Having the best survival tools with you every time you go on your outdoor adventures is, sadly, just not enough. Obviously, you also need a reliable bag to put all of your essentials in. This is where the best EDC backpacks come in.
EDC backpacks are not your ordinary bag. These are designed to provide storage, protection, and quick access to everything that you need. EDC or Every Day Carry bags are also designed to be worn easily and comfortably for long periods. These are equipped with compartments that store anything from a water bottle to fire-building tools.
Comparison Chart
Best EDC Backpacks: Our Top Picks
In these modern times, it is no longer viable for products to have just one feature and one use. After all, don’t you think it is better to invest in a versatile piece of gear that you can use for anything and anywhere? Hence, the invention of EDC backpacks.
Most EDC backpacks are used for the rugged outdoors, but they can also be utilized in an urban, everyday setting. In fact, it not for the extra internal features, you wouldn’t even know that these bags are designed for tactical purposes.
Today, we are going to take a close look at three of the best EDC backpacks on the market in hopes to find the one that suits your needs and preferences.
1. SOG TOC CP1003G Tactical Backpack
The SOG TOC CP1003G Tactical Backpack is made from 500-denier material with polyurethane nylon thread coating. This combination results in an abrasion-resistant and waterproof outer layer. The bag features 2 millimeter PE sheet suspension to distribute the weight comfortably on your back.
The shoulder straps feature a sternum strap with a built-in whistle for emergency alert. There are also webbing lash points at the front and Hyperion zipper tabs on the shoulder straps to hold additional items.
What’s more is that the back layer of the bag has a laptop compartment that can be accessed through either side. This backpack also has laser-cut MOLLE surface on the front exterior, and an impact-resistant shell compartment at the top.
The interior boasts four gear compartments, which also doubles as a hydration carry bag storage. For your convenience, this comes with a hydration straw that can be pulled out and attached to a shoulder strap. All in all, this bag measures 20.1 by 11 by 7.5 inches and weighs 2.45 pounds.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Large zipper tabs for easy pulls
- Molded shell compartment for sunglasses
- Has a utility pocket with a lanyard for keys
- Available in two colors
- Able to carry 20L worth of items
- Looks simple yet still stylish
Cons
- Laptop compartment has limited size
- No water bottle compartment on the exterior
- Tight shoulder straps could be uncomfortable
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2. 5.11 56319 Havoc 30 Backpack
The brand 5.11 is known for making great tactical backpacks, but the Havoc 30 is a great hybrid that also makes it useful for everyday urban needs. The 5.11 56319 Havoc 30 Backpack is made from high-density, high-strength 500D/1050D nylon, which makes it ultra durable.
The backpack features both water bottle storage and armor plate pockets. It also boasts a hydration pocket, and the front side has a laser-cut MOLLE platform as well as a padded eyewear compartment for sunglasses. The front compartment also features an admin compartment for notebooks and documents.
The shoulder straps have a sternum latch. What’s more is that it also has a 1.5-inch waist strap for stability. Both the shoulder straps have elastic bands to hold small items, and the waist straps feature pockets on either side.
This bag has a capacity of approximately 27.5 liters and is available in several colorways including sandstone, storm, black, and gray. It measures 21 by 11.75 by 9 inches and weighs a little over three pounds.
Pros
- A mix of tactical and urban design
- Lots of storage in the outer layers
- Easy access to water bottle, eyewear, and admin pocket
- Durable and quality material
- Can hold an amazing amount of gear
Cons
- Waist strap could become inconvenient when not in use
- Inside compartment has relatively limited space
- Backpack could slip off shoulders when sternum strap is not used
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3. Pacsafe Venturesafe X22 Adventure Backpack
The Pacsafe Venturesafe X22 Adventure Backpack is made from fabric that has exomes slash guard and a stainless steel wire mesh. This combination protects the bag from being cut and the contents from being stolen. It also has an anti-theft smart zipper security feature that stops pickpockets from accessing the bag’s contents.
The straps feature ultra-strong Dyneema webbing for extra protection. They also have dual-release security buckles that allow users to secure the bag when not in use. These shoulder straps are also fully adjustable too.
This backpack comes with a built-in waterproof cover and a padded hydration pack compartment that also doubles as a laptop compartment. Lastly, it also has a built-in RFID-safe lining in all the compartments to prevent digital personal information to be hacked or stolen.
Pros
- Available from a 10L capacity to a 60L capacity
- Protects digital information
- Among the most secure and protected EDC bags in the market
- Contents stay secured
- Has stretch pockets for small items
Cons
- Thin waist strap can dig into the abdomen
- No exterior water bottle compartment
- Security measures limit immediate access to contents
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4. Vertx EDC Gamut Plus Backpack
The Vertx EDC Gamut Plus Backpack is made from high-quality and durable fabric. The bag has several pockets and slots in the front zippered compartment including mesh pockets, Velcro-lined pockets, and small tabs to secure small items and belongings.
The front compartment opens all the way, and it features two side zippers for complete access and a pull tab for quick access. You will also be glad to know that the main compartment has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve. It has a three-liter hydration pack compartment with a map printed liner as well.
This backpack is designed with adjustable padded shoulder straps as well as a detachable sternum strap. The zipper line of both front and back compartments has a zipper stop to prevent the zippers from being accessed.
The front slit also opens up and expands to provide more space for the inner compartments. The bag is available in multiple colors and colorways. The Vertx EDC Gamut backpack also has a capacity of 35 liters.
Pros
- Multiple internal and external organization pockets
- Side water bottle pockets with a lanyard to secure in place
- Several small compartments and pockets line the inside of the backpack
Cons
- Expensive price range
- The bag has no back structure for support
- Access can be delayed because of the number of zippers and locks
- Limited laptop compartment size
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5. Elite Survival Systems Tactical EDC Backpack
The Elite Survival Systems Tactical EDC Backpack is crafted using 100D nylon material. It is designed with heavy-duty zippers as well as covered zipper linings that help keep the backpack water-resistant. There is also a zippered admin pocket on the front, which is combined with a Velcro panel for attaching your preferred patches or logos.
A laser-cut MOLLE latches in the front and side exterior of the bag. Both sides also have zippered water bottle pockets for easy access. The front compartment opens all the way for complete access as well.
Moreover, the front compartment also features two zippered mesh pockets, while the back has latches for notebooks and other small belongings. The back compartment is designed with an inner compartment that is secured with a Velcro latch too. A small lanyard is also added to keep keys safe and secured.
The shoulder straps boast a sternum latch, which promotes stability when carried. Lastly, this EDC backpack has unique, dedicated, concealed pockets in both the left and right side of the bag to house important items.
Pros
- Has dedicated pockets for important items
- Can be personalized by adding logos
- Effectively secures the contents
- Available in four colors
Cons
- Limited capacity in the main compartment
- No laptop compartment
- No built-in hydration storage
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Verdict
When it comes to choosing the best EDC backpack, you want to have a combination of security, ample storage, quick access to items, and comfort in transporting. Each of these bags provides some degree of these elements.
5.11 is known for creating durable backpacks, and the Havoc 30 is no different. It offers great support and durable materials. The Pacsafe backpack is the most secure, with several features that deter theft while protecting the contents of your bag. The Vertx EDC is the best tactical bag among the bunch, with several compartments and pockets.
However, for the best EDC bag that is durable yet versatile enough to be used on a daily basis, we believe that the SOG TOC has the edge over all the other backpacks on this list. Its compartments can be used to store electronics and office supplies, but it can also be used for hydration storage and tools. It can be used as a backpack or be carried like a duffel as well.
It may not be the most secure or the most durable bag, but it is the most versatile. This makes it a bag that you can use every day, whether you’re braving the outdoors or simply taking your daily commute to school or the office.