GORUCK GR2 Review (Best Backpack for Travel)

On our 2025 month-long trip to Mexico, my wife only brought my GR2. Lucky her! I was testing a new backpack. But I still got to carry it on our volcano hike.

GORUCK GR2 Quick Take

The GORUCK GR2 is a “travel the world with one ruck” kind of backpack. That’s how GORUCK advertises it, anyway.

I’m out here proving that absolutely correct right.

How so? Well, I think the GR2 is fantastic, and the best backpack for travel. I’ve had my 34L GR2 for ~5 years as of writing this, and I still use it all the time, especially for one bag travel.

In fact, my wife and I just returned from a month-long trip to Mexico, and my GR2 was her one bag.

Last year, my GORUCK GR2 spent 30 days road tripping through Central Asia. I also explored Virgin Islands National Park for 8 days with just my GR2. Two big trips, no other bags needed, no waiting for luggage at the airport, no hauling suitcases.

No matter how I’m traveling, I’m choosing the GR2.

Here’s the too long, didn’t read of my GORUCK GR2 review: buy the backpack (if you can afford the high price tag) because you’ll never want another. For travel, hiking, and as a carry-on backpack, the GR2 will never let you down. It protects your belongings, it’s easy to organize, and it can take some serious abuse (AKA it’s a buy it for life pack).

Let’s talk about it…

Why the GORUCK GR2?

There are a couple very specific reasons I love my GR2, but first let’s talk “Why GORUCK?“

Because if you’re considering buying a GR2 (or maybe the waterproof version?), you’re probably staring at the price tag, wondering if you’re crazy to drop that kind of money on a backpack…

Fair enough. I’ve been there.

Asking why you should purchase any GORUCK backpack usually leads to the same answers…

Simply put, GORUCK rucksacks are widely known as the most durable backpacks for fitness, travel, and every day utility. They can handle some serious abuse, hold their shape well over time, and are designed for easy packing and organizing. That superior quality and durability comes with a higher price tag.

No, you’re not crazy. It’s an expensive backpack. But for me, it’s paid off very well.

Now, don’t just take my word for it. The GR2 has 1,200+ 5-star reviews. For a $450 backpack, that’s solid user feedback. The GR1 (of which my wife and I own 2) has 2,000+ 5-star reviews.

So people like the backpacks.

Well, maybe take my word for it, too. That’s why you’re here, right? To get some feedback from someone who has traveled thousands of miles with the GR2. All over the world, in many different climates.

My GR2 has ridden horses in Kyrgyzstan, floated across rivers in Puerto Rico, and hiked beneath volcanoes in Mexico. I’ve got nothing but experience with this bag, and I’m here to share it with you.

So here are my two favorite things about the backpack…

My 34L GORUCK GR2 (left) and my wife’s GR1 (right) on the ferry from St. John to St. Thomas in the USVI. These were the only two pieces of luggage we brought for 8 days of Caribbean adventure.

Rugged durability + customizable configuration

The GR2 is based on military medical packs, but engineered for regular people. Those military roots give the GR2 some serious advantages over normal travel backpacks.

Rugged durability means my laptop and cameras are always safe, and my gear inside won’t ever be exposed to the elements. I can drag this thing across concrete, toss it down on rocks, and stuff it in an airplane’s overhead compartment (all in the same day), and not lose a wink of [uncomfortable airplane] sleep over how my things inside are holding up. That’s the magic of 1000D Cordura fabric.

Customizable configuration means the GR2 has MOLLE webbing on the inside and out, so I can attach a water bottle pouch or field pocket (great for toiletries) wherever I need. Inside and out, GR2 leaves space for you to set the bag up just how you like it. You’ll see these rucksack accessories in my photos on this post.

I haven’t found another travel backpack like it, and it’s by far my favorite to bring on trips (for more reasons than those two, which I’ll discuss below).

Alright, let’s look at some pros and cons of this highly-rated (1,300+ reviews!) travel rucksack…

My Go-To

GR2 | Durable Travel Backpack

$375+

Never buy another backpack. My favorite travel backpack is the GR2. It's indestructible, protects my laptop, and is easy to organize. It's also comfortable. I spent 30 days road tripping through rugged Central Asia with my GR2 and had zero complaints. It's my choice for one bag travel.

All Available Colors Waterproof GR2

I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

GORUCK GR2 Pros and Cons

All of these “pros” should convince you that the GR2 is a phenomenal travel backpack. And it’s got a lot of other great uses, too.

That being said, no backpack can do it all, and they’ve all got some weaknesses. I’m a hiker, traveler, backpacker, and writer, so I use my backpacks for all sorts of activities, including daily use for work. With that in mind, here are my GR2 pros and cons…

GR2 Pros: Comfortable + Durable

Everything I love about GR2 (especially for travel) is summed up below. When I backpacked through Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan for a month, I really got to know this backpack. It held all my belongings, hiked with me to 16,000 feet, and withstood the dust of Central Asia very nicely.

1. Durability

GORUCK bags are all loved for their exceptional durability. The couple who founded the company are former Special Forces (him) and CIA (her), and they wanted their bags to be useful everywhere from “Baghdad to NYC.” The 1000D Cordura® fabric seems immune to abrasions and tears, though on the GORUCK bags I’ve had for 5+ years, the stitching has frayed slightly in heavy use areas–just adds some character. No functional consequences. If you want a travel bag that will last forever, look no further than GORUCK’s GR2.

2. Versatility

The GR2 is practical and useful in basically all situations (I’ll cover when I won’t use the bag later). I use my GR2 as a beach bag and hiking bag while traveling. I can pack for quick adventures as light or heavy as I need when I’ve got such a sturdy, spacious, comfortable pack. It’s easy to clean (partly because of the fabric and because it opens flat), too! When you’re traveling light, you want a backpack that can do it all. GR2 is that bag.

3. Organization

The sleek GR2 opens flat. If you know, you know. Travel bags that open flat make organizing and accessing clothes, gear, and necessities much easier. Imagine yourself sprawled at the airport, ripping everything out of your backpack looking for your passport, wallet, or favorite seashell you found at the beach. Not so with a GORUCK bag. You can lay the GR2 down and unzip it all the way for a nice and neat layout of your gear.

Furthermore, GR2 has a “bombproof” laptop sleeve and plenty of secure, zippered compartments for expert organization. Internal and external MOLLE webbing allows you to attach accessories like extra pockets and water bottle holders.

4. TSA carry-on compliant

This is big! Even the largest GR2 (40L) is carry-on compliant. If you’re traveling with one bag, you won’t have to worry about people side-eyeing your giant, oversized bag. It’s just a backpack, after all.

You’ll blend in well at the airport but have everything you need within arm’s reach. When I visit the US Virgin Islands, I don’t pay extra luggage fees while ferrying between islands because I’ve only got a backpack!

I can’t remember the last time I flew with a suitcase, and I don’t ever want to go back.

Check out all my packing lists to see everything I fly with inside my GR2.

5. Comfortable to wear

This is, perhaps, the most important.

The best travel backpack better be comfortable, right? GORUCK packs are padded in all the right places, they’re well balanced, and don’t sag under weight–they’re built to carry heavy stuff, after all. Plus, for extended wear, you can add a padded hip belt and sternum strap–backpackers will know how much these features can help with comfort.

But honestly, the packs are great up to 40lbs without these accessories. I’ve worn my Kelty Redwing 50L backpacking bag for 12 hours straight (taking it off just two times during a GORUCK Tough Challenge), and it was good. Having tons of experience with GORUCK rucksacks now, I’d choose their bags for extended wear every single time.

6. Water-resistant

PSA: GORUCK’s GR2 is now available in waterproof X-PAC! I have another X-PAC backpack that I like a lot, but I sure wish it was a GR2. If you’re traveling with one backpack, GR2 X-PAC is the move. I recommend that bag.

But if you don’t want the totally waterproof bag, CORDURA® fabric and coated zippers make GR2 highly water-resistant. I once floated my GR2 across a river in Puerto Rico and nothing inside got wet! There may have been a little luck involved there, but I chalk it up to excellent construction and materials.

I’ve used my GORUCK packs in pouring rain, too, without issue. GORUCK calls their bags “rainproof.” In my experience, even the normal GR2 is much better than “rainproof.”

For extra protection, GORUCK sells compatible ruck rain covers. For rainy/cold hikes and travel, pair your GR2 with Lowa Renegade boots for a truly waterproof hiking fit that looks quite stylish.

Rain and water aside, when I was in Central Asia for a month, it was dusty. While traveling in the Wakhan corridor, the inside of our Land Cruiser, our clothes, and everything else was coated in dust and dirt. But you know what? The inside of my GR2 stayed pretty clean. My electronics, toiletries, and fresh clothes never got dusty.

Just a tight, secure, cool backpack.

7. Streamlined design

The GR2 is sleek and streamlined. All the pockets make sense, and they’re in the right places. The external MOLLE lets you build your perfect travel backpack however you like it.

Externally, GR2 doesn’t stand out much (especially in black) in urban or outdoor environments. It’s a blend-in kind of backpack, which I appreciate.

8. Buy it once

I don’t consider GORUCK a “sustainable company.” Their products aren’t built with recycled materials or sustainability at the forefront, and they don’t have a sustainability page on their website. Perhaps they’ve just decided against greenwashing.

GORUCK might not preach sustainability, but the quality of their backpacks does. You really will never need another travel backpack once you’ve bought a GR2. That’s a pretty environmentally-friendly model, in my estimation. Buy it once, and never again.

I want my favorite adventure gear to last forever. That’s why I love GORUCK: their gear is built to last a lifetime.

Somehow my wife and I are both very comfortable wearing the GR2, even though our height difference is 6 inches. We have the smaller 34L model, so that probably helps.

GR2 Cons: Price + Weight

Not every backpack is perfect for everyone, right? And it’s good to hear the not-so-great things when you’re deciding to purchase a really expensive backpack. So here’s what I don’t love about the GR2, after having traveled thousands of miles with mine.

1. Expensive price tag

The GORUCK GR2 is pricey compared to many other travel backpacks. Like, it might be hard to find a 34-40L backpack at this price point that isn’t from a luxury brand.

Here’s something to think about: I believe you can buy something as comfortable, or as durable, or as versatile for less money, but I’m not sure you can get all three in any other single bag–that’s not to mention organization and accessorizing!

For travel, the GR2 perfectly unifies comfort, durability, and versatility.

High-quality materials contribute to its price, but it may be a drawback for budget-conscious and frugal shoppers. If you travel often, you might use your GR2 as your only bag. That’ll save some luggage fees. Remember, it’s carry-on compliant.

I’d bet that all the checked bag fees I’ve saved have paid for my GR2.

2. GR2 is heavy compared to similar packs

GR2’s 1000D CORDURA® make the bags comfy, sturdy, tear-proof, and resistant to sagging, but it’s not an ultralight material by any means.

Other bags that are 34L or 40L won’t weigh as much as a GR2. For ultralight travelers and hikers, the GR2 may tip the scales too far at 3.9 to 4.5 lbs, depending on the size.

I stick with my Kelty Redwing 50L for backcountry hiking & camping (when a lighter bag with more room is more useful). But for day hiking and travel, it’s GR2 all the way. The durability and sturdiness is just fantastic. Go ahead, slam your bag around overhead compartments on planes and drop it on the pavement after a hike. Just kidding! Take care of your gear. But the GR2 can take it.

If GORUCK ever brings back the GR2 DYNEEMA, those packs are over a pound lighter, but the durability isn’t the same as 1000D CORDURA®.

3. No water bottle pockets

I’ve actually changed my heart a little bit on built-in water bottle pockets. Because on my ALPAKA Elements Traveler, I can’t get a water bottle in that pocket when the bag is fully loaded.

Which is super frustrating.

I’m not going to upgrade this “con” to a “pro” just yet. I still don’t like that I had to purchase a water bottle pocket. But I might be starting to like just how customizable my GR2 is, having a removable water bottle pocket.

I guess I’m kind of neutral on the topic, but slightly soured by having to spend extra to carry my Grayl bottle when I travel.

But if you’re traveling, hiking, or regularly carry a water bottle, definitely add a water bottle pouch to your order.

4. Limited ventilation

The GR2’s back panel (while comfortable) lacks the ventilation channels some backpacking bags have, so my back can get sweaty in hot environments. I’ve yet to find a travel backpack that doesn’t make my back sweaty, though. So could just be me.

5. No included hip belt

I get it, not everyone needs a hip belt. And I actually don’t use one with my GR2. But for such an expensive bag, included accessories can be nice. My other favorite travel backpacks come with a hip belt, but GR2 comes on its own, ready for your accessorizing. Unfortunately, you’ve got to buy all the accessories.

My GORUCK GR2 makes packing for hikes very easy: it’s so spacious!

Everywhere my GR2 has traveled

Your new GR2 can go everywhere. I’ve proven that. Planes, trains, trails, beaches, mountaintops, adventures all over…when you’re paying this much for one backpack, you want it to be versatile and functional. I use my GR2 for one bag travel, as a carry-on, and for road trips and long hikes.

I’ve had mine for almost 5 years. Here’s all the memories it’s helped me make…

1. Mexico: One Month

Mexico is one of my favorite countries. Pyramids, volcanoes, fascinating history, tacos…We spent a month in Mexico traveling slow, visiting museums + cathedrals, wandering storied cities, and climbing into the mountains.

So we needed pretty flexible clothing and gear. It was sometimes hot, sometimes chilly, and always beautiful (so I needed my travel cameras, too).

My wife got to use my GR2 as I was testing ALPAKA’s Elements Travel bag.

These bags are supposedly the same size, but the GR2 holds waaay more stuff. So I was jealous of her setup, but she had to haul the souvenirs. That’s right, she had room for souvenirs in the GR2, even after being packed up for a whole month.

2. Central Asia: 30 days

You can read about this trip right here.

In the summer of 2024, I completed a one month road trip through Central Asia. I drove and hiked my way through Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. My GR2 was my only bag on the entire trip, which was a real test of my organization skills. Me and my GR2 passed with flying colors. I stayed organized, traveled light, and enjoyed some pretty incredible experiences.

Central Asia is a 10/10 destination, and it’s best explored with one backpack, traveling light.

3. USVI: 8 days

In May of 2024, my wife and I embraced one bag travel with our GORUCK packs. Me, with my GR2, and my wife with her GR1. It was a huge success! We spent 8 days in the Caribbean hiking, snorkeling, and hanging on the beach, with all of our needs met by just our two rucksacks. I even brought a huge towel that took up lots of space in my bag. This was my first time traveling super light, and it was awesome.

We lacked nothing and enjoyed every moment under the sun.

Haven’t been camping in Virgin Islands National Park yet? Read about it.

4. Puerto Rico: 2 weeks

In Puerto Rico, my GR2 was our beach bag and hiking backpack (in places like El Yunque), as well as my carry-on.

At famous Charco El Hippie, I floated my GR2 across a river and everything inside stayed dry.

5. Mexico: 8 days

Visiting my wife’s family in Mexico, my GR2 was my carry-on bag. It held all my clothes and necessities, too. We brought a suitcase on that trip to transport some gifts to and fro, but I could’ve easily done the week long trip with just my GR2.

6. Austin, TX: a long weekend + marathon

This was really my first one bag trip. In 2019 I ran my first trail marathon in Austin, TX, and my GR2 was all I brought. I spent five days in Texas, running a marathon and working a bit while staying in a hostel. I actually walked 8 miles from the airport to my destination with my GR2 on my back! I had no complaints ‘roughing it’ with one bag for my whole trip. Turns out traveling with such a reliable pack isn’t really ‘roughing it’ at all.

A Backpack for (Almost) Everything

Everything, you say?

Yep, I think so. Sure, the GR2 isn’t ultralight. It’s also a little tactical looking, which isn’t everyone’s style. I might not take it to the top of Earth’s tallest mountains or on ultralight backpacking trips, but just about everywhere else, it makes the cut.

I’ve used other bags for traveling, but I think the GR2 will forever be my favorite. The dependability it’s shown as a great travel backpack makes the GR2 a backpack for almost everything.

My GORUCK GR2 and GORUCK Mackall shoes on a train from Khiva, Uzbekistan to the capital, Tashkent. The Memento Mori patch is a nice touch for world travel.

GORUCK GR2 Alternatives: Comparing Backpacks

Finding an alternative to the GR2 really depends on what you need the rucksack for.

Here are the rucksacks and backpacks you might consider alongside the GR2. You might not need such a large pack, or you might be looking for something to ruck with, or you might just want to save a few bucks…

1. GORUCK GR1 when you need less space

Don’t need so much organization and space? Maybe you’re heading out for a day hike or a solo beach trip. Maybe your just need a good laptop backpack that travels well. You get the point. The GORUCK GR1 is the better pack when you don’t need so much room. Remember, though, that the GR2 does come in a sleek 26L that might be a nice compromise with a bit more storage than GR1.

GR1 is better than GR2 when…

• You always bring a suitcase while traveling and just need a sleek backpack for your laptop, electronics, or other essentials.
• You’re looking for a good EDC (every day carry) bag for work, the gym, and recreation. Just hauling some shoes, snacks, water, and electronics? A GR1 might be the better rucksack.
• You want a backpack for day hiking that can carry a jacket, sunscreen, and maybe a camera. GR2 might be overkill.

My Pick

GR1 | The Original Rucksack

$335-345

My favorite backpack for rucking, everyday carry, carry-on, and light travel. The GR1 is GORUCK's original rucksack built for everything and anything. I've had mine for almost a decade. My wife uses her GR1 for one bag travel!

All Available Colors Waterproof X-PAC

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GORUCK GR1 vs GR2

Let’s compare the larger sizes of GORUCK’s two most popular travel rucksacks. The GR1 tops out at 26L, weighing 3.1 lbs. The GR2’s largest size is 40L, weighing a hefty 4.5 lbs. The GR1’s volume (26L) gives you 12″ wide, 20″ tall, and 6.75″ deep. Jumping to the GR2, you get an extra bit of space in each direction: 12.5″ wide, 22” high, and 9” deep.

Not much wider, but the height and depth are significant, especially with all the extra storage pockets on the inside of the GR2.

I use a 34L GR2, and I can fit much more in that bag than my 26L GR1. Like way more. It’s not even close. You can find other reviews that attest to the same: the GR2 holds a lot for a 34L bag. Maybe it’s the extra compartment: the GR2 has two main compartments that open flat. I don’t even need the 40L option for one bag travel!

With the GR1 you get three internal pockets in the main compartment, one external slant pocket, and a very safe laptop compartment. GR2 offers 7 total internal pockets in two main compartments, one external slant pocket, and the same laptop compartment.

Those are the main differences in the GR1 vs GR2 conversation: space and organization. For me, purchasing a GR1 vs GR2 comes down to whether you need day pack & carry-on (GR1) or a real travel backpack that can simply hold more stuff (GR2).

How GR1 and GR2 are similar

Here are the similarities between the GR1 and GR2. Don’t make your decision based on these things (durability, dependability, and versatility). Focus more on size and organizational needs.

1. Built with supremely durable 1000D CORDURA®. Abrasion-resistant and seemingly tear-proof. The back panels and shoulder straps are a softer–yet still durable–210D CORDURA®. This material is quite comfortable, even without a shirt on.
2. Both rucks have a laptop compartment, a must-have for me.
3. External and internal MOLLE webbing for customizing with extra storage pockets and accessories.
4. Both backpacks open flat for easy packing.
5. High quality zippers with paracord pulls so they don’t jangle. I don’t know anything about zippers, but in 5+ years of owning two GORUCK backpacks, I’ve never had a single issue–no snags, nothing stuck, and no breaks.
6. External slant pockets (like most backpacks) for easy access to snacks, chargers, and travel documents. These are just your standard front pockets on a backpack.
7. Rainproof. I think they’re a little better than rainproof, but not quite waterproof. I’m pretty impressed with how dry they keep things when it’s raining. Buy a pack rain cover if you haul electronics regularly.
8. TSA compliant. The best backpacks for travel!

2. Other travel backpacks to consider

But if you need the 34-40L backpack size (truly a great size for travel), I’ve got three other backpacks for you to consider.

Sometimes you just don’t need rugged and durable, or that big price tag. 1000D CORDURA® fabric is great, but it’s not the best for every trip. I like it in the mountains of Tajikistan, but I don’t really need it for a weekend at the beach.

If you’re not taking your backpack into harsh environments and beating it up, consider some of these less expensive options…

1. Kelty Redwing Traveler: been a Kelty fan for years. Solid backpacks built for adventure.
2. Peak Design Travel Backpack: every photographers dream backpack. Super clean, awesome features, easier price than GR2 (Peak Design | REI | Amazon).
3. Cotopaxi Allpa: classic, cool adventure packs from one of the most recognizable adventure brands. Tons of reviews.

3. Dedicated hiking bag for trail junkies

Hiking and backcountry enthusiasts will roll their eyes at the weight of GORUCK bags, and I admittedly wouldn’t take a GR2 on multiday hiking trips. I’ve got a 50L hiking bag for that (I use the Kelty Redwing 50).

While the GR2 is great for staying organized, look for a lighter pack with a bit more space for doing multiday hikes. A dedicated backpacking pack should do the trick.

REI is a great place to try on higher-volume packs like these, so I’d stop in and try some on.

The GR2 is great as a day hiking bag, though. So if you’re traveling and know you’ll hit some mountains during your journey, the GR2 might work perfect. It was the only bag I brought on my month long Central Asia roadtrip, and I did plenty of day hiking on that adventure. It’s climbed around volcanoes in Mexico with me, too.

3. Rucker for rucking

Rucking is the best kind of workout for travel, hiking, and adventure. It’s the root of military training (long hours on your feet and functional strength) and the central theme of GORUCK’s company.

While the GR1 is actually my favorite rucking backpack (here’s why), they do make a rucking-specific backpack: the Rucker. And while the GR2 isn’t designed just for rucking, you can turn it into a larger Rucker with one inexpensive modification. Read about turning a GR1 or GR2 into an oversized Rucker here.

One Bag Travel with the GORUCK GR2

Let’s get into all the activities you can do with your GR2. I’m starting with one bag travel, because that’s my primary use for the GR2. For me, it’s the best backpack for travel because of everything I’ve discussed above.

In short, this comfortable backpack fits everything I need for weeks and months away from home. It’s customizable with accessories, easily packed and unpacked, and incredibly durable–for the bag itself and the contents inside.

My GORUCK GR2 surrounded by its contents for 8 days on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. The towel beneath the spread took up the most space in the pack, but it all fit well.

My wife and I like one bag travel, a lot. It’s streamlined, simple, and there’s no chance of losing luggage at the airport. There’s no hauling cumbersome suitcases around either, which is the quickest way to announce yourself as a tourist. Hey, nothing wrong with being a tourist, but we just like to try and look cool. One bag travel makes you look cool, in my opinion.

Casual Travel with the GORUCK GR2

Casual travel (road trips, day trips, traveling with suitcases, etc) is a cinch with the GR2. For all the reasons above (and there are a lot!), the GR2 is the best backpack for travel.

When your bag is basically indestructible, super comfortable, and easy to pack and organize, you’ll experience a little extra peace of mind. Plus, the GR2 is compact enough to be TSA carry-on compliant, while holding a heck of a lot of gear.

However, if you only need a day pack or smaller carry-on, the GR1 might be better. It just depends how much space you need. I compare the two backpacks here.

Rucking and Fitness

Is the GR2 good for rucking and fitness? Sure! But it’s a little big if that’s the only thing your using your bag for.

While GORUCK sells a fitness-dedicated Rucker rucksack, I actually prefer the larger GR1. Why? Well, it’s more versatile for every day use and travel.

If you need a great travel backpack, but also want to ruck for fitness, look no further than the GR2. You’ll just want to add a Shaddox pouch. I go over that simple accessory addition for the GR1 here, and the same process works for the larger GR2.

If you’re a hiker who wants a good trail & travel backpack that can carry some serious weight for rucking & fitness, you’ll be happy with the volume and organization of the GR2. It’s all about picking the right pack for your favorite activities, but the GR2 will be able to handle most of them easily.

No matter which GORUCK bag you choose (and maybe the smaller Rucker is indeed for you), you can be really rough with them. Load them with Ruck Plates or sandbags and go get your sweat on. They’re not afraid of pavement, rain, or hot sunshine.

Hiking, camping, and backpacking

The GORUCK GR2 is great for both hiking and camping, I think we’ve covered that pretty well. Durability? Check. Easy to pack and comfortable? Check and check. Capable of carrying some serious weight? Yep.

If you’re doing shorter hikes, visiting a campground, or just hanging outdoors, everything you need will easily fit in a GR2. And your back, shoulders, and legs will be glad you chose such a quality pack.

However, I still don’t take my GR2 for multiday hikes over rough terrain, up mountains and such. Why not? Well, it’s kind of heavy and lacks the space you’ll get with a backpacking pack. If I need to carry sleeping gear, cooking supplies, lots of food, and water for a couple days and nights, I opt for packs that have more volume than the 34-40L GR2.

The Kelty Redwing 50 is my go-to for backpacking.

Every day carry

You can use the GR2 for EDC (work, gym, commuting, etc), but it’s a little bulkier than you might want. If EDC is your primary concern for your GORUCK sack, the GR1 is less cumbersome and lighter weight (and still has a secure laptop compartment). GORUCK also makes the stylish M23 rucksack for more casual use.

Final thought: I’ll be using my GR2 for years to come

I wouldn’t feel comfortable boarding a flight without my GR2, especially if it’s the only bag I’m bringing on the plane. It just feels like home. I know where to put my electronics and snacks, how to arrange a change of clothes for quick retrieval, and I feel confident that my laptop is safe and secure.

Plus, I don’t draw the attention of airline agents when they’re looking for bags to check on full flights. It’s lowkey and comfortable enough to wear everywhere, but it still holds whatever you need it to.

I think it’s the best backpack for travel, and I’m out here proving it!