens for chores after dark. Bonus points if all your electronics run on the same batteries.

Flashlight—I’m packing a SureFire P2x Fury as a self-defense and signaling item.

Extra batteries—It’s a good idea to take at least one extra set of batteries for each item.  I’d carry two and not think twice about the weight penalty.

The Pack: I am the proud owner of a Granite Gear Leopard 58.  It is nearly a perfect bag for all outdoor applications outside of big game hunting.  It’s light, it’s tough, and my goodness is it versatile.  The beaver tail and compression system allow you to carry all manner of goods on the outside of the bag.  The lid is free-floating so you can carry additional items between it and the main body.  The suspension is beefy enough to handle 50 pounds and the hip belt is removable for lighter loads.  It’s got stretch woven pockets on the sides large enough for two 1L Nalgene bottles and another stretch woven pocket on the front face which works great for smaller quick-access items.  Sadly, so sadly, GG stopped making the Leopard series.  But rest assured, others will rise.  I am very excited to see the Mystery Ranch Stein 62, which should handle the go bag task with ease. The Hill People Gear Ute is also highly capable, though slightly higher in price.

“I am the proud owner of a Granite Gear Leopard 58. It is nearly a perfect bag for all outdoor applications outside of big game hunting. It’s light, it’s tough, and my goodness is it versatile.”

Self Defense: If you can pack a handgun, that’s great.  That’s for you to defend yourself and those you love from people who want to harm you for their benefit.  If you can pack a rifle, that’s great.  You can use that to defend yourself and hunt caliber-appropriate game should you run out of rations.  We won’t get into it any further, but I’ll be packing both.

Extra Supplies and Additional Support Items:

The plan is to get out by vehicle to a lower population area where the resources will be higher per capita and wait for emergency services.  If I’m at work, I need to get home to my go bag and additional supplies.  I’m going to gather as much information as I can on my way home to determine which of my three potential evacuation routes is most viable, throw my stuff in the car, and go.  If evacuation seems impossible due to massive infrastructure failure, I will attempt to get additional supplies like fuel and food and prepare to “bug in.” 

“The plan is to get out by vehicle to a lower population area where the resources will be higher per capita and wait for emergency services.”

In the event I think I can get out by car, I’ve packed up my TNF Basecamp Duffel with a bomber 4-season tent, a 15 degree down bag, extra food and fuel, additional clothing, another camp knife, extra batteries, cordage, a road atlas, and some other miscellaneous comforts. This will be way too heavy to carry along with my pack for any realistic distance, so this is solely for the event I will be able to drive to a safer location.

“If evacuation seems impossible due to massive infrastructure failure, I will attempt to get additional supplies like fuel and food and prepare to “bug in.””

This isn’t meant to be all inclusive, but rather a good foundation for you to build a bug out kit that works for you. Here’s a list of the 10 essentials and some other items I have included and others still that I am missing, but would like to have.

10 essentials:

1. Map
2. Compass (optionally supplemented with a GPS receiver)
3. Sunglasses and sunscreen
4. Extra clothing
5. Headlamp (or flashlight)
6. First-aid supplies
7. Fire starter
8. Matches
9. Knife
10. Extra food

Clothing

Socks x2 (wool)

Underwear x2

Pants

Insulation Layer (wool or synthetics)

Hat and gloves

Water

Containers: 1L Nalgenes x3, 64 oz Sawyer flexible bottles x2, 100 oz CamelBak bladder x1

3L of water carried + 5 ways to treat water in the future

Boil/pump/squeeze/tabs/iodine/(bleach)

Food

3 days of food

Stove/fuel

Portable pot/pan

Shelter

Tarp (or lightweight backpacking tent)

Insulated sleeping mat

40-degree synthetic blanket/sleeping bag (you may need something warmer).

First Aid

Hygiene

Tools

Self defense

Road atlas

Maps of potential evacuation locations

Compass

Money (cash), ID, important documents like driver’s license/birth cert/social/passport

Tenacious Tape (field repair of clothing and equipment)

More cordage (you can do nearly anything with enough cordage)

Writing utensils/small notebook

Knife sharpener

Batteries

Purell hand sanitizer

Monocular/Binocular

Fishing hooks + line

Whistle

Bug spray + sunscreen

Zip ties

Aluminum foil

Garbage bags

Fishing kit

Two-way radios

So, that’s me and my basics all done and dusted, what do you pack into your bug out?

The post A Beginner’s Guide to Preparing a Bug Out Bag appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Weight

First, think about the weight. It’s tempting to go for a pouch that looks like it will survive the Apocalypse, but it doesn’t take many 600D Cordura pouches with PALS and PE stiffener before you’ve doubled the weight of your bag. Abrasion-resistant fabrics are needed on pouches you keep on the outside of your pack, but if these are living inside a bag, they can be much lighter weight.

Nesting

Next, consider nesting. If your pouch opens wide and then relies on internal pockets to keep things secure, you often end up with crush zones in the centre and voids at the sides. It’s hard to get this nesting nailed.

Visibility

Also not to be overlooked is how visible the contents are. Where the heck did I leave that blade/pen/USB stick…? Too many opaque pouches can leave you searching. Mesh pouches or transparent materials can help with this. Or fewer pouches that display their internals better when opened.

Condor Pocket Pouch (from $10.95)

Tom Bihn Double Organizer Pouch ($15-19)

Two pockets to organize your items, a urethane window for assessing contents at a glance, plus a choice of three sizes. This handy pouch is a great way to bring order to the contents of your bag, whether you need to carry smaller or larger items.

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Great for: sidestepping carry chaos and lost items in your bag and easily swapping your gear between different bags…

ZPacks Backpack Belt Pouch ($29)

Aer Cable Kit ($45)

Hill People Gear General Purpose Pocket Medium ($47)

Bellroy Classic Pouch ($49)

Kifaru 500D Organizer Pocket (from $55)

Peak Design Tech Pouch ($59.95)

The clean aesthetics of the Peak Design Tech Pouch allow this piece to slip easily into work, travel or EDC setups. And with its origami-inspired organization you can keep a wide range of items tidy and within easy reach on the go. Add in its convenient handles and wide opening and you’re all set for quick access to essentials on the go.

Great for: users who appreciate clean style paired with thoughtful organization to keep items easily accessible and avoid a jumbled mess on the move…

Skinth Solutions Milky Way ($50) and Trail Blazer ($65)

GORUCK GR1 Padded Field Pocket ($75)

Triple Aught Design OP1 ($75)

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The OP1 has a number of useful features to make your daily carry that little bit easier, including a clamshell opening for easy access to the contents, an assortment of pockets and loops for organization, plus a choice of attachment options for using the pouch with a bag or belt.

Boundary Supply X-Pac Port Kitt ($79.99)

This Is Ground Tech Dopp Kit 2 ($229-289)

If you enjoyed this article, you might want to check these out too:

Our Favorite Organization Pouches for EDC Right Now

How To Stay Organized: Pouches and Packing Cubes

The post Best Pouch Organizers for EDC appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.