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GORUCK GR2 40L Review (One Year Test)
Nearly indestructible—the GORUCK GR2 is a maximum carry-on sized backpack that will hold up in any condition you’re able to throw at it.
Our Verdict
Pros
- Military-grade construction withstands extreme conditions
- Maximizes airline carry-on size limits perfectly
- Modular PALS system enables custom configurations
- Robust GORUCK SCARS Lifetime Guarantee
Cons
- Significant empty weight at 4.5 pounds (2.04 kilograms)
Technical Details
Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline’s interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn’t mean that the airline will interpret it that way.
Carry-on Compliance
View 91/145 Airlines
- Capacity: 40L, 34L version available for smaller frames
- Dimensions: 22 in x 12.5 in x 9 in (55.9 x 31.8 x 22.9 cm)
- Notable Materials: CORDURA® Nylon, YKK Zippers, MOLLE Webbing, Paracord
- Manufacturing Country: United States
- Laptop Compartment: Size 15"
- Warranty Information GORUCK SCARS Lifetime Guarantee
- Warranty Information: Aer Lifetime Warranty
Full Review
The Travel Gear Collective team pushed the GORUCK GR2 through extreme conditions for 18 months of continuous travel testing. For adventurers prioritizing durability over ultralight design, this pack delivers exceptional performance. Need even more capacity? Check out our thoughts on the GR3.
Our testing revealed the GR2’s dimensions (12.5 x 22 x 9 inches / 31.75 x 55.88 x 22.86 centimeters) maximize carry-on allowances without crossing limits. While the 4.5-pound (2.04 kilogram) empty weight demands consideration for stricter airline restrictions, strategic packing mitigates this challenge.
Pro Testing Tip: We recommend cross-referencing carryonbagsizes.com before flights to verify compliance.
Despite its military heritage, the GR2 maintains a professional aesthetic. The MOLLE webbing offers practical expansion options while remaining visually subtle when unused. The 3 x 2-inch velcro patch zone accommodates personalization without compromising the clean design.
Through extensive field testing, we found the 40L version suits taller frames ideally – our 6’2″ lead tester Tom demonstrated perfect fit. GORUCK’s 34L variant serves shorter users or those seeking a more compact profile.
The 1000D CORDURA® construction proved practically impenetrable during our durability tests. While not fully waterproof, the water-resistant design handled tropical downpours effectively. We especially appreciated the anti-theft properties – the slash-resistant material adds security without sacrificing functionality.
After 18 months of constant use, durability exceeded expectations. Minor fraying appeared on certain PALS webbing sections, but remained purely cosmetic without compromising structural integrity. The 210D fabric on contact points effectively prevented clothing abrasion – a notable improvement over earlier models.
Bag Tour
Let’s explore each compartment based on our extensive testing experience.
Main Clamshell Compartment
The main compartment’s clamshell design proved superior to traditional top-loaders during our testing. Key features include:
- A dedicated laptop/hydration bladder pass-through
- Multiple rows of MOLLE webbing compatible with Field Pockets from GORUCK for customized organization
- A versatile document sleeve accommodating laptops and flat items
- Dual mesh pockets (⅔ and ⅓ height) on the lid
Our testing revealed optimal main compartment organization:
- Primary clothing storage (both with packing cubes and rolled)
- Footwear storage at the base
- Document organization in the elastic pocket
- Large essential items
Field-Tested Insight: Placing heavier items against the back panel significantly improved carry comfort and stability.
The lid’s mesh compartments excel at organizing:
- Emergency supplies
- Compressible gear
- Hydration essentials
- Low-profile items requiring occasional access
Secondary Compartment
The front clamshell section features thoughtful organization:
- Large zippered pouch with dual mesh dividers
- 2/3-height mesh pocket at the base
- Top section combining ⅔ mesh zip pocket with concealed 1/3 pocket
Our testing proved this compartment ideal for:
- Dedicated packing cube storage
- Quick-access items
- Gear requiring secure containment
The large concealed pouch demonstrated impressive versatility:
- Front mesh divider: Perfect for travel documents
- Second mesh divider: Ideal for compact essentials
- Main space: Efficiently holds electronics and daily tools
The top quick-access pocket proved invaluable for:
- Emergency cash
- Writing tools
- Frequently accessed essentials
Outside of the Bag
The dedicated laptop and hydration compartment impressed us with its robust protection. Its position against the back panel enhances security while wearing the pack. During our MacBook Pro testing, we noticed screen pressure marks after six months. Investigation revealed this wasn’t a bag issue but rather the known Staingate problem with MacBook anti-reflective coatings. For additional protection, we tested a Kydex sheet installation (available here), which enhanced both laptop protection and overall bag structure.
GORUCK confirmed the Kydex modification maintains warranty coverage with minimal conditions: “This will not void the warranty, but if there is any damage from the sheet to the fabric (which we rarely, if ever, have seen), we may need to charge for repair since it is not a GORUCK-made product. The only way that installing one of those would void the warranty outright would be if you installed one into a bag that doesn’t normally come with a frame sheet or a Rucker, which has the frame sheet sewn in.”
The external PALS webbing system proved highly versatile during our testing. We extensively tested the hip belt attachment, finding it significantly improved weight distribution for heavier loads.
The shoulder straps demonstrate exceptional engineering – balancing comfort with durability through strategic padding. Multiple attachment points ensure structural integrity, while integrated MOLLE allows for customization with sternum straps or accessory pouches.
The front PALS webbing maintains a clean aesthetic when not in use, while providing expansion options for field pocket attachments or other MOLLE-compatible gear.
A thoughtful double-layered false bottom provides crucial shock absorption for electronics and fragile items. Our drop tests confirmed this dual-padding system effectively protects contents from impact.
One standout design element is the color-coded heat-shrunk paracord zipper pulls in gold, green, and black. During extended testing, this proved invaluable for rapid compartment identification and creating an efficient packing system.
Field Testing Conclusion: While the GR2 won’t serve as accommodation, it excels as a comprehensive travel system.
Usage Timeline
Initial Usage
Condition: Excellent
Our initial testing confirmed the GR2’s reputation for durability. The construction quality impressed our entire team from day one.
3 Months of Use
Condition: Excellent
Successfully navigated multiple flight tests, including strict European carriers. The pack fits under standard airline seats when not overpacked.
6 Months of Use
Condition: Excellent
Survived a three-hour mountain trek through persistent drizzle in Scotland. Internal contents remained completely dry, validating the water-resistant claims.
1 Year of Use
Condition: Good
Minor aesthetic changes emerged – slight color fading and minimal MOLLE webbing fraying. Structural integrity remains uncompromised.
1.5 Years of Use
Condition: Good
Performance continues to impress through daily use. Testing Insight: We discovered loose threads can be safely managed with careful heat treatment – just keep the flame away from the main fabric.
2 Years of Use
Condition: Good
The subtle patina from extensive use adds character without compromising function. Minor wear presents as purely cosmetic, with no structural repairs needed.
Author: The Travel Gear Collective Team
The Travel Gear Collective team combines expertise from gear designers, professional photographers, adventure guides, and sustainable travel specialists. Our rigorous testing protocols and real-world experience inform every review, ensuring practical insights for travelers worldwide.
