5 Packing Tips for Backpack Hunting

Learn how to pack your backpack for a hunting trip.

There are plenty of ways to hunt. You can set up for the day in a ground blind, make a whole weekend of it at deer camp, or become a backpack hunter.

While backpack hunting isn’t for everyone, some hunters enjoy being out in the wilderness with only the bare essentials strapped to their back.

If you’re interested in backpack hunting, there are certain precautions and packing tips to keep in mind. Learn how to prepare your hunting pack with Blain’s Farm & Fleet and Realtree.

1. Choose the Right Backpack for Your Load

According to Realtree experts, the two biggest things to look for in a quality pack are one that fits properly and one that has even weight distribution. You don’t want to burn up your energy just from carrying an uneven pack or constantly stopping to readjust.

You can choose from an external-frame pack or an internal-frame pack. External-frame packs are more rugged and can take on heavier loads. But they’re also heavier to carry.

Internal-frame packs are lighter and can be more comfortable if they’re worn properly. They’re better suited for shorter backpack hunting trips.

Whichever type of pack you choose, make sure it’s the right size and fit for the length of your hunting trip.

2. Pick the Right Type of Shelter

When you’re choosing a tent, keep weight and season in mind. According to Realtree experts, you’ll want your tent to stay in the five pound range. And make sure it’s seam-sealed with a rain fly.

Finding the right tent or bivy system really depends on your hunting needs and the terrain you’ll be covering. Just always make sure your shelter is as packable and lightweight as possible.

3. Pack a Quality Sleeping Bag

If you’re backpacking the back country, you need a quality sleeping bag. Goose or duck down sleeping bags always do the trick. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and they’ll keep you warm.

Synthetic sleeping bags can also keep you warm and can usually take whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Look for a bag that’s rated a bit colder than the weather you’re anticipating.

Finally, a sleeping pad will give you extra protection from the ground and help you maintain body heat throughout the night.

4. Get Comfortable Hunting Boots & Socks

Warm and dry feet are a must when you’re hunting. Nothing ruins a hunting trip like wet, cold, blistered feet. Quality boots and socks make all the difference.

Synthetic socks work well to wick away moisture, while keeping your feet extra warm and blister-free.

When you’re choosing your boots, keep in mind the terrain and weather you’ll encounter. Read through our article for more tips on finding the right hunting boots.

5. Bring the Essentials

Water & Filter

Water is absolutely essential on a backpack hunting trip. It’s important to bring a filter system or purification tablets with you to make sure your water is safe to drink.

Camping Stove & Pot

A small camping stove and a titanium pot are both great for cooking a hot meal, which is definitely needed after a long day of hunting and hiking.

Food

Freeze-dried meals are easy to pack and make. You can also snack throughout the day on trail mix, jerky, and dried fruit.

Always have enough food in your pack to keep your energy high throughout the day.

GPS or Compass

A GPS or compass can come in handy. If the weather changes or the dark settles in, it’s important to have one of these tools to navigate through your surroundings.

For more tips on hunting and hunting gear, visit our Hunting Blog.