Whether you live a crazy on-the-go lifestyle or are more of a homebody, travel gear is something you’re liable to need at one time or another. Depending on the types of travel you engage in or your specific needs, the style and types of luggage, bags, gear haulers, etc. you select could be very different from the next person’s. I got my hands on a Highland Tactical Foxtrot 3-day backpack and I’m more than impressed by it.
About Highland Tactical
Highland Tactical is a company that produces gear designed to “build the bridge from the novice searching to understand the tactical world, to the experienced elite military soldier.” The company offers an array of gear, bags, “fanny packs,” backpacks, luggage – spoiler alert we’ll be reviewing their 21” carry-on sized Armor suitcase in the future – and more.
Highland Tactical states that their mission is to provide “the best value to those in the Tactical World. We strive to make quality products that will enhance the life of those that choose to – GET TACTICAL®”
Why the Foxtrot 3-Day backpack?
The Foxtrot 3-Day backpack is a formidable option when selecting a bag for use. The bag bolsters a 38.25 liter total capacity with the main compartment being 32 liters. This is a big bag and those 38.25 liters of capacity are rather deceiving on paper. Highland Tactical stating this is a 3-day bag, they really mean it. There’s plenty of room for everything you think you’ll need to bring with you.
Construction
Bag material and construction is important. The Foxtrot is made of a “heavy weight durable polyester.” The material is rugged and seems to be very abrasion resistant.
MOLLE
Since this is a “tactical” bag, the backpack is outfitted with MOLLE webbing. The MOLLE on the bag includes the traditional webbing of MOLLE 1.0 we’re all accustomed to, as well as precision cut MOLLE loops that have become en vogue as of late. These options expand the already impressive capacity of the Foxtrot backpack.
Pockets galore
The Foxtrot backpack has that generous 32 liter main compartment, outfitted with a laptop sleeve, as well as several other compartments to make up the difference. There are two side pockets, suitable for water bottles or other items, a tricot fleece lined top accessory pocket, and a front pouch for medium sized items. There are also internal mesh pockets which makes keeping track of smaller or important items easier.
Strapping
Strapping on the Foxtrot bag is constructed of quality nylon and the shoulder straps have ample padding for comfort. The bag is equipped with both a waist strap and sternum strap, both crucial when it comes to weight distribution when carrying a backpack for an extended time. Side compression straps are on the bag as well, making it easy to compress the contents down if needed.
The zipper and main compartment
Zippers on the Foxtrot are rather robust. I did not fear that they’d snag or get caught up with the internal fabric. What was most impressive about the zippered main compartment is that when the bag is laid down flat, you can open it completely, which allows for more efficient and organized packing.
How’d the Foxtrot perform?
I ended up using the Foxtrot backpack on several multi-day trips and it more than provided the space needed to house all my clothing and gear. Again, the capacity of this bag was a bit deceiving, with it being much larger than I originally thought.
If pressed, depending on what I was doing or where I was going, I’m sure I could use the Foxtrot for a full week’s amount of clothing. Naturally, clothing selection and type would play into this, but there’s no reason why the Foxtrot can’t be the main vessel to put your gear in on a multitude of adventures.
Since the bag has a rugged design, it’s more than suitable for outdoor use. While it’s not as lightweight as some of the nylon backpacking options that are out there, there’s no doubt that the bag would outperform other options if up against rough and harsh surfaces.
Is this a bag that you’re going to use as a daypack on a light hike? Probably not. But, if you have a good deal of equipment and are responsible for multiple people, you very well may find yourself donning the Foxtrot during more casual outdoor activities.
Aside from multiple weekend trips for both business and pleasure, my tribe did utilize the Foxtrot for an overnight camping trip. Since this was a 3-day bag, it had no problem holding the clothing and gear for three people for one day.
The quick and dirty
Pluses: Large capacity. Durable. Affordable.
Minuses: Might be too big for some applications.
Overall, the Foxtrot 3-Day backpack is a sturdy and durable option that could fulfill many gear toting needs. Perfect for use in the bush or those weekend trips away in motel rooms. The Foxtrot has plenty of space for clothing and gear. I would buy this bag if I were in the market for one like this. I also would recommend it to family and friends who were in search of a similar bag.
The Highland Tactical Foxtrot 3-Day backpack can be purchased from Amazon, or from their webpage, in a variety of color combinations.
