Your Tactical Guide To Tactical Backpacks As Commuting Backpacks

A commuting backpack may not serve a tactical purpose well, but do tactical backpacks make good commuting backpacks? The answer is yes. 

But if we’re talking about squeezing through crowd public transport, carrying delicate electronics, or long-hour commutes like an international trip, can a tactical backpack deliver? 

We will break down the pros and cons of having a tactical backpack as a commuting backpack and what a good tactical backpack looks like.

Difference Between A Tactical Backpack And A Regular Backpack

To answer “Do tactical backpacks make a good commuting backpack”, let’s dissect what exactly is the difference between the two, in terms of appearance, materials, and utility.

Knowing the differences allows you to pick the right backpack for you.

Look

• Tactical backpacks have more of a “serious” appearance. Most backpacks will have the visible MOLLE webbing at the front (grid-like). 

• Regular backpacks can look sleek, fun, and quirky and usually comes in all colours and patterns.

Materials

• Tactical backpacks are typically made from nylon and/or polyester to withstand the roughness of the environment. Another feature is that tactical backpacks are often water-resistant.

• Regular backpacks are built from lighter fabrics such as canvas or leather. However, a lot of high-quality regular backpacks are also made from nylon and polyester.

Utility

A tactical backpack can be a commuting backpack, but a commuting backpack can not replace a tactical one. 

Tactical backpack has multiple compartments outside and inside that you can carry a lot more essentials than a regular backpack. Due to its MOLLE webbing, you can customise your backpack to carry more items. 

Worried that it might be underused? Well, if you only have one regular backpack, then you probably have to buy another - sturdier, more well-compartmentalised - for a spontaneous adventure. With a tactical backpack, you can use it for more than one occasion.

Because it’s designed to handle the environment, you can expect, when it’s used as a regular backpack, it can last even longer than a regular one.

Are Tactical Backpacks Good For Commuting?

Yes, they are. However, not all tactical backpacks are a good fit. You have to take many factors into consideration, such as:

• Do they look ‘loud’ or blend in easily?

• Does the size fit your purpose? A 20l one will be better than a 50l beast for daily life

• The weight, is it overbearing for you?
  

Tactical gear can be cool, but be honest about how much function you actually need. Features like MOLLE webbing or hydration bladder sleeves might not serve a purpose for a daily train ride. Go for something that keeps the versatility without weighing you down with extras you won’t use.

Pros of Using a Tactical Backpack for Commuting

Now that we know what tactical backpacks are made for, let’s look at how one can benefit you for the daily commute.

Durability & Weather Resistance

What’s good a tactical backpack is if it cannot handle the wear and tear? The reason tactical backpacks are the beast of backpacks is because they are made with heavy-duty nylon or polyester.

Since you’re commuting daily, most of the time you’re carrying your laptop or other valuable items, thick materials can provide better protection from the constant picking up, leaving on the ground, and rubbing against hard surfaces.

Most tactical backpacks have a water-resistant coating which can save you from a sudden downpour until you get somewhere dry. 

Organisational Features

Features like MOLLE webbing make organisation a priority.

Tactical backpacks designed for city dwellers have abundant compartments to keep small and big items separated as well as some quick-access pockets for commuting essentials such as a subway card, charger, or even a small umbrella.

The MOLLE webbing can be used to attach a coin pouch or workout gear in case you need to hit the gym after work.

Comfortable for Heavy Loads

As a commuter, you probably carry more than the usual work or school essentials. Maybe an additional set of clothes, laptop, and other electronics. These extra things add up quickly. 

Coupled that with long commutes, especially when you have to stand, your back and shoulders are in for a rough ride.

Tactical backpacks are made to handle movements and loads, so ergonomics is one of its main benefits. There are often a waist belt, tension strap, and sternum strap. You can call these features a suspension support system.

Secure & Practical

Keeping your personal belongings safe from theft and pickpocketing on public transport is crucial. You need a backpack that comes in thick materials to avoid being slashed and hidden pockets to store valuables. A well-designed tactical backpack sure can deliver these.

Versatility & Style

Tactical backpacks have simplified in look over the years to appeal to the general public. You don’t really have to worry about a military backpack ruining your work attire. 

They often come in “tacticool” colours like black, dark green, and navy. While original tactical backpacks are made to camouflage, tactical backpacks adapted for daily uses are these colours to fit a diverse range of environment and genders. 

If you have a good tactical backpack that works as a commuting backpack, then there is no reason you cannot wear it on your hiking trip or beach escapade.

Cons of Using a Tactical Backpack for Commuting

Weight is one thing you have to keep in mind.

Do tactical backpacks make good commuting backpacks? From their pros, you can tell that they do work well as a daily-wear backpack. However, if you really want to narrow down one that’s right for you, it’s important to understand their cons.

Bulkier & Heavier

More compartments and heavy-duty materials may equal being bulkier and heavier than a regular commuting backpack. 

For example, a typical backpack weighs about 1 lb 11 ounces for a 44L capacity, whereas a tactical backpack of the same capacity can weigh around 2 lb 7 ounces. 

If you're just a pen-and-notebook-only kind of commuter, then you can consider its weight and size a possible drawback.

Overly Rugged for Office Environments

In some professional settings, the military-inspired appearance may be overkill. Compared to leather, high-performance nylon may not deliver the sleek, corporate-like dress code some offices require. This is especially true for many backpacks with ‘loud’ designs.

MOLLE Webbing Can Catch on Things

You know that feeling when you’re having a bad day and even the smallest inconvenience angers you? While MOLLE webbing offers room for customisation, sometimes they can snag on door handles, your long hair (or worse someone else’s), especially in tight spaces.

Price

There’s no doubt that you can find a tactical backpack for the same price as a commuting backpack, but high-quality, well-designed tactical backpacks that use premium quality usually come with a premium price tag. If you have little need, for instance going to work then home only, a tactical backpack may not be the best cost-effective option.

What Is A Tactical Backpack?

A tactical backpack is amongst the most popular types of backpack. In its literal sense, a tactical backpack is designed to serve military or outdoor survival purposes. It is also called by some a Bergen, which originated from the name of its inventor Ole F. Bergan, or a military rucksack. 

The term “tactical” suggests that it’s not only built to carry heavy weight for an extended period of time, but also for loading and unloading gear strategically. For example, what would many military personnels reach for the most? Firearms and a medical kit. So, the compartments for these items are always placed within easy reach. 

These backpacks, outside of the mentioned uses, have become more commuting-friendly. Their look (aesthetic) is still pretty much similar to an original tactical backpack, but compartments and materials are modified to adapt to various uses. Then airline carry-on restrictions come into play, and some tactical backpacks now come in a wide range of sizes.

The most recognisable feature for the majority of tactical backpacks is the MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing on the front, which allows for hooking gear and smaller pouches. 

What Is A Commuter Backpack?

A commuter backpack is made mainly for travelling between work, school or daily activities such as going to the gym. They are also great companions for short relaxing vacations.

Its functionality ties in with its ability to provide comfort during the journey, especially if you’re using public transport. Because no one wants to stand in the crowded tube on a Monday morning with a knotted back caused by their backpack.

 They are often sleek-looking and more simplistic in the layout. 

Military Backpack Line From CabinZero 

Military backpacks by CabinZero have the pros and eliminate the cons.

Still with its beloved rugged look and MOLLE webbing, CabinZero’s military backpack line is designed to aid not only adventurers but also commuters.

What you can find in a CabinZero tactical backpack:

Minimalist Design For Everyday Use

MOLLE webbing and larger water bottle holders are on the outside, but most compartments are inside to deliver that sleek look yet still very easy to organise.

The logo is 3D embroidered to avoid that “lousy brand promo” that many professional environments may not prefer. Colourways of black, navy, green, Mystic green, and Galaxy are neutral yet never out of style. You can wear these colours with just about any outfit.

An All-rounder

CabinZero’s military backpacks are made from 1000 Denier polyester. On the Denier scale, 1000 is the balance between durability and weight. So, you get a backpack that is lightweight yet tough enough to handle the transport and weather.

The clamshell opening helps you pack easier. Unpack, too! And once it's fully packed, you can use the lockable sliders to keep everything in place (and out of thieves’ hands) while on the move. 

The best part? You can use this one bag for all sorts of things: for the gym, work, travel, and anything in between.

Comfort for your back

To carry heavier loads for a longer amount of time, you need a good suspension support system. With adjustable sternum strap and waist belt, CabinZero’s military backpacks will not stress out your back. The shoulder straps and back panel are well-cushioned and breathable, keeping you comfortable and cool, even hours into a day hike.

Laptop Protection

A suspended laptop sleeve and the false bottom protect your laptop against bumps on your travel. Setting your bag down quickly at the airport or café? The self-standing design ensures it stays upright and out of the way. The largest military backpack size can house up to a 17 inch laptop.

No Hassles Of Airline Carry-On Restrictions

Not only a champ for daily travels, CabinZero’s military backpack also complies to the majority of airline carry-on limits. 

Our military backpacks can fit comfortably under the seat or in the overhead compartment.

The smallest size is 43 x 30 x 16 cm (16.9 x 11.8 x 6.3 in) and the largest is 51 x 36 x 18 cm (20.1 x 14.2 x 7.1 in). The standard carry-on limit of most airlines is 56 x 36 x 23 (22 x 14 x 9 in).

So, you can go ahead and book that international flight.

Tactical Backpacks For The Commute

Do tactical backpacks make good commuting backpack? Yes.

Tactical backpacks serve the purpose just as well as a regular backpack. That’s not all. With a good tactical backpack, such as CabinZero’s military backpacks, you can do more than just commute - hiking, climbing, flying, and many other types of journeys!

Don’t miss out on more backpack and travel guides. Check out our blog and follow us on social media.

Nguyen Tran Gia Khanh