Hunting season is around the corner, and it’s time to start preparing for your best trip yet. One of the most critical pieces of equipment you need is a quality hunting backpack. This article will break down the best bow hunting backpacks on the market so that you can find one that fits your needs perfectly!
As hunters, we spend most of our time outdoors in nature. That means that any trip into the woods is going to require us to carry our gear. A quality, durable bow hunting backpack will be necessary to ensure that you have all the essential equipment for your trip safely at hand when you need it most.
What should I look for?
When searching for a bow hunting backpack, consider three things: capacity, comfort level, and weight distribution. You want a pack that allows you to carry all your essential hunting equipment and still is comfortable no matter how rugged the terrain.
5 Best Bow Hunting Backpack Reviews
The best bow hunting backpacks are outlined in the following review, which categorizes them by function. Because not all packs are manufactured equally, it’s critical to understand the significant characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of various versions.
The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Pack is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a bow hunting backpack with quiver holders. It received the highest overall score for ease of use.
Users praised the bag’s huge storage capacity and clever compartment placement, which ensures that your belongings are readily available at all times.
Product Specs
- Weight:4 lbs 1 oz
- Size (cu in)/Carrying Capacity (L):2700 cu. in/44L
- Color/Pattern: Camo Pattern: Realtree Edge
- Convenience Features: Drop-down rifle/bow holder pocket, quiver holders, and hydration bladder
- Number of Pockets: 2
Accommodates
- Bow
- Rifle
- Handgun
Benefits
- It’s a great pleasure to wear.
- It offers a very reasonable price-to-value ratio.
- Two separate compartments
- Front pocket with a shelf design
- Has Quiver and rifle boot holders
- A rain cover included
- It’s got a hydration pocket, which is excellent.
- For hanging from a tree, there is a D-ring.
Drawbacks
- It won’t increase the ventilation in your back.
- There are no additional stitch reinforcements in this pattern.
The ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix hunting backpack is an excellent choice if you’re looking for the best bow hunting backpack with quiver holders. It received high scores in ease of use and storage capacity, making it one of our top choices overall.
Product Specs
- Weight: 4 lbs 8 oz
- Size (cu in)/Carrying Capacity (L):2700 cu. in/44L
- Color/Pattern: Camo Pattern: Realtree Edge
- Convenience Features: Drop-down rifle/bow holder pocket, quiver holders, and hydration bladder
- Number of Pockets: 2
Accommodates
- Crossbow
- Bow
- Rifle
- Handgun
Benefits
- Fantastic quality.
- The waist belt is a great addition; it’s easily adjustable and fits snugly around your hips to keep you comfortable during any demanding hike or hunt.
- Some brilliant pockets have lots of storage space inside for all kinds of gear.
- It also has two mesh side pockets where you can put water bottles.
- There is a rain cover included with this model.
- It’s got exterior straps to hold your bow or gun in place as you climb up and down hills, so it stays stable no matter what kind of activity you’re doing.
Drawbacks
- The pockets are not well located for easy access while being worn.
The SAS Archery Recurve Takedown Bow Backpack is an excellent choice if you’re looking for the best bow hunting backpack with arrow tubes. It received high scores in storage capacity and ease of use, which made it one of our top choices overall.
The SAS Archery backpack is tailored for recurve bows. It’s also fully cushioned and has an arrow tube for complete protection of your bow. Customers adore the pack’s dependability. Other protective elements include a soft inside cloth and an additional detachable limb riser bag that you can remove.
Product Specs
- Product Dimensions : 27.56 x 18.11 x 9.06 inches
- Weight: 5 lbs
- Color/Pattern: Black
- Convenience Features: With Extra Removable Limb Riser Bag and Arrow Tube Holder
- Number of Pockets: 8
What’s in the box
- 1 x SAS Bow Backpack
- 1 x Arrow Tube
Benefits
- The bag has a lot of space; there is room for everything you need on your trip.
- It’s a highly comfortable bag to carry around all day.
- Despite the weight, it doesn’t feel heavy at all when wearing this backpack.
- There are so many pockets and compartments that can hold any gear or equipment you need to carry.
- It’s an excellent backpack for both hunting and traveling purposes.
Drawbacks
- It’s got a bit of weight to it.
- Some users found the zippers challenging to open and close, particularly when wearing gloves or mittens.
- The arrow tube is not detachable. Its height might interfere with your draw length if you’re using an extendable bow riser (you’ll need this for your arm and wrist to be in a comfortable position).
The bag used in the ‘Most Dangerous Game’ probably belonged to the antagonist, given its exceptional quality and versatility.
This backpack can be expanded by another 1200 cubic inches by removing the expandable pack part, which contains an already massive 3300 cubic inches.
Product Specs
- Capacity: 38L/2325 in³
- Weight: 4 lbs. 5 oz
- Color/Pattern: Wideland
- Convenience Features: Rain cover, bottom, and side compression straps
- Number of Pockets: drop-down pocket, rain cover, H2O pocket/port, and side mesh pockets
Benefits
- The price is excellent, considering all the features you get with this backpack.
- It’s got so many pockets and compartments, it can hold whatever gear you need on your hunting trips.
- These are some of the best bow hunting packs out there because they’re comfortable to carry around for long periods without adding too much weight.
- The material is solid and durable, so you can expect this pack to last for a long time.
Drawbacks
- Some users found the adjustment straps challenging to tighten or loosen.
- There might be some leakage issues with the side mesh pockets after extended use.
- The back of the bag has no padding, which could cause discomfort.
The Badlands hunting backpack is the most rugged and functional bag in this review. It’s made of heavy-duty material that can stand up to any weather condition you might encounter on your trip. However, it still has a sleek design that won’t draw attention.
The following camouflage backpack has all the hallmarks of an exceptional hunting bag. This hunting backpack, like Ringworld’s Scrith, is constructed of lightweight yet durable material. KXO-32. Made from a unique material that is ultra-light and highly weather-resistant, it’s the quietest and most rigid bag on the market.
With multiple straps and compartments, this bag may contain virtually any hunting gear. This rucksack features a T-6 aluminum frame to decrease some of the strain off your back for added comfort.
Product Specs
- Product Dimensions : 13.3 x 6 x 28.1 inches
- Weight: 5.42 Pounds
- Convenience Features: KXO-32 fabric, Zipper closure
Benefits
- The price is excellent, considering all the features you get with this backpack.
- It’s one of the best bags out there for hunters because it can carry everything they need on a trip without being too bulky or heavy to wear comfortably.
- Even though it has so many compartments, you’ll still have easy access to your items, thanks to the top and side zippers.
Drawbacks
- Some users found the bag too bulky when fully packed.
- The hip belt is not detachable, so it can get in your way while you’re trying to shoot if your pack’s sitting low on your hips instead of high up near your chest.
What To Look For In A Hunting Backpack?
A reliable hunting backpack is an investment for any bowhunter that will last years and years if maintained properly. Before you purchase a new hunting backpack, keep the following features in mind:
Backpack Size– It’s essential to choose an appropriate size for your needs and storage requirements. A larger pack may be necessary if you’re carrying more gear or supplies with you on any day out in the woods. Still, it will also take up more room in your car or truck if you need to transport it somewhere.
Storage– Make sure the backpack has plenty of internal storage space for all of your gear, but also consider what kind of external storage options are available as well.
Many high-quality hunting backpacks will include unique straps on either side that can hold a bow or gun securely.
Material– Quality hunting backpacks are made of either nylon or some other form of ripstop fabric that’s both durable and lightweight for easy transport when you’re on the go.
Waterproofing– Hunting can be unpredictable, so that it may rain at any time during your trip to the woods. A waterproof backpack will ensure your gear stays dry when you’re out in the elements, so be sure to opt for one with this feature if you live in a relatively rainy region.
Durability– Hunting backpacks are made to last. Your best bet is a pack that’s been around for a while, has many reviews and high ratings on Amazon or other online retailers, and boasts durable stitching of both the bag itself as well as its zippers.
These qualities will ensure you get years of dependable service from your backpack, which you can also pass down through the generations.
Practicality– Hunting backpacks are designed to be adaptable and functional, so they can quickly go from a day’s hike in the woods with your bow to an overnight trip on horseback, carrying all of your gear for big game hunting or camping out under the stars.
The best backpack will have multiple pockets that can house various equipment, compartments to keep valuables secure and protected from the elements, and exterior straps for hanging your bow or gun when not in use.
Comfort– Hunting backpacks are built with hunters’ needs in mind. You’ll want one that’s got foam shoulder pads, so it rests comfortably on your shoulders during long hikes through the woods and sternum straps, so the pack stays stable while you climb up or down hills.
The best hunting backpack will also have a waist belt for even more stability and weight distribution when you’re carrying heavy loads of gear over long distances.
Bonus Features– Hunting backpacks can have a lot of small, minor features that add to the overall convenience and value over time. Some backpack models come with exterior pockets for easy access when you’re in a hurry or need to grab something quickly before setting off into the woods.
Others may include tripod straps, so your rifle or bow is held securely at your side. Look for a backpack with all features that will make your life easier in the long run!
Price- Finally, consider your budget carefully before purchasing anything. While it’s essential to choose an appropriate backpack size and storage capacity based on your needs, don’t go overboard either by choosing something too large or too small for your budget.
Find a backpack that will last you years and is in line with what you can afford to spend on such an investment, so it’s something you’ll be able to use year after year when out hunting during the fall season!
What Should You Carry in a Hunting Backpack?
Here are the items you should include in your hunting backpack:
Water: You’ll need plenty of water to last you throughout your day in the woods. Keep a bottle or bladder full of fresh, clean water inside your backpack for easy access when you’re on the go.
Water Filter: A high-quality hunting backpack will include an internal pouch where you can store a specialized filter that removes chlorine and other impurities from water. That will ensure you can drink from any fresh, clean body of water without a risk of getting sick or contracting a dangerous disease.
Food: Depending on how long your day in the woods will be, it may also be wise to pack some food inside your hunting backpack alongside your other gear and supplies. You never know when you’re going to get lost in the woods and find yourself stuck there overnight, so a granola bar or two won’t go amiss.
First Aid Kit: A hunter’s most important tool is his knowledge of the outdoors, but it doesn’t hurt to have some basic supplies on hand just in case something goes wrong. Keep your first aid kit in your hunting backpack for easy access in case you get injured.
Gloves: It’s wise to keep a good pair of work gloves inside your pack, too. They may come in handy if you find yourself climbing or scaling any rocky terrain while out on the hunt, and they’ll protect against splinters when handling wooded stakes or branches as well.
Gun: If you’re hunting with a gun, it would be wise to carry your firearm inside your hunting backpack when in transit from one location to the next. Please make sure you have plenty of ammunition on hand as well and that both are stored carefully, so they aren’t jostled around or damaged during transport between sites!
Bow: If you’re bow hunting, be sure to carry your high-performance weapon inside a well-padded bag explicitly made for archery equipment. You’ll want extra foam or soft material that won’t harm the sensitive parts of your compound bow while in transit.
Ammo and Arrows: It’s also wise to keep some spare ammunition and arrows for your bow inside of your hunting backpack. While you’re out in the woods, these items are easily accessible. You can replace them without hassle if something unfortunate happens to them during transit or storage.
Hunting Knife: A good knife is a must for any hunter, and it’s essential to store this tool safely within easy reach while on the go. It’s wise to keep your knife inside a dedicated pocket within your backpack, so it doesn’t get caught on anything or slip out while you’re climbing up or down steep hillsides in the woods.
Toilet paper: If you’re a hunter, the chances are good that your bathroom breaks will be something you need to schedule in advance. Since this is the case, make sure you have some extra toilet paper stored inside your hunting backpack at all times just in case nature calls while out and about on any given trip into the woods!
Flashlight: Keeping an LED flashlight in your backpack is always a bright idea for hunters, especially if you plan on being out in the woods during dusk or dawn. It will help you navigate terrain that may be more difficult to see when it’s dark outside!
Map of Your Hunting Route: It’s also wise to keep extra copies of maps with detailed directions and guides printed off so you know where you’re going and how to get there. You never know when a phone or GPS may fail, so it’s best to be prepared with detailed maps that show your route from point A to point B!
Rain gear: Hunting in wet conditions can quickly become dangerous if you’re not adequately prepared. Pack an extra raincoat and waterproof boots inside your hunting backpack just in case the weather decides to take a turn for the worse!
Sleeping bag: Hunting trips tend to be longer than most people expect, so it’s essential to pack some sleeping gear inside your hunting backpack. A sleeping bag will allow you to stay safe and warm at night, even if your campsite isn’t anywhere near flat or level!
Matches: If you don’t pack a lighter and match in your hunting backpack, then you’ll never be able to start that campfire or cook the meat from any kills! It’s vital to keep waterproof matches inside this item if something happens while traveling between locations.
Related Article: What To Pack In A Hunting Backpack
How to Fit a Hunting Backpack
The first step in selecting the most OK hunting pack is considering how much hunting gear you’ll need to take with you.
For a backcountry elk hunter, this might include a tent, food, sleeping bag, bow or rifle, and a frame that can carry 100 pounds of meat.
For a whitetail hunter, the ideal hunting pack might be a daypack that includes lunch, scents, and a few extra layers for long sits. Many packs include compartments designed explicitly for rifles or bows.
When deciding on a bag to hold your equipment, make sure it’s suitable for you.
- To begin, measure your body length. With the top of your hands against the top of your iliac crest — your hip bones — and your thumbs pointed toward one another across your back, stand with your hands on your hips.
- Take your thumbs and make an imaginary line between them. Your torso height is the distance between that line and the bump at the base of your neck. Some bags are available in different sizes, while others may be altered to fit you properly.
- Adjust the straps once the pack fits.
- Fill the bag with weight so it sits on your back as you would while using it. It would be best if you loosened all of the connections.
- Begin by fastening the belt. When you pull the belt around your waist, the cushioned part of it should hug your iliac crest.
- Adjust the shoulder straps, so there is no space between them and your shoulder.
Related Article: How Should A Backpack Fit
Final Thoughts
Finding the best hunting backpack for your needs is a lengthy process, but it will pay off in spades. The best bow backpack can make all the difference between an enjoyable day out on the hunt and sheer misery with heavy gear pulling at your shoulders or awkwardly bumping into trees while you walk through dense foliage.
FAQs
Are All Hunting Backpacks Waterproof?
Although water resistance is a common feature in hunting backpacks, it’s best to double-check the material or other specific details before assuming they are waterproof.
Hunting packs should be weather resistant at a minimum, but many come with rain covers that can protect your gear from light showers while you’re out in the field.
Can You Put A Bow In A Hunting Backpack?
Hunting backpacks are made to accommodate all sorts of equipment, so most can hold a bow securely with its designated straps or pockets.
For the best results, look for one with exterior pockets where you can strap your weapon in when not using it during an outdoor excursion.
What Is the Best Deer Hunting Backpack?
The best deer hunting backpack is one that fits you correctly. Heavy-duty packs that can carry heavy loads without discomfort are also crucial.
Look for a bag that can carry up to 100 pounds and includes a rain cover so you can bring home your prey as well as all of your gear.
Make sure that the pack you’re looking at is also quiet. To prevent scaring off your quarry, pick a bag with buckles and zippers that operate quietly.
How Do I Clean My Hunting Backpack?
You’ll need a power sprayer if it’s been soaked in blood. In the driveway, use a pressure washer to wash it off. Then soak it in a tub of ice-cold water for 30 minutes beforehand or brush washing it and empty the water again.
If possible, use a detergent designed specifically for hunting equipment. After washing it thoroughly, hang it to dry.
How do I clean my hunting backpack by hand?
Here’s how to handwash your hunting backpack:
- Remove all of your equipment from the backpack.
- Remove the bag from the frame.
- If any detachable bags are present, separate them.
- Wipe away any dust from the surface with a brush.
- Wipe the entire bag down with a wet cloth.
- Use any stains, such as wine or coffee, with non-bleach stain removal.
- Fill a big tub with room temperature water, ideally a hunting detergent, such as Scent Killer Clothing Wash, and add some gentle, dye-free, fragrance-free detergent.
- Fill the bag with water and scrub it gently with a soft brush or rag until it’s clean.
- Rinse it completely
- Hang to dry, if possible, upside down.
What Size Pack Do I Need for Elk Hunting?
If you’re looking for a pack that can carry up to 100 pounds of gear, it’s recommendable to get one with lots of pockets. It will most likely necessitate the purchase of a specialized hunting backpack.
If you want to stay out for a long time, the pack volume would be determined by how long you plan on being away from civilization. For extended excursions, 4,000 to 7,000 cubic inches are expected.
What is the best deer backpack for elk hunting?
Whatever kind of elk hunting you do, whether it’s in Mexico or Wyoming, one thing is for sure: packing out 300 pounds of bone-in meat is a possibility. Many packs come with extension straps that allow you to transport meat between the bag and the frame.
It’s also crucial that the backpack fits appropriately since you’ll be carrying up to 100 pounds at once.
Is it possible to utilize my hunting backpack for other activities?
Yes, you can use your hunting backpack for other activities. Most of the best hunting backpacks on the market are multi-function packs that will provide a comfortable fit no matter how you’re using them.
As long as you can carry a lot of weight, don’t have trouble with noise, and have enough pockets, you’ll have a great time on your next hike.
What should I pack for a day of hunting?
Pack water, snacks, and a map if you’re going somewhere new. In addition to packing food, pack a firearm safety kit. Webbing, zipping, and other material should be quiet so as not to scare prey away from your location.
In addition to your stand hunting backpack, it is also recommended that you wear camouflage clothing. Lastly, pack a hunting knife to remove the skin from your prey carefully.
What is the best backpack for day-long backpacking?
Depending on what you’re doing, you may need more or less capacity. Before buying a new daypack, try out the ones you already own with a weighted load and move around.
See how it feels.
How can I make my hunting backpack more comfortable?
The most crucial factor to consider when purchasing a new backpacking pack is how it will feel on your back while you’re wearing it. Even the best daypack that’s barely adequate for hiking trips might not be suitable if it doesn’t fit well.
Isn’t it possible to use a regular backpack instead of the tactical ruck for hunting?
No, it is not possible to utilize a regular backpack instead of the tactical ruck for hunting.
The tactical ruck has lots of pockets that will allow you to carry all your gear around safely. You can also attach additional items such as water bladders or extra flashlights if need be.
The rigid frame inside the pack will keep your load from shifting while you’re climbing or crawling, so it’s safe to say that a tactical ruck is the best option for a hunter.
You can get a hunting backpack with a rigid frame. It will give your pack extra rigidity while helping distribute the weight of your load more evenly around your spine and hips.