Bags or carriers are provided that can be transformed into protective vests and used as body armor and ballistic shields. The carriers can be assembled in a first arrangement that enables individuals to store and transport items. The carriers can quickly and easily be converted to or deployed in a second arrangement which enables the individuals to wear the carriers as protective vests. One or more shoulder straps can be detached from the carriers for use as tourniquets, doorway securing structures, and tools for dragging injured victims.