Military backpacks don’t have the same intention as standard backpacks, nor the standard materials. Before you choose which one to go with, you’ll need to first weigh out your options.

So whether you’re a casual hiker, a police officer, a sports enthusiast, or a veteran, you’ll need to know what you want to use the backpack for. Here are a few tips for choosing the right military pack so that you can go wherever life takes you.

Weatherproofed and Durable

No matter what you’ll be doing or where you’ll be going, if you’re carrying around a pack, chances are you have important items with you. Carrying a bag means you’ll have your things secured so that they can remain safe from the elements.

Weatherproofing is excellent for this reason, and weatherproofed material on a bag will keep it clean for longer. You also need to check the name brand, reviews, and materials used to ensure that you have the best that money can buy.

Space and Compartments

Make sure that your military backpack isn’t too overloaded with devices, or you miss out on all the room you’ll need. Everyone has different levels of need, so you’ll need to reserve space for these reasons. Most military backpacks come with expandable compartments and excess space, but it never hurts to investigate first.

The Right Fit

There are many shapes and sizes of military packs out there. You can go from a day pack that holds what you’ll need on your person for one day, or you can have the oversized hiking MOLLE bag where you can store everything you own and remain on foot for as long as you need. There are also three-day packs that are the middle-of-the-road style for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get away for the weekend and travel.

This list is a simple guide with tips for choosing the right military pack to help you get what you need the first time. Military backpacks are the way to go when choosing a backpack for any occasion.