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GORUCK GR3 Review: The Ultimate One-Bag Travel Rucksack

February 8, 2026 By Thad Forester

GORUCK GR3 review in garage — My GR3 35L Cordura pack, next to 21L GR1 and 16L GR0

The GORUCK GR3 is a massive, purpose-built travel ruck designed for people who want one bag that can handle everything from airports to rugged trips without babying their gear.

You can also watch my YouTube review, that will cover some details not listed in this article:

GORUCK GR3 Overview

The GR3 sits at the upper limit of carry-on size, giving you a cavernous main compartment that works perfectly for one-bag travel, extended trips, or hauling bulky gear. It keeps GORUCK’s classic clean, tactical-inspired aesthetic, so it looks just as at home in an airport as it does on a dirt road.

Currently offering 35L and 45L capacity in a rectangular, clamshell layout for efficient packing (mine is the 35L).
Built from 1000D Cordura with heavy-duty zippers and reinforced handles for serious durability.
Internal frame sheet and padded straps to handle heavy loads more comfortably over distance.

Build Quality and Materials

Like other GORUCK packs, the GR3 is built with overkill in mind: thick 1000D Cordura, beefy YKK zippers, and bartack-reinforced stress points that are tested well beyond typical carry weights. The fabric shrugs off abrasion and rough handling, and the structure of the bag stays solid even when fully loaded.

Highly abrasion-resistant Cordura resists scuffs and tearing in harsh environments.
Back side and underneath shoulder straps are 210D HT, which reduces wear on clothing or skin.
Internal frame sheet helps the ruck keep its shape and transfers weight better to your back, and protects your laptop.
Water resistance is solid for light rain and travel, though not fully waterproof. However, the laptop compartment and quick access pocket have AquaGuard zippers.

Organization and Packing Layout

The GR3 is intentionally simple inside: a huge main compartment with minimal built-in organization, designed to work best with packing cubes and pouches. This lets you build your own system depending on whether you’re packing clothes, camera gear, or mission-focused loadouts.

Full clamshell opening makes packing and access straightforward and fast.
Internal MOLLE/Velcro fields and mesh pockets give you anchor points without over-complicating the layout.
External MOLLE on the bottom allows for add-ons and customization (think Tough Bag, sleeping bag, pad, tent and much more)

Comfort and Carry

35L GR3 on 6′ 1″ male

When empty, the GR3 is heavier than many travel packs (my 35L is 4 lbs, but GORUCK lists at 4.3 lbs), but the tradeoff is structure and durability that hold up under serious weight. The padded shoulder straps and sternum strap compatibility help keep the load stable and high on your back, which is important when you’re carrying everything you own for a week or more.

Thick shoulder straps (almost 3″ wide) and a supportive frame sheet reduce pressure points under heavy loads.
Optional padded hip belt is valuable for long walks through airports, across town or in the mountains. (note: not compatible with 35L).
Best suited for users comfortable managing larger, heavier packs; overkill for light minimalist loads.

Who the GORUCK GR3 Is For

The GR3 is ideal if you want a bombproof, one-and-done travel ruck that can take abuse, carry a lot, and still fit in the overhead bin on many airlines. If you prioritize comfort under heavy loads and long-term durability over ultralight weight and built-in organizers, this ruck belongs on your shortlist.

Great for one-bag travelers, missionaries, military/tactical users, and adventure travelers.
Overkill for commuters or those who pack very light and don’t need 35+ liters.
Backed by GORUCK’s SCARS lifetime warranty, making it a long-term investment rather than a disposable pack.

Use this GR3 review alongside some of my other reviews on ThadForester.com to decide which GORUCK ruck fits your travel and rucking style best:

My New Purchase: GR1 USA – Lightweight Ripstop ROBIC Backpack | Arctic Camo

GORUCK GR2 Review: 10 Years Later and Still Going Strong

GORUCK GR1, GR2, GR3, Rucker – Are They Worth the Money?

Air travel note: although the GR3 is the largest possible carry-on for most or all american airlines, it takes up a lot of space on smaller planes. I flew on an EMB 145 and the 35L wouldn’t fit under the seat and took up the entire overhead bin. If someone else had wanted to use the bin over our seat, one of our bags wouldn’t fit. However, on the A321 that I flew in the next leg, my 35L GR3 fit under the seat no problem.

GORUCK GR0 (formerly GR Echo): Compact Everyday Carry Backpack for Travel and EDC

January 31, 2026 By Thad Forester

The GORUCK GR0 started life as the Echo and is essentially a smaller, 16L version of the GR1 built for smaller frames and lighter, everyday loads. The current X-PAC model uses VX21 fabric and AquaGuard zippers to prioritize light weight and weather resistance over traditional 1000D Cordura.

You can watch my review on YouTube below where I go into detail about what size laptop it will hold and a water test:

Layout, Organization, and Features

The GR0 follows the same basic layout as the GR1, just shrunk down:

Clamshell main compartment that opens flat for easy packing and access.
Internal organization:
- A sleeve at the back of the main compartment that can hold a laptop or tablet.
- Two internal pockets (one solid, one mesh) for organizing smaller items.
- Two rows of internal MOLLE webbing for pouches or accessories.
External features:
- Front slash pocket with AquaGuard zipper.
- Top carry handle with extra padding.
- Compatible with a hydration bladder where you can route the hose through the top.

A practical limitation regarding hydration: there’s no MOLLE on the shoulder straps (specifically for the X-PAC version) for securing the hose, so it will “roam free” unless you improvise with clips or aftermarket keepers. The bottom is padded like GORUCK’s other rucks to protect contents when you set it down.

Fit, Comfort, and Use on the Move

I’m 6’1″ and the 16L GR0 rides high on my back with the bottom well above my waistline. That high‑and‑tight fit is intentional and keeps the bag from digging into your belt or hips, which is especially helpful for shorter users or anyone who dislikes low‑hanging packs.

GORUCK’s 30 lb plate will not fit in the laptop compartment

Non-GORUCK plate takes up entire pack on inside

Non-GORUCK 30 lb plate will not fit in laptop compartment

Compared to the GR1, the GR0’s shoulder straps are noticeably thinner and narrower. For everyday carry loads, those straps are fine, but this pack is not meant for rucking heavy weight plates due to the strap profile and the lack of a dedicated ruck plate pocket. You could ruck with it, but it’s not what I would personally choose it for.

Weather Resistance and X-PAC Performance

The X-PAC VX21 fabric is inherently waterproof, and GORUCK pairs it with YKK AquaGuard zippers on the GR0 to create a very weather‑resistant package. X-PAC was originally developed for high‑performance racing sails, so it’s light, stiff, and designed to resist water and deformation under load.

In my hose‑test at the end of the video, water beads and runs off the X-PAC panels and zippers very easily. After deliberately spraying the zippers and soaking the exterior, I find the main compartment and laptop compartment dry, with just a small amount of water in one area—likely where the two zippers meet—suggesting excellent real‑world water resistance for rain, wet fields, and most travel conditions.

Verdict: A Purpose‑Built Minimalist EDC Pack

The GR0 is “another great minimalist bag” that I currently don’t use much because it doesn’t match my specific needs, but I clearly recognize its strengths for the right user. For someone who wants a tough, compact, highly weather‑resistant backpack with smart organization and doesn’t plan to load it like a ruck, the GR0 X-PAC checks those boxes and then some.

If you fall into that minimalist EDC and light‑travel category—and your laptop fits—the GORUCK GR0 is easy to recommend as a small, overbuilt pack that will likely outlast most of your other gear.

Related reviews:

GR1 Ripstop Robic: 21 L size

Bullet X-PAC: What is it’s Purpose?

New Year Rucking Goals: GORUCK Weight Vest Review and Exclusive 20% Discount

January 1, 2026 By Thad Forester

Starting 2026 with a commitment to fitness? The GORUCK Rucking Weight Vest is the perfect companion for your New Year goals. This versatile piece of gear transforms any walk, hike, or workout into a full-body strength and conditioning session. Built with GORUCK’s legendary durability, the vest features adjustable weight plates that let you scale your training from beginner-friendly loads to advanced challenges. Whether you’re new to rucking or a seasoned athlete, the low-profile design and comfortable fit make it ideal for everything from neighborhood walks to trail adventures.

The best part? I’ve secured an exclusive 20% discount code for our readers to help you kick off your fitness journey without breaking the bank. This isn’t just another piece of workout equipment that’ll collect dust—it’s an investment in a sustainable, low-impact training method that builds strength, burns calories, and gets you outdoors. Rucking has transformed my own fitness routine, and I (and friends) have tested this vest through countless miles in all weather conditions. Use code VEST20 at checkout to save 20% and start the new year with gear that’ll actually help you keep those resolutions. Ready to commit to your 2026 fitness goals? Grab your GORUCK Rucking Weight Vest today for your fitness and rucking journey.

male with goruck rucking weight vest on cold day

goruck spy ruck and rucking weight vest — My friends love the Women’s Spy Ruck and the Rucking Weight Vest

Read more and/or get yours here: GORUCK Rucking Weight Vest

And use my affiliate code VEST20 at checkout for 20% off.

More helpful info:

Top Reasons the GORUCK Rucking Weight Vest is Worth the Investment

Start the Year Strong: 3 GORUCK Essentials to Kick Off Your Fitness Goals

or watch my video on this vest:

Start the Year Strong: 3 GORUCK Essentials to Kick Off Your Fitness Goals

December 19, 2025 By Thad Forester

A new year means new goals—and if one of yours is to get fitter, stronger, and more disciplined, there’s no better way to start than with rucking. GORUCK gear is built to last and designed to help you train anywhere, from your neighborhood streets to rugged trails. Here are three easy must-haves to jumpstart your fitness in 2026.

The Basic Rucker.

The perfect entry-level gift or purchase for someone starting their fitness journey. The cornerstone of any rucking setup, the Basic Rucker is simple, durable, and ready for mileage. It’s purpose-built to handle weighted training without unnecessary extras. Whether you’re going for a brisk mile or a long endurance session, this pack stands up to the grind. It’s an easy “grab-and-go” piece of gear that helps you stay consistent.

The Rucking Weight Vest.

For those who want to scale their bodyweight workouts, including with CrossFit, running, F3, etc. Perfect for anyone who wants to turn everyday movement into strength training, the Rucking Weight Vest adds resistance to walks, push-ups, squats, and more. It packs GORUCK’s quality and comfort into a form-fitting vest that won’t bounce, rub, or distract. Use it for quick backyard workouts or short rucks when you’re short on time but still want impact.

The Spy Ruck.

WEIGHTED VEST FOR WOMEN ON A MISSION. Fitness meets function with this one. The Spy Ruck blends everyday carry and training capability, so you can move seamlessly from the office or classroom to a workout—or a weekend hike. It’s compact yet rugged, offering space for your essentials and weights if you want to keep that “always ready” mindset alive all year long. Perfect for young women just beginning their training lifestyle.

See how my neighbor @peachesoverpancakes/ uses the Spy Ruck:

Ready to Ruck into 2026?

Your gear shouldn’t hold you back—it should make you want to move. GORUCK’s Basic Rucker, New Weight Vest, and Spy Ruck give you all the tools to get started, stay consistent, and finish the new year stronger than you started.

Additional info:

Below are my reviews on the Basic Rucker and Rucking Weight Vest:

GORUCK GR2 Review: 10 Years Later and Still Going Strong

December 5, 2025 By Thad Forester

After a decade of hard use, my GORUCK GR2 34L has proven why it earned its reputation as one of the most durable travel backpacks ever made. I purchased this ruck in November 2015 after saving up for a while, and it has been my primary travel companion ever since.

Built to Last

This isn’t a bag that sits in the closet between trips. I’ve flown it all over the United States, used it for overnight trips, and it served as my primary rucking bag from 2015 until 2022. The 1000D Cordura construction has held up incredibly well, with all original zippers still functioning smoothly and minimal wear on any stress points.

The Only Repair Needed

In 10 years, I’ve only used GORUCK’s SCARS warranty program once. Around 2020, the nylon on the shoulder straps became wavy from repeated tightening and loosening, so I sent it back to GORUCK. They replaced the connectors, MOLLE webbing, and straps on both sides—no questions asked, no receipt required. The process was fast, and they even included a leather SCARS patch.

How I Use It

The GR2 34L is my go-to travel bag for any domestic flight up to three (3) nights away. It fits easily in overhead compartments and under the seat of any size commercial plane and has enough space for everything I need. I’ve also used it for one GORUCK Light event in 2016, though it’s never been heavily exposed to mud or sand. The laptop compartment with frame sheet is perfect for both protecting electronics and holding weight plates when I want to ruck.

Worth Every Dollar

These bags now retail for around $350+, and I understand that’s a significant investment. But after 10 years of being thrown around airports, kicked around, and used for work and travel, this GR2 shows minimal wear and still performs like new. The shoulder straps remain thick and well-padded, the MOLLE webbing is intact, and there’s no fraying except for a few tiny threads that don’t concern me.

If you have the budget and want a backpack that will truly last a lifetime, the GORUCK GR2 delivers on every promise.

Get yours here: GORUCK GR2

You can watch my YouTube review here:

And here is a related video with multiple GORUCK backpacks: