13 Best EDC Backpack for Men Reviews
If you’re anything like me, you’ll be looking for a bag that can go with you anywhere. I know I am. I’ve always got my eyes open for the right bag. I love hiking, I love the solitude, even if I’m hiking with a friend. That said, I tend to go straight from work to hiking with no break in-between. That means that I need the best EDC Backpack that can shift from work to hiking easily.
I can easily believe that you have the same type of schedule as I do. You could be going camping right after you’re done work and you want to be as ready as you can be. The car is packed and ready to go as soon as you walk out those doors. If that’s you, then you need one of these EDC bags. They are durable, strong, waterproof, and just all around great. You can pack all your gear ahead of time and have it waiting in the car for you.
What about if you don’t hike and you’re just walking around town? These are good for you too. You can stash your laptop computer in one of these beauties, along with anything else you need for your day.
If you like to travel, but travel light, then I would recommend checking out the packs we’ve reviewed, as these backpacks are perfectly suited for weekend travel. You can’t go wrong with one of these bags.
I know that whenever I leave my house, I like to be prepared for whatever happens to come my way, whether it’s bad weather, a spur of the moment hiking trip, or just a visit with friends who live out of town. I can even see myself backpacking across Europe with one of these beauties. They are super functional and you really can’t go wrong to buy one for yourself. Check out the reviews of some Everyday Carry Bags below to see what I mean.
Everyday Carry Backpack Comparison
The below links will bring you to Amazon:
- Canis Latran Military Dragon Egg Tactical Review — Our favorite!
- ArcEnCiel Men’s Tactical Review — Small EDC Backpack
- Huntvp 10L Mini Daypack Review
- Mardingtop Tactical Backpack Review — Most Covert
- Finish Cool Dragon Egg Review
- Explorer Military Tactical Backpack Review — Everyday Tactical Bags
- Reebow Gear Tactical Bag Review
- Orca Tactical SALISH 34L Backpack Review — Coolest Military EDC Packs
- Saratoga Outdoor Military Review
- Reebow Gear Military Large Tactical Backpack Review — EDC MOLLE Backpacks
- Reebow Gear Military Tactical Small Backpack Review
- Gowara Gear Tactical Review — Cheapest and Most Affordable
- TTLIFE Large Tactical Backpack
1. Canis Latran Military Dragon Egg Tactical Bag Review — Our favorite!
What we liked:
- Lightweight and versatile
- Designed for advanced military and law enforcement personnel
- Good for school, work, and travel
Who is it for:
- Those who like a rugged backpack
- Those who spend a lot of time outdoors
This is a great bag, sturdy and able to take a beating. If you’re heading out to the woods, this bag is great, but it’s also a good option when working in the concrete jungle as well. You can’t go wrong here.
Some specs:
- Durable coated Codura 500D fabric
- Water-resistant
- Two elasticized pockets good for carrying small items or a one-liter water bottle
- Three zippered compartments
More notable features:
- Heavy-duty backpack with unique, laser-cut MOLLE system
- Patented Combat Vent System for increased comfort during prolonged use
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bag can handle it all. Whether you’re hitting the streets or heading out for hiking, this bag is a great option. Not only can you haul your laptop around downtown, you can hit the trails knowing that you’re prepared for your trek.
2. ArcEnCiel Men’s Tactical Bag Review — Small EDC Backpack
No products found.
What we liked:
- 1000D nylon
- High abrasion resistance
- Highly tear resistant
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a good sturdy bag
- Anyone wanting a bag with lots of features
Versatile, this bag is great for hauling your gear around town. It’s not super huge, in fact, it’s one of the smallest on our list! Great to carry your laptop computer in, yet still a great bag to take hiking.
Some specs:
- Headphone opening on the top of the bag
- Adjustable shoulder straps that help relieve pressure on shoulders
- Good air flow with a thickened sponge on the back of the bag
More notable features:
- PALS webbing on both sides
- Versatile enough for every day
- Heavy-duty enough for cycling, hiking, and camping
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bag is great for around town. It’s smaller and lighter-weight compared to the other bags on the list, making it great for someone who needs to carry their gear around the city. It’s smaller size also makes it a good option for a younger person who is just starting to join on camping trips but is old enough to carry a bit of weight.
3. Huntvp 10L Mini Daypack Review
No products found.
What we liked:
- Dimensions: 9.8″ by 14.6″ by 4.7″
- Ten-liter capacity
Who is it for:
- Students or smaller people
- Those looking for a very small everyday bag
This is a great bag for those wanting a mini EDC backpack. At only a 10L capacity, this one is small but mighty. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Some specs:
- The main pocket holds a tablet or ten-inch laptop computer
- Side pockets can hold a 500ml bottle
- Front pocket can hold a large cell phone
More notable features:
- Waterproof, military grade nylon
- MOLLE external expansion system designed to be used with other equipment
- High strength nylon buckle
- Suitable for fitness, outdoor travel, hiking, and other outdoor activities
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bag is perfect for going around the city, with lots of room for you to carry what you need. It’s also the perfect size for a child to carry on hiking trips. It’s small, light-weight, and amazingly versatile.
4. Mardingtop Everyday Tactical Backpack Review — Most Covert
No products found.
What we liked:
- Made of water-resistant 600D polyester
- Hydration compartment can hold a 2.5-liter bladder, with tube feed through an opening at the top of the bag
- Fits a 17-inch laptop computer
Who is it for:
- Those looking for a good sized bag
- Those who camp regularly
This one is a great tactical option. It’s perfect for heading out to the woods, or for wandering the city. Take along your laptop and see where you end up.
Some specs:
- Can hang small items or attach additional pouches or gear
- Has two adjustable straps underneath for a bedroll or tent
More notable features:
- The waist belt is stitched in, but it can be tucked away into the space behind the back support
- MOLLE backpack with chest straps
- Good for hiking, camping, trekking, traveling, school or daily use
- 90-day limited warranty
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This is great for outdoors. It’s customizable since you can hang things like small pouches on the MOLLE loops. And then there’s the warranty. It’s always nice to have that since you just don’t know what could happen. That said, this is a tough bag and will do well.
5. Finish Cool Dragon Egg Review
What we liked:
- Capacity: 30-40 liters
- Dimensions: 10″ by 8″ by 18″
- Extremely high-quality 600D fabric
- Weather-resistant
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a good pack
- Anyone wanting a bad that can take a beating and keep going
This bad boys shape makes it stand out from the rest. The dragon egg shape helps to protect your gear from getting squished and adds extra room to the main compartment without being too bulky.
Some specs:
- Durable construction
- Heavy-duty oversized zippers for extra durability
- Double-stitched
- Side and front compression system
- Comfortable padding area
- Adjustable and detachable padded shoulder straps
More notable features:
- Extra large main compartment with zippered mesh pockets
- Front pockets feature organizers for keeping small items secure
- Incorporates MOLLE system and keeps your gear safe and dry in bad weather
- Good for hiking, camping, trekking, traveling, or school
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This one is a decent size at 30-40 liters of space. Plus, the dragon egg shape adds a bit of extra protection to your gear. This one is great to hike around the city, exploring new places. You can carry everything you need for a long day, and if you are traveling, this bag is a great one.
6. Explorer Military Tactical Backpack Review — Everyday Tactical Bags
No products found.
What we liked:
- Dimensions: 17″ by 12″ by 6″
- Military backpack made of 600 x 600 density fabric
Who is it for:
- Those looking for a larger size
- Those looking for a good, versatile,
This bag is great! It’s not overly large but still has more space than some of the smaller options.
Some specs:
- Durable
- Water-resistant
More notable features:
- Double-stitched with heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls
- Good for hunting, survival, trekking, go bag or daily use
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This one is a fantastic option for hiking. You’ll need a good pack but you won’t need anything huge. Also, if you’re the type to go backpacking across Europe, this is a great option for you.
7. Reebow Gear Tactical Bag Review
No products found.
What we liked:
- Small tactical pack
- MOLLE bag
- Durable 600D Polyester
- Water-resistant
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a smaller tactical bag
- Anyone looking for a carry-all type
The strap makes this one unique. It’s small but doesn’t sacrifice usefulness. Large enough for your tablet and some extra goodies, this makes a great daypack.
Some specs:
- Dimensions: 12″ by 9.5″ by 6″
- Can carry a tablet, small notepad, keys, wallet, cell phone, flashlight and more
More notable features:
- Large Velcro pad in the concealed main compartment and back compartment
- Adjustable and comfortable shoulder strap
- Two smaller straps help reduce the movement of it while in motion
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This is one of two bags on our list, in this style. They have a single, crossbody strap that holds the pack securely on your back, thanks to the waist straps that keep it from moving. If you’re the type to stay closer to the city, this can be a good option. They aren’t quite as large as some of the other bags on our list but they do the job well. The straps are adjustable, making it a perfect fit, no matter where you are headed.
8. Orca Tactical SALISH 34L Backpack Review — Coolest Military EDC Packs
No products found.
What we liked:
- Dimensions: 11″ by 18″ by 2″
- Capacity: 34 liters
- Two larger compartments to hold bulkier items
- Two front compartments to hold smaller accessories
Who is it for:
- Those looking for a bigger bag
- Those looking for good organization in a backpack
Not overly large, yet incredibly versatile, this bag is good for school, work, and the outdoors. If you want a bag that you can take from work straight out to the woods, this is the right bag for you.
Some specs:
- A mesh pocket and a zippered pocket for storage
- Elastic band to secure clothing in the main compartment
- 600D polyester fabric
- Double-stitched at all stress points
- High-quality YKK zippers with nylon pulls
More notable features:
- Functional side MOLLE.
- Compression straps include an elastic band to keep straps organized
- Mesh backing for comfort, ventilation, and strength during carrying time
- Adjustable waist straps
- Back compartment stores up to a 1.5-liter water bladder or laptop computer
- Great for hiking, hunting, survival, school, and camping
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bad boy, at 34 liters, is a pretty decent size. It has the MOLLE system webbing on both sides, making it easy to carry things that you don’t want to stash away inside, such as a water bottle or a flashlight. If you’re staying around town, you can use one of the larger compartments to haul around your laptop. The other compartments are good to hold your wallet, keys, and any other small things that you might need to carry with you.
9. Saratoga Outdoor Military EDC Review
No products found.
What we liked:
- High-quality 600 dernier fabric made to withstand any harsh conditions
- Durable
- Heavy-duty oversized zippers for extra durability
- Capacity: 30-40 liters
- Dimensions: 10″ by 8″ by 18″
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a good military style
- Anyone looking for a good gear for hiking or hunting
This is larger than some of the other styles and has a lot of features for someone who spends a lot time in the woods. Hiking and hunting are great activities with this one along for the ride.
Some specs:
- Double-stitched
- Side and front-load compression system
- Comfortable padding in the back
- Shoulder straps with ventilated mesh padding
- Combat Vent System helps with the comfort of back and shoulders
More notable features:
- Extra large main compartment with zippered mesh pockets
- Front pockets feature organizers for keeping small items secure
- Incorporated MOLLE system that helps keep your gear safe and dry
- Includes 5-in-1 survival tool and patch, which has a high-quality compass, flint firestarter, fire scraper, and can be used as an emergency knife
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This mofo is awesome. It’s a good size one with a side and front-load compression system, helping to keep your gear snug. The 5-in-1 survival tool is a nice inclusion to any bag that you’ll be going camping or hiking with. This is one of the best bags on our list for survival activities. If you’re a survivalist, this is a great to use.
10. Reebow Gear Military Large Tactical Backpack Review — EDC MOLLE Backpacks
No products found.
What we liked:
- Dimensions: 13″ by 20″ by 11″
- Capacity: 40-liters
- Made of high-density fabric
- Durable and water-resistant
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a large size
- Anyone looking for a good MOLLE system
The MOLLE system on this bag is great, allowing you room to add or remove compartments. The ability to personalize this is one of its best features.
Some specs:
- MOLLE webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear
- Double-stitched
- Heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls
- Side and front-load compression system
- Ventilated mesh padding on back and shoulder areas
- Breathable and comfortable
More notable features:
- Hydration compartment that works for a hydration bladder
- Good for hunting, survival, army, trekking, or day pack for daily use
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bag is a larger one, by far, but it’s very versatile. The MOLLE system included makes it easy to customize by adding smaller compartments to the sides or front. It’s a great one for hiking or camping. The side and front-load compression systems help to keep things secure. It doesn’t hurt that it looks good.
11. Reebow Gear Military Tactical Small Backpack Review
No products found.
What we liked:
- Dimensions: 11″ by 18″ by 12″
- Capacity: 34-liters
- Made of high-density fabric
- Durable and water-resistant
Who is it for:
- Anyone looking for a smaller bag without sacrificing strength
- Anyone looking for a good MOLLE bag
A smaller version of the bag above, the construction specs are the same. This bag is great for around town and transitions well to outdoor activities.
Some specs:
- Double-stitched
- Heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls
- Side and front-load compression system
- Comfortable padding on the back area
- Ventilated mesh padding on the shoulder straps
More notable features:
- Hydration compartment that works great for a 2.5-liter hydration bladder
- Good for hunting, survival, military, or trekking
The MOLLE system on this bag is a bit different from other tactical backpacks and is not to spec. The spacing between MOLLE is less than 1/2 inch.
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
Besides being a slightly smaller size than it’s counterpart above, it’s built to last. With a large hydration compartment that you can stash a water bladder or a laptop in, you’re sure to put this bag to use. This everyday carry bag is great whether you’re out for a hike or doing some traveling. There’s lots of room to stash away some clothing and would make a great weekend bag.
12. Gowara Gear Tactical Bag Review — Cheapest and Most Affordable
No products found.
What we liked:
- Durable 600D polyester
- Water-resistant
- Velcro in the concealed back compartment
Who is it for:
- Those looking for a more affordable option
- Those looking for a good everyday bag
At a lower price, this sucker is still highly recommended. It is spacious for its size and is suitable for the city or for outdoors.
Some specs:
- Dimensions: 14″ by 11.5″ by 6.5″
- Room for a 14″ laptop computer, tablet, notepad, goggles, book, keys, wallet and anything else you may have a need for
- Adjustable and comfortable single strap
- Two smaller straps help keep the bag still while moving
- Double-stitched
More notable features:
- Heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls
- Front-load compression system Y strap
- Comfortable, breathable padded back area
- Molle strap
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
As the least expensive on our list, you can’t go wrong. It’s tough and can take a beating. The single strap makes it an easy on-and-off process. The waist straps help to keep it stable while you walk, adding to the comfort and distributing the weight across your hips instead of your shoulder. It’s a great starter and would do well when transitioning from work to the gym.
13. TTLIFE Large Tactical Backpack Review — Most Epic Military Tactical Backpack
No products found.
What we liked:
- Capacity: 55-liters
- Dimensions: 55 cm by 45 cm by 22 cm
- Huge capacity backpack with some good-sized additional compartments
- Maximizes the internal storage volume
Who is it for:
- Those looking for an extra-large
- Those looking for versatility
This bag is awesome. It’s huge compared to some of the other bags on this list, but it’s a great option if you’re a regular camper or hunter. It can hold everything you need and more.
Some specs:
- Three detachable MOLLE pouches attached at the front and both sides
- Can be dismantled into three small zippered areas
- MOLLE system allows you to customize your storage options
- Waterproof
- 600D Oxford fabric
- Double-stitched on the seams and high-wear areas
- Sealed stitching to prevent water leaking in through the seams
More notable features:
- Padded and adjustable shoulder straps
- Breathable mesh backing for comfort
- Removeable waist straps
- Designed to fit the human back
- Good for outdoors, hiking, camping, hunting, and traveling
That’s great, but why should I buy it?
This bad boy truly is epic. It’s huge size, at 55 liters, makes it easily the largest bag on the list. This is versatile and can hold a huge amount of gear. It’s one of the best ones for camping, hiking, and survival activities that we have found. If you’re going to be doing some traveling, this one will do amazingly well, giving you lots of space for everything you’ll need.
Top Features Men Are Looking For:
The last thing you need when out is a bag that falls apart on you or gets soaking wet during a sudden downpour. The EDC is a great type of bag and is super versatile. Check out these features and the reviews below, as you’re sure to find a bag that suits you and will keep your gear dry and won’t break suddenly.
Durability
The first thing to look for when you’re looking for a good EDC bag should be durability. You don’t want to spend your hard-earned money on a bag, only to have it fall apart within a few days or weeks. You want a bag that’s going to last, one that will go with you through everything you need it to. Whether you are taking it around the city, taking it camping or even hunting, you need a bag that’s going to last. Nylon bags are durable and won’t tear easily.
Weatherproof
It’s always a good idea to have a bag that’s weatherproof. If you’re carrying a laptop or tablet in there, you sure don’t want it to get wet if it rains or snows. You want to be sure that your stuff stays dry. If you’re out hiking and get caught in a downpour, you’ll know that your gear is okay, no matter what it is. You don’t want to be opening your pack, only to find that your food has gone soggy.
Comfort
These bags can get heavy if you’re heading out camping or hunting. You can have a lot of gear to carry, so you’ll definitely need a bag that’s comfortable to wear. Most of the products we reviewed have comfortable padded shoulder straps and mesh covered cushioning on the back of the bag. These help to distribute the weight more evenly, making it easier to carry, even if it’s at full capacity.
Essentials and Contents
These all have things in common. Each one has double stitching on the seams to help reinforce the areas that are under the most pressure. All of these have a MOLLE system, allowing them to be modified by hanging extra small bags, flashlights, and extra items that you may need on hand quickly. A lot of them have space for a water bladder if you need it. That same compartment can, in most cases, hold a laptop or tablet as well, giving you lots of flexibility. These are only a few of the characteristics of these bags. But what is essential? The double stitching is a definite must for these backpacks. They’re meant to carry a lot of weight, so the seams better be able to hold up. The water bladder pockets in some of these are perfect for carrying your laptop or tablet, which is a must for sure. The compression straps are a highly recommended feature, keeping your bag secure no matter where you are.
Organization
These bags have pockets, and usually lots of them. They are typically large enough to hold a decent-sized laptop computer, plus still be able to carry your gym clothes, if that’s what you need. There are front organizer compartments in some of these as well, with places to store your wallet, keys, anything smaller that you may have to carry with you. With all the pockets, you’ll be super organized and not losing things deep inside your bag.
What is an EDC / Everyday Carry Back?
An EDC bag is an everyday carry bag. These are typically backpacks with a ton of extra features, making these makes your best go-to bag. They are great for carrying your stuff whether you are at work or play. Throw your gym clothes in there, your work essentials, and head out the door, knowing that you have everything you need. They are perfect for everyday use and make a great companion when you’re out in the woods.
EDC Bags vs. Messenger Bags
In recent years messenger bags have been rising in popularity with men. They were convenient and you could get them in designs that were specifically for men, where in the past they had been primarily for women. It was great to carry your laptop around in, along with a few other small items like keys and a wallet. Otherwise, they didn’t have much space. That’s where this type of bag comes in. These babies are tough; they can take a beating and keep on going strong. They are capable of carrying so much more than just a laptop computer. You can throw your keys, wallet, water bottle, a change of clothes and a pair of running shoes into an EDC and, depending on the size, still have room for more. the double strap helps keep the weight evenly distributed across your back and shoulders. Even the few single strap bags on our list have good weight distribution with a waist strap to help stop it from swaying while you walk.
Backpack Loadout
Backpack loadout is a term used to describe the best way to pack your EDC bag for hiking or camping. It is a strategy of packing your bag with as much gear as you’ll need, while still keeping the load as manageable as possible. It involves breaking down the bag into “zones”. Within those zones, there are specific items that should be packed. For example, the bottom zone should be items that are softer and won’t be needed for setting up camps such as a tent or smaller bedroll. The middle zone should be packed with the heavier items tt you’ll likely be carrying a cook stove and food items (not snacks). The top zone will be all the smaller items like snacks and water. Then there are the accessory pockets and the external loops that you can attach things to, such as additional small bags, your flashlight, a small ax and whatever else you may need in a hurry while you’re out. There are many different ways to do a backpack loadout so keep experimenting with your bag until you get it right for you. When packed properly, your bag shouldn’t put a lot of additional weight on your shoulders and shouldn’t move or sway once it’s on your back.
Appearance
I know it’s not necessarily important to have a gear that looks good, these are more about functionality. That said, it never hurts to have a something that you’re proud to carry because you know it looks good. These bad boys will all turn heads. They range in color from your basic black to army green and camouflage.
EDC Backpack Reviews & our Favorite
These bad boys were chosen for review because they met the features above. Each one has its own characteristics and will be a great piece of gear, whether you are taking it camping or hiking, to school, or just to carry around town. Check out the reviews below and see if there is a that fits your needs. I’m positive you’ll find more than one. Let us know if you have any questions, and enjoy the reviews.
Final Thoughts
That’s it for the reviews. Hopefully, you will have found the right bag for you and your activities. There are lots to choose from, regardless of the tasks ahead. Before you run out to buy your EDC, keep these things in mind:
- What is your price range? Many of these types can get pretty expensive.
- What will you be using your it for? You may need a different style for carrying around the city than you will if you’re heading out on a three-day hike.
- Is it a gift? What purpose will your giftee be using it for?
- Will it have too much or not enough space?
- Do you really need the MOLLE System if you’re only going to be going around the city?
As always, if you have questions, feel free to email us. Also, be sure to check out the FAQ section below for the most commonly asked questions.
FAQ
What does EDC stand for?
EDC stands for Every Day Carry. It refers to a bag, typically a backpack, that someone would use on a regular basis to carry their needed gear. This can be anything from gym clothes to office paperwork, to hiking or camping supplies. Many of these bags are military style, meant to be used by military personnel, as well as police officers. Many are tactical bags that are great for hunting and camping.
What does MOLLE mean and what is it for?
Molle (pronounced Molly) is an acronym for Modular Light Weight Load-carrying Equipment. It allows you to completely customize your pack by adding pouches and compartments to the outside of your pack. It allows for proper weight distribution and increases your total space. The U.S. government has chosen to use a MOLLE system for their military.
What is PALS and what is it used for? How is it different from a MOLLE system?
PALS stands for Pouch Attachment Ladder System. It is a series of loops on a backpack that allows additional pouches to be attached. Essentially, this works in conjunction with the MOLLE System.
What do you mean by “weatherproof”?
Many of these bags are made of waterproof material like nylon, making protecting your gear so much easier. Many of the zippers have been treated with a water-resistant spray, making them leak-proof. You won’t have to worry about how to keep your belongings dry if it’s raining with one of these bags.
What material are most made from?
Most of them are made from 500 Denier nylon. This allows them to be waterproof and durable. Nylon makes a strong fabric that can take more of a beating than some other materials.
What is backpack loadout?
Backpack loadout is a bag packing strategy. It gives you the ability to pack your bag as efficiently as possible. This packing structure is done by packing softer belongings in the bottom, like clothes and sleeping rolls, along with any other items you most likely won’t need until setting up camp for the night. The middle section will be where you put harder items, like food and a cook stove with a small fuel tank. The top section is where you put snacks, water and anything else you might need throughout the day.
What are the side and front-load compression system for?
An EDC backpack can hold quite a bit if packed properly. That doesn’t mean, however, that your bag will be totally secure and won’t have any soft spots. The side and front-load compression straps are used to tighten the around its contents, allowing for a more stable bag with less shifting. By using these straps, you reduce the wobbling and make the load easier to carry. It puts less pressure on your shoulders and helps to keep everything secure. This will make your excursion much more pleasant, as you won’t experience the back and possibly shoulder pain that comes along with a wobbly pack.
Well, that’s it. The end of the FAQ section. If you have any further questions that aren’t covered here, feel free to email us and ask. We will do our best to answer your questions and add them to our FAQ section if needed.