You could get some decent Channel Lock pliers from a homedepot.

Jansport backpacks are inexpensive and extremely durable, which is why it's one of the default bookbags in the US. The iconic leather bottom bags are also relatively affordable and easy to find (get the one with actual leather, not pleather). You can likely find one in a mall or a store like tilly's

My last suggestion is to go to a US army surplus store. Most surplus gear is made in the US and well made. Dont expect to find M65 jackets those are long gone. And a lot of stores will sell "recreations" or reproductions, which should be avoided since that defeats the purpose of buying surplus if it's not really surplus.