All You Need to Know About Hunting Backpacks

If you like hunting, then you know it’s an activity that involves bringing a lot of equipment with you. Instead of carrying items in your pockets, putting them in a hunting backpack can keep you in better shape. This hunting accessory offers a lot of benefits and you should consider it, whether you are going on a hunt for the first time or you are an experienced hunter already.

Benefits of Getting a Hunting Backpack

Outdoor enthusiasts want gear that makes their life easier in the field and investing in a quality backpack that can carry heavy loads can be a real game-changer. Hunting backpacks provide structure for the load, so one can focus on taking the right steps instead of having to wrestle an awkward load. The following are some of the benefits of investing in a hunting backpack.

Good Organization

Keeping your hunting items is one of the most important things when you go on any type of hunt. A well-organized backpack can make it easy to find certain items when you need them. You can choose from a wide range of hunting backpacks and select one with multiple compartments and storage areas, so you can use them to put all the items you need in different sections. Your hunting gear will be grouped together, so you will know where exactly every item is when you need it.

Added Protection

Hunting in extreme weather conditions, including rain and snow, can be a challenging task and one of the most important things on every hunter’s mind is to protect particular hunting items from the elements as damage like corrosion can set in. A weatherproof hunting backpack will provide some extra protection to your items, so you can enjoy your adventure more.

Easy Access to Water

You don’t have to carry your water bottle in your hands and having it potentially interfere with your hunts. Instead, choose a hunting backpack with a water reservoir, so you can have easy access to water at all times.

How to Choose Your Hunting Backpack

Selecting a proper hunting backpack can be overwhelming, especially if you are a beginner. To help you narrow down your options, here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a backpack for your hunting trips.

Comfort

Carrying a heavy load on your back is not easy and you don’t want to realize that your backpack is uncomfortable after a few hours of walking.

Organization

The more pockets the backpack has, the better you can organize your gear, from ammunition to knives to multitools or else. Make sure to learn how to pack your hunting gear perfectly, so you will not waste your time and energy when preparing for your hunting adventure.

Durability

To choose a durable hunting backpack, look for one that has double or triple stitches, tough buckles, reinforcement in stress points and rugged and robust zippers.

Weight

Choose a lighter backpack as a heavy backpack may slow you down. Most of the top end backpacks share several similar qualities, including a fairly lightweight design. If you are planning to use your backpack for day hunts only, you can go with a small backpack. But if you know you’ll use your backpack for day hunts as well as overnight hunts, then it’s always a better idea to choose a big pack.

However, always make sure to prioritise fit, comfort and functionality of the backpack over its weight. Choosing a backpack that skimps on important features just to get a lighter backpack is not a good idea and may cost you more in the long run.

Fabrics and Materials

Water resistance, abrasion and noise level are essential for the value of the backpack.

Fit and Frame

Fit is one of the most important aspects of a new backpack. Make sure to pay attention to the stay length of the frame as taller frames generally carry heavy loads better, but if the frame is too tall for your torso, then it won’t fit right. Shorter frames are sleeker and won’t limit your mobility, but they can naturally transfer more of the load to your shoulders. The best thing you can do is follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if stay length or frame height will be your perfect choice.

Waist Belt

This is yet another important aspect of pack fit. Choose a quality waist belt that has the ability to be clinched down, so the weight can ride on your hips properly and you’ll be able to carry a heavy load easily.

Load Lifters

Load lifters can help you keep the weight of your backpack off your shoulders. By clinching the top of the load closer towards your shoulders, you can bring the weight closer to your centre of gravity. They work together with your waist belt to keep the weight of your backpack off your shoulders and on your hips.

Adjustability

Overall backpack adjustability is very important. Not all backpacks have the same adjustability options, so make sure to check carefully before making a purchase. Look for adjustable shoulder strap length, load lifter height, lumbar pad position and more.

Once you get your new backpack, get familiar with it and learn how to take advantage of its features. Practice loading your new hunting backpack, especially if you plan to do multi-day hunting trips.