SAR & Wilderness Bags
These backpacks and bags specifically engineered for Search and Rescue (SAR), ski patrol, wilderness medics, or other back country missions.
What Our Customers Say

This has quickly become my favorite 'go' pack for SAR missions. I have taken it on 3 missions so far and have been pleased with its compartmentalization features and versatility.

This is my second Conterra Crossbow. My first one I purchased in 2001. I love the improvements from the previous model. This pack fits great for a women's body. It is also perfect for a snowboarder and gives more freedom of movement in turns. I almost forget I'm riding with it.

I purchased this pack recently to use it as my SAR hasty pack. I really like the ample room for personal gear and, as my co-SAR member said, my 'mobile OR.' I really appreciate the design features and the flexibility in design and use of this pack.
FAQs
How do I choose the right rescue pack for my role?
Start with your mission profile and your personal level of training. If you are on a SAR team performing a hasty search and covering technical terrain quickly, a rapid response pack like the CrossBow II gives you the mobility you need. If you are a prehospital healthcare provider carrying a full ALS gear load on extended SAR operations in alpine environments, a large frame pack like the Longbow Ranger or ALS Extreme is the right call. Aid belt packs work well when you need medical gear on your body without a full backpack. Contact our team if you want help matching a pack to your specific rescue call type, or if you are buying in bulk for your whole team or agency.
Are these packs compatible with Conterra MOS organizer pockets?
Yes. Most Conterra packs in this collection are lined with hook-and-loop compatible fabric and are designed to accept Conterra M.O.S. compatible organizational pockets and IDM pockets sold separately. This lets each team member configure their personal gear load without modifying the pack itself. It is also a practical system for new recruit onboarding, since organizers can be transferred between packs within the same rescue team.
Can these packs handle inclement weather and sub-zero temperatures?
Conterra builds their rescue packs from Cordura nylon and diamond plate ripstop pack cloth, materials chosen specifically for durability in demanding field conditions. Several packs in this collection feature waterproof zippers. For protection from wet backcountry environments, the Granite Gear Ultra Light Roll Top Drysack provides an additional waterproof storage option. Packs used in sub-zero temperatures should be checked regularly for zipper function, and gear stored inside should follow your agency's cold weather equipment protocols.
Do these packs come filled with medical gear?
No. The packs in this collection are sold as empty bags only and do not include medical equipment or first aid kit supplies. This is standard for professional rescue gear because every SAR team, agency and rescue professional has different protocols, supply preferences, and gear lists. We carry the components you need to fill your rescue kit separately. If you need help building a gear list or want a quote for a custom kit for your agency, our team can help through our Contract Sales program.
Are these packs appropriate for rescue volunteers as well as paid teams?
Yes. The packs in this collection are used by both paid rescue professionals and unpaid volunteers serving on local SAR squads, ski patrols and community response teams across the United States. Every pack in this collection is built to a professional standard that works equally well for an organized SAR team and an independent rescue volunteer. We also support agencies and departments with volume pricing, professional discounts and custom kit builds through our Contract Sales and quote request programs.