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Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Hunting is not fun if you don’t have right hunting bag to carry all equipment with. We have come up with a list of the best hunting backpacks on the market to make your hunts more fun. Any hunter worth their salt has a set of equipment he takes along to his hunting expeditions. Of course, it is not just one gun and one hunting knife but several that may include scopes, binoculars, snacks to maintain energy and water to keep hydrated. As a matter of fact, it is tough out there, and you need your survival kit to make it.
The challenges that hunters face such as tracking, watching the game and walking long distances is what makes the activity so much fun. However, it would not be fun if you don’t have right hunting bag to carry all the equipment with – think about how much difference a duck hunting backpack would make when duck hunting. To help you out, we have come up with a list of the best hunting backpacks on the market to make your hunts more fun.
Quick Answer: The best hunting backpacks Reviewed
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Top Pick
All the bags in this review would make a decent choice. They have all the features that hunters will find useful such as ruggedness, carrying comfort, durability and many pockets to organize your stuff. However, ALPS OutdoorZ Commander bag is the best among them.
First of all, this hunting bag has a secure lashing system that makes it easy to carry meat. In fact, it is one of the best hunting packs for packing out meat. Its carrying capacity is quite significant and can hold up to 7lbs meaning that you can haul a quarter elk on your own. And at 2lbs, this pack is pretty lightweight and has a hydration pocket. In all honesty, this is one bag that will support your hunting activities pretty well.
Here are the top 10 best hunting backpacks on the market:
1. ALPS OutdoorZ Commander + Pack Bag
Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is one of the best hunting backpacks that help to make your hunting manageable. It has excellent features that will prove convenient. And with a spotting scope pocket, rifle holder, two large pockets and other side pockets, this bag allows you to bring everything you need for the hunt. Its design is indeed for those looking for a tactical bag. If you are planning on hauling meat from the hunting field, then this bag is perfect for that purpose. It is one of the best hunting packs for hauling meat, as well as all your equipment. The bag has a unique lashing system to hold your meat well. With padded shoulder straps and waist belt, this pack is comfortable even when handling heavy meat.
A flashlight and a knife are two must-haves when going out in the wild and this bag has pockets to hold them – a real survival pack. This bag is both a freighter frame and backpack. Considering these features and the excellent storage capacity, it is simple to understand why this bag is one of the best for hunting. Our handy guide to the best tactical backpacks features more great products like this.
Features
- An internal divider – horizontal
- Top loading
- Has a rifle holder
- Padded shoulder straps and
- Comes with a port for hydration
- Lightweight – 7lbs total weight
- Made from the durable Nylon Ripstop
- A truly versatile backpack
- Numerous attachment points
- A zippered compartment at the bottom any hiker will find convenient
- It is hydration compatible
2. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Back Pack
Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is one of the best backcountry hunting packs and the second backpack from Alpz Outdoorz, and that should tell you something about them – they are premium hunting backpack makers. This product is specially made to hold a bow, and so it is most appropriate for bow hunters. But that does not mean it cannot carry a rifle. The backpack has an attractive high capacity of 2700 cubic inches that will really help you with your stuff when moving around. Simply, this is one perfect backpack made for the outdoors and you are right at home using it in your hunting trips.
The standout feature on this bag is the bow holder that you can easily pull down and stow away when you are not using it – how convenient? The pack supports a pretty wide variety of rifles and bows so you can be free to use whatever weapon you love. If you are using a bow, all you need to do is tuck the bow into its corner and move along. This bag also has adjustable straps that allow you to flip open the bag by up to 90 degrees. There are many pouches you can use to organize your hunting stuff. The top D-ring is pretty convenient as it allows you to hang the bag on branch or nail – you may need to do this when camping. The undivided central compartment is perfect for holding all of the stuff you will need for a day. For more similar options for going fishing, check out our guide to the best fishing backpacks.
Features
- Hydration pocket
- Comes with a bow or gun holder
- Shelf pocket for easier organization
- Comes with a rain cover
- Has an aluminum frame
- Has a quiver holder
- At 4.1lbs, this pack is pretty lightweight
- Has an internal frame
- A 2700 cubic inches capacity
3. ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is yet another top quality backpack from Alps Outdoorz which you can choose for your next hunting trip. This bag helps you carry a heavy load easily and comfortably. Just tighten the waists straps, and you are set to carry that elk for long distances. The bag comes with an excellent camouflage color allowing you to blend in easily – the elk may not see you hiding in the bush. It is one roomy bag and can easily reach 4500 cubic inches when you unstrap the expandable section. You can take several pairs of clothes, a bulky camera and anything else you may consider necessary for the trip – such a great outdoor bag.
Unlike most other hunting bags, you can use the expanded section to carry meat. You can easily zip and unzip the bag as you would like to make it easier to move around. In order to secure heavy loads, there are extension straps you can use. It also has an internal aluminum H-design for carrying those heavy loads – it will not bulk under pressure. This makes it easy for you to move heavy items around. The central compartment has an organization pocket that you will need to organize everything you need for the trip – pretty convenient.
A sizeable padded scope holder together with the padded sleeve holder ensures that your hands are free for other important tasks at hand.
Features
- Has a hydration compatible port
- Has spotting scope pocket
- Extension straps when you need to transport large objects
- Can accommodate a rifle, handgun, and bow
- An adjustable torso
- Padded shoulder straps and harness for your comfort
- Has a built-in rain cover
- Wing pockets for your weapons
- Internal aluminum design for strength
4. ALPS OutdoorZ Big Bear Hunting Day Pack
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for an extremely light and convenient backpack, then the Big Bear is a perfect choice. It weighs only 2lbs and has a wonderful camo pattern. It is pretty versatile in that you can use it as a daypack or fanny pack depending on your needs. Like a fanny pack, this backpack has sufficient storage to carry your stuff for short distances. You can also expand it into a daypack when you need more space.
It is a versatile backpack – you can carry water, food, emergency kit and anything else you consider appropriate for your day hunting trip. There is also sufficient room for your tracking devices such as a trail camera, scoops, and other necessary equipment that make your hunt easier. The bag has ample compartments with two side pockets and a pocket on the front side to make for more natural organization. The padded waist belt is removable and has pockets are easily accessible for putting away some of your smaller stuff. All the pockets in this backpack are a nice feature.
It has a padded shoulder harness with a turkey call pocket, binocular pocket, and a camera pocket. Simply speaking, this is a great tracking backpack – no doubt. The pack comes with adjustable and detachable shoulder straps for a high level of convenience.
Features
- A capacity of 800 cubic inches
- A state camo pattern
- Lightweight – only 2lbs
- A large central compartment and several pockets for more natural organization
- A padded shoulder harness
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps
5. Eberlestock X2 Pack
Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This backpack is the true definition of a full freighter pack, and its standout features tell you that much. This pack comes with two pretty unique hydration systems in the form of pouches. The padded wing pockets provide the necessary space for tripods and spotting scopes – you need this as a hunter. Its internal aluminum frame gives the bag a great structure to hold most of the items easily.
Its upper compartment can easily buckle down for easier access to your items and secure load distribution. If you are in need of additional space, the bag comes with MOLLE and PAL webbing where you can easily attach additional pouches. And if you are a big game hunter, the x2 compression straps are something that you will genuinely love – they are pretty sturdy to handle a quarter buck. The fully-meshed back panel is quite comfortable. There is a large air gap ensuring your back is receiving adequate air for extreme comfort – no one said that hunting should be any harder than needed. The padding is also sufficient and makes it easy to use for longer periods of time.
It has extra-thick waistbands for yet another feature that enhances your comfort. The ‘shooter‘s harness’ is wholly breathable and quite comfortable. You can easily adjust it vertically to your comfort and preference.
Features
- Two hydration pockets
- Padded wing pocket for your optics
- Has MOLLE and PAL webbing
- Tough X2 compression straps
- Meshed back panel make it easy for you
- A lightweight backpack
- Has easy to use battery pockets
- Compatible with side scabbards and butt bucket
- A shooter’s harness that is vertically adjustable
- Aluminum internal frame
6. Fieldline Pro Series Treeline Backpack
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If you are planning a day on the hunt, then you need a backpack that is easy to carry and use. Typically, you will need something comfortable regardless of the weather, and this pack covers that well. The main compartment is quite roomy, and you will not need to leave anything behind. There are pouches made of elastic mesh for the water bottles. You will need to keep hydrated while on the hunt so that you can keep active and alert. The material and the overall design will support stealth as you try to sneak up on the animals.
This is a pretty versatile bag that you could also use for more than just hunting. You can make it a school bag or a hiking backpack among others.
Features
- Elastic mesh pouches
- Roomy peripheral compartment
- Quiet zippers
- Has MOLLE
- A shoulder strap system that with sternum slider that is adjustable
- Compression straps that keep the backpack balanced
- Elastic mesh pouches for water bottles
- A padded back for maximum comfort
- A hydration reservoir
- Polyester made
7. Timber Hawk Killshot Backpack
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is among the most popular backpacks you will find around. For starters, this backpack has a great rifle and bow storage system that any hunter will find useful. It has many lashing points should you feel the need to have more storage space. The bag also comes with an internal rain cover that is big enough to cover the whole bag. There is a designated pouch for holding this cover when it is not in use. It has a twill fabric lining that is pretty quiet and durable.
Its main compartment together with accessory pockets on either side provides adequate storage to haul the stuff you need when hunting. The pouch located on the shoulder strap can hold your digital devices such as radios and phones. The bag is pretty quiet ensuring that no game will hear you when moving in the woods. It also has a shoulder strap you can adjust for your convenience. The size of your torso does not matter. These straps are also a source of stability, as well as, comfort. The compression straps ensure that the bag is more comfortable to carry – you can reduce it to size when need be.
Features
- A capacity 54.5 liters
- Roomy main compartment
- Many webbed loops
- A shoulder strap pouch that is also removable
- Lightweight
- A flexible internal flame
- A detachable pouch for your rifle
- Has a rain cover
- Numerous lashing points
- A twill fabric lining that is pretty silent
- Compression straps to reduce the size of the bag when not in use
8. Badlands Superday Hunting Backpack
Last update on 2024-12-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As a hunter, you want a bag that can easily hold all your hunting gear so that your hands are free to do other essential tasks such as carrying your rifle or binoculars while tracking game. This Badlands Superday Camouflage Hunting Backpack fits the bill as an ideal hunting pack. It has adequate capacity to carry everything that you think you need for your next hunt. The craftsmanship put into this bag is top notch. The fabric is quite strong and durable – just what you need for an outdoor environment. It is also one of those quiet materials that will help you remain hidden while you move.
This backpack can hold a bow and an arrow making a decent choice for bow users. It also has an inbuilt side holster for a firearm. The backpack also carries an ergonomic design to match the contour of the human body. This hunting backpack is thus pretty comfortable and has enough space to haul anything that you want.
Features
- Roomy main compartment
- Quality product
- Ergonomically designed
- Has waist belt pockets that are easy to access
- A pistol holster on the hip belt
- 5 external compression straps
- A foam suspension
- Seven pockets
- Three compartments
- 1950 cubic inches
9. Explorer Tactical Gun Concealment Backpack
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is not just your regular old bag, and its features clearly indicate this. This backpack is one that stands above the rest when it comes to ruggedness and all-weather use. This means that you will not have to worry about your optical equipment should a downpour come from nowhere – you know how weather can be. This is a very versatile backpack that you can use anywhere. Whether you are planning on hiking, hunting, or for everyday use, you have a perfect companion. Basically, there about six diverse designs and you only need to determine which is best for you.
The bag has numerous pockets you can use to organize all your hunting equipment – there is a pouch for each of your essential stuff such as a knife and ammo. There is a laptop compartment for those that just can’t leave technology at home.
With well-balanced padded shoulder straps, the backpack emerges as one comfortable to wear bag. Its zippers work flawlessly so that you do not get stuck in the middle of tracking game – it can be quite frustrating to get stuck when reaching for the caller or any other equipment. However, this bag is best for those looking for military preparedness and may lack some of the essential features you require as a hunter. For more great products like this, check out our guide to the best concealed carry backpacks.
Features
- Versatile
- All-weather use
- 600D x 600D polyester made
- Has many pockets
- A gun concealment compartment
- Molle system
- Padded shoulder straps
- Hydration ready
10. Slumberjack Bounty Backpack
Last update on 2024-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One bag designed specifically for hunting is the Slumberjack Bounty 2.0 Backpack, Kryptek Highlander. For starters, the bag comes with a dedicated side pocket for a spotter which doubles up as a wing-type feature. This dedicated hunting backpack has an easy to access main compartment. This compartment has an efficient U-shape zipper that ensures it can open fully. It can hold several pieces of equipment such as an extra jacket for the chilly conditions or anything else you may need.
With PALs webbing, you can add other carrying accessories to the bag such as a rifle holder. This means that the bag is very adaptable and convenient. It comes with its own weapon hauling system which makes it easy to haul a weapon. The backpack performs admirably when it comes to hauling heavy loads. It has a load shelf feature that you can carry quarters with. And to make it easier to carry, the bag has an adjustable suspension you can make use of when necessary – this is important when carrying heavy loads. Among the most important features of this bag is the gun rest. You can use it to stabilize your shot after spotting and tracking game.
Features
- A convenient side pocket for a spotter
- Has a large main compartment with an easy to access U-shape zipper
- Kelly power pull design
- A PALs webbing
- A weapon hauling system
- A sewn-in pouch for quick access.
- A load shelf feature
- Adjustable suspension
What to look for when buying the top rated hunting backpack
Price
This is among the most important factors to consider when choosing a backpack. As a rule of thumb, don’t just look for the cheapest bags you can find as they are likely to disappoint you. As the adage goes, ‘cheap is always expensive’ – in the long run, of course. Take your time and determine which features you want in a backpack and then go for the best bag that meets your budget.
However, that does not mean emptying your savings for a backpack. There are different price ranges and different quality that you are free to choose from. You can be lucky enough and find the best hunting backpack under 100 or go for more if that makes sense for you. Pick the backpack in your price range and having the most fitting features for you – this may require you to loosen up the purse strings.
Brand
In every market, there is one manufacturer that exceeds the others in terms of quality. In simpler terms, there is always a Lamborghini and a Toyota, and it is not always so hard to tell them apart. If you are out for the best quality, then online reviews and product feedback will always help point you in the right direction.
Previous users are the best to tell you how one product performs in relation to another. Some of the standout hunting manufacturers include ALPS, Eberlestock, and Badlands. However, that does not mean that you will not find other premium quality products from other brands. Avoid the cheapest with constant negative reviews because they will likely disappoint you.
Is it part of a kit?
Some products such as the best backpack for elk hunting sometimes come as part of a kit that makes it convenient to get as a package deal. Determine whether the whole kit has the features most beneficial to you. Please note that not all items may be fitted to your needs. Don’t let the many items in the kit blind you to picking the best hunting backpack.
The Weapons you need to carry
Most of the hunting backpacks carry a design that accommodates a rifle. In most cases, these best hunting backpacks will have spaces for extra rounds of ammunition and hunting knives as well. If you are a bow hunter, then there are also backpacks designed to easily hold a bow and arrow quiver.
The Length of your Hunting Expedition
Some backpack designs can hold a significant amount of supplies for a day or two. If you are planning a more extended expedition, then you might as well go with the backpack designed to persist several days in the wild. A bag with a hydration system comes to mind.
Color
You can find camouflage sling backpacks for more elusive game. Solid colors for such items as a duck hunting backpack are also available and you can easily choose them. Avoid bold colors so you blend into your environment, but still don’t forget to wear your hunter’s orange!
Capacity
There are different capacity backpacks and the best for you is the one that carries everything you need on your hunting trip.
Weight
There some backpacks with both an internal and external frame. Such bags may prove a little heavy even when empty. There are those with redistributed weight making it secure and easy to carry. Some bags may have many pockets where you put your stuff and could make it heavy depending on whether you load it up or not. Make sure that you consider how heavy you need the bag to be and go with it.
Other Features
Some of the best hunting backpacks come with extra features designed to make your task of carrying the equipment from one place to the other easier. As much as possible, choose those features that are most fitting for your situation.
What are the types of hunting backpacks?
Daypacks
The best hunting day pack is comparable to the typical school pack. The only notable difference is its ruggedness and additional features that the hunting version boasts. Daypacks are quite suitable for hunters that trek a lot.
Framed Packs
These are better than daypacks if you are going out for longer or carrying more gear. However, these packs may be overkill if your hunting trips are just a day long. Regardless, framed packs are perfect if you are combining hiking, camping, and hunting. They are most suitable if you are going to be in the wild for more than a day.
Framed Hauler
These backpacks are effective for hauling meat. They usually have a small storage leaving a significant amount frame for the meat. Framed haulers are appropriate for blind and stand hunting since they make it quite a breeze to carry the meat to the truck or camp. Our list of the best elk hunting backpacks has multiple examples of these type of hunting backpacks.
Bow Hunting Backpacks
If you are a bow hunter – some people love the thrill, silence and clean shots that come with having bows – then you want a backpack that accommodates your unique arsenal. Bow backpacks provide a safe and efficient storage of your bow and arrows. It is important that these backpacks have an efficient way of carrying a bow and an arrow quiver so that they will not prove a hazard risk. They must have an efficient system making removal of the weapons easy and flawless. The best hunting backpacks of this type make it easy to retrieve your bow without damaging or bending it.
The best bow backs should be convenient. They should be a source of optimal functionality so you can use your hands for something else when needed.
Scabbard Backpack
These are specifically for hauling firearms or a bow and arrow. Unlike other the other types, these backpacks are attentive to detail and are what some people may call, ‘the perfect hunting backpacks.’ For the majority of these bags, the storage system must be resistant to water and elements – you will mostly be outdoors and ruggedness alone is not sufficient. It should also be lightweight in addition to being durable.
Hunters need to remain unseen and unheard so that they can employ an element of surprise. A bag should enable you to remain undetectable and so should be made of a fabric that makes the least noise. It should also be scent-free. The scabbard backpack is durable and protects your weapon. It makes it easy to retrieve the weapons in a quick and easy manner. And most importantly these backpacks must be designed to ensure your safety.
Quiet Backpacks
Every serious hunter needs the right equipment to achieve stealth. The hunting backpack material should be one that produces as little noise as possible. These types of backpacks make it easier for you when hunting animals with sharp auditory and olfactory senses. Good hunters know the value of remaining hidden when tracking the animals you are hunting. The design of quiet backpacks considers the fact that wind can carry sounds which the animal can easily pick up. Therefore, noisy elements such as Velcro and noisy zippers are not part of the pack.
Wrapping Up
When looking for a hunting backpack, you want a durable product that can easily withstand the tough outdoor conditions. You also need something functional and convenient. It should also be a bag that demonstrates a high level of ruggedness and have a reasonable carrying capacity. All the products in this review are quality and would make a great choice. However, the best hunting backpack among them is ALPS OutdoorZ Commander backpack. This bag has a high level of ruggedness as it is made from nylon ripstop fabric.
It has a convenient gun holder and several pockets to organize all your hunting stuff. You will be pretty good with this backpack on the hunt.
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