The backpack is a staple, but sometimes it just won’t cut it when you need to carry a lot of cargo. That’s why the rucksack, cousin to the backpack, is a perfect counterpart for those in need of something more.
Defined by an abundance of storage in the form of pockets and pouches, rucksacks help you carry whatever items you need on hand. The best rucksacks are durable, reliable tools that can be molded to fit so many different environments and lifestyles. Rucksacks are more versatile than most other bags in that they’re highly compatible through the use of accessories and attachments. Not to mention, they look damn good too.
While the roots of the rucking backpack may stem from the military, this type of bag has gradually made its way into the civilian market over the years. There are plenty of different kinds of rucksacks out there as well. Whether you’re searching for a tactical rucksack, or something classier, on par with nicest leather backpacks, this list has it all.
With all of that being said, let’s dive into some of the best rucksacks you can get your hands on right now.
Key Takeaways
In preparation for this article, I searched through dozens of rucksacks on the market and tactfully narrowed the choices down to these 9 contenders.
fWhen considering the best rucksack for you, it’s important to take into consideration bag capacity as well as the style and features. Rucksacks come in a ton of variations, but the GR2 from GoRuck embodies all of the essentials you’d expect from this type of bag. The Crossroads Backpack from Yeti is another more modern take, great for a whole host of daily scenarios.
GR2 at GoRuck
Shell Backpack at Tropicfeel
Hannibal Tactical Molle Rucksack at Amazon
Gootium 21101 Canvas Rucksack at Amazon
Yeti Crossroads Backpack at Amazon
Continental Rucksack at L.L.Bean
Nixon Hauler 35L Backpack II at Amazon
1. Best Overall: GoRuck GR2
Why it’s great: It’s pretty obvious from the name that GoRuck is a brand centered around rucksacks built to take a beating. The GR2 takes cues from classic rucksack designs while incorporating modern elements and features. This bag is available in three different sizes and features a ton of Molle webbing on both the inside and outside for additional attachments. The simplistic design features hidden pockets while extensive padding makes for a comfortable experience, no matter how long you’re wearing it.
How to use it: The GR2 is made in the USA and is built for hardcore rucking. However, this bag is also versatile enough to be put to the test in plenty of other daily situations as well, easy enough to throw on during the morning commute or an afternoon walk.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Considering this bag is not necessarily a luxury option, the price is a bit steep for what you get. Regardless, the brand has gained a substantial following over the years and the price tag seems to be a nonissue for most buyers.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 26L-40L | Material: Cordura | Colors Available: 3
2. Best Modern Design: Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
Why it’s great: Tropicfeel is a brand revolutionizing footwear, clothing, and, of course, backpacks. The Shell Backpack has a lot more in common with a rucking backpack, able to expand from 20-liters all the way to 42-liters. This pack was also engineered to utilize nearly every inch of space for convenience–including a treasure trove of handy accessories.
How to use it: This bag’s main feature is its abundant modularity, which makes it adaptable to your specific lifestyle. You can live out of this shell while traveling, or just bring it along for the ride on a day trip.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The most common complaint regarding Tropicfeel as a brand is shipping time. If you order this bag, there’s a chance it could take a while to arrive but once you do receive it, you’ll be set.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 20L-42L | Material: 100% Recycled Nylon, 64% Recycled Polyester | Colors Available: 5
3. Best Budget: Hannibal Tactical Molle Rucksack
Why it’s great: If you’re looking for a rucksack that doesn’t break the bank, look no further than this one from Hannibal Tactical. This pack fully embraces the tactical, militaristic style with plenty of room for expansion to carry all of your necessities. You can even fit a bladder in this pack, so you’ll never be dehydrated while out and about. It also features Molle webbing on almost every inch of the outer surface making it ultra-compatible with accessories.
How to use it: This is a budget-friendly bag meant to get the job done without any lavish additions to hike up the price. The rugged design makes it a great choice when hiking, going to the gym, or even participating in military training.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Since this is a cheaper bag, the materials won’t be as durable as some other options out there. The lifespan of this pack ultimately depends on how you intend to use and treat it.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 40L | Material: Polyester | Colors Available: 6
4. Best On Amazon: Gootium 21101 Canvas Rucksack
Why it’s great: It’s hard to beat a classic rucksack design, defined by the drawstring closure, flaps with buckles, and plenty of pouches for storage. The sizable main compartment of this canvas rucksack makes it capable of carrying nearly an entire wardrobe on your back. It offers a ton of versatility, even down to the array of subtle colors that can perfectly complement a casual outfit.
How to use it: This bag has enough storage space and flexibility to be used outdoors or even while traveling abroad.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: This pack doesn’t offer a ton of padding on the straps or back for long-term wear. While it might not be as comfortable as other options, it offers plenty of other perks which is why it’s such a hot item on Amazon.
Waterproof: No | Volume: 23L-30L | Material: 100% Cotton | Colors Available: 9
5. Best Everyday: Yeti Crossroads Backpack
Why it’s great: You might know Yeti for their thermoses and coolers, but you might not have known they make backpacks too–pretty damn good ones at that. The Crossroads is a modern, multi-purpose rucking backpack available in three different sizes–made of high-tech nylon that repels dirt, water, and other elements. The clamshell design and hidden compartments make it an efficient, safe pack for all of your EDC items.
How to use it: The sheer number of features within this bag makes it a jack of all trades for daily excursions. Take it with you when grabbing a coffee or meeting up with some friends for a day in the city.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: One of the only downsides to this pack is that it doesn’t have exterior water bottle holders for quick access while on the move. However, it does have convenient interior pockets on both sides, so this might be an upside if you want to minimize the chances of your bottle falling out or being stolen.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 22L-35L | Material: Toughskin Nylon | Colors Available: 7
6. Best Outdoor: L.L.Bean Continental Rucksack
Why it’s great: The Continental Rucksack from L.L. Bean is the perfect hiking companion for your toughest outdoor adventures. Nearly every compartment on this bag has adjustable cover flaps that provide plenty of expansion when necessary. It also features both chest and waist straps, which will keep this bag secured to your back even after an entire day of shuffling through the brush.
How to use it: This bag is designed for the outdoors, so it’ll fare best while hiking, camping, etc. However, it could also be used for plenty of other purposes beyond just the outdoors.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The stitching used to reinforce the flaps is pretty thick, which might make it a bit difficult to access items inside the bag’s pouches. This is only an issue while wearing the pack, and can be mitigated by sliding it onto one shoulder or off the body entirely. This is a design feature meant to ensure the flaps are strongly reinforced and do not fall apart easily.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 33L | Material: Recycled Polyester | Colors Available: 3
7. Best For Travel: Nixon Hauler 35L Backpack II
Why it’s great: This Nixon Hauler pack features a cavernous main compartment with plenty of open space for clothing and other necessities like camera equipment. The external straps and hooks make it accessory-compatible and allow you to carry bulky items that might not fit inside the pack. The bag itself is also made of recycled plastic, which makes it an excellent eco-friendly option for your travels.
How to use it: The 35-liter capacity of this bag makes it a great option for short trips–like weekend getaways. It’s also adaptable enough to fit your needs after finally reaching your travel destination.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: There have been a few reviews claiming the zippers are faulty and that they may not work properly. However, this appears to be a small quality control issue that likely won’t affect your bag.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 35L | Material: Polyester, Recycled Plastics | Colors Available: 1
8. Best Luxury: Yukon Bags Leather Backpack
Why it’s great: If luxury is at the front of your mind, you can’t go wrong with this elegantly crafted crazy horse pack from Yukon Bags. The magnetic closures for the main compartments allow easy access to items inside, and the YKK zippers definitely won’t fail you anytime soon. The rigged structure of the pack makes it both spacious and stylish, unlike flimsy ones that may sag on your back.
How to use it: This luxury pack is reliable enough to make the transition from school to work, while taking you everywhere in between.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: While the design of this bag is sleek and elegant, it is a bit hefty at almost 5 pounds. This might be heavier than other bags, but it is made of leather which is sure to last much longer than even the strongest of fabrics out there.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: N/A | Material: Crazy Horse Leather | Colors Available: 4
9. Best For Work: Buffalo Jackson Trading Co Dakota Reserve Waxed Canvas Rucksack
Why it’s great: Buffalo Jackson Trading Co is a brand that revolves around leather goods, which means this pack is made from some of the highest quality materials around. The leather accents not only look excellent but reinforce key areas that often wear out first. There is also plenty of space for necessities such as tools, equipment, and whatever else you may need to carry in this bag.
How to use it: This pack is incredibly rugged and durable, built to take a beating on the job site no matter what you throw at it.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: None of the main compartments on this bag feature zippers, instead opting to go with pull strings and flaps. This may not be an issue if you often find yourself rummaging through your bag and want something that provides easier access.
Waterproof: Yes | Volume: 35L | Material: Wax Coated 15 Oz. Canvas, Top Grain Leather | Colors Available: 1
Buying Considerations For The Best Rucksacks
Capacity
One of the most important considerations when purchasing a rucksack, or any type of bag, is its capacity. If you’ll only be towing a light load, it might be best to go with something in the 20-liter range to keep your bag slim and lightweight. However, if you’re looking for something you occasionally want to live out of, it may be best to look for something between 30 and 40 liters.
Classic rucksacks tend to feature Molle webbing which is a great system for adding accessories and pouches to expand your bag’s capacity. Many modern rucksacks are also offered in several different size variations depending on your needs. This makes the buying process much easier because you can truly find the best rucksack for you.
Style
Style is another consideration you should focus on before purchasing a rucksack. These bags can vary a lot in aesthetic style, with some being more rugged than others. Do you want a rucksack that looks like a military-grade piece of equipment or do you want something more modern, with universal appeal?
The overall style of your pack determines the types of outfits it will pair with and the places you can wear it. You may not want to bring a heavy-duty rucksack to the office, but a full leather one might be the perfect choice.
Functionality
At the end of the day, a rucksack is a tool that’s supposed to make life a little easier. That’s why the functionality of your pack is just as important as any other consideration. As previously mentioned, Molle webbing can be found on plenty of rucksacks which allows for a whole world of accessories to be used in tandem with your bag.
Other brands have opted for modern ways of customizing your pack, utilizing exterior attachments or inserts that can house clothing and other necessities. Ultimately, the rucksack you purchase should reflect the goals you have with your pack and how you intend to use it.
Why You Should Trust Us
As a writer at FashionBeans, I’ve done my fair share of research into men’s attire and style trends. I’ve also been putting these principles into practice for over a decade, trying out different brands and determining what’s best.
When it comes to carrying cargo, the rucksack is just as important as any article of clothing on your back. So, I made sure to include only the very best options on this list, narrowing down dozens of packs in the process. Hopefully, these recommendations can inform you of what to expect when searching for the best rucksack on the market.
Final Verdict
Overall, the best rucksack is the GoRuck GR2 because of its capacity, style, and compatible design. This military-grade pack fully embraces a rucking lifestyle which is why the brand has gained such a cult-like following over the years. Another excellent option is the Yeti Crossroads Backpack which features a modern design with an emphasis on efficiency.
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- Are rucksacks better than backpacks?
Rucksacks and backpacks are very similar; however, rucksacks serve a more specific purpose than backpacks. Backpacks can come in a million different shapes and sizes, all made to fulfill certain roles in everyday life. Rucksacks, on the other hand, tend to feature plenty of pockets/pouches for carrying cargo and generally have a rigid frame for durability. While they may not be better than a classic backpack in all situations, rucksacks can excel when used under the right circumstances.
- What rucksack does the military use?
The term rucksack stems from the military, referring to soldiers who carry heavy gear in their bags for extended periods of time (known as a ruck). Different branches of the military use a range of rucksacks serving different purposes. The Marines, for example, use a standard issue FILBE pack which comes with plenty of storage space and Molle webbing for expansion.
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