While Bear Grylls can certainly survive in the wild without a backpack, having one makes his treks in the outdoors a lot easier. Bear Grylls backpack must meet his strict standards, just like the rest of his gear. Many of the critical features for Bear Grylls’ backpack are snug fitting, lightweight, durable, and waterproof. Below are a few brands of backpacks Bear Grylls has used on his show, Man vs Wild.
Backcountry Access Stash BC Rider Backpack: A very good backpack that meets all of Bear Grylls needs. It fits snugly which is very important when navigating difficult or steep terrain. This backpack is waterproof, and as you know, bear ends up drenched in water in many episodes. Although this backpack has an adequate number of pockets, it could use a few more.
Why Bear Grylls Likes it:
- 420 Ripstop/1000 ballistics
- Solid padded back panel
- 100 oz hydration system
- Front access pockets
- 2400 cubic inches of volume
- 3 lbs. 9 ouches
Gregory Targhee backpack: Bear Grylls would use this backpack in extreme cold, and high altitude situations. The Targhee Backpack holds everything you need for a day in the snowy backcountry, from skis, to other outdoor gear. This is essentially a arctic backpack, fully outfitted to hold skis and poles. It features abrasion and puncture resistant fabric and stands up to abuse. The main compartment is accessed through a top zipper, and a convenient front pocket is large enough to hold a shovel or entrenching tool. The pack comes with an insulated tube to keep your drinking water from freezing.
Why Bear Grylls likes it:
- High tenacity nylon
- medium 1900-2100 cubic inch volume
- Molded back panel with all terrain harnes and wastebelt
- Hydration system compatible
- Top load access
- 4 external pockets
- ski carry
- snowboard carry
- 3lbs 9 oz
Gregory Z25 Pack: This backpack would be chosen by Bear Grylls for shorter survival trips. It’s a lightweight day pack with advanced suspension, to make carrying easier. It is hydration compatible and has expanding pockets to accommodate larger loads. This is a great pack for rock scrambling, and moving quickly over rough terrain.
Why Bear Grylls likes it:
- JetStream DTS Suspension
- Auto-Fit harness system
- Dual Hydration ports and sleeve
- Expandable Front Pouch
- Ultra-light at 2lbs 12oz
- Axe/tool attachment points
- 210d double box ripstop and broken twill nylon fabric
Although Bear Grylls backpack choices are well suited for his needs on the show, they may not always be the best backpack choice for you. These are great packs, and will meet most needs, but don’t be afraid to do more research and get something else if you require other features in a backpack, such as larger load capacity.