Bags
Best Go Bag Guide: Top Types, Uses & Tips for 2024
Be prepared for the unexpected with the perfect go bag. Whether facing natural disasters, power outages, or sudden travel, a well-packed go bag ensures safety and peace of mind. This guide highlights the best options available, tailored to various needs and budgets, so you can confidently choose the right go bag and stay ready for whatever comes your way.
Go Bag Types & Applications: Comparison Table
| Go Bag Type | Size/Capacity | Typical Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tactical Backpack | 30–55 liters | Emergency evacuation, hiking, prepping | Durable, organized, MOLLE compatible | May stand out, heavier, sometimes bulky |
| Hiking/Technical Backpack | 35–65 liters | Outdoor adventures, long trips, bug out | Comfortable, great weight distribution | Fewer tactical features, less rugged |
| Preassembled (Ready-Made) | 20–40 liters | Fast emergency prep | Convenient, already packed | Generally lower quality components, rigid |
| Everyday (EDC) Backpack | 20–30 liters | Urban carry, commuting, light emergencies | Lightweight, discreet, flexible | Reduced storage for survival essentials |
| Duffel Bag | 40–60+ liters | Car evacuation, group/family bug out | Large volume, easy access | Harder to carry far, less organized |
| Rolling Duffel | 40–80+ liters | Urban disasters, car-based evacuation | Easiest for transporting heavy loads | Useless on rough terrain, heavy when lifted |
Detailed Guide: Types, Materials, Usage, and Pairing Your Go Bag
Types of Go Bags
1. Tactical Backpacks
- Description: Designed for maximum durability with reinforced seams, heavy-duty zippers, weatherproofing, and modular attachments (MOLLE webbing).
- Best For: Emergency situations, harsh environments, prepping.
- Consider If: You prioritize long-lasting gear and plan for rugged conditions.
2. Hiking/Technical Backpacks
- Description: Built for comfortable weight distribution over long periods and distances. Offer multiple access points and adjustable straps.
- Best For: Evacuating long distances on foot, longer survival scenarios.
- Consider If: Comfort and carrying capacity matter most.
3. Preassembled Go Bags
- Description: Sold fully packed with emergency items—food, water, first aid, and shelter gear.
- Best For: Beginners or those short on time.
- Consider If: You want convenience, but remember to review and customize contents.
4. Everyday Carry (EDC) Bags and Small Backpacks
- Description: Sleek, often nondescript packs for daily commuting, urban emergencies, or short-term disruptions.
- Best For: City dwellers, minimalists, or supplementing a larger primary go bag.
- Consider If: You require daily preparedness.
5. Duffel Bags and Rolling Duffels
- Description: High-volume soft or rolling bags, great for car evacuations or group/family scenarios.
- Best For: Situations where you drive to safety.
- Consider If: Weight and mobility aren’t issues, or you need to pack for several people.
Material Choices
1. Nylon (Cordura, Ballistic, Ripstop)
- Strengths: High durability, abrasion resistance, relatively lightweight, common in tactical and hiking packs.
- Variations:
- 500–900 Denier: Balances weight and strength.
- TPU/Laminate Coatings: Improve water resistance.
2. Polyester
- Strengths: Cost-effective, lightweight, decent abrasion resistance.
- Weaknesses: Wears out faster than nylon; best for short-term/light-duty use.
3. Canvas
- Strengths: Traditional, rugged look, good abrasion resistance.
- Weaknesses: Heavier, harder to waterproof, less support for modern features.
4. Waterproof & Laminated Materials
- Use: Essential for wet climates or flood-prone areas; prevents damage to sensitive supplies.
Usage Occasions
Emergency Evacuation
- Wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes: Keep your go bag packed and easily accessible at home or in your car.
Outdoor Survival
- Use as a wilderness bug out bag, for camping or hunting trips that could suddenly become survival situations.
Urban & Commuter Emergencies
- Equip an everyday backpack with basics (first aid, power, snacks, compact shelter) for power outages, transit closures, or sudden weather events.
Vehicle Kit
- Keep a compact go bag in your trunk, tailored for breakdowns or getting stranded.
Family or Group Evacuation
- Opt for larger duffels or several coordinated go bags, ensuring each member has essentials suited to their needs.
Matching Go Bags with Your Lifestyle and Outfits
- Tactical or Technical Backpacks: Pair with functional outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear, especially if your route includes rough terrain.
- Everyday Backpacks: Choose neutral colors (black, gray, navy) to blend with office or casual attire. A sleek bag doesn’t draw attention but keeps you ready.
- Rolling Duffels: Go with athleisure or business-casual looks if evacuating by car—rolling bags suggest travel, not panic.
- Canvas/Retro-Style Bags: For those desiring form and function, canvas bags pair with heritage/outdoor-inspired or casual classic outfits.
Tip: Opt for well-fitted backpacks so they don’t clash with your layers, and avoid over-packing to maintain a tidy, professional or discrete appearance.
Practical Tips & Best Practices for Choosing (and Using) Your Best Go Bag
1. Prioritize Fit and Comfort
- Look for adjustable shoulder straps, padded hip belts (for 30L+ bags), chest/sternum straps, and ventilated back panels.
- Try before you buy, or measure your torso length for best sizing.
2. Capacity
- 30–45 liters is ideal for most solo adults for 72-hour emergencies; go larger only if you have extra needs or are packing for more than one person.
3. Smart Organization
- Bags with multiple pockets (internal and external) make accessing supplies faster and easier in a crisis.
- Panel-loading/front-access designs are more convenient than classic top-load only.
4. Blend In When Needed (“Gray Man” Principle)
- Avoid bright colors, camo, or excessive tactical “look” if you’re moving among crowds—attracting attention can be a liability.
5. Modular & Customizable
- MOLLE panels or attachment points let you expand, reduce, or adapt your kit.
- Choose a bag that lets you externally mount bulky items (sleeping pad, tent, water bottle).
6. Durability
- Reinforced stitching, robust zippers, and abrasion-resistant materials are vital. Don’t settle for less—the bag itself is as crucial as its contents.
7. Waterproofing
- Water-resistant bags or at least a rain cover/protective dry bags inside will keep your gear safe from the elements.
8. Routine Checks & Maintenance
- Refresh perishables (food, batteries, medications) every 6–12 months.
- Adjust contents seasonally (swap in/out cold weather or summer gear).
Go Bag Key Features Comparison Table
| Model/Type | Capacity | Best For | Material | Notable Features | Weight | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.11 Tactical Rush 100 | 55L | Extended/Heavy Load | 500/1050D Nylon | Extreme comfort, MOLLE, multi pockets | ~5.7 lbs | $200–$300 |
| Mystery Ranch 2-Day Pack | 27L | Versatile/EDC | 500D Cordura Nylon | Multiple access points, comfortable fit | ~3 lbs | $150–$200 |
| Kelty Redwing 44 | 44L | Budget hiking/bug out | 420D Polyester | Top/front panel loading, hydration compatible | ~2.6 lbs | $110–$180 |
| Decked Uncharted D-Bag Pro | 35L | Preassembled, all-in-one | 900D TPU-coated Nylon | Rugged, filled with survival gear | ~19.8 lbs | $600–$700 |
| Everlit Storm II | 45L | Pre-packed, 2-person bag | Polyester | Fully loaded incl. food, water, tools | ~20 lbs | $150–$200 |
| Blackhawk 3-Day Assault | 32L | Compact tactical/Emergency | 1000D Nylon | High durability, front access compartments | ~3 lbs | $100–$150 |
| ReadyWise Emergency Pack | 40L | Budget, quick-prep | Polyester | Pre-packed, basic essentials | ~9 lbs | $75–$100 |
| Goruck GR2 | 40L | Premium, minimalist, urban | 1000D Cordura Nylon | Superb build, water resistance, sleek | ~4 lbs | $350–$400 |
Related Video
Conclusion
Choosing the best go bag is a personalized process—what works for you will depend on your environment, skills, risks, and comfort level. Key considerations include selecting an appropriately-sized, comfortable, and durable bag, prioritizing organizational features, and ensuring the materials will stand up to stress and weather. While preassembled bags offer convenience, building your own allows for better quality and customization.
Whether you go tactical, technical, or lean minimalist, inspect and maintain your go bag regularly, and adapt its contents for changing seasons or family needs. The right go bag—chosen thoughtfully—can be the difference between stress and survival in an emergency.
FAQ
What is a go bag and how is it different from a bug out bag?
A go bag is a pre-packed bag filled with emergency essentials for fast evacuation. It’s similar to a bug out bag, but sometimes “go bag” refers to lighter, 24- to 72-hour kits, while “bug out bags” can be larger and designed for extended survival.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality go bag?
Expect to spend at least $100–$300 for a high-quality, empty backpack. Preassembled bags range from $100 to $700+ depending on contents and brand. Building your own often provides better value and reliability.
How big should my go bag be?
For most adults, a 30–45 liter backpack is ideal. This size can hold three days’ worth of clothing, food, water, shelter, and key tools without becoming overly heavy or bulky.
What are the most essential items every go bag should include?
Core contents are: water (and a filter), non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, emergency shelter (space blanket/tarp), multitool/knife, fire starter, hygiene items, and identification/cash.
Should I buy a preassembled go bag or build my own?
Preassembled go bags are quick and convenient but can lack quality and personalization. Building your own ensures you trust every item and can tailor it to your situation, but it requires more research and effort.
How often should I update or check my go bag?
Review and refresh your bag every 6–12 months. Rotate out expired food, medications, and batteries. Adjust clothing and gear for seasonal weather changes.
How do I choose the right material for my go bag?
For durability and weather resistance, look for nylon (500–1000 denier) or TPU-coated fabrics. For a lighter urban bag, 420D–600D polyester is acceptable but less rugged.
Is it better to have one big bag or divide gear among family members?
Divide gear among family members for easier transport and redundancy. Each person should carry essentials like water, food, shelter, and key personal items, even kids (scaled for age/ability).
How much does a go bag typically weigh when packed?
A solo adult go bag should weigh 15–25 pounds when fully packed for 72 hours, depending on materials and supplies. Avoid exceeding 25% of your body weight for mobility.
Do I need special training or skills to use a go bag during an emergency?
No special training is required to own a go bag, but basic first aid, navigation, and fire-starting skills greatly improve its effectiveness. There are many free courses and resources to help you prepare.
