What determines the success of a hunting trip is the gear you carry. The only effective way of ensuring that you carry all the necessary gear is through a hunting backpack. The best hunting backpack has a sleek, well-tailored design that comes with numerous features. The hardest part when shopping for a hunting backpack is picking the model that best suits your needs. That is where our guide can help. We have narrowed the field to eight high-caliber packs.
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Guide to Picking the Best Hunting Backpack
It does not matter whether you are wide, thin, or tall; there is a resourceful hunting pack out there for you. It only takes a bit of work to find one that best suits your body type and the much-needed space and compartments for stowing gear and weapons. Beyond fit, there are innumerable features that make hunting better.
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This can include anything from main storage and weapon compartments to rain cover. Here are the major things to look out for:
Design and Material
Before you even consider the material you must choose an appropriate design. Hunting packs have designs that differ from each other due to the fitted compartments and pockets. Some are known to have a hard bottom while others have to drop down gun boot or bow booth.
Make sure the fabric material is lightweight, durable, roomy, and adjustable. The frame should be of good material, such as tubular aluminum or lightweight plastic. Inspect the pack to see if metal parts are well-welded together.
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Carrying Capacity
One of the most important features of a good hunting pack is the capacity/volume. You should consider the amount of meat you will possibly secure not counting the pack’s weight and other gear. For instance, you will need 1000 cubic inches of space if you will be hunting a 35-pound game.
Therefore, you should choose a hunting pack concerning the weight-to-volume ratio of game meat. A heavier game will need a pack with a volume of not less than 4000 cubic inches.
Frame Type
There are two frame types that you can consider: internal and external. Internal frames are more convenient for skiing and off-trail hiking because they are lighter.
On the other hand, external frames are standardized and rigid since they are made of tubular aluminum. Therefore, they are best suited for hunting. A hunting pack with an external frame will improve your posture, control, and comfort since the load is evenly distributed to your hips.
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Adjustable Torso Range
You can fully control a load of your pack if the torso length is adjustable. Therefore, you have to settle for a backpack with shoulder straps that move up and down to accommodate different torso lengths.
With that said, you have to confirm whether the pack has a fixed suspension or interchangeable suspension components. The interchangeable suspension offers more control, but the harness can loosen up with time. Contrariwise, a fixed suspension is more stable, but not comfortable for heavier loads.
Ergonomics
The best hunting backpack is never complete without handy features. A good pack should have a removable pocket that you can use as a daypack. Select a pack that is incorporated with a hydration bladder and feeder tube, which allows you to drink while on the move without the need of stopping to pull out a bottle.
Consider a pack with a built-in rain cover; this will ensure that your gear stays dry when it rains. Also, make sure the pack has numerous and resourceful pockets, such as spotting scope pockets and side accessory pockets.
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Top 8 Best Hunting Backpacks to Buy – Reviews and Comparison
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Freighter Frame + Pack Bag
The Alps OutdoorZ Commander is the best hunting backpack for big game hunting. It is the ideal choice to carry to an elk camp. The backpack features an impressive combination of a pack and a frame, which forms a strong system for both hunting and packing of meat.
The frame is made up of a complete lashing system, a shelf, an adjustable frame, a rifle carrier, and 5250 Cu in storage space. The frame is made from lightweight aluminum material that is easily modifiable to your torso and height liking. You can easily fine-tune the torso and effectively shorten or lengthen the height of the bag’s frame.
Special Features
- Charcoal nylon ripstop fabric
- Frame and lashing straps
- Webbing loops for lashing
- Lower door access with number 10 zippers
- Top loading and rifle holder
- Multiple resourceful pockets
Pros:
- The charcoal nylon ripstop fabric makes the overall design is not only strong but also highly durable.
- The webbing loops offer you enough space for lashing additional hunting items to the exterior of the pack.
- It is very easy to access the lower door, which is made easy by the horizontal divider and No. 10 zippers.
- The removable pack bag allows you to use the frame as a separate freighter frame.
Cons:
- The bag is not convenient for smaller framed individuals.
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Backpack
The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit is the best hunting backpack for stowing your bow while trekking, scouting, or setting up decoys and stands. The expansible bow pocket and the lashing straps form a strong system that ensures your hunting bow is well-secured. Also, the pack’s universal design is compatible with a variety of bows.
The pack provides a capacity of 2700 cu in, which is more than enough for packing a sizeable amount of gear for the hunt. The pack is equipped with extensible lashing straps and an aluminum frame for packing heavy loads. The pack is your preferred companion when climbing or glassing.
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Special Features
- Organizational shelf pocket
- Large main and front pocket
- Blaze orange rain cover
- Hydration port and pocket
Pros:
- It is a multipurpose pack, which you can use to carry either your gun or bow among other gear.
- It is installed with an inbuilt rain cover that ensures your gear stays dry when it rains.
- The organizational front pocket provides a convenient space for storing your gear within reach.
Cons:
- The 2700 cu in available space may not be enough for large framed hunters.
Eberlestock J34 Just One Pack
The Eberlestock J34 Just One is the best hunting single backpack for day and overnight hunting expeditions. The pack offers an initial packing space of 2300 cu in, which inflates to 4600 cu in for maximum gear storage. You will hardly run out of space for stowing meat and antlers.
The construction is just perfect for your torso. Unlike traditional backpacks, the Eberlestock J34 is remarkably compact, durable, and low profile. The pack does move comfortably with your body. Therefore, you will rarely feel the effects of a heavy load. It is just what you need for a day trip.
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Special Features
- Vertical adjustability for torso length
- Functions as full-sized freighter pack or daypack
- High visibility interior
- Adjusts from 2300 to 4600 cubic inches
Pros:
- The pack is highly versatile; you can use it as a full-sized freighter pack or daypack.
- The pack extends sufficiently from 2300 to 4600 cubic inches to accommodate all the necessary gear.
- The design fits impeccably on your torso and still allows your body to move freely when climbing or glassing.
Cons
- The Eberlestock J34 is not suitable for overnight hunting
Badlands 2200 Camouflage Hunting Backpack
The Badlands 2200 Camouflage has been the best hunting backpack for over two decades. It is the pack any serious rifle or bow hunter would carry. Apart from fulfilling its duties as a meat carrier, the backpack is an ideal choice for day packing. The manufacturer has paid close attention to detail, ensuring that the pack has proper ergonomics for ultimate performance.
The greatest feature of the Badlands 2200 is its remarkable center of gravity. The pack is designed to help you support the load concerning your torso. It is equipped with a durable frame made of T-6 aircraft aluminum that goes around your spine. This technique ensures that the load is distributed uniformly to your hip area; hence increasing control and comfort.
Special Features
- Bow, pistol, and rifle compatible
- Zippered back-panel access
- Compression and compartment straps
- Rifle boot and hip belt pistol holsters
- It can be used with a 2L reservoir
- Multiple pockets including integrated spotting scope pocket
Pros:
- Molded foam suspension helps to distribute weight to the hips, increasing control and comfort.
- The bat-wing design makes it possible to compress the pack into a hunting daypack.
- Highly resourceful and versatile, providing you with rifle boot and hip belt pistol holster.
Cons:
- The 2200 cubic inches of space may not be enough in specific hunting events.
Tenzing TC SP14 Shooter’s Pack Hunting Backpack
The Tenzing TC SP14 is the best hunting backpack for the early season. This is the pack you need when you are after versatility. It conveniently converts from a pack to an independent shooting rest. This allows you to station yourself strategically and fire shots with the gun in position. Unlike traditional packs, you do not have to remove your firearm from its sheath.
It is a multipurpose pack that does not only carries your gear, rifle, and meat but also a crossbow. The incorporated compression straps and deep center channel ensure that your crossbow stays put regardless of whether you are climbing or glassing. The built-in rain cover makes the pack weatherproof, while the high-quality fabric and aluminum frame makes it durable.
Special Features
- Breathable mesh back pad
- Foldout rain cover
- Comfort stretch waist belt system
- Padded hip panel
Pros:
- You can use it as a rest for our rifle
- It is fitted out to carry a crossbow
- The integrated rain cover makes it weatherproof
- The most ideal day hunting backpack
Cons:
- It is not a suitable overnight backpack because of the limited space
InSights Mossy Oak Break up Country Multi Weapon Pack
The InSights Mossy Oak Break up Country is the best do-everything model for revolutionary archery hunting. It is fitted with a main weapon compartment that you can use to effectively stow different kinds of weapons. This is a masterpiece as far as a hunting backpack is concerned. The mossy oak break-up country color will blend well with your hunting grounds.
The pack is highly durable, engineered from quality material, which is 90% camouflage. Apart from the main compartment, the MWP has numerous compartments for carrying all sorts of gear. All the strapping systems are very operational. The pack fits comfortably on your torso and it also moves with your body, thus allowing you full control.
Special Features
- Unisex pack
- Main weapon compartment
- 90% camouflage fabric
- Patented weapon enclosure
Pros:
- The major weapon compartment is compatible with a wide range of weapons
- There is enough room to stow rifle, quivers, and extra gear
- It fits comfortably behind your torso and moves with your body
Cons:
- It is not a suitable pack for an overnight hunter because of the limited space
Delta Waterfowl Gear Backpack Blind Bag-Max-5
The Backpack Blind Bag is the best hunting backpack for a waterfowl hunter. This is the pack you need for carrying lots of duck hunting gear. The design is compact, which allows the effortless packing of gear. The two major compartments are installed with a large front pocket for carrying game totes. A feature unique to this pack is its self-standing bottom.
It is a multipurpose pack designed to meet your every need. In addition to its hydration compatibility, it is fitted with a water bottle pocket that ensures you stay hydrated. The pack has a drop-down gun boot for safely carrying your shotgun, and there is even a cubicle for keeping your sunspecs. It also comes with nine shell loops and three choke tube holders.
Special Features
- Self-standing, durable hard bottom
- Three choke tube holders
- Hydration compatible and water bottle pocket
- Dropdown gun boot
- Removable LED light
Pros:
- The hard bottom construction makes the pack self-standing and also provides additional space.
- It has a well-designed drop-down gun boot for carrying and transporting your shotgun.
- It is a convenient large backpack for carrying extra duck hunting gear
Cons:
- The design is not highly suitable for other hunting events apart from waterfowl hunting.
Timber Hawk Killshot Backpack
For sheer versatility and all-purpose use, your best hunting backpack is the Timber Hawk Killshot, which offers you a capacity of 3324 cubic inches. This pack is compressible enough to cinch down around an overnight hunting load, yet large enough to handle everything you will need for your hunting expedition. It is made to carry a tripod, bow, or rifle.
The hard-wearing twill fabric is ultra-quiet. You can go about your hunting activities without alerting your target. The adjustable shoulder strapping system can handle significantly big loads without compromising agility or balance. As for handy features, you will notice that the three horizontal compression straps allow for ultimate load stability.
Special Features
- Superior padded waist belt
- Durable, ultra-quiet twill fabric
- The modifiable shoulder strap system
- Three horizontal compression straps
- Stowaway blaze orange rain cover
Pros:
- The pack’s suspension is top-notch with a simple fit for multiple torso sizes
- The stowaway blaze orange rain cover makes the pack weatherproof
- Apart from stowing hunting gear, it is compatible with tripod, bow, or rifles
- The two-liter reversible Hydrapak water tank with an insulated hose keeps you hydrated
Cons:
- It is an objectively heavy backpack
Best Hunting Backpack Brands
ALPS OutdoorZ
ALPS OutdoorZ packs are well known for their rigid and weatherproof nature. ALPS Outdoor has set claims that they have backed not by opinions, but technical facts. You will certainly appreciate the quality and construction of ALPS OutdoorZ backpacks once you put them to good use. The manufacturer produces top-loading big game backpacks that are worth the money.
Badlands
Badlands has gained popularity in manufacturing rigid and durable packs that can serve you for years. Badlands produce packs for different kinds of hunting expeditions, including upland, predator, and big game hunting. The backpacks have a solid status among sheep, mule deer, and elk hunters.
Eberlestock
Eberlestock packs have proven their worth in the fields. They design some of the most comfortable hunting packs with numerous features. The Eberlestock pack designs are known to fit comfortably behind a hunter’s torso. They can also be used as daypacks or heavy load packs. The packs are very solid and they hardly have design flaws.
Tenzing
Tenzing packs have a signature look. The manufacturer has everything well-planned out as far as handy features are concerned. You will rarely face any limitations in your pursuit of the big game. The pack engineering allows you to switch from stalking to shooting your target in a matter of seconds. They are indeed versatile and resourceful.
FAQ’s
Why do I need a hunting backpack?
Hunting backpacks are great for camping trips, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. You’ll want something comfortable and durable. A hunting backpack is made for long hikes and days spent in the wild. Your gear needs to fit comfortably so you can hike without pain. Also, you’ll need an extra bag for food and water.
Hunting packs need to be sturdy and comfortable. You should also know how to use them properly, and what kind of equipment you’ll need.
What size hunting backpack should you get?
The size of your hiking backpacks depends on how long you intend to stay in the wilderness and the amount of game you plan to hunt. If you’re going on a short hike into the woods, you’ll want a backpack that’s somewhere between 1831 and 2441 cubic inches large. This site will allow you to carry enough clothing, water, hunting supplies, and other equipment to last you three days. You’ll also be able to fit in anything else you may need, such as first-aid kits, sleeping bags, or even a tent if you’d prefer.
Hunting is an activity that requires a lot of equipment, including a pack, rifle, and ammunition. A backpack should be sturdy enough to carry everything. You also need a meat shelf to help carry your kills.
A hunter who wears a backpack will feel better than he or she did before wearing it. Wearing a backpack helps alleviate pressure points on the back and shoulders. Ventilation is important when wearing a backpack.
Which frame should you choose?
Internal frames are more compact than external frames. They fit better into tight spaces and are more convenient to carry around. External frames are bulky and difficult to use. They are also less comfortable to wear because they catch on branches and other objects.
External frame hunting backpacks are great for carrying heavy loads. You’ll be able to carry more things than if you were using a backpack without an external frame.
Why do some backpacks have a hip belt?
Backpacks should have hip belts because they distribute weight evenly across the body. Hip belts make backpacks more comfortable and convenient. Stash pockets and loops help to keep things organized. Hip belts are not as fashionable as other types of belts.
What should I pack in my hunting backpack?
A checklist for beginners from Dick’s Sporting Goods includes having enough food, water, warm clothes, shelter, and emergency supplies. Hunting should be done during daylight hours.
How do I clean and wash my hunting backpack?
You should always wash your backpacks before you go camping or hiking. Start with mild dish soap and lukewarm water, then let them air dry. Don’t use any leftover soap because it might damage the integrity of your pack’s waterproofing.
How do I adjust my hunting backpack?
Each backpack should be adjusted according to your body size. A backpack that is too big or too small can cause back pain. Check out the manufacturer’s website to get detailed instructions on adjusting your backpack.
Do a CAMO backpack is essential for hunting?
Camouflage is a feature to consider when hunting. A camouflage backpack may help hunters who hunt predators.
In Conclusion
You should always consider the weight to game meat ratio; the capacity should be enough for your intended hunting trip. Also, remember to choose a pack with a frame that fits your torso. The best hunting backpack is one with an adjustable frame. If the pack you are buying does not have an adjustable frame, then make sure it fits your torso and you can control the load.
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