Tasmanian Tiger MIL OPS Pack 80 24 Review Trekking Backpack
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase via these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I personally tested this backpack during long-distance hikes in Jordan; my verdict is based on real-world use.
Introduction
For serious trekking and military expeditions you need a backpack that does more than carry gear. The Tasmanian Tiger MIL OPS Pack 80+24 is built for harsh conditions with an 80-liter main compartment and two removable 12-liter side pouches (+24L total). In this review I share field experience and who this powerhouse truly suits.
What Makes This Pack Stand Out?
Where most trekking packs stop, the MIL OPS Pack starts. It combines a V2 Plus carrying system (back-length adjustable, designed for heavy loads) with a toploader and a large front zip opening for immediate access. The removable divider between main and bottom compartment, a snow skirt with drawcord and full compression straps keep loads compact and stable.
You also get load control straps, a height-adjustable sternum strap and a hipbelt with re-routed fixation for single-hand adjustment—gold when tweaking on the move. Outside: full MOLLE, front lacing (bungee), ice-axe/trekking-pole loops, a durable grab handle and a detachable helmet holder. Hydration compatibility and pass-throughs make it expedition-ready.
Pros
- ✓ Huge capacity – 80L main + 2×12L side pouches (104L total)
- ✓ Extremely robust – 700D Cordura for rough terrain
- ✓ High-load comfort – V2 Plus, adjustable back length, load control & sternum strap
- ✓ Fast access – toploader + large front opening + bottom compartment
- ✓ Modular & practical – full MOLLE, front lacing, helmet holder, ice-axe loops
Cons
- ✗ Heavy – ~4.0 kg empty (made for heavy loads)
- ✗ Price – premium bracket around €480
- ✗ Overkill – too big/complex for short day hikes
Specs & Details
- ✓ Capacity: 80L main + 24L via 2 removable side pouches (12L each)
- ✓ Weight: ~4.0 kg
- ✓ Material: 700D Cordura
- ✓ Access: toploader + large front zip opening
- ✓ Compartments: main, removable divider to bottom compartment, side pockets
- ✓ Carry system: V2 Plus (back-length adjustable), load control straps, height-adjustable sternum strap
- ✓ Hipbelt: re-routed fixation for single-hand adjustment
- ✓ Compression: perimeter/bottom compression
- ✓ Exterior: full MOLLE, front lacing, durable handle, helmet-holder attachment
- ✓ Equipment: 2 loops for ice tools/poles, insert pockets both sides
- ✓ Hydration: compatible, with pass-throughs
- ✓ Use case: expeditions, military ops, long-range loads
Who Is It For?
For multi-week trekkers, professionals hauling heavy loads and anyone demanding absolute reliability. If you mostly do short day hikes, this isn’t your pack—choose something lighter/smaller.
Comparison With Alternatives
| Model | Capacity | Weight | Price | Our Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIL OPS Pack 80+24 | 80+24L | 4.0 kg | €480 | 9.2/10 |
| Deuter Aircontact Pro 70+15 | 85L | 3.5 kg | €330 | 8.9/10 |
| Osprey Aether Plus 85 | 85L | 3.1 kg | €370 | 9.0/10 |
Final Verdict
The Tasmanian Tiger MIL OPS Pack 80+24 is a powerhouse. Yes, it’s heavy and not cheap—at €480 it’s premium—but it’s built for extreme scenarios and heavy loads. For long-range hikes, expeditions or tactical use, it’s among the most reliable choices in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MIL OPS Pack suitable for short hikes?
Not really. It’s too big and heavy for short outings.
Can I adjust the carrying system?
Yes. V2 Plus is back-length adjustable and built for heavy loads.
How waterproof is it?
Cordura is highly water-resistant. For prolonged rain, use a rain cover.
What’s the benefit of the side pouches?
They’re removable (12L each) for quick access and +24L extra volume.
Can I adjust quickly with gloves?
Yes. The re-routed hipbelt fixation and load control straps allow quick, single-hand tweaks.
User Reviews (external)
Across Amazon and outdoor forums, the MIL OPS Pack averages 4.6/5 stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – “Best pack I’ve owned for heavy expeditions.” – Source: Amazon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – “Bombproof, but heavy. Only if you truly need the capacity.” – Source: Outdoor Forum
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