Hunting is a chance to get out into nature, stalk through woods or along trails, and experience the primal side of life. There is a lot to consider when embarking on your next hunting expedition, but one thing that every serious hunter needs is the right pack to haul their gear.
The packs listed below are our gear testers’ favorites and some of the best hunting packs on the market. Each one is designed to get you out in the field for as long as it takes to bag your next prize. Whether you’re looking for a reliable external frame hunting backpack, a smaller camo bag for both hunting and everyday life, or a comfortable internal frame hunting backpack, we’ve got you covered.
Best all-around: Mystery Ranch Metcalf Hunting Backpack
- Removable lid with zippered pockets
- 4300in³
- 500 denier Light Plus fabric
- Side and back compression straps
- Auto-lock buckles on compression straps
- Rifle and bow carry via compression straps
- Model: Metcalf
- Weight: 5.7lbs
- Dimensions: 30.8x14x12.3 inches
- Volume: 4335in³
Pros
- Five-point waist belt for even weight distribution
- Superb storage space
- Hardy attachment points
- Expandable load sling to pack more weight between the frame and the bag, along your spine
Cons
- A $500 backpack that only comes in three color options, one of which is camo
Our testers couldn’t stop raving about this pack. Besides the sheer comfort, adjustability (one tester is 5’2”, the other was 5’11”, and both wore the same pack for hours of trekking through the mountains of Southeast Alaska with a little adjusting), and storage capacity, there was the durability. Goat hunting season in Southeast Alaska is no joke, fall days can turn from mid-40s and clear to the teens and sleeting in the space of a few hours. The mountain goats hide in 5,000-foot-high jagged coastal peaks and so access is limited to foot traffic unless you’re lucky enough to have a helicopter.
Comfort is therefore very important. Our testers had no blisters, no backaches, and no issues with their packs during two separate five-day hunting trips. But what’s just as good? The Mystery Ranch Metcalf survived slides down rocky cliffs, tearing through the coastal rainforest terrain closer to sea level, rubbing against Sitka spruce tree bark, and being thrown down onto tundra. This pack kept their gear dry (which is a big deal in a temperate rainforest) and perfectly balanced on their backs. In short, our Alaskan testers could find no faults — except maybe the color choices.
See Mystery Ranch Metcalf Hunting Backpack on Mystery Ranch
See Mystery Ranch Metcalf Hunting Backpack on Black Ovis
See Mystery Ranch Metcalf Hunting Backpack on SCHEELS
Best budget pick: ARMY PANS Tactical Hunting Backpack
- Removable hip belt
- Radio pouch on shoulder
- Mesh water bottle holder
- Buckles over zippers
- Velcro patches
- Bungee cord on exterior
- Maximum capacity 64L
- Model: PANS001
- Weight: 0.84kg
- Dimensions: 15 x 13 x 21 inches
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Doubles as a great everyday bag
- Versatility with lots of features
- Expandable from 8” to 13”
Cons
- Small carrying capacity
- Not waterproof
- Loud zippers
- Won’t camouflage you from your wife while she’s shopping at Target
If you want one bag to bring snacks out to the tree stand, catch a flight, or bring a change of clothes to the hunting lodge, this is it. As one of our better sub-$50 options, the PANS Tactical Travel Backpack gives you enough room for extra clothes, ammo, and sighting scopes without breaking your budget.
Versatile features like a removable hip belt, velcro patches for extra storage pouches, and bungee cord storage give you the ability to switch from the woods to the streets with ease. An expandable depth from 8 inches to 13 inches is even better, pack what you need for a weekend in the field in a single bag. Just be careful, this backpack isn’t waterproof, so it might not be the best hunting backpack for bog or soggy territory!
See ARMY PANS Tactical Hunting Backpack on Amazon
Best value: TIDEWE Hunting Backpack With Frame
- Drop down rifle holder
- Easy access belt holster
- Quick access from the spine
- Waterproof cover
- Drawstring top with zippered brain
- Curved top frame to accommodate head placement
- Reinforced Hypalon around frame construction for zero squeaking
- Noise-free Realtree edge fabric
- 5500in³/90L capacity
- Model: HB003-BB
- Weight: 10.47lbs
- Dimensions: 35 x 16.3 x 6.88 inches
- Volume: 5500in³
Pros
- Adjustable frame height
- Full-length double zippers
- Folding freighter shelf
- Compatible with bow, rifle, and pistol
- Compatible with 2L to 3L hydration systems
Cons
- Only two color options
A 10lb pack that can hold up to 90L — or an entire elk — for under $200? You read that right. This external frame backpack has pockets and compartments galore, with a fold-down freighter shelf to cart more than 100lbs of meat off the mountain. This waterproof hunting backpack can be used for rifle or bow hunting, but specifically comes with a drop-down rifle butt holder to keep your firearm in place. The frame, shoulder straps, and hip belt are all adjustable to fit any hunter. (Bonus: the top of the frame is curved around the back of your head, which means you won’t keep bashing the back of your head into it on the hike out.)
With the size and external metal frame construction, some hunters may be worried about the noises that an external frame pack can cause, which could scare away the prey. TIDEWE thought ahead and reinforced the frame with Hypalon to dampen squeaks and cut out the noise, just like they chose to use Realtree edge fabric for rustle-less movement out in the trees. The waterproof cover might make a little more noise, but the falling rain should cover any sound.
This hunting backpack with rifle holder allows you to pack enough for three to five days out hunting, with plenty of space left to pack out your prize. It’s great value, and it might be the best hunting backpack for its features-to-price ratio.
See TIDEWE Hunting Backpack With Frame on Amazon
See TIDEWE Hunting Backpack With Frame on TIDEWE
Best crossover from hunting to everyday: Badlands Diablo Dos Hunting Backpack
- Seamless shoulder straps
- Multiple reinforced rear compression straps
- Easy access hip belt pouches
- Detachable rifle/bow boot
- Seven pockets
- Holds up to 3L hydration pack
- 2100in³ or 31L
- Cooling suspension to allow airflow between your back and the pack
- Unconditional lifetime warranty
- Model: BDIKKAPPR
- Weight: 966g
- Volume: 2100in³
Pros
- C6 DWR-treated water repellent material
- Compatible with bow, rifle, and pistol
- Compatible with 3L hydration systems
- Ventilated foam and tough mesh for airflow
- 100lb strength reinforcing thread at every stress point
Cons
- A little pricey for 31L
A low-profile, high-quality backpack that expands out to carry all the essentials and compacts down when you’re trekking through the thick of it? The Badlands Diablo Dos Hunting Backpack went through 31 iterations before they got it right — but the 32nd was the charm. This backpack packs an incredible amount of comfort-centered features into one construction, so whether you’re ready for a trek or need some extra help staying cool on the way back out, you’re covered. The Diablo Dos uses an airflow-centric suspension system, including ventilated foam and tough mesh, to make sure your torso stays as sweat-free as possible. They also use seamless shoulder straps to alleviate painful pressure points, and a padded hip belt (with easy-access pouches) to keep the weight off your shoulders and settled comfortably on your hips.
This pack is made with C6 Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treated material, which beads up water and allows it to roll off your pack, rather than absorbing and soaking your gear inside. Couple that with ultra-reinforced thread at significant stress points, including the rear compression straps.
See Badlands Diablo Dos Hunting Backpack on Amazon
See Badlands Diablo Dos Hunting Backpack on Sportsman’s
See Badlands Diablo Dos Hunting Backpack on Walmart
Best low profile: Badlands Pursuit Hunting Backpack
- Made from waterproof, tough, and quiet material
- Five pockets
- Holds up to a 3L hydration pack
- 1500in³ or 24.5L
- Cooling suspension to allow airflow between your back and the pack
- Bedroll straps
- Unconditional lifetime warranty
- Model: 21-36891-APFX
- Weight: 1.94lbs
- Dimensions: 14.9 x 19.85 x 3.05 inches
Pros
- DWR-treated water repellent material
- One of the more lightweight hunting packs
- Compatible with 3L hydration systems
- Ventilated foam and tough mesh for airflow
- 100lb strength reinforcing thread at every stress point
Cons
- Not a lot of room for packing meat out
- One color available
A slimmed-down version of the Diablo Dos, the Badlands Pursuit was made for chasing your game, light and fast. The pack itself weighs under two pounds but can hold up to 1500in³ (or 24.5L) of gear, ammo, layers, and food. While this small hunting backpack isn’t going to help you haul out a mountain goat, it’s great for shorter (think one-day or weekend) trips into the woods or machine-accessed hunting hauls.
The Badlands Pursuit is made from the same tough, waterproof, and noise-reducing material as the Diablo Dos, and features the same reinforced stitching at stress points and load-bearing cross-sections for durability and peace of mind. The hydration pocket can hold up to three liters of water, while the airflow-driven suspension ensures that your torso won’t be sweat-soaked by the end of your hike.
See Badlands Pursuit Hunting Backpack on Amazon
Great single-day hunting pack: ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber Hunting Day Pack
- Lower side mesh pockets with compression straps for easier access
- Hydration pocket and port
- 2300in³ or 37L
- Mesh back for better airflow
- Three main sections for better organization
- Bartacked webbing for multiple attachment points
- Padded hip belt and shoulder straps
- Model: 9649110
- Weight: 2.1lbs
- Dimensions: 20.16 x 13.86 x 3.07 inches
Pros
- Weighs 2.1lbs
- Padded hip belt
- Adjustable sternum straps
- Compression straps on sides of the pack
Cons
- Could use more compression straps
This tried and tested hunting backpack is an affordable, quality pack that will get you (and your gear) from A to B in comfort. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps, along with easy-access features like a hydration hose slot and big mesh side pockets, make this pack a multi-day dream.
At just over two pounds unpacked, this camouflage hunting backpack combines the best parts of lightweight gear with the effectiveness of hardy construction. The large main pocket and front accessory give you organizational options with enough space to be effective, but there are still attachment points on the back of the pack, just in case. For a budget price, you can snag a great backpack to keep you on the trail.
See ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber Hunting Day Pack on Amazon
Great multi-day hunting pack: ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Hunting Backpack + Pack Bag
- Compression straps with quick-release
- Higher volume but still light
- Drop-down rifle holder
- Multiple pockets for maximum storage
- Secure lash-attachment system
- 5250in³ main compartment
- Model: 3600018
- Weight: 7.31lbs
- Dimensions: 41 x 16 x 13 inches
- Volume: 5250in³
Pros
- 17-23 inch torso range
- Hydration pocket and port
- Durable Nylon Ripstop fabric
- Internal horizontal divider
- Webbing loops
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Loud material
- Doesn’t include Commander Freighter Frame
This is the type of pack that springs to mind when we think of traditional hunting backpacks. Made with durable materials, constructed for the long haul but with comfort in mind, and made with room for expansion.
The ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Backpack with frame sports over 5000in³ of storage space, including a spotting scope pocket, a drop-down rifle or crossbow butt, and an extended brain flap that allows you to tuck your trophy rack in securely on top. Unpacked, this bag weighs in at just over two pounds (or seven with the frame), so you aren’t lugging around an excess of weight on top of your supplies and kill. If you want the best of external pack frame life with the comfort and compactness of the internal frame design, the OutdoorZ Commander could very well be for you.
See ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Hunting Backpack + Pack Bag on Amazon
See ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Hunting Backpack + Pack Bag on SCHEELS
See ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Hunting Backpack + Pack Bag on Walmart
Best frame-only pack: Eberlestock F1 Mainframe Pack
- Frame only
- Compatible with duffels, dry bags, scabbards, and piggy-back packs
- Incredibly versatile
- Made from lightweight aluminum
- Webbing matrix covers attachments to main panel
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
- Freighter shelf
- Brand: Eberlestock
- Weight: 4.6lbs
- Dimensions: 24 x 12.5 x 10.5 inches
Pros
- Tested to hold up to 700lbs
- Frame weighs just over 4lbs
- Tall version available
- Three integrated horizontal compression straps to attach additional packs
Cons
- Pack systems and bags sold separately
- Pricey
This is one of our more unique pack options, but it also strikes true as the most versatile as well. These packs are not for casual hunters or the budget shoppers — they are designed for the long haul, for the gear nerd, and for the light-in-heavy-out kind of hunter. The F1 Mainframe features zippered attachment points compatible with Eberlestock’s duffels, drybags, and other accessories. A spiderweb of, you guessed it, webbing allows hunters to attach rifle and bow scabbards, ammo pouches, and additional drybags to the frame, as well. The three compression straps keep your load high and tight, as well as keeping those compartments on the frame.
So why would you choose a frame over a full pack? It’s customizable, my friend. You can add or subtract whatever you need for the hunt of your choice. Whether that means arranging your compartments to better suit your build and strength or adding on a few more bags to pick up the extra meat, you choose and attach only what you want. If you’re serious about your hunt, this is the way to go.
See Eberlestock F1 Mainframe Pack on Amazon
Most storage options: Eberlestock X2 Pack
- Oversized compression straps
- Microsuede waterproof fabric
- Dual hydration compartments
- Quick access pockets
- Tubular aluminum Intex frame
- Platform for carrying a compound bow
- Model: X2ME
- Weight: 4.5lbs
- Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 6 inches
Pros
- Storage options until kingdom come
- Meat lugging compartment
- Attachment points for rifle/bow scabbards
Cons
- Might be too involved for a one-day pack
If you love organization options and expandable packs, this might be a great option. This pack sports one main compartment, two separate side compartments that can batwing out, a brain cover, and a “meat hauler” on the base. If you use up all of the space accessible in these compartments, there are dozens of attachment points for more hauling options, or places to stash your shotgun or bow.
The internal tubular aluminum frame gives you strength without a lot of weight, while the oversize compression straps ensure you’ll keep what you want in and on your pack safely in place. Do we think it might be a little overkill for a day’s hunt? Maybe. Do we think it’s a great bow hunting backpack from a great quality company that would serve you well? Absolutely.
See Eberlestock X2 Pack on Amazon
Most customizable frame-only pack: EXO MTN Gear K3 FRAME
- Lightweight titanium frame only pack
- Torsional flexibility on the frame
- Tested to over 250lbs
- 500 denier Cordura Fabric
- Duraflex USA Buckles
- Two height options for all sorts of hunters
- YKK Zippers
- Model: K3 Frame
- Weight: 3lbs
Pros
- Weighs 3lbs
- Frame works with your movements on uneven terrain
- Angled compression straps
- No-slip hip belt
- Ventilated back and shoulder straps
Cons
- Pricey
As an even bourgeoisie-er option for a frame-only pack, the Exo MTN Gear K3 Frame comes in even lighter, with even more flexibility and adjustable features, but at a heftier price. This is absolutely a top-of-the-line frame pack with a lightweight-but-burly titanium frame, rugged 500-denier Cordura fabric, and hardworking zippers and buckles. The K3 frame is even built with “torsional flexibility”, which allows you to move around, kneel down to get the shot, climb over uneven terrain, or duck under branches while you’re on the scent.
The back and shoulder straps were designed with maximum airflow in mind to keep you cool on the trek and the padding adds comfort when you’re eight hours in. The compression straps and hip belt straps are designed to be easily adjusted with zero slippage under weight, a sign of superior design. Similar to the F1 Mainframe, you can stack compartments your favorite way to best fit your body and hunting style. The only pitfall we can find with this pack? It’s a bit of a budget breaker.
See EXO MTN Gear K3 Frame on EXO MTN GEAR
Why trust us
The author grew up in the woods with family who hunt for sport, and in parts of Alaska where villagers hunt for subsistence. As a professional outdoor guide, Search and Rescue Technician, and carnivore extraordinaire, she used her hundreds of trail miles, hours upon hours of backpacking, and appreciation for the hunt to find both avid hunters across the American West, North, and East to test out backpacks, and took a few out for a spin, herself.
Who this is for
Whatever the prey and wherever the territory, every hunter needs at least two things: a weapon, and a pack. This article is for everyone who’s felt the primal call of harvesting their own meat, but who doesn’t know where to start among the thousands of hunting-specific backpacks on the market. Don’t worry, we cut out the middlemen so you can spend less time researching and more time tracking your big game prize.
How we picked
We used a mixture of the author’s preferences and the public’s favorite hunting pack options. There are budget-friendly options, as well as a few “wish list” items, but the majority of our hunting packs fall within the mid-range budget price and are worth their price tag. Any of these packs will hold your layers, supplies, and ammo.
How we tested
Our testers were based in Southeast Alaska, Maine, and Colorado. They hunted everything from whitetail deer to craggy mountain goats. We put these backpacks through the wringer by tearing through tough terrain, pounding the trails for days on end, and sloshing through mud and rain. We hauled out prizes and packed back out with empty hands to see how these packs functioned in all conditions. At the end of the day, our winners came from the best experiences.
Features to look for in hunting backpacks
Many hunting backpacks have similar features, but that doesn’t mean just any pack will do. When considering your next hunting backpack, you need to think about what you need most out of what’s strapped to your back. Your ideal hunting trip might look like a multi-day expedition across the rugged mountain ranges of Montana, while your buddy’s might look like a treestand party in the woods of upstate New York. Do you need space, or do you want a low profile? Do you need hardy fabric, or do you need to be silent? Look for the specific features you’ll need most on the hunt of your dreams from the options below.
Water resistance
This should come as no surprise, but no one wants to pull out their extra layers or shelter to find out that they’re soaking wet. If you’re hunting for several days, the conditions probably won’t be ideal for long. Look for water-resistant or waterproof materials listed in a backpack’s features.
Weapon holders
The ability to pack your firearm or bow on your back will save you energy and focus out in the field. Some packs will come with detachable “butt boots,” while others will feature a strap-to-the-side scabbard. Look for what works well with your range of motion, your weapon of choice, and the layout of your bag. If you use guns and rifles, look for a hunting backpack with a gun holder; if your weapon of choice is a bow, look for a pack with a holder that works with a compound bow.
Size
Packing out an elk from the Colorado high country? You might want a 90L+ bag. Going pheasant hunting in Wyoming? A 30L pack with snacks and an extra layer might be all you need. REI wrote a great article about what size backpack you might need for different activities if you need more help deciding how big is big enough.
Design
This feature ties into the size aspect, but different backpacks are designed for different hunting objectives. Some are smaller and meant to be taken out for a day or two, holding just your extra gear and ammo. Others are meant for a week-long expedition where you hike in and hike out everything on your back. Decide what fits your needs best and go from there.
“Mute” zipper and material
Good hunters are quiet hunters. The less noise your equipment makes, the less likely you are to scare off your prey. Look for muted zippers, rustle-free material, and padded frames to soften the noises.
Purpose
What do you need it for? How long is your hunt? Do you need a rifle, bow, knife, or pistol holster? Will you need a meat shelf? Is it waterproof? These are all questions that you need to ask yourself when looking for a backpack.
Fit and adjustability
The fit and adjustability of the backpack are crucial to ensuring an enjoyable and successful hunting trip. If you have not adequately adjusted your pack to suit your body, you are going to suffer. Before stepping onto the trail, practice with a full backpack and see how it fits on your shoulders, your hips, and along the length of your torso. If there are any problems, then adjust accordingly until you are satisfied. If your pack isn’t that adjustable, consider a new pack.
Functionality
What do you need on the pack? Will it sufficiently store all of your gear? Is there space for water, food, and first aid kits? Can you reach your rifle when you walk around the corner and your prize is in sight? Are you hunting along plains or in the woods? It might not seem like these things will matter but being sure that your pack can do everything you need it to do will set you on the right track for a successful hunt.
Weight
There are two types of weight to consider, the pack’s weight when empty and its weight when full. The lighter it is empty, the more comfortable it will be when full. Look for a backpack that is light enough to not cause you any problems with your shoulders or back. However, don’t sacrifice comfort for shaving off a few extra ounces. We can’t stress this enough.
Durability
High-tensile materials, reinforced stitching, aluminum or titanium frames, and rugged buckles will ensure your pack will last you for the rest of your hunting career.
Internal/external frame pack
Internal frames are more comfortable and more popular, but external frames can carry more weight, which is ideal for big game hunters. When in doubt, consider the size of the game you plan to hunt, as well as the terrain. Accessible by ATV? You could probably use an internal frame. Planning to hike up and over a few ridges? Snag an external frame.
Hunting backpack FAQ
Q: Why do I need a hunting backpack?
A: Regular backpacks are all well and good if you are merely moving to and from classes, the office, or the gym, but when it comes to the potential hazards and unpredictability of the wilderness, a hunting backpack will make your experience more enjoyable.
When hunting, you need proper equipment that offers functionality, purpose, and comfort. This can include anything from unexpected rain (which should always be expected, even in the desert), injury, and enough space for food and water to last you longer than you planned.
Q: What size hunting backpack should you get?
A: The size of your hunting backpack will depend on how long you intend to stay out in the wilderness and the size of the game you plan to pack out.
If you are taking a short trek into the wilderness, then a simple day pack that is anywhere between 30 and 40L (1831 to 2441in³) in capacity should do for up to three days. This size will give you sufficient room for a change of clothes, water, hunting gear, and food while still having room to spare for additional gear. For those of you hunting with a group, you will be able to share this gear to spread the load.
On longer hunting trips, it is crucial that you purchase a backpack that will hold several days’ worth of food, ammo, clothing, and shelter. It’s not just gear that you need to consider, though. If you are hunting big game like elk or deer, then having a strong and reliable freighter or meat shelf to help you carry what you kill is essential. These meat shelves typically only come with larger backpacks and the bag must be robust enough to handle both the weight of your gear as well as the weight of the meat you’re packing out.
Another factor to think about is how comfortable your pack will be. The longer you’re out hunting, the more comfortable it should be. When hunting, you want to be as comfortable as possible to focus on your target. Having a backpack that alleviates pressure points on your back and shoulders will go a long way to helping you enjoy your trek. Finding a backpack that provides ample ventilation is crucial for minimizing sweat and maximizing an enjoyable, successful hunting experience.
Q: Which frame should you choose?
A: There are two types of frames that you can choose from when considering your backpack: an internal frame and an external frame. As the names suggest, the difference is where the frames are situated on the pack.
External frames used to be the norm for hiking and hunting packs. However, more recent designs have started to feature internal frames since they’re usually more compact and easier to maneuver. This form-fitting design reduces the chance of catching the bag on branches, rock, etc.
With external frame hunting backpacks, you will find that you are able to carry larger and heavier loads since they offer greater support and additional places to lash meat onto.
Q: Why do some backpacks have a hip belt?
A: A better question might be, “Why doesn’t every backpack have a hip belt?” Hip belts can distribute up to 90% of your pack’s weight onto your hips, which is where the majority of people can carry weight without pain. There is nothing cool about back pain, so let go of your ego and get buckled up; your spine will be thanking you for the next fifty years.
But it isn’t just the weight distribution that makes hip belts so useful. Many of these waist belts come with stash pockets and loops to store water, snacks, or a pistol.
Q: What should I pack in my hunting backpack?
A: If it’s your first time out hunting, check out this checklist for beginners from Dick’s Sporting Goods. In general, make sure you have an appropriate amount of food, water, protective layers, shelter, and emergency supplies.
Q: How do I clean and wash my hunting backpack?
A: REI has a great article about how to wash backpacks made from different materials. In general, start with mild dish soap and warm water, but make sure to rinse your backpack thoroughly. Leftover soap could damage the integrity of your waterproofing. Let your pack air dry — never put it in the dryer!
Q: How do I adjust my hunting backpack?
A: Each backpack will have different adjustable points, from the shoulder straps to the hip belt, to the height of the torso. Your best bet is to check out the manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions. Sierra Designs has a great video on how to fit and adjust your backpack to your body’s specifications.
Sources:
- Deer Hunting Tips – Mass.gov
- 2021 White-Tailed Deer Hunting Season Guide – Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department
- Hunters’ Gear List – Department of Conservation
