10 Best Hunting Backpacks in 2020
A hunting backpack isn’t just a pack; it is a means to take vital lifesaving gear and a means to get your hard-won meat from the backcountry and to your table. Due to this, it is essential to get the best hunting backpack.
How do you find out the right hunting bag for your requirements? It can be hard. To help solve the confusion, we have made this ultimate guide for you.
We will also look into how to select a hunting pack and answering a few of the FAQs later in the article.
This post reviews ten of the best backpacks for hunting, which have gone way beyond a simple bag strapped onto your back. Let us see who makes the grade, shall we?
Comparison Table of the Best Hunting Backpacks
| Model | Material | Capacity | Weight | Number of Pockets | Best For | Check on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALPS OutdoorZ Commander | Nylon ripstop | 5,250 cu-in | 7lbs 5oz | 6 | Backcountry hunting | View Price → |
| ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit | Internal aluminum frame | 2,700 cu-in | 4lbs 1oz | 6 | Bow hunting | View Price → |
| Badlands 2200 | KXO-32 fabric | 2,250 cu-in | 5lbs 15oz | 8 | Deer hunts | View Price → |
| Badlands Superday | REALTREE EDGE CAMO | 1,950 cu-in | 3lbs 15oz | 7 | Day backpacking | View Price → |
| Eberlestock X2 | Microsuede waterproof fabric | 1,830 cu-in | 4lbs 8oz | Multiple pockets | Elk hunt | View Price → |
| Tenzing 2220 | Textile and synthetic | 2,228 cu-in | 4lbs 0oz | 11 | Lightweight hunts | View Price → |
| ALPS OutdoorZ Big Bear | Realtree Edge | 2,700 cu-in | 2lbs 5oz | Two side, front & main | Two packs in one | View Price → |
| Timber Hawk Killshot | Polyester-brushed tricot | 3,429 cu-in | 7lbs 6oz | Multiple pockets | Multi-day backcountry hunts | View Price → |
| ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber | Brushed fabric | 2,285 cu-in | 2lbs 1oz | 6 | When durability and comfort are a must | View Price → |
| Insights Hunting The Vision | Realtree Edge | 1,789 cu-in | 4lbs 5oz | 9 | Fits all compound bows | View Price → |
- ALPS OutdoorZ Commander – Best Backcountry Pack
- ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit – Best Bow Hunting Backpack
- Badlands 2200 – Best Deer Hunting Backpack
- Badlands Superday – Best Hunting Day Pack
- Eberlestock X2 – Best Hunting Backpack for Elk Hunt
- Tenzing 2220 – Best Lightweight Hunting Backpack
- ALPS OutdoorZ Big Bear – Best Hunting Waist Pack
- Timber Hawk Killshot – Hunting Backpack with Rifle Holder
- ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber – Best Under $100
- Insights Hunting The Vision – Best For Packing Out Bows
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander - Best Backcountry Hunting Pack
What We Like
- Lots of room
- Durable & well-designed
- Many different pockets
- Suited to carry larger kills
- Zippers are quite & nice
What We Don’t Like
- It can be heavy to carry in shorter trips
- Crossbar placement can be a little awkward
There are plenty of pockets to make use of in the exterior, so you got plenty of room for bits and pieces. The internal compartment is divided into two quickly enough.
It has a lot of storage capacity, so you may pack everything you require for a long trip. Also, there is ample space to store big kills and a durable frame to support you bring them home.
Featuring numerous handy accessories like pole straps and rifles that have a quick-release feature for easy-entry, this is a bag that will care for you in hunting trips.
The zippers quickly move and will not make much sound when you draw them. They are perfect for as you ought to get back to your backpack and grab anything but do not want to disrupt your game.
For ease of use, this backpack includes a lower opening yet loads off the top; thus, there are various ways by which you may unpack and pack it.
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit - Best Bow Hunting Backpack
What We Like
- Has room to keep your rifle
- High-quality & easy to clean
- Quick access for the various sections
- Has a built-in hydration pouch
- Has a decent carrying capacity & waterproof
What We Don’t Like
- Chest strap not long enough with a hefty coat
- It is somewhat on the heavier side
The Blaze orange rain cover and the brushed “Raintree” camouflage design enable you to blend into the ecosystem while maintaining your equipment dry.
This bag is created for longer outings and has an integrated hydration pocket to ensure that you could quickly access the water. Also, there is a room in it for holding your rifle.
Providing space, comfort, and versatility not present in similar-sized packs, the Pursuit model can securely keep your hunting kit. Also, there is enough space to load for emergencies too.
The internal aluminum frame offers stability, mainly when you’re at rough trails. And it has a total of 2700 cubic inches volume and a range of exterior pouches and storage pockets.
It comes with a divider inside that splits the lower and upper sections of the backpack. It, in return, makes it simpler to access the things that you want.
Also, it includes webbing loops, lashing straps, plus pin attachments that making accessing and carrying tools a snap. It’s an excellent way of increasing the bag’s capacity.
Badlands 2200 - Best Deer Hunting Backpack
What We Like
- Lightweight - weighs five pounds when it is empty
- Can hold loads of weight while not being cumbersome
- Has eight storage pockets to your items
- Unconditional warranty
- Moldable back foam to lend more lumbar support
What We Don’t Like
- May not suit kids & youth hunters
- Bow Boot separately sold
The product is equipped with a hip belt pistol holster and rifle boot together with its ultra-silent KXO-32 fabric that blends into nearly any setting with ease and stealth.
The meat is kept in individual zippered pockets, which are big enough. It allows you to keep the meat secure and fresh until you return to your home or camp.
Sold together with a lifetime warranty meaning Badlands will fix it, and keep supporting it – should the product gets broken. It is a good thing when you want to use it much longer.
It has enough space to take out layers and wrap away for once the climate gets too warm while still staying light enough to not get in the way of your treks.
The pack has a light aluminum frame inside to give extra support to your things and even the weight a little. It’s padded using foam that fits on your back shape.
This bag is well-balanced, surprisingly. The strap’s positioning makes it likely to spread the weight in your back much evenly.
Badlands Superday - Best Hunting Day Pack
What We Like
- Waterproof material
- 7 pockets
- Spacious main compartment
- Strong & rugged
- Ergonomically designed & quality product
What We Don’t Like
- Perfect for only smaller-scale hikes and hunts
- Slightly in the larger part as a daypack
The total volume of this pack is 1440 cubic inches (23.6 liters), and it arrives with as much as 7 pockets. The camouflage pattern lets you mix in the outside environment, too.
Made with ambidextrous holsters to pistols, camo style KXO-32 fabric which is well-suited to bow hunting, plus quick-access waist belt pouches the Badlands’ Superday is a great pack that should last a life long. If it does not, Badlands will repair it for you as many occasions as you want.
The craftsmanship place into this backpack is first class. Also, it is among those quiet fabrics that will let you stay hidden in a few thickets while you wait out for elk.
It is an excellent alternative should you need lots of space for all your weapons of choice and essentials. This one is used to hold anything you need.
The pack boasts an excellent style throughout from extra pockets to zippers and quality materials, which are essential for a dependable backpack.
This product is hydration-compatible, meaning that it can hold a 2-liter water bladder snugly and safely. So, you will not get dehydrated while you do your hunting.
Eberlestock X2 - Best Hunting Backpack for Elk Hunt
What We Like
- Storage room for bows and rifles
- Lightweight & compact
- Ingenious flex chassis meaning it can convert like a seat
- A couple of hydration pockets
- A vertically adjustable shooter’s harness
What We Don’t Like
- Compact model; it is not as suitable for long hunts
- No frame to assist the bulk of a big kill
Dimension-wise, this bag seems compact at a glimpse. However, that is deceiving. The ingenious bat-wing design ensures that the backpack got tons of free space in it.
It features scabbards to bring your rifle and bow. Also, it has a casing to keep your binos. You may also choose to get lock straps to haul your sleeping bag into the backpack.
The entirely-meshed rear panel is undoubtedly comfortable. You will find a considerable air gap making sure your back is getting sufficient air for utmost comfort.
What makes this pack unique, though, is its flex chassis. With this thing, it turns the pack more flexible. You can utilize it like a seat when it is flipped forward.
When the bag is in action, the chassis even out the load correctly. You could then correct the compression straps for getting the ideal weight distribution and fit for yourself.
The positioning of the accessories and pockets makes it simple to access these when you want. You will not have to bother about fiddling in your bag and missing your next predator.
Tenzing 2220 - Best Lightweight Hunting Backpack
What We Like
- Perfect day-trek companion
- Big enough to bring items
- Gun carry boot & foldout bow
- Comfortable over longer distances
- Inner aluminum frame
What We Don’t Like
- Not much organizational pockets
- Hydration bladder hard to place back in once refilling
The product is big enough to manage a day worthy of foods and a Camelbak pocket, and any extra necessities you may need plus the straps are easily adjusted while removing items.
Its specially-created zippers are non-sound producing, which means you will have the edge of absolute stealth while unloading your bag. Also, they are color-coded; therefore, you do not have to squander time searching for the correct compartment.
The individual pockets are great to separate your gear when it comes to priority. The breathable material means that while in the summer times, your body is receiving the cooling airflow that it requires.
It has an internal aluminum frame that aids your back hence keeps the bag’s shape for over 15 miles, despite added bulk that may be removed in the hunt.
Also, there is a bow carry boot and a foldout gun that got a more practical design compared to many others for sale, particularly to daypacks.
It also provides a hydration system; therefore, there is no messing over with water containers. The side pouches on your belt could hold necessary gear.
ALPS OutdoorZ Big Bear - Best Hunting Waist Pack
What We Like
- Shoulder harness is adjustable
- Hunting fanny pack could be expanded to a daypack
- Two quick-entry pockets
- Padded detachable waist belt assures comfort
- Offers a max storage room of 2700 cubic inches
What We Don’t Like
- May not be capable of withstanding heavy downpours
- Lack of frame causes carrying a little difficult
The camo design (Realtree Edge) helps you go unnoticed in the forest, and that is a massive advantage if you ought to ensure that your possible targets do not spot you ahead of you identify them.
It weighs at merely 2 lbs and 5 ounces. The point that it’s lightweight does not make its volume too little, though, because it can provide you as much as 44 liters (or 2,700 cubic inches).
It’s a flexible backpack since you can transport emergency kit, food, water, and whatever else you think needed to your day adventure. Also, there is sufficient space for your tracking gadgets.
This pack’s waist belt is padded. You will find two quick-access pockets in which the version is outfitted along, so you may use these to store your most essential tools as close as possible.
It has a padded shoulder harness along with a camera pocket, binocular pocket, and a turkey call pocket. The backpack comes with detachable and adjustable shoulder straps to a high degree of convenience.
Timber Hawk Killshot - Best Hunting Backpack with Rifle Holder
What We Like
- A versatile internal frame
- Multiple weapon strapping places
- Highly customizable
- Spacious main compartment
- Comes with a rain cover
What We Don’t Like
- Not waterproof
- Bulky for its stature
It arrives in a camo design that makes it simple to blend with the brushes, and it’s built to be silent, so you do not have to fear of startling close by prey.
The Killshot consists of durable compression straps that provide lots of stability while you are lugging heavier loads, plus the rapid release clips allow you to immediately drop the pack when you want to climb or run in a rush.
There are lots of pockets outside and in for storing regularly used goods, and the large internal compartment is ideal for holding clothing changes.
You will enjoy the built-in hydration bladder. Able to hold about 2 liters water, it’ll maintain you hydrated while you are awaiting your prey.
Also, it has a useful orange rain fly, which not only tells your existence to other pro hunters; this also preserves your items dry.
While most packs with a weapon holder have a single place that could carry your rifle, this has many. You can tie the rifle scabbard included where you want this to go to maximum comfort.
ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber - Best Hunting Backpack Under $100
What We Like
- Can hold 2285 cubic inches of equipment
- Lightweight & comfortable
- Surprisingly cheap for the larger size
- Has a total of six pockets
- Waist and shoulder straps for even weight distribution
What We Don’t Like
- No individual weapon holders
- Cannot quickly haul meat
This product has side mesh pouches, so you shall have all you need at hand. Also, it includes a hydration pocket and a lower storage pocket.
The large entry component that this has been designed with, together with the primary pocket, making it very simple for you to reach and take what you want most simply.
The volume of this model is 37 liters, as well as the padded shoulder straps and waist belt have been included in its style to make lugging it as convenient as possible.
If you often top off your pack with lots of stuff, you might see that it begins hanging heavy in your back. It does not necessarily occur with this system since you got the choice of using side compression straps for making everything as streamlined as possible.
Unlike a few of some other bags on these reviews, this model is designed a little larger, really to hunters of every size but not your normal-sized hunters.
Insights Hunting The Vision - Best Hunting Pack for Packing Bows
What We Like
- Excellent storage capabilities & size
- Sturdy backpack
- Can cover this bag surrounding the tree
- Better weight distribution
- The waist strap is adjustable & highly comfortable
What We Don’t Like
- A bit on the big part of things
- Zippers vulnerable to breaking
As for weight distribution, it seems that there are no issues in this area, so you will not have to cope with poor user experience. It may have been only a tad light, though.
You can put your smaller arrows and bows in the primary compartment while yet having excellent storing capabilities. You will find several smaller compartments which let you separate things depending on your needs.
Its unique design helps you keep it covered around a tree while you are doing your work. You can easily count on the Molle solution for various holsters and add-ons.
If you are wondering if this product will endure the ages, we will put your head at ease with telling you it’s most likely to achieve just that. For this, it features reinforced stitching accurately in the most frequent stress spots of its layout.
The sturdiness of this bag is ranked as among the best on the field. The included waist strap provides for a high level of convenience, allowing for better weight distribution through the pack.
Hunting Packs Buyer’s Guide
How to Choose the Right Backpack for Hunting?
When selecting the best hunting backpack on the market, there are plenty of things to consider. Listed below are a few factors to take into consideration before making your final call.
Purpose
The first thing that you have to look at is the backpack’s purpose.
What do you require it for? How much time will your hunting go on? Do you want a pistol holster, rifle, or a pocket knife when hunting? Do you demand a meat rack at some stage? What does the climate be like? Those are all queries that you should ask yourself while searching for backpacks.
Materials & Design
Look for premium-quality materials on the lightest styles that will help your application. Often, the more compact you make anything, the less reliable it gets, so be careful of packing 80lbs+ in a lightweight hunting bag and pushing for it.
There are 3 main designs while looking for your hunt backpack:
First, traditional style is much like your book bag of middle school, lightweight and straightforward. It is excellent for day excursions and times in which you do not have to haul loads of gear.
Next, the panel-loading style is excellent for organization buffs, and people went for multi-day excursions. It is made to carry and access your gear quickly.
Last, top-loading style is the go-to option of giant equipment haulers and outside frame packs water-resistance and ruggedness. It’s cavernous and is made bombproof, rugged, or extremely lightweight.
Also, the design can be divided into external & internal frame styles:
External frames are handy if you are thinking of hauling meat or your big game. It provides further support and can allow consistent air circulation. It helps to preserve the kill fresh and keep you cool. They do demand some time getting used, although, so do have a dry run before using this kind of pack.
Internal frames help to spread the weight much evenly. In case you are carrying a bulky backpack, a frame is a game-changer. Just remember that models having an internal frame stay nearer to your body. It may not be perfect in a hot climate.
The other design function to consider is how much compartments the backpack has. We like a pack with many sections, but be sure to know how they are positioned. A pack having hooks and external straps can also be useful.
Durability
Since you don’t want your pack to degrade too quickly or crack open in your initial trip – you have to scrutinize the hunting backpacks and make sure that these are made of high-quality materials before making your decision. A durable model will not just be an excellent value for the money yet will also store your things regardless of how bulky these are, to a longer time.
Color
The two most significant factors you ought to consider when selecting a backpack involve color preference, as well as whether you have to be noticeable or not. You may find camo sling packs for an elusive animal like the elk. Sound colors to such things as duck hunting backpacks also are available and could easily select them. Stay away from bold colors because your purpose is not to be stylish before the predator you’re hunting.
Brand
In every field, there is one brand that surpasses the others when it comes to quality. In case you are there for the top-quality, then product feedback and online hunting backpacks reviews will always lead you in the correct path. Previous customers are the ideal ones to tell you how the product works compared to another.
A few of the leading hunting backpack manufacturers include Badlands, Eberlestock, and ALPS OutdoorZ. However, that doesn’t mean that you’ll not find out other high-quality items from other companies. Avoid the inexpensive and those having constant negative ratings because they would still fail you regardless of what.
Price
As an unwritten rule, do not hunt for the least expensive packs you can get as those are going to dissatisfy you. As the saying goes, “cheaper is always costly” – in the long-term, without a doubt. You will find different quality and different price ranges that you’re free to pick from. Choose the bag in your budget and containing the most appropriate features for you.
Types
Hunting backpack is roughly split into two groups: multi-day packs and daypacks. The category you want will rely upon how long you will be out. Your typical daypack can hold your gear like predator calls, gloves, and binocular. A multi-day pack is much larger and can transport more equipment.
Also, the backpacks can be divided into the following kinds:
- Quiet Backpacks: These backpacks types make it simpler for you while hunting the game with sharp olfactory and auditory senses. The build of quiet packs considers the point that wind may carry sounds that the animal could pick easily. So, noisy elements like zippers and Velcro are not a portion of the backpack.
- Framed Hauler: These are effective to haul meat. They usually have a little storage leaving a significant frame amount for the kill. Framed hauler is suitable for stand and blind hunting because they turn it pretty much a piece of cake to bring the meat towards the camp or truck.
- Framed Packs: These backpacks are way superior to daypacks because you can quickly store many of your gear for longer. Nevertheless, these bags are quite excessive if your scouting trips are only a day longer. Despite, framed packs are ideal should you be combining hunting, camping, and hiking.
- Scabbard Backpacks: These are mainly for hauling weapons or an arrow and bow. Unlike other versions, these packs are detailed to attention and will make it simple to retrieve your firearms in an easy and quick way. And most of all, these backpacks guarantee your safety.
- Bow Backpacks: You're a bowhunter - a few people like the clean shots, silence, and thrill that arrive in having bows - in that case, you need a backpack that accommodates your unique archery skill. Bow backpacks offer an efficient and safe storing of your arrows and bow.
Water Repellency
Among the crucial factors to look at is water repellency. The standard materials at least will be water-proof, and the greatest will be sealed and almost 100% waterproof. It is a critical security element during winter or in the backcountry where maintaining the outer layer or a sleeping bag dry could be the story of a winning trophy and rescue from the mountain.
A rain cover isn’t necessarily compulsory, but it sounds common sense. Although most backpacks at least will be waterproof, they still could get drenched on a downpour. Search for a water-resistant cover that protects the entire pack.
Weapon Holders
Also, it is a great idea to buy a pack that has a built-in strap or a boot to safeguard your firearm. It makes this much simpler for you while you are traveling. The backpack should allow fast access for the weapons, yet also offer enough protection, which does not get jostled very much.
Fit & Flexibility
Hunters come in every size and shape; so do backpacks. Plus size, men/women-specific, and mini bags are available. Similar to hunting boots, the pack’s fit to your physique is very crucial. If the backpack does not fit, all the things from premature frame wear to chafing can happen in the bag.
The best backpack for hunting will have a flexible waist belt and shoulder straps. Sternum straps that move down and up the backpack usually come by default. Ventilation and comfortable padding are required to be fresh all day and scent-free. Avoid old-type packs that make you sweating and do not contour your shape. Decide on a model that suits over a larger pack.
Size & Pockets
Size is essential for how many things you can keep. It is also crucial in terms of how the backpack chairs on your body. In case the backpack is too high, it could fatigue you more quickly. If it rests too low in the body, it can pull your hips.
You will want something with several convenient pockets for stashing various bits of tools. Some pockets there and here can make a huge difference. Little pockets in the waist belt are the unsung champs of a backpack because they substitute your trousers pockets while you are wearing your bag.
Added Features
Like with anything, you receive backpacks that have a few extra features. Before getting wowed by every single feature they provide, though, consider if they are useful or not. Even though such features can raise the price of the product, opt for a pack having features that are essential to your style of hunting.
Warranty
Shop from a well-known vetted manufacturer. If you buy an imported, cheap pack cobbled together from a here-today-gone-tomorrow company with no to little reputation, do not expect excellent customer service care. When you settle on a bag, research the brand and only purchase an item with a complete warranty.
The best backpacks on the market have lifetime unconditional guarantees. These companies which back their products are around forever. Steer clear of the brands without warranty; if the guys who designed the pack will not support it, why should you put on it?
FAQs About Hunting Bags
Several common questions arrive with this subject; we have decided to mention a few of the most frequently asked questions and answer those to the maximum of our knowledge.
What Is the Ideal Size for a Hunting Pack?
Similar to standard packs, the best hunting packs are available in a range of sizes. But, which size backpack will you need?
That relies upon a large part of what type of hunting journey you have planned. For hunting expeditions that will go on for around 2-3 days maximum, anything with a volume of about 2400 cubic inches is enough. You will require more than this if you plan to embark on a one-week hunting trip.
Why Do I Require a Hunting Backpack?
The response is straightforward; you can hold more in a backpack than you could in your hands, and by wearing the pack on your backside, your arms are free of doing anything else.
You might even think to pass on getting a brand-new hunting bag assuming that any cheap bag with lots of room will serve you good outdoors. Regular bags are not designed to endure harsh conditions and rugged terrain the way as hunting backpacks.
Hunting backpacks usually are made from more sturdy materials that could handle prolonged coverage for the elements and trees as well as rocks that might come in your path. The packs you use regularly are often not made out of those materials since they do not need to be.
How Is the Fit of My Backpack Adjusted?
You will need to adjust some straps to have the hunting pack to fit best on your shape. Begin with hip straps and check that it suits just over your hips. Having hip strap in position, you now can pull in the shoulder strap. Draw its shoulder straps firm, but not far too so.
Check out any stabilizer strap is found in the hunting pack and concentrate on it next. Use it to take the backpack nearer to you. Your next task is to focus on the chest straps. That final strap will let you secure your changes and fasten the backpack in place.
My Backpack Is Hurting My Shoulders - Any Solution?
You should begin by ensuring that the shoulder strap is adjusted correctly and by making sure that you haven’t inserted too much equipment in the bag. More tools will mean extra weight, and this will, in return, apply more pressure at your shoulders.
Should I Get a Hunting Backpack with an Internal or External Frame?
Throughout searching for a brand-new hunting backpack, you’ll inevitably need to select between buying one with an internal frame or perhaps one having an external frame.
Hunting backpacks having internal frames can suit you higher if you are heading someplace with rough surfaces that need accurate movements. In case you are hunting someplace with a more surface, though, you might find it better to get an external frame pack.
What Things Should Be Present in a Hunting Backpack?
The first thing that should be part of your hunting bag is the first-aid kit. Carrying blaze orange gear along with you also is a must for ensuring that you stay visible. Other things that will aid you include hunting rain gear, a swap of warm clothing, portable food which will not expire, flashlight, and a water bottle.
Also, it is good to take some spare socks together. You cannot ignore your field dressing set and your weapons. A separate pack that can carry your hunt’s spoils also is something you ought to bring along. Finally, take a sleeping bag together with you.
Is There a Special Technique to Clean a Hunting Backpack?
Cleaning your hunting bag often is essential, but do not go about this in the exact way you could washing a regular backpack.
You could get things going by removing everything which can be detached. With all separated, you can now start washing by first with a damp towel on the bag and its parts. In case there are marks found, you might be enticed to use detergent or bleach to take them out. Prevent doing so.
Cleaners having strong smells may alert predators of your presence outside and should be avoided. In case, there is a mark you need to clear, use detergent for the hunting of some type. Continue by dipping the pack and its parts in water, then brushing them neatly. Rinse all of the things next and then let them dry before putting together the backpack.
Wrapping Up
What you choose ultimately is your decision. However, selecting one of the items on this review is a smart move to ensuring you will never need to stress about making an excellent buy.
Thanks for checking out the ten best hunting backpacks. We wish this guide has supported you in finding the top pick for a pack to bring with you. Should you got any doubts or questions, tell us in the comments section below.
Get outside and experience the hunt!