travel pack

Executive Protection Travel Backpack: Things to Consider

As is common with us all, we love our gear and we can’t get enough. A common discussion in our Facebook group, The Protective Security Group, is travel gear and equipment. While not meant to be a comprehensive or ‘cookie-cutter’ list, below I share a typical packing of my ‘go-bag’ which I hope you all find useful; at least as a good baseline to add/subtract from for your travel needs.

When profile is not a consideration, my new favorite bag is the GoRuck GR-1. This bag is incredibly durable, well thought out, excellently structured and quality. The pouches are well placed with durable zippers. The back panel is perfect for a ballistic plate and the straps are comfortable. Additionally, the slim profile fits well under the seat in front of you on a plane with easy access to your need-to-have items if you leave the zipper pulls on top. Below are a series of pictures and explanations which display and list the contents I typically travel with.

In the center top pouch, I put the things I need quickly and frequently on flights or in a vehicle: a collapsible water bottle, hand sanitizer, sanitizing packets, napkins and IPAK (when not on my belt) on the other, charging accessories, lens wipes, chapstick and vent mount, etc.

In the pack, I have: a Go-Ruck Wire Dopp with all of my charging/media accessories for my phone and others, headsets, backup phone, duct tape/e-tape/550 cord, laptop charger, and PowerAll accessories; DMR/Analog radio and charger; small bottle of Rain-X; tire pressure gauge; credentials and business cards; Rite-in-the-Rain notebook, pens and pencils; tactical pen; flashlight; PowerAll; SwissTech Tools Bodyguard; noise-canceling earbuds, cell phone chargers, Breath of Life Masks; (If traveling internationally, I will also pack a Smoke/CO detector) and I also carry a SkyRoam, Garmin InReach and IridiumGO for constant communications/tracking capabilities. In the outside compartment, I keep my iPad Pro with a smart keyboard, Quest Protein bars; gum and cough drops. In this pack, I put my laptop in the back compartment along with a foldable convenience tray and a ballistic plate.

Shown above, the clear small hygiene kit and a clear small pill pack with Ibuprofen and Tylenol, Benadryl, allergy pills (diphenhydramine), Dramamine, glucose tabs and jolly ranchers, misc band-aids and Neosporin/Polysporin packets, Tums, hydrocortisone cream, burn jel, liquid skin, sunscreen packets, temp quick strips, oral pain relief gel, eye drops, and a mini Tide pen; PX Hero “Scout” with trauma gear (pic below) and I added a SWAT-T, Hyfin chest seals, and combat gauze and Celox rolled gauze.

*Originally published on Lasorsa.com and written by Joe LasSorsa

Elite Survival Systems Airline Transport Pack

Elite Survival Systems has produced another option for discreet firearms transportation with their Airline Transport Pack. When law-abiding citizens need to move their firearm from point A to point B it can be an intimidating task. Each state has their own set of rules which may or may not vary if the person transporting the firearm has a concealed carry license or not. Further complicating transportation are the varying means of transport.

Are you driving a sedan, hatchback, or pickup? If you must, or desire to transport in the vehicle are your windows tinted? Will you be making stops along the way and exiting the vehicle? The more we think about these conditions the less attractive our gun-maker labeled cases become. Toss in the variable of airline travel and the risks seem even scarier.

Conditions like these are why Elite Survival Systems created the Airline Transport Pack. This discreet bag looks more like a generic soft case than a firearms storage system.

While not hard-sided, or even appropriately sized for its four-handgun capacity, the last thing this pack looks like to most casual observers is a gun bag. When stacked among other luggage it may draw the attention of those looking for electronics, but it doesn’t scream gun bag. Inside there are two mirroring sides which provide ample space for two full-size pistols and elastic slots to secure spare magazines or accessories. On each side dividers also protect the pistols from and oddly-shaped or potentially abrasive extras you might want to store. The heavy-duty zippers have eyelets for locks.

I’ve handled a lot of different gun and gear bags between my time doing sneaky stuff for the government, repeated trips to shooting schools, time in 3-gun, and weekly range trips reviewing various firearms and related pieces. The build quality of Elite Survival Systems has always been superior and this pack is no different. I can appreciate the excessive space in this bag as it helps change the outer dimensions to something other than a screaming gun bag. Where I find flaws is that instead of looking like a gun bag it looks more like a camera or electronics bag which may be even more enticing to criminals. So what’s the point?

I wouldn’t assume to use this bag as complete camouflage that could be left visible on a car seat, and most airlines require hard-sided cases for transport, but I can speak from experience that this is a bag you can carry through a city without causing any alarm. In an artistic city like my local Portland, Oregon if anyone takes any notice they’re more likely to assume you’re a photographer than a guy packing four full-sized handguns.

GORUCK GR3 | The Ultimate Carry on Travel Pack

GORUCK GR3 | The Ultimate Travel and Adventure Pack

In 2017 GORUCK announced the pre-order sale of their newest pack in the GR lineup the GR3. The GR3 is the largest in the line of GORUCK packs coming in at 45 liters with standard/custom options like molle or slick exterior, side handles compression straps on the sides, and a Velcro lined interior wall. The GR3 opens clamshell style like the other GORUCK packs and has a large open interior with a Velcro back wall for attaching Velcro backed pouches. This allows the user to customize the interior to their needs. The inside of the flap has three zipper pockets one solid and two mesh. The outside of the flap has a zippered slash pocket and the back has a laptop pocket.

These are the specs from the GORUCK website:

Weight: 5.15 LBS
Weight (without Hip Belt):4.59 lbs
Scars Guarantee: Lifetime
Frame Sheet: Yes
Materials: 1000D CORDURA®
Made in USA: Yes
Dimensions: 22″H x 14″W x 9″D
Size: 45L
Laptop Compartment: 20″H x 13″W
Interior Top Pocket: 6.5″H x 14″W
Interior Middle Pocket: 7″H x 14″W
Interior Bottom Pocket: 7.5″H x 14″W
Bottom MOLLE Webbing: 2″H x 11″W

I ordered one with the slick front (no molle webbing on the front or sides) I wanted the lower profile of the slick front so that it has a more traditional luggage appearance that a bag with molle on the front and sides, and with side handles on both sides (The one on the top of the pack is standard). There is some molle webbing on the bottom panel for attaching a Tough Bag (A heavy-duty compression bag made out of the same Cordura material as the pack); it also came with a removable waist belt and sternum strap.

When the pack arrived several months later the first thing I noticed is that it is substantially larger pack then the GR1 and even the GR2. What I especially like is the one large main compartment compared to two separate compartments in the GR2. I’ve had a GR2 and could never really get it to work that well for me as a travel with one bag only setup. The two compartments didn’t allow for me to get my clothing and extras packed in the available space (but that could just be me). I’ve been able to pack the GR3 for a five through seven-day trip where business casual is the accepted attire and use the pack as my only piece of luggage with no issue.

With regards to the back interior wall being Velcro for attaching patches and pouches and such, personally, I could live without it and wish it was an option when ordering. I have a Velcro backed IFAK and pistol pouch that I tried using in the pack and felt that they only took up room making it hard to pack around them. I placed a couple of leftover strips of Velcro that I have to cover the exposed Velcro and usually just run a flat Admin pouch from 215 Gear and a single mag pouch for my Leatherman if I’m checking it, and a Velcro backed CAT holder.

There are also two rows of molle on the back interior wall where molle compatible pouches can be attached. I like to slip a carabineer or Grimlock through the molle and put my keys there so that they don’t get lost and a small flashlight. The one other thing I’ll usually attaché to the interior molle strip is a Readyman EDC Covert Belt Pouch. I stash some extra cash in it for emergencies. This gives me the most and best packing options. The laptop compartment like other GORUCK packs is pretty much bomb proof and keeps my laptop safe along with a body armor panel I slip in with it.

The three interior pockets on the front flap are perfect for holding any type of miscellaneous items needed for travel and work. The front slash pocket is deep and can hold all the things that you want rapid access to and is perfect for dumping your wallet, phone, cash, watch, etc… while passing through airport security. The side handles make it easy to grasp while boarding a plane (so that you don’t have to swing it off your back in the aisle to stow it in the luggage bins), or to pull it out of the bin. If you cinch up the shoulder straps you can carry it like a standard bag.

At a list price of $455.00 the GR3 is by no means a cheap travel pack but it’s built tough and will provide a lifetime of travel use and is covered by the GORUCK SCARS Lifetime guarantee.

The GR3 can be purchased directly from the GORUCK website

Author – Art Dorst is the owner of A. Dorst Consulting & Training Services and is a Senior Consultant for LaSorsa & Associates. He served in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves and eventually retired as an NCO from The Army National Guard. He is also a retired municipal Police Officer, a Certified EMT, NRA Instructor, and is currently a security provider/trainer.

The Explorer Backpack by Douchebags | Adventure Awaits

In Longfellows poem The Rainy Day, he writes, “Into each life some rain must fall”. But in my case, it just seems to be snow at this point. I’m a skier so I love the white stuff between December and March. But it’s now April and the snow just keeps coming. I suppose the silver lining is a few extra days that I can get out there and make some turns. So I recently headed up to the local ski area after 10″ of fluffy snow fell only to find a single chair lift operating. To access some of the new snow that wasn’t tracked out yet, I had to work for it and hike. Fortunately, the new Explorer ski backpack from Douchebags was just what I needed to haul everything up the hill.

Packing my Adidas Agravic insulating layer

I’ve covered products from Douchebags before like the Aviator 40L as well as their slick travel accessories. It’s because of their high quality that I thought I’d try The Explorer. Founded in 2012 by Swedish free-ski legend Jon Olsson along with Norwegian product designer Truls Brataas, Douchebags has become a globally recognized brand. The Explorer, with its slender profile, is clearly designed with the skier/rider in mind. Many ski packs I’ve used in the past were too bulky to wear on the chairlift. Forcing me to remove it prior to loading the lift. The Explorer is definitely not that kind of pack. The rider has no problem leaving the pack on while loading and unloading the chairlift. Which is a major plus in my opinion.

Image courtesy of douchbags.com

Constructed from heavy duty thermal formed 1680D ballistic polyester, this 20-liter pack will withstand any abuse you can dish out. The smaller outer compartment is designed to hold avalanche emergency equipment (seen above). Long pockets are easily accessible to quickly grab a collapsible avalanche probe and shovel should the need arise. Additionally, a small mesh pocket on the inside flap is perfect for a phone or GoPro. Located atop the Explorer you’ll find an EVA protected zippered pocket to store goggles, sunglasses or camera. Just rigid enough to protect these items from the daily bumps.

The large main compartment on the Explorer is accessed through a “U” shaped zipper along the wearers back. This brings me to my only complaint regarding this pack. Due to the location of the zipper, the pack must be removed to open it. Placing the shoulder straps in the way while accessing this compartment. Although the shoulder straps can be rotated out of the way, the main compartment is not easily accessible for someone to add or remove anything while on your back. Inside this compartment, however, you’ll find a hydration sleeve along with 3 smaller zippered pockets around the perimeter. Keeping everything tidy and organized.

Image courtesy of douchebags.com

A pair of durable straps fitted with heavy-duty metal buckles can be found on the rear of The Explorer. Designed specifically for lashing a snowboard to your pack while hiking up to that elusive powder or epic line. A pair of low profile but very comfortable shoulder straps help distribute the load evenly. Additionally, a removable waist belt and adjustable sternum strap help stabilize the load. Especially when hauling longer skis that tend to sway back and forth with each step. Finally, a diagonal ski attachment system featuring a stowable strap is located in the side pocket. Helping secure a pair of skis for the hike (seen above).

Explorer Specifications courtesy of douchebags.com

Thermal formed 1680D ballistic polyester on front panel
EVA back panel
Chest strap
Removable waist strap
Room for a Camelback reservoir
Top protected EVA pocket for goggles / sunglasses
Inner avalanche gear pockets
Mesh pockets inside
Protective & secure top pocket for valuables
Front, easy opening
Diagonal ski attachment system
Vertical snowboard attachment system
Height: 52 cm / 20.4 in
Width: 26 cm / 10.2 in
Depth: 17 cm / 6.7 in
Weight: 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs
Volume: 20 L
MSRP $249

Enjoying some late season pow

Final thoughts: I’ve used many “ski packs” over the years and The Explorer ranks among the best tested. I only wish the zipper to the main compartment was more easily accessible. Although designed for skiers and snowboarders, The Explorer can be worn around town as well. The waist strap is removable, further streamlining the pack for urban use. Available in a few unique colors, the one I have is a limited edition black camo pattern. From a distance, it appears all black. But as you get closer, the subdued camo pattern on the side panels become visible. A subtle reminder of my military background.

Some images courtesy of the author

Additional items seen in images: Mammut Nordwand Pro Jacket, Smith Vantage Helmet, Fischer Ranger 12 Ski Boots, Faction Prime 2.0 Skis

Crye Precision EXP 1500 Pack: Support the changing demands of your day or mission

The new Crye Precision EXP 1500 pack seems to have all the makings of a great low-vis backpack for those that travel around a lot or maintain a minimalist lifestyle. From what I hear in the industry this pack will securely hold a broken down carbine and has no ‘tactical’ features on the outside whatsoever.

photo courtesy of the Defoor Proformance Facebook page

The EXP 1500 has a briefcase style handle on the side as an alternative carrying method. This also gives the bag an appearance of normal travel luggage.

photo courtesy of Defoor Proformance Shooting Facebook page

From the Crye Prescision website:

DESCRIPTION

The EXP 1500™ PACK is a sleek low-profile pack that is highly adaptable to support the changing demands of your day or mission. It can quickly expand to add 500 cubic inches of extra volume. It can also extend to carry items up to 27” long. The EXP 1500™ pack is designed to have a clean uncluttered appearance with no outwardly glaring military features, blending well into urban environments as an everyday use bag while still offering maximum tactical utility. H: 18.75” (27.75” Extended) W: 12.5” D: 7.25” (11” Expanded) Made in the US from US materials.

FEATURES

Full perimeter (lay-flat) opening allows easy access to contents and offers all the benefits of both a top-opening and side-opening bag
Fleece lined pocket fits medium to small sized tablets (H: 11” W: 8”)
Top access laptop storage (H: 12.25” W: 19.75”)
EXP™ PACK MOLLE INSERT (sold separately) for attaching pouches and gear
Integrated expansion feature adds 500 cubic inches of volume
Extends to carry items up to 27” long
Molded back pad with integrated air channels
Internal PALS webbing on inside walls
Internal mesh divider separates front compartment and main compartment
Convenient briefcase style side handle
Removable sternum strap
Removable 3D formed frame sheet
MSRP $237.60

*Featured image courtesy of Crye Precision