We will be taking a deep dive into the distinct features of tactical and hiking backpacks. These terms are often seen as synonymous, but there are some differences that you need to know.
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What is a Tactical Backpack?
A tactical backpack is a type of backpack designed for use in military, law enforcement, or outdoor activities that require a high level of durability, organization, and functionality. These backpacks are typically made from high-quality, tough materials such as ballistic nylon or Cordura fabric to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
Usually sizes can range from 30L to 40L and are more suitable for EDC or short day trips.
Key features of tactical backpacks include:
- MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing: This allows users to attach additional pouches, gear, or accessories to the backpack.
- Multiple compartments and pockets: Tactical backpacks often have several compartments and pockets to organize and store various items, such as weapons, ammunition, first aid kits, and survival gear.
- Hydration compatibility: Many tactical backpacks are designed to accommodate hydration bladders, making it easy for users to stay hydrated during long missions or hikes.
- Reinforced construction: These backpacks often feature reinforced stitching, zippers, and straps to ensure durability and longevity.
- Comfort features: Tactical backpacks often include padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a waist belt to distribute weight evenly and provide comfort during extended use.
Tactical backpacks are popular among military personnel, law enforcement officers, hikers, preppers, and outdoor enthusiasts who require a reliable, high-performance backpack for their activities.
What is a Hiking Backpack?
A hiking backpack on the other hand is a specialized backpack designed for carrying gear and supplies while hiking or backpacking in the outdoors. These backpacks are typically larger and more durable than everyday backpacks, with features that make them suitable for extended trips and varying terrain.
Sizes can vary from 30,40 L to even 100+ liters depending on the use variety of size.
Some key characteristics of hiking backpacks include:
- Capacity: Hiking backpacks come in various sizes, usually measured in liters, to accommodate different trip lengths and gear requirements.
- Frame: Many hiking backpacks have an internal frame that helps distribute weight evenly and provides support for heavy loads.
- Suspension system: Padded shoulder straps, hip belts, and back panels help distribute weight comfortably and reduce strain on the body.
- Compartments and pockets: Multiple compartments and pockets help organize gear, including a main compartment, top lid, front pocket, side pockets, and hip belt pockets.
- Attachment points: Loops, straps, and bungee cords allow for attaching additional gear, such as trekking poles, ice axes, or sleeping pads, to the exterior of the backpack.
- Water-resistant or waterproof materials: Many hiking backpacks are made with water-resistant or waterproof fabrics and may include a rain cover to protect the contents from moisture.
- Ventilation: Some backpacks feature a mesh back panel or ventilation channels to promote airflow and reduce sweating.
Tactical vs Hiking Backpack Key Differences
Hiking backpacks and tactical backpacks are designed for different purposes, and each has its own set of features and benefits. Here’s a comparison of the two types of backpacks:
Design: Tactical Backpac Preferred
Tactical backpacks are often available in camouflage patterns or subdued colors like black, olive drab, or tan to blend in with the environment.
Hiking backpacks come in a variety of colors, often bright or contrasting, to increase visibility and safety in outdoor settings.
Both look have their own distinct look, but tactical backpacks definitely look more or less similar and conservative in design. Though it depends person to person, tactical backpacks look significantly better and overall more badass for men.
Functionality: Tactical backPack Preferred
Tactical backpacks often have multiple compartments, pockets, and MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing to organize and carry various gear and accessories.
While small, it’s easy to fit a lot of things in there with proper organization.
Hiking backpacks usually have fewer compartments and focus on a main compartment for storing essentials, with additional pockets for quick access to items like water bottles, snacks, or maps, etc.
It’s a little bit annoying to grab some of the stuff you need, with some hiking backpacks requiring you to make a longer stop to find something from there.
So tactical backpacks not only look cooler, but it’s so much easier to access your belongings easily.
Size: Hiking Backpack preferred
There is no contest, hiking backpacks are significantly larger and come in various shapes and sizes.
Hiking backpacks are generally larger than tactical backpacks, as they are designed to carry more gear and supplies for longer outdoor adventures. Some hiking bags can be 100+ liters, 2-3 times the capacity of tactical backpacks.
Tactical backpacks on the other hand prioritize durability, organization, and accessibility for shorter trips or specific missions, so generally they are 30-40 liters, though you can find slightly larger tactical backpacks as well, but it’s uncommon to see anything more than 60 liters.
Material: Depends On Specific Use
Tactical backpacks are usually made from durable, heavy-duty materials like 1000D Cordura nylon to withstand rough use and harsh conditions. So they are suitable for rugged and tough terrain. Tactical backpacks could be preferred for extreme treks and hikes that last no more than 2 days.
Hiking backpacks are made from lighter, more flexible materials like ripstop nylon or polyester to reduce weight and improve comfort during long hikes, so if flexibility, and ease of mobility is important, then hiking backpacks could be a better choice.
Pricing: Generally The Same Price
Both hiking and tactical backpacks are generally around the same price point, but it can be a little cheaper or expensive based on the brand and any other additional features.
For around $30, you can find both decent tactical backpac or a hiking backpack, so none is better than one or the other based on the price.
Conclusion – Which is Better?
Thought tactical and hiking backpacks are quite similar, the main differences are the design, type of material used, and size capacity.
If you’re going on short hikes or excursions that won’t take more than 2 days, then the tactical backpack is better suited, especially for men. It just looks badass and has a lot more compartments that will help you stay organized. Not to mention the material for tactical backpacks are generally more durable than typical hikin backpacks.
However, if you need size and material that is breathable and light with slightly more comfort, then choose the hiking backpack specifically.
