How to Choose the Best Hunting Bag for Your Needs

Hunting is an activity that involves a lot of planning and preparation - something not everyone finds particularly entertaining. Nevertheless, those things hold significant importance for any hunter regardless of their expertise level. The right gear can make or break your hunt, and one of the most important pieces of equipment is a hunting backpack. Not only does it provide storage for all your essential items, but it also helps you carry back trophies from your hunt. With so many different types of  hunting backpacks on the market, it can be difficult to find the right one for your needs. This guide will help you navigate the market and find the perfect pack for you.

Purpose

When it comes to choosing the right hunting backpack, the first thing you should do is determine the purpose of your hunt. A backpack for a one-day trip is very different from a backpack for an extended hunt. Using a backpack that is not suited for the scenario is very likely to backfire, so it's important to determine what you need out of your pack before making a purchase. For example, if you are going on an overnight hunt, you will need a larger pack with more storage space and features than if you are just out for the day. Additionally, some packs are designed specifically for certain types of hunts such as treestand or backcountry hunting. Knowing what type of hunt you plan on doing will help narrow down your choices and ensure that you get the best pack for your needs.

Weight and Size

When selecting a hunting bag, size and weight are two more factors that should not be neglected. You should take into account both the physical size and weight of the bag when making your purchase. A larger bag may offer more storage space, but it could be too cumbersome to carry on long hunts with lots of gear. At the same time, smaller backpacks might be more comfortable to carry but they are less likely to hold everything you might need during your hunt.

Though the lightweight design is considered a blessing more often than not, and our case is no exception, it’s not the ultimate value with hunting backpacks. The reason for it is that it’s closely related to two other characteristics - durability and capacity. A backpack that is both robust and spacious will likely be heavier than usual or cost much more. Remember that your backpack won't get any lighter once you have it, so if it feels too heavy before you even fill it up, you should look for something lighter, even if that means sacrificing other qualities. When choosing between the two, we also suggest opting for the lightweight option. Once your backpack’s full, you will likely start to think about ways to make it lighter. And it’s better if the backpack is lightweight to begin with.

When purchasing a hunting pack, make sure that you try it out before purchasing. Put some weight in the bag to make sure that the straps fit comfortably and the weight isn’t unbearable. Even if the capacity looks right on paper or online, you need to make sure that these bags can physically handle what is being put into them. This is why considering both size and weight while shopping for a hunting pack is essential.

Materials Used

The fabric and materials used in the backpack will define its performance by determining such features as water repellency, tear strength, puncture resistance, abrasion resistance and noise level.

The primary materials used for hunting packs include Cordura, packcloth, fleece, and X-Pac. Cordura and packcloth are both lightweight, relatively cheap yet durable fabrics with moderate water-repellent qualities. Both fabrics are relatively quiet and resistant to abrasion. Fleece and microfleece are more prone to tears and are hardly resistant to water, so a raincover is a must. Finally, there is X-Pac, a laminated fabric with superior waterproofness which makes it a perfect choice for regions with wet climates or frequent precipitations.

Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to hunting packs. It is important to evaluate the environment you plan on  hunting in before selecting your material so you can choose one that best suits your needs. X-Pac is a well-rounded option that shows exemplary performance in a variety of conditions. It might be the best choice due to its waterproofing capabilities, but it’s noisier and more expensive than other fabrics. If you have other priorities, you might be better off with a Cordura backpack.

Personal Comfort and Security

Since backpacks are closely related to carrying loads of heavy equipment, comfort and security are pivotal. There are many features that can make the carrying process both safer and more comfortable. That might not be the case for casual city-style packs, but hunting backpacks should possess an elaborate weight distribution system. It usually includes waist belts, shoulder straps, frames, and load lifters.

The waist belt is designed to transfer the load from your shoulders to your hips. This helps distribute the weight more evenly across your body and makes it easier to carry heavier loads for longer periods. The shoulder straps should also be adjustable so you can find the best fit for your body type. Each of them should be carefully adjusted, as failure to do so will result in tangible discomfort. If you overtighten your belt, you risk bruising your hips and strangling your waist. If you overtighten shoulder straps, your shoulders and back will carry more weight.

And then, there is frame height. This feature is very relevant for people who carry heavy loads. An adjustable frame height allows you to adjust the pack according to your height and load size. A short frame is the hunter’s bane, as it is not suitable for heavy loads. Tall frames, on the other hand, lift some weight off the carrier’s shoulders at the small price of restricting their head movement.

Load lifters are also essential in providing extra support when carrying heavy loads as they help keep the pack close to your back and prevent it from sagging down too low. They also help reduce strain on your shoulders by transferring some of the weight onto your upper back muscles instead.

Additional Features

Last but not least, there are small additions that can contribute to the general comfort level. Those include external pockets, hydration spaces, breakaway carry features, things like that.

It might seem like there is no such thing as too many pockets, but they mean more weight. Pockets come in all different shapes and sizes, with zippers and velcro straps, so it is important to find a pack that has just enough of them. Too many are worse than too few, so we recommend backpacks with no more than three external pockets.

Hydration capability is also an important feature when choosing a hunting backpack. Most modern backpacks come with integrated water pouches that allow you to store water without having to carry an extra bottle or camelback along with you on your hunt. This can help save time and energy on making breaks while still allowing you to stay hydrated.

Finally, breakaway carry is another useful feature that some backpacks offer. Also known as load shelves, it allows you to separate the packbag from the suspension and carry things between the two. It comes in very handy for carrying heavy objects that would otherwise outweigh you if carried on the exterior of the backpack.

Conclusion

When it comes to hunting backpacks, there is no one-size-fits-all option. You need to consider a multitude of factors, including fabric type, comfort features, weight, size and others to make the best decision. As long as you take your time researching each detail and assess your needs carefully, you will be able to find the perfect backpack that offers both comfort and security. With the right hunting backpack, you will surely enjoy your trip to the wilds.

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