Shoulder it in the Best Hunting Backpack

Have you recently noticed your hunting equipment hoard seems to be getting ever larger? Whereas it used to be just a bow and some arrows or a rifle, it now includes spotting scopes, a GPS device, a hunting saw, licence, your phone and all the other bits you can’t live without.

A good quality hunting backpack will give you the chance to take even more of these essentials and still have space for that haul of meat on the journey home. 

If you are looking for a hunting backpack for your next expedition, we have you covered. We have chosen some of the best hunting backpacks and looked at the features you should be considering when you pick a new one.

Backpacks, Daypacks and Rucksacks

When choosing the a hunting backpack, the different terms used by retailers can often be confusing. Backpack, daypack or rucksack, what exactly is the difference, you may be wondering?

Backpacks and Rucksacks

Backpack is merely a generic term for a bag which is carried on your back. Both a rucksack and daypack can be classified as types of backpacks. The word rucksack comes from the German for back, rucken, and the word sack meaning a bag–hence back bag or pack.

Historically, rucksacks were made from a tough canvas material with one large center compartment and smaller pockets on the outside. They were fastened at the top with drawstrings or buckle straps and had a cover flap. The shoulder straps were made of leather or canvas to attach the users back and a metal support frame was attached.

The traditional style of the rucksack has not changed so much over the years. Although, nowadays, you will find many different styles, some aimed at specific sports, such as hunting.

Backpacks and rucksacks are interchangeable and both can generally accommodate larger capacities. Camping stores and the military tend to refer to backpacks as a rucksack. Although, here in the States, backpack is a more common term.

Daypacks

Again, a daypack is another term for a backpack, just a smaller and more compact one. For one-day trips or if kids are accompanying you on your hunting trip, a daypack is an ideal option. They are still worn on your back, but can also take the form of fanny packs to be worn around your waist.

Daypacks also have exterior pockets for carrying smaller weapons, and may have a water bottle carrier built in. You can even get some daypacks which have a Camelbak style hydration pack for hands-free use. Being more compact, they are not really suitable for overnight use or hauling larger kills.

Backpack Sizing

The size of hunting backpack you need will depend on how long you plan to be away on a trip. There’s no limit to how long you can stay out on a hunt for, the size of your backpack can be the main deciding factor. A larger backpack will also be handy for bringing home those hauls of meat, hopefully!

If you are planning just a short trek through the wilderness, a simple daypack with a capacity around 1800 cubic inches should offer enough space for a change of clothes, some hunting gear and maybe some food.

For longer trips like elk hunting or big game hunting, you will need a significantly larger hunting bag, with many featuring over 5000 cubic inches of capacity. Don’t choose a pack which is larger than you need. Remember, the amount of equipment you carry may go down as the trip progresses.  You can always strap gear to the outer of the pack and move them into the bag as foods go down.

The following YouTube video looks at some basic gear you are going to need on a backpack hunt.

Internal vs External Frames

External frames were, traditionally, the main choice for a hunting backpack, as they tended to offer more durability and a greater capacity. As technology has progressed, backpacks designed for all purposes have moved toward the internal frames.

An internal frame normally offers better support to the pack, with pre-bent aluminum poles that stay in place longer. Aluminum or alloy sheets can offer even better support and be useful on longer trips. The internal form factor reduces the chances of getting your frame caught on tree branches or other environmental hazards you may encounter.

External frames will still be able to carry heavier loads, however, but give you the option of carrying more gear, or game. They are ideal for when trekking through open spaces, compared to hunts in dense forests with more obstructions. However, external frame backpacks can be a cheaper alternative when considering extended trips, due to the greater load capabilities.

An external frame will also be more suitable for use in hotter conditions as they will provide better ventilation for your back. Lots of pockets on these backpacks make organizing your gear simple, and you can also secure gear to the frame. An external frame is normally more adjustable, and can be used by people of varying sizes.

What to Look for When Choosing a Hunting Backpack

There are a number of different features that you need to consider when selecting a hunting backpack. Here is some further information on each of these.

Hanging Strap

This useful accessory allows you to hang your backpack on a branch or the trunk of a tree. It makes things much more convenient when you are in a tree stand, and it also reduces the amount of movement and noise you make.

Camouflage

It’s always wise to consider the environment you are going to be hunting in. Many hunting backpacks come with a choice of camouflage. Although deer are unable to see many colors, they can be sensitive to differences in shading. If your pack isn’t blended in with your surroundings, you will lose that power of concealment.

Waterproofing

Most hunting backpacks are not actually fully waterproof. Not only would it be difficult to do with so many compartments and zippers, but it could also be overkill. There are not normally too many circumstances when a hunter would find his gear fully submerged in water.

A certain amount of water resistance is vital for when you get caught out in bad weather conditions. A good pack should be able to keep your gear dry and weapons functional, even in extended storms. While the pack may have some water resistance, you will normally find waterproofing comes from a pull-out cover zipped away at the bottom.

Silent

Silence is one of the most important factors as you hunt. A simple scuffle of a leaf can be enough to send your prey running. Backpacks are available made from fabrics like Mutex, which have been developed to remain soft and not make a noise when rubbing against other materials.

Fastenings on hunting backpacks should use dampened zips and never feature Velcro or press-studs. You don’t need to be reaching for that extra arrow, just to alert the whole forest of your whereabouts.

Weight

The weight of the backpack can affect how comfortable it is to wear. A belt strap on your backpack will also help to support the extra weight.

Many backpacks will now include their own internal frames that are lightweight yet strong and made from either aluminum or plastic. Check the weight of a pack on the manufacturer’s specifications, and bear in mind how heavy it will be when loaded up.

Bow or Rifle Harness

An important part of hunting is keeping your hands free, especially if climbing, A good weapon-carrying system should secure the weapon, yet allow quick access when needed without too much resistance.

Most good hunting backpacks will feature a separate strap for your weapon, and a fold-out pocket for the ammo, both of which need to be reachable at a moment’s notice.

Water Bladder

Water bladders are a useful and practical way of carrying water, as they are more lightweight than a water bottle. They also allow you to drink water, hands-free, which is useful when you are on the move or sitting on a stand in a tree.

Weight Capacity

Hunting backpacks with external frames are able to carry more weight. This is especially useful if you’re planning on dragging your meat, so look for a product with a high weight capacity for this use.

Our Top Picks In Detail

Cabela’s Bow and Rifle Pack

Tenzing TC 1500 Backpack