Best Go Bag Backpacks For Blackouts (2023)

Go bags, also known as bug-out bags or emergency bags, are essential for preparedness in case of unexpected situations. These backpacks are designed to hold everything you need to survive for at least 72 hours, such as food, water, first-aid supplies, and more. In the world of emergency preparedness, having a reliable go bag can make the difference between being stranded and having the resources to get you and your loved ones to safety.

When choosing the best go bag backpack, it’s important to consider factors like size, weight, durability, and organization. Having a spacious bag can be crucial for storing all the necessary items, but it should also be lightweight and easy to carry. The materials used in the bag should be strong and resistant to wear and tear, while the bag itself should offer convenience in how it stores your supplies to easily access them when needed.

As you assess each backpack, always keep an eye on details such as the quality of zippers, padded shoulder straps, and the presence of multiple compartments for better organization. These factors directly impact the usability of your go bag, ensuring that you can efficiently access your items in an emergency.

With so many options available on the market, it’s essential to find a go bag backpack that suits your needs and preferences. That’s why we spent countless hours evaluating various backpacks, allowing us to bring you the definitive list of the best go bag backpacks on the market.

Table of Contents

Top Go Bag Backpacks

We’ve got you covered with the ultimate list of go bag backpacks. These bad boys are perfect for any emergency situation you might encounter, so browse through and find your ideal backpack to keep you ready for anything.

Redfora Ready 2 Go Bag Compact Emergency Kit

You should consider this go bag if you want a compact, lightweight, and versatile emergency backpack with all the key essentials.

Pros

Lightweight and compact design
Over 35 preparedness essentials
Includes food, water, and first aid kit

Cons

Not suitable for longer emergencies
Might need supplementary items
Go bars may need replacement upon arrival

The Redfora Ready 2 Go Bag is an all-in-one go bag that caters to different emergencies like earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires, and more. Its compact design, weighing under 4 lbs, allows you to effortlessly store it in your car, office, or at school. With over 35 essential items such as an emergency blanket, hygiene kit, poncho, and pocket tissues, you’ll be prepared for any situation.

This go bag also includes a 36-piece first aid kit, 1600 calories of go bars with a 5-year shelf life, and 4 water pouches with purification tablets. The paracord bracelet features a compass, signal light/siren, whistle, and knife, providing you with essential survival tools when you need them most.

While the Redfora Ready 2 Go Bag offers an extensive range of emergency supplies, it may not be ideal for longer crises due to its size and limited food provisions. You might want to add additional items or have a separate bag for more extensive emergencies. Also, some customers reported receiving expired go bars, so you should be prepared to replace them when your kit arrives.

Overall, the Redfora Ready 2 Go Bag Compact Emergency Kit provides a practical and valuable solution for those looking for a lightweight and versatile go bag to stay prepared during unpredictable situations.

Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit

A top-choice for equipping yourself with the essentials to face emergency situations for 72 hours.

Pros

Comprehensive emergency supplies
Includes 33-piece first aid kit
U.S. Coast Guard approved food and water

Cons

Might be missing some personal preference items
A bit bulky
Batteries not included

This Ready America 72 Hour Deluxe Emergency Kit is a lifesaver when you face unexpected calamities. Designed for two people, it’s packed with emergency supplies that can last for three days as recommended by the American Red Cross. You’ll find survival blankets, hygiene kits, masks, thermometers, ponchos, and essential food and water pouches.

Having a 33-piece first aid kit in this backpack ensures you’re prepared to handle minor injuries. No more scrambling around looking for supplies. The easy-to-use essentials help you take care of medical emergencies that might happen during trying times. It’s great not only for home use but can also work well as a car emergency kit or boat accessory.

The Deluxe Emergency Kit goes the extra mile by including some deluxe additions like a multi-function pocket tool, a 4-function power station with radio, charger, flashlight, and siren capabilities. These tools make a huge difference when you need to face the challenges of an emergency head-on.

Keep in mind, the kit might not include some personal preference items, so make sure to personalize it by adding things that you think are necessary for your specific needs. Despite being a bit bulky, it’s an essential investment for those who prioritize preparedness in emergency situations.

Don’t forget, the kit doesn’t come with batteries. So, make it a point to have some spare batteries handy for the items that require them.

Emergency Zone Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag

For those in urban areas needing a discrete go-bag solution, the Emergency Zone Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag is your answer.

Pros

Excellent range of survival supplies for up to 6 people
Discreet gray tactical design for blending in
Extra room for additional personal items

Cons

Bag material may be prone to ripping
Limited customer support for exchanges
Slightly on the heavier side (55 grams)

You’ll feel ready for anything with the Emergency Zone Urban Survival Bug-Out Bag. This low-profile, gray tactical backpack is designed to hold disaster survival supplies for up to 6 people, perfect for urban dwellers who want to keep a low profile during emergencies.

The contents of the bag are impressive, including essentials such as a foldable knife, flashlight, and compass. This means the bag’s got you covered for basic emergency situations, and you can even add more items as needed. With extra space inside the bag, you can easily pack some clothes and personal items, making it truly tailored to your needs.

However, the downside is that the bag’s material might not be as durable as you’d hope. Some customers have reported rips and difficulty reaching the company for exchanges, but this doesn’t seem to be a universal issue. Additionally, the bag is slightly heavier than other options at 55 grams; however, given the number of supplies inside, it’s still a reasonable weight.

Emergency Zone Family Prep 72 Hour Survival Kit/Go-Bag 4 Person

A solid choice for a family emergency go-bag with essential supplies to sustain four people for 72 hours.

Pros

Comprehensive 72-hour kit for four people
Heavy-duty red backpack with inconspicuous design
Long-lasting food and water provisions

Cons

May need additional personalization with specific supplies
Doesn’t include matches or medicines
Weighs 11.69 Kilograms (25.77 Pounds)

As a 72-hour survival kit, the Emergency Zone Family Prep Go-Bag provides nearly everything a group of four needs to weather an unexpected emergency or disaster. Straight out of the box, the red backpack itself is heavy-duty and doesn’t give away the valuable contents inside. This helps you maintain a low profile when carrying your essential supplies.

Food and water are critical during emergencies, and this go-bag has you covered. It comes with USA-made SOS food ration bars and water that have a five-year shelf life. This offers you peace of mind knowing you’ll have sustenance in dire situations.

Although this kit is well-packed with basic supplies for emergency preparedness, you might want to consider adding some personal items. Things like matches, medicines, clothing, and personal documents could be essential for your family in particular. The backpack has room for these extra items, but keep in mind it already weighs 11.69 Kilograms (25.77 Pounds). Plan accordingly so you’re able to carry it comfortably during an evacuation.

To fully benefit from the Emergency Zone Family Prep Go-Bag, be sure to familiarize yourself with its contents and create a game plan that includes any necessary additions. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to face an emergency with confidence.

Buying Guide

So, you’re on the hunt for the best go bag backpack to help you be prepared in case of emergencies. We’ll help you choose the perfect backpack by discussing the key features to look for.

Capacity and Size

First things first, ask yourself how much gear and supplies you need to carry. The capacity of your go bag should be based on your specific needs and the types of emergencies you might face. Ideally, your backpack should have ample room for all your essentials without being too bulky or heavy.

Durability and Material

When it comes to emergency preparedness, you don’t want a flimsy backpack that’ll fall apart in a pinch. Look for materials that are tough, durable, and weather-resistant, like nylon or polyester. Also, make sure the backpack has reinforced stitching and high-quality zippers to ensure it can handle the load.

Comfort and Ergonomics

In an emergency situation, you might need to carry your go bag backpack for extended periods. Choose a backpack with padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a waist belt to evenly distribute the weight on your body. Plus, it’ll help prevent any back or shoulder pain while you’re on the move.

Organization and Accessibility

When you’re in a hurry, you don’t want to waste precious time rummaging through your backpack in search of important supplies. Opt for a backpack with multiple compartments, pockets, and organizers, so you can quickly access your essentials. Also, look for features like MOLLE webbing, which allows you to attach additional gear externally.

Style and Aesthetics

While style might not be the top priority in an emergency, it’s still worth considering the overall aesthetics of your go bag. Choose a backpack that reflects your personality and preferences – after all, it’s going to be your trusty companion during unpredictable moments.

Keep these tips in mind when shopping for your go bag backpack, and you’re sure to find one that suits your needs perfectly.