Patrik Orcutt 07.23.25
Over the years I have tested a lot of backpacks in a lot of different scenarios. I have used backpacks for everyday carry needs at work and school. Packs for climbing into the Alps and mountaineering. Packs for landscape photography and finally packs for my time in the military. I’m not saying I have tested everything under the sun because I have certainly not but I have used a good number of builds from different brands I thought I might make a list of my top 10 favorite packs from over the years. Also, keep in mind this is a Top 10 Backpacks list, but I love all of these bags about the same, there is no bag that is better than the rest because many of them were built for different tasks and use cases.
Backpack Coverage on AllOutdoor
Triple Aught Design Axiom S1
The Axiom is designed for everyday carry with ample built-in organization, making it a versatile standalone bag without the need for additional pouches. I used this bag for most of my travels while living in Europe, as it proved to be one of the most versatile bags I owned at the time. Like many of TAD’s offerings, the Axiom combines high-quality materials with a very technical/tactical feel that you can take anywhere around the world. The Axiom also offers great organization options but with most things in life there is a price for all this goodness and the price is steep. If you can find them in stock the Axium is around $450.00 for the newer S2 variants. It’s an expensive bag but if you can only own one, this is a pretty good option.
F-Stop Gear Ajna 37
The Ajna is a 37-liter backpack designed for adventure photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a durable build, customizable internal organization with F-Stop’s ICU (Internal Camera Unit) system, and weather-resistant materials to protect gear in various conditions. This is by far the best camera bag I have ever used. F-Stop really hit it out of the park with this bag. This bag combines cutting-edge materials with a great organization system and is big enough to hold all of your camera gear plus clothes for a week. This bag is my jam for photo trips to Iceland and Italy.
GORUCK GR2 Robic Ripstop
The GR2 Robic Ripstop is constructed from 420D ROBIC® Ripstop Nylon, making it super water-resistant and ultra-lightweight. Its ripstop grid pattern enhances tear strength, and it features a special waterproof coating designed for durability. The backpack is also TSA carry-on compliant. While this is one of my newer bags, I have really fallen in love with its robust design and overall versatility. I think I used this as my primary pack for one bag travel for about 6 flights this past year, and it always was a great fit for me. Again it’s a pricey one but that’s what it is.
Mystery Ranch In and Out
The In and Out is a packable daypack that transitions from a compact stuff sack to a fully functional backpack. It’s lightweight, durable, and ideal for spontaneous adventures or as a secondary pack during travel. I always keep this one in my car if I’m not using it for a specific task. Over the years, I always find myself coming back to this one just because of how small you can pack it down to. This bag is also surprisingly comfortable, and I have used it for a lot of day hikes in the mountains. It’s also pretty affordable!
GORUCK GR1 Heritage
The GR1 Heritage is a rugged backpack inspired by military rucksacks, featuring a minimalist design with a bombproof laptop compartment. It’s built from waxed canvas and premium materials, offering both durability and a timeless aesthetic. This is the bag I often get asked about the most from people when I’m traveling, and I think it’s because of its rugged good looks and old-school appeal. This is the one bag my Father is always trying to get away from me whenever I make a trip home.
Mystery Ranch Bridger 55
The Bridger 55 is a backpacking pack designed for multi-day adventures. It features an adjustable, ventilated frame for optimal comfort, multiple access points to the main compartment, and ample pockets for organization. The Yoke and Harness system was next level when I reviewed this bag a number of years ago. Unfortunately, I sold this bag shortly after reviewing it, and I have regretted this decision ever since.
Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pack 30 Vent
The Modular Pack 30 Vent is a 30-liter tactical backpack featuring a modular design with MOLLE system for customization. It includes a ventilated back panel for enhanced comfort during extended use. I used this pack for an entire week in Montana for camping and vacation activities and was really impressed with its versatility and how much stuff I could throw into it!
Mystery Ranch 3-Day Assault Pack
The 3-Day Assault Pack is a versatile Military backpack designed for extended missions. It features Mystery Ranch’s signature 3-ZIP design for quick access, internal compartments for organization, and a comfortable harness system. If your looking for a tough as nails pack for hard Military use, this is the godfather, and for a good reason.
Arc’teryx Assault 30
The Assault 30 is a robust, minimalist pack designed for military and tactical use. It offers a lightweight and durable construction, with a roll-top closure and modular attachment points for versatility. This bag and I have something of a love-hate relationship. I have owned two of these bags over the years and always end up selling them off and then wishing the opposite.
LBX Tactical MAP (Modular Assaulters Pack) Titan
The MAP Titan is a modular assault pack designed for tactical operations. It features multiple compartments for gear organization, MOLLE webbing for customization, and a durable build suitable for demanding environments. This was my primary camera/gear bag for many years while living and working in Germany, and I loved this thing. LBX ended up making a slimmer version of this bag a few years back, and I think it’s a better option for most people.
YETI Ranchero 22L Everyday Carry Backpack
The YETI Ranchero™ 22L Everyday Carry Backpack is a compact, durable pack designed for daily commutes, short trips, and travel, blending rugged functionality with a minimalist aesthetic. While this is one of my newest bags I have been testing, its quickly grown on me in all the best ways. Be on the lookout for a full review coming soon!
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