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

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But which one has worked hard enough to merit the top spot on the list?

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Böker Plus Rocket Pen

Tactical pens tend to be bulky and conspicuous. But not the Böker Plus Rocket Pen. Designed by custom knife maker Darriel Caston, this is an elegant alternative if you want a discreet tactical pen that looks right at home in your EDC setup. Functional and comfortable to use, the bolt-action pen is available in black anodized aluminum or brass.

Remote Equipment Alpha 31

From EDC companion to weekend adventure buddy, the Remote Equipment Alpha 31 is designed to perform across diverse and demanding settings. Built with rugged X-Pac material, the Alpha 31 features an expandable rolltop closure so you can squeeze in extra or keep things compact as required. Top and front access and multiple pockets keep your gear within easy reach, while the hydration bladder compatibility keeps water at the ready when it’s time to get active.

Millican Tinsley The Tote Pack

Totes are handy for everyday carry, while backpacks lend themselves well to venturing on longer outings and hauling heavier loads. So Millican decided, why choose when you can have both? Tinsley the Tote Pack is a 14L tote bag that can be carried by hand or over the shoulder. But the carry handles can also adjust to create backpack shoulder straps. The weatherproof rolltop opening caters to a range of changing loads, while an exterior pocket provides an ideal stash spot for quick-access items. And for added functionality, its ability to roll up compactly makes it a useful day bag for storing in your luggage.

NOMATIC Messenger and Laptop Bag

NOMATIC are dedicated to maximizing functionality in your carry. So when their attention turned to messenger and laptop bags, they were determined to help you get more out of your daily carry. And they did. With weatherproof builds, great access, a host of organization options, and a choice of shoulder bag or briefcase-style portability, their Messenger and Laptop Bag really do help you get more out of your EDC.

DSPTCH Utility Brief

Your day-to-day carry needs change. But so does the DSPTCH Utility Brief, helping you easily adapt with just one bag. DSPTCH offers a fresh take on an earlier design with the updated Utility Brief, which can be carried as a shoulder bag, briefcase or backpack. Multiple quick-access pockets and Fidlock connectors allow convenient and fast access to your gear on the go. And for added convenience, a luggage passthrough sleeve provides a simple way to secure the bag to rolling luggage.

Topo Designs x Danner Daypack

Topo Designs and Danner are both brands that focus on helping you get out there. So when they team up, pretty awesome things are sure to follow. Such as their Topo Designs x Danner Daypack, which offers a handsome combination of Horween® leather and 12oz cotton canvas. The black colorway is complemented by pops of red detailing, with a versatile design that moves smoothly from urban to outdoor settings. Just like the Topo Designs x Danner Mountain Light Boot, which sports the same attractive colorway and adaptability to roam wherever the day leads. Both pieces are limited edition and made in the USA.

KEEGO Water Bottle

A squeezable metal water bottle. Yes, you read that right. The KEEGO Water Bottle is made with elastic titanium, allowing for a squeezable yet durable design. The bottle lets you quickly access water with a high flow rate, while keeping the taste fresh and your carry weight down. So you can enjoy the benefits of a metal bottle and plastic bottle while avoiding the drawbacks of either. Check out more details via the KEEGO Kickstarter campaign.

Mission Workshop The Capsule

Mission Workshop brings their brand of tough urban functionality to camera carry with The Capsule. This padded camera insert offers top and front access and adjustable interior dividers to suit changing gear setups. The Capsule fits Mission Workshop (and most other brands’ packs) 20L and larger, letting you easily convert your existing backpack into a camera bag. It’s also handmade in the USA and backed by a lifetime guarantee, so you can feel confident it will protect your gear for years to come.

SuperStraps

Is your current backpack weighing you down? Tired of aches and pains from simply carrying around everyday gear or trail essentials for a quick jaunt outdoors? SuperStraps aim to relieve shoulder, back and neck tension, and are designed to lift 27 lbs of force off your neck. The design moves the weight closer to your spine for more ergonomic carry and long-term comfort. SuperStraps can be attached quickly and easily to your existing backpack’s straps and are activated with a simple pulling motion. Check out the SuperStraps Kickstarter campaign for more details.

F/CE Packable 2-Way Daypack and Waist Bag

Waist bags are great for minimalist loads, but what happens when you need to carry a little extra unexpectedly? The F/CE Packable 2-Way Daypack and Waist Bag has you covered for either occasion. The versatile design serves as a waist bag for essentials, but can convert into a daypack for larger loads. Durable and water repellent, the bag also offers a range of pockets for storing small items and is an adaptable piece for EDC and travel alike.

Patagonia Nine Trails Pack

Heading outdoors for the day? Patagonia’s Nine Trails Pack helps you make the most of your excursion with its lightweight, comfortable and versatile design. The 28L daypack features a breathable back panel, load lifters, waist belt and sternum strap for carry comfort. Quick-access pockets on the front, sides and waist belt provide handy storage for frequently used items, and the compression straps can also help secure bulkier items externally. The pack is made with water-repellent 210D Cordura nylon for protection against the elements, and is also hydration bladder compatible.

MyMedic The Solo

Hopefully injuries and accidents don’t happen when you’re out and about. But it’s good to be prepared if they do. The Solo is a compact first aid kit that can be easily stored in a bag or secured to the exterior with the included paracord. Well suited for solo use, the kit features a waterproof, crushproof, and dustproof case made with high-impact ABS material. Even better, it floats too and is backed by a lifetime guarantee. Store it in your outdoor pack, everyday bag or car for fast access to supplies to treat a range of first aid needs.

Moshi Tego Collection

Techwear style meets everyday practicality with Moshi’s new Tego Collection, featuring four versatile pieces in two colorways. Clean aesthetics, clever features and functional designs let these sleek pieces move easily between work and play environments. Made with lightweight yet durable fabrics, the bags include anti-theft concealed zippers, a reflective strip for improved visibility at night, and RFID-blocking pocket to keep personal details secure on the go. The Tego Backpack fits up to a 15″ laptop and offers a pass-through USB port for easy charging. The Tego Crossbody Sling fits up to a 10.5″ tablet in a padded sleeve, and allows fast access to gear by simply swinging the bag from back to front. A quick-release design and ActiveStrap keeps the Tego Sling Messenger Bag secure yet accessible on the go, with space for up to a 13″ device. And for smaller loads the Tego Slingpack is ready to go, providing compact storage for essentials and an ActiveStrap for stability.

GORUCK Black Multicam Collection

Keen to add rugged and functional camo to your carry? GORUCK have you covered with their new Black Multicam colorway, available across the GR1, GR2, Echo, Rucker 2.0 and Kit Bag. The bags are built with durable 1000D Cordura and are a solid choice if you want stealthy style that packs a practical punch.

Away Carry-On With Pocket and Aluminum Edition

Having quick access to essentials is key during your travels. And Away takes care of this with a new addition to their Carry-On, an integrated nylon front pocket that keeps your tech and travel essentials within easy reach. The Carry-On with Pocket comes in two TSA-approved sizes and features an ejectable battery for easy charging on the go. But Away aren’t content to leave the new offerings there. They’re also switching things up on the material front with their Aluminum Edition of cases. Available in four sizes, the cases are made with stylish and durable aluminum and replace the zippers with two TSA-approved combination locks.

Côte&Ciel Oril Small, Sormonne and Oder-Spree

Côte&Ciel have a reputation for creating carry that offers a refined balance of form and function. And the purveyors of Parisian chic don’t disappoint with their Oril Small, Sormonne and Oder-Spree. The Oril Small Backpack offers two front compartments and a back tech compartment that fits up to 13″ devices. The Sormonne Backpack fits up to a 13″ tech device in the main compartment, while two low-key front pockets keep frequently used items within easy reach. The Oder-Spree offers a luxurious take on your everyday messenger, with space for a 13″ device in the main compartment, two front pockets for smaller essentials, as well as a rear pocket for further organization. All delivered in sleek style that looks equally suave in the office or about town.

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Who It Suits

Someone who needs an EDC that is bombproof and intended for whatever life hands your way: work, play and the occasional weekend away. I had no issues rocking it at the office 9-5 despite its slightly aggressive style.

Who It Doesn’t

This isn’t a bag for someone who prefers style over function. Or doesn’t want to spend $350 on a bag.

The Good

There are so many places this bag shines. Day-to-day as an EDC, as the perfect travel companion and as a weekend warrior, be it for a trip to the mountains or meeting up with friends to play tennis. So let’s break down how it does that.

First, comfort and materials. There are so many subtle details packed into this bag. The feel of the shoulder straps is spot on with what seems like just the right contour and angle. They’re also strategically tacked into a dedicated seam so you will never have to worry about them fraying or wearing down (it’s happened to me a few too many times when they get attached at the top seam).

It’s also a hydration-ready pack, with the passthrough port and requisite tethers. Win.

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“There are so many places this bag shines. Day-to-day as an EDC, as the perfect travel companion and as a weekend warrior.”

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The material choices are top-notch on this bag. Not only does the X51 fabric (500D x 1000D Cordura) look ready to take a beating, it is! It’s a three-layer material that’s abrasion resistant with the help of the inner laminate, and super weather resistant. The zips are almost exclusively weatherproof YKK AquaGuard, and for the outer passthrough, the YKK RCoil has rain flaps to prevent any water ingress. The hardware is all ITW. Enough said there.

Now let’s talk size and access. The bag itself comes in at 31L but can be expanded up to 36L if you want to push the scale and use the roll-top’s full capability. There are two main access points: roll-top (which is handy when you’re packing it to the gills) or front access which is my preferred method.

On the inside of the front access is a mesh pocket perfect for your iPad or Kindle. I found 31L to be more than ample room for day-to-day use and even on trips, and rarely found a need to leverage the extra tow capacity. That said, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

One of the smartest and best features is the internal high-visibility interior, courtesy of a 400D bright white nylon liner (if you read our stuff, you know we’re always banging on about this). It’s such a subtle detail but exemplifies the thought that goes into every facet of the user’s experience.

It especially comes in handy with the two front vertical pockets (which I’ve affectionately dubbed “sausage rolls”). Given that these pockets can be victims of gravity and lack any organization, things can tend to fall to the bottom of the pocket. As such, the liner inside was helpful to quickly spot the cable, external battery pack or even film camera. Also speaking of the pockets, one thing I loved about them was that they are readily accessible with one shoulder. Sling the bag like a messenger and suddenly you’re into that side (left or right) pocket. No need to take the bag off to get into the bag.

The same can be said for the top “hidden” pocket. One of the things I love about the DSPTCH Ruckpack is that I can access this pocket on body. It’s a short list of bags that allow me to do that and I’m happy to report, the Alpha 31 made the cut. My only gripe about this pocket is that it’s a black mesh bag instead of white so it stands out against the internal liner (when it should technically blend in being “hidden” and all). It’s a small detail and one I hope changes in future iterations.

Moving on, when was the last time you saw a bag with not one but two top handles? Why does a bag even need two handles? Well I learned in my experience that having them is actually quite handy. The front one can be used as a grab-and-go for when your bag is under the front seat on an airplane, while the back one is perfect for the coat hanger in my cubicle to have the bag hang flat against the wall.

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“One of the smartest and best features is the internal high-visibility interior, courtesy of a 400D bright white nylon liner.”

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And now let’s talk about the wattle bottle holder. Historically, these are poorly executed and hardly ever usable zones on backpacks. I can count on probably one hand the number of bags where when fully loaded, the water bottle holders are still actually usable. Again, the Alpha 31 makes the short list. The secret is with a gusseted approach that lies flat when not in use but expands without creating additional space into the bag. It’s a clever design, a great detail and combined with the side cinch straps, it works great and can swallow so many shapes and sizes of water vessels. Tick.

Last but certainly not least, a few obligatory requirements for an EDC-type bag. First, the dedicated side access for a laptop (or water bladder) for both easy access and maximizing the internal organization by being removed from the “main” compartment so your laptop won’t get buried underneath or jabbed at by whatever else is in your bag.

Another is the webbing for your bike light. Also the reflective bungee shockingly came in handy when needing to carry something like my tennis racket and adds a small amount of reflectiveness to a dark bag while riding, never a bad thing. When combined with the tool loops, it does make it easy to carry helmets, tripods, trekking poles and the like. And of course there’s the side cinch straps to yet again add to exterior carrying capability.

The Not So Good

Perhaps my biggest gripe with the bag is the shape of the bottom contour. Although it gives you a little bit of extra space and helps with some interior organization (being the perfect size to fit my dopp kit or pair of running shoes), the byproduct of a bag with a bottom contour means that it can’t lie flat. It’s gotta lean back like Terror Squad featuring Fat Joe. This was something that I never quite got used to, and would constantly find myself putting it down only to catch it quickly as it fell forward because of the bottom contour.

A note to bike commuters: as I like to wear my bag high and tight, the roll-top would constantly butt up against my helmet forcing my neck/head forward. As a result I’d loosen the straps, which isn’t a deal-breaker but annoying as the moment I got off I had to tighten them. The other thing to know is that while the bag is extremely comfortable on body, and the back pad in particular is soft, there is no direct air flow so expect the dreaded back sweats. So for you active types who love your air flow systems, you’re barking up the wrong tree. Again, not the end of the world in my opinion, I just want to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

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“I would constantly find myself putting it down only to catch it quickly as it fell forward because of the bottom contour.”

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Others to Consider

As you would expect, the first bag that comes to mind is DSPTCH’s Ruckpack given its similar size, structure and overall feature set. You can’t talk about bombproof bags and not mention Mission Workshop whose Vandal is forever in the pantheon of bag lore. The surprise appearance goes to Tom Bihn and their Brain Bag. Tom Bihn is a company often overlooked but I speak from experience when I say that this bag will stand the test of time and look just as good no matter what you throw at it years later.

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“There is no direct air flow so expect the dreaded back sweats.”

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Verdict

Given that this is a Kickstarter campaign, insert the fingers crossed emoji that Remote Equipment Company can hit their mark. This bag, especially being the first one out of the gate, is sure to become your go-to. It’s comfortable on body (especially when fully loaded) and displays an attention to detail that I admire for a new up-and-comer. With the Alpha 31 in the can, I for one can’t wait to see what Philip will put out next!

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