Tactical Laptop Backpacks

10 Best Tactical Laptop Backpacks in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

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If you’ve ever imagined using your laptop with a tactical backpack, you ‘re in luck because they’re better now than ever. Such backpacks are constructed from materials of high strength and are thus very durable. Tactical laptop backpacks are constructed of sturdy, strong materials that are simple to clean and can handle a great deal of abuse, making them suitable for both adults and kids. As the backpacks are specially designed for safety and outdoor usage, you can rely on them to secure your laptop.

Although there are hundreds of tactical laptop backpacks on the market, and many more laptop bags, seeking the perfect combination for each is challenging. You may be a hiker who blogs about nature or you may just want to look amazing while you’re taking your laptop to work. Whatever the reason may be, there are a few tactical backpacks out there which are also useful for holding a laptop. As most of them are meant for survival and nature, they are also not built with this in mind. Yet many still deliver all the wonderful features of a tactical backpack, while still having the ideal place to hold your laptop. If you are however looking for a messenger bag type, take a look at our selection of the best tactical laptop bags.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 10 hrs of research

Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack

Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

  • Some MOLLE capabilities
  • Plenty of straps to compress your bag
  • Three-layered compartments for convenience and organization
  • Double stitching and quality zippers with paracord pullers

YOREPEK Tactical Laptop Backpack

YOREPEK Tactical Laptop Backpack – Best Value

Why is it better?

  • Well designed zippers and buckles
  • Lots of pockets and spacious main compartments
  • Well-padded back and straps add a lot of support and comfort
  • The chest and waist straps help a lot as well

Best Tactical Laptop Backpacks – Overview

Tactical backpacks are much like regular backpacks. They are just more robust and also expandable due to MOLLE-compatible webbing pouches. But for appreciating a decent tactical bag, you don’t need to be a ninja. They are available in more designs than just black or camouflage and are perfect options for everyone, from hunters and adventurers to suburbanites who have never even seen a pistol. Yet their success has prompted hundreds of low-quality producers to crawl out of their holes to create overpriced packs that can’t accommodate the coffee shop let alone a mountain trip. This is where we come in, we present to you 10 of the best tactical laptop backpacks for whatever adventure you partake into.

Tactical Laptop Backpacks Reviews

1. Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack – Premium Pick

Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack

The Maxpedition Vulture-II Backpack is built for larger individuals and is designed for hauling lots of gear. Endowed with 2100 cubic inches (34 liters) of carrying capacity, 3 generous compartments, and a wide bottom design; this is the backpack to pack it all into. However, like all Maxpedition bags, size does not infringe on comfort. Great for longer hikes, deployment, or buggin’ out.

This bag has plenty of exterior pals webbings for attaching maxpedition pouches and accessories. Curvaceous, foam-padded double shoulder straps contour to your chest and a sternum suspension belt helps distribute weight evenly throughout your upper body, so you can carry a load without falling behind. Truly the perfect tactical backpack for your laptop. You may also be interested in some of the best bug out backpacks from our list, so check them out.

Key Features:

  • External PALS Webbing for attachments
  • Internal Pockets and loop fields for customization
  • 3D breathable mesh padded back and shoulder straps
  • CCW pocket, with lockable zippers, fits large pistols

Specifications:

  • Brand: Maxpedition
  • Capacity: 34L
  • Dimensions: 20.5″ H x 16″ W x 7.5″ D
  • Weight: 3.5 lbs
Pros
  • Some MOLLE capabilities
  • Plenty of straps to compress your bag
  • Three-layered compartments for convenience and organization
  • Double stitching and quality zippers with paracord pullers
Cons
  • Initially, outer material is abrasive to bare skin

2. 5.11 Tactical RUSH24 Military Backpack

5.11 Tactical RUSH24 Military Backpack

The 5.11 Tactical RUSH24 Military Backpack is a high-performance tactical pack suitable for active duty, hunting, and recreation, or grab-and-go. Compatible with 5.11 Tier System and Scabbard, the pack features unmatched storage capability, a wrap-around MOLLE and SlickStick-compatible web platform, adjustable shoulder and sternum straps, a 60-oz. hydration pocket, and durable, water-resistant construction. It’s a backpack built to be ready for anything.

Has a reinforced grab-and-go handle, hydration pocket, zippered fleece-lined eyewear pocket, and wrap-around MOLLE/SlickStick web platform. Also has three mesh admin compartments for your laptop and other items, a zippered side water bottle pocket, and a hook and loop area for nametape and flag patches. Made from durable 1050D nylon with a water-repellent coating and has two external compression straps and a contoured yoke shoulder strap system. Be sure to also check out our list of military backpacks for more great items like this.

Key Features:

  • Dual zipping side pockets
  • Two external compression straps
  • Contoured yoke shoulder strap system
  • Self-repairing YKK zippers

Specifications:

  • Brand: 5.11
  • Capacity: 37L
  • Dimensions: 20″ H x 12.5″ W x 8″ D
  • Weight: 3.5 lbs
Pros
  • Comfortable even with a heavy load
  • Soft lined glasses pouch on top
  • Great organization
  • There is a plastic plate in the back to help keep things from digging into your back
Cons
  • There’s just so much organization and zippers that it’s borderline cumbersome getting things in and out quickly

3. Direct Action Dragon Egg Tactical Laptop Backpack

Direct Action Dragon Egg Tactical Laptop Backpack

Direct Action Dragon Egg Tactical Laptop Backpack is a versatile 25+ liter platform suitable for the role of a basic assault backpack or larger EDC pack. The Egg shape allows the pack to have a smaller height and width than other packs with similar capacity. It also makes it more comfortable with belt kits or ballistic vests.

Made with durable, water-resistant coated Codura 500D fabric with multiple color/camo options for versatility. Dragon Egg Mk II has redesigned side pockets that are equipped with elastic for expansion. Contoured foam profiles with multiple air channels combined with airy mesh keep the pack off the users back. This enhances airflow to help prevent heat build-up and sweating.

Key Features:

  • Front internal organizer
  • Daisy chain webbing
  • Lightweight, durable, non-moisture absorbing laser-cut MOLLE
  • Suspension system

Specifications:

  • Brand: Direct Action
  • Capacity: 25L
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 10.6″ W x 7″ D
  • Weight: 3.49 lbs
Pros
  • The laser molle makes the pack look clean
  • All padding is good quality
  • All pockets are very spacious with nice zipper and velcro compartments
  • Easily holds a laptop like a glove
Cons
  • The shape makes the bag always roll forward when set on a flat surface

4. YOREPEK Tactical Laptop Backpack – Best Value

YOREPEK Tactical Laptop Backpack

The YOREPEK Tactical Laptop Backpack features 3 main compartments,18 Interior multiple divider pockets could make your items organized and easier to find. The Molle backpack has molle webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or outdoor gear. Interior multiple divider pockets and mesh pocket for your books, laptop, lighter, keys. The variety of outer pockets work well for organizing placement.

This water-resistant military backpack is made of durable double-stitched high-density 900D polyester fabrics. Holds up well against abrasion and other forces. The ventilated mesh padded & shoulder strap will relieve your stress on shoulders. The thick mesh padding back area and shoulder straps will not pinch you under heavy duty.

Key Features:

  • MOLLE webbing
  • Ventilated mesh padded & shoulder strap
  • Interior multiple divider pockets
  • Variety of outer pockets

Specifications:

  • Brand: YOREPEK
  • Capacity: 42L
  • Dimensions: 21″ H x 13″ W x 11″ D
  • Weight: 3 lbs
Pros
  • Well designed zippers and buckles
  • Lots of pockets and spacious main compartments
  • Well padded back and straps add a lot of support and comfort
  • The chest and waist straps help a lot as well
Cons
  • Maybe smaller than anticipated

5. Orca Tactical Laptop Backpack

Orca Tactical Laptop Backpack

This heavy-duty military-grade backpack is made from 600D polyester material. The Orca Tactical Laptop Backpack is reinforced and double stitched at all stress points. The closures are secured by high-quality zippers with nylon pulls that are rust-resistant and tough and our Special coating makes our backpack for men both water-resistant and scratch proof.

Molle backpack webbing system on front and sides ensures you can add tactical MOLLE gear and pouches as needed for any mission. Side compression straps ensure your load is secure. Fit any MOLLE accessory attachments with 2 straps on the pack’s side. The assault-style pack sports double stitched, padded shoulder straps and back area with mesh backing for comfort, ventilation, and strength during travel. The waist strap ends are folded and sewn over to keep from sliding through the buckles.

Key Features:

  • Padded backing
  • Breathable, mesh padded, contoured shoulder harnesses
  • Opening for a water bladder hose
  • Comfortable waist and chest straps

Specifications:

  • Brand: Orca Tactical
  • Capacity: 40L
  • Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 13″ D
  • Weight: 3 lbs
Pros
  • All zips are double zippers
  • The hip belt webbing is thick enough that even without padding it is pretty comfortable to wear
  • The large storage compartment can unzip completely like a suitcase
  • Great MOLLE organization
Cons
  • The padding in the shoulder straps is light-duty

6. HAZARD 4 Patrol(TM) Thermo-Cap Daypack

HAZARD 4 Patrol(TM) Thermo-Cap Daypack

The HAZARD 4 Patrol(TM) Thermo-Cap Daypack is a well-sized day-backpack w/ thermoformed back panel, the Patrol suits anyone needing to transport their gear and includes a unique thermoformed cap to protect sunglasses and a large organizer pocket for pens, lights, knives, etc.

Made with Invista(R) 1000D Cordura(R). There is a large organizer pocket for pens, lights, knives, etc. in the outermost pocket. The removable Molle -compatible belt can be worn alone as a surface for mounting smaller bags/pouches. Use the belt alone as a surface for mounting bags/pouches.

Key Features:

  • Padded back-carrier pocket fits most 15″ laptops
  • Unique harness system & removable Molle
  • Multiple modular/ Molle/ velcro expansion options externally
  • Large organizer pocket outside

Specifications:

  • Brand: HAZARD 4
  • Capacity: 31.8L
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 10.5″ W x 5.5″ D
  • Weight: 2.65 lbs
Pros
  • It has a great (removable) comfortable belt
  • Plenty of organization inside
  • MOLLE system is great
  • There are adjustments for every strap and the zippers are of very high quality
Cons
  • The molded front pocket doesnt have full felt lining

7. Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon-II Backpack

Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon-II Backpack

Maxpedition Pygmy Falcon-II Backpack is a compact rectangular urban day pack with distinct military styling and 1100 cubic inches (18 liters) of carry capacity. Pack for a day out or an overnight and take along plenty of water, as the Pygmy Falcon-II is equipped with dual side mesh pouches to accommodate two 32oz / 1L water bottles. The Y-shaped compression strap that Maxpedition is so famous for contributes to the bag’s form and structural integrity.

They finish their bags with a triple coat of polyurethane for water resistance and add a final coat of DuPont Teflon Fabric Protector to repel the elements. Starting with large, unsealed panels of 1000 Denier Nylon, they meticulously reinforce each stress point with composite thread and no unnecessary seams or polyester parts are used.

Key Features:

  • Clamshell opening
  • 3d breathable mesh back pocket
  • Front organizer pockets
  • Bottom bungee cord

Specifications:

  • Brand: Maxpedition
  • Capacity: 18L
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 10″ W x 8.5″ D
  • Weight: 2.2 lbs
Pros
  • Small and light. Easy to move around
  • Very comfortable on back
  • Wide enough to fit a 15″ laptop
  • Easy to adjust shoulder straps
Cons
  • Lack(not enough) of pockets and organization pockets in admin pocket

8. 5.11 COVRT18 Tactical Covert Laptop Backpack

5.11 COVRT18 Tactical Covert Laptop Backpack

Designed to appear subtle and inconspicuous, the 5.11 COVRT18 Tactical Covert Laptop Backpack is a full-sized covert backpack that provides superior tactical utility and a low-vis appearance. Ideal for CCW use, the backpack features a TacTec System compatible hidden pistol pocket, Roll-Down Assault Compartment (R.A.C.) CCW Conceal Carry for MOLLE or web pouches, and the main compartment with a built-in padded laptop sleeve and roomy primary and secondary storage zones.

Built from rugged 500D and 420D water-resistant nylon, the COVRT18 is made to last, and with a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket, QuickTact shoulder straps, adjustable yoke shoulders, compression straps, a flip-down ID panel, and a reinforced grab handle, it’s made for everyday use. There’s a quick access flex cuff channel, too.

Key Features:

  • Durable, water-resistant 500D nylon
  • Sunglass pocket
  • R.A.C. conceals a full-sized firearm
  • Reinforced grab handle and Yoke-style shoulder straps
  • Adjustable sternum strap

Specifications:

  • Brand: 5.11
  • Capacity: 30L
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 12.25″ W x 6.5″ D
  • Weight: 3 lbs
Pros
  • Many pockets to organize things
  • Large comfortable straps with a great carry handle too
  • There is a large pass though pocket that has hook and loop
  • The admin pocket is in a good location and is designed well
Cons
  • Could have more accessories

9. 24BattlePack Tactical Laptop Backpack

24BattlePack Tactical Laptop Backpack

Only the highest quality, comfortable padded and breathable mesh with double-stitched seams was used in this 24BattlePack Tactical Laptop Backpack to last for a lifetime of every day carrying to rugged outdoor hiking. Built-in universal ccw hand gun holster for use as part of your EDC and a large padded 17 inch (and smaller) compatible laptop storage area. Insulated compartment with hanging clips and drink tube access for your hydration bladder.

Collapsible/expandable design with the proprietary compression straps allow the backpack to be cinched down to the a small 20L size or expanded out for a 3-Day overnight adventure. A no hassle 100% satisfaction guarantee with every backpack and a 1-Year warranty included with your purchase.

Key Features:

  • Built-In universal concealed carry gun holster
  • Insulated hydration bladder compartment
  • Ultra-padded oversized laptop compartment up to 17″
  • Available empty loop velcro

Specifications:

  • Brand: Tacticon
  • Capacity: 20-40L
  • Dimensions: 19″ H x 13″ W x 10″ D
  • Weight: 2.7 lbs
Pros
  • Compression straps everywhere
  • MOLLE loops everywhere
  • Material and stitching appears to be top notch
  • Easy access even to put in a bladder thanks to extra zippers
Cons
  • The shoulder straps are a bit narrow and thin for heavy loads

10. PANS Tactical Laptop Backpack

PANS Tactical Laptop Backpack

This PANS Tactical Laptop Backpack has four main loading space, the front compartment can hold the cell phone wallet, the key and so on, the middle compartment can put the flat plate and the book, the main compartment can put some clothes and so on it works great to hold all of those just Incase items, like fuses and food, flashlight, anything Incase of an emergency. Plenty of room for a lot of stuff and plenty of separate compartments you have organized.

Water bottle mesh pocket in the side. It is convenient for you to drink water in outdoor activities, MOLLE system in the front so you can add pouches and accessories, mountaineering hook can be used for hanging small things, the side of the buckle can make this large backpack more compact, more comfortable to carry, you can put some name card or flag in front of the Velcro, make this outdoor backpack more personalized

Key Features:

  • Heavy oversized zippers and tabs
  • Holds up to 3.0 liter hydration bladder
  • Side parachute buckles allow for tightening
  • Reversable zippers to keep out dust and dirt

Specifications:

  • Brand: Feeke
  • Capacity: 39-64L
  • Dimensions: 21″ H x 15″ W x 13″ D
  • Weight: 3.6 lbs
Pros
  • The outside shell material is great, sturdy
  • Lots of sections and pockets, easy to organize
  • Relatively comfortable for size and weight
  • Roomy and expandable
Cons
  • The hip straps lack paddiing

Buying Guide

Capacity

Tactical backpacks have a bit of a higher capacity on standard backpacks. This is because they appear to have more internal dividers and pockets, enabling you to put things just where you need them without caring about anything that ends up in a disorganized mess at the bottom of the bag. Even tactical backpacks appear to be boxier than other backpack types. That is more effective usage of space, and often tactical bags are smaller than non-tactical bags of the same storage room. The amount of storage space you need depends on how long you’ll be doing a particular activity.

Materials

Tactical backpacks should be robust to take anywhere. You should be vigilant of those poorly made bags because at an unexpected time they’ll fall apart on you. Denser fabric can last longer, if all other components are similar. It’s hardly the fabric itself will tear first. The most common weak spots include stitching and zippers. So make sure to look for YKK zippers.

Budget

Note, a pricier brand is either better designed or fits with a certain ethic that also contributes to reliable products and happier customers — nobody wants to have to purchase a fresh bag any time they’re mobilized or a new academic year starts or a new hunting season is underway. Keep in mind that if you want a laptop bag, how large is your laptop? When you have other types of gadgets like tablets and phones, you would require a bigger tactical bag than anyone with just a few electronics. And thus will require you to shed out some more dollars.

Hydration Bladder

Hydration bladders are an effective use of space for water storage. They save weight in your bag and use a hose which ensures you can drink from the bladder without removing the water bag. All these tactical backpacks will usually have a pocket, but not everyone will carry the same amount of water. Bladders with mil-spec hydration are 3 liters.   That’s more than what you’re supposed to drink in a day, so it’s perfect for multi-day hikes. However, not all tactical backpacks can hold that much space. The most popular size is two liters, which is a day’s worth of water.

Extra Features

Fleece-lined accessory pockets are a smart choice if you choose to take eyeglasses or shades around without actually needing to wear them. Without worrying about scratching you should place them in those pockets. If you choose to camp overnight, bottom lashing points can be beneficial, as you can then put your sleeping bag. Eventually, strong long-range radios can be pretty extensive and powerful. Many tactical backpacks provide you with positions to position your radio and hold it hands-free, secure, and out of the way. They do have holes so you can put out your antenna and accept a radio call.

Conclusion

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best tactical laptop backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a tactical laptop backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.