What’s In Your Hunting Pack? The Ultimate Hunting Daypack Checklist

If you’re planning a hunting trip, you need to consider what’s in your hunting pack! If you’ve always wondered what people pack in their daypacks for hunting, or you just want to make sure you don’t forget anything, here’s our guide on what to bring:

1. Hunting License

This is absolutely vital. Bring your license in a plastic bag to protect it from rain, and make sure you keep it in an easy-to-access pocket in case you come across a game warden.

2. Water

Hunting can be thirsty work. You need to make sure that there is enough water to last you for the day. Investing in a water bladder can help here. They’re less bulky, so you can fit more water into your pack without taking up too much space.

3. Waterproof Gear

You’ll need to ensure that you have enough waterproof gear to keep you dry in the event of rain. Look for a lightweight waterproof rain jacket and a waterproof cover for your hunting daypack.

You can bring a tarp with you, which can make a handy makeshift shelter if you want to wait for the rain to pass.

4. First Aid Kit

A vital piece of kit. A first aid kit is absolutely essential on a hunting trip. You’ll need enough to deal with some minor cuts or scrapes, so bring along some band-aids, antibacterial cream, and anti-itch cream for bites. You should also bring some hand sanitizer in case you do need to treat a wound.

5. Snacks

Look for high-energy, protein-rich snacks to keep you going all day long. Consider high-calorie protein bars, which will keep you full without taking up too much space.

6. Knife

Any hunter needs a good knife. Look for a hunting knife with a carbon steel or stainless steel blade, which you can use for skinning, boning, and more.

Hunting blades usually have a slight curve on one side (ideal for skinning) and a straight portion (for cutting slices of meat). Some blades include a ‘guthook’ but these are more commonly used by fishermen. Look for a knife with a sheath included, to keep yourself safe when rummaging around in your daypack.

7. Rubber Gloves

It’s important to wear rubber gloves when field-dress ing an animal. You have to protect yourself from bacteria, especially if you have small cuts or scrapes on your skin. It’s not worth the risk of getting sick, so make sure you take a few pairs in case one pair breaks or gets lost during the hunt.

It’s also worth bringing some baby wipes to wipe down your hands or any other surfaces after dressing an animal. These are convenient and easy to use, and they don’t take up a lot of space in your pack.

8. Headlamp/Flashlight

A headlamp will make your life so much easier if you have to dress an animal at night! You can even buy headlamps with SOS lighting for emergencies, and they’re lightweight, so you won’t have to worry about them taking up a lot of space.

A good old flashlight is a necessity, too. Look for one with long battery life, and consider slipping some extra batteries into your pack, too.

9. Game Bags

Trash bags work well for smaller animals, but it’s worth getting game bags if you plan to hunt larger animals. Trash bags can tear, but game bags are strong and durable, and you can fill them with plenty of meat without worrying about them ripping or breaking. They can be reused too.

10. Scents and Game Calls

Deer scent, when used wisely, can be a game-changer when it comes to having a successful hunt. It’s worth researching how to use them effectively before you go.

You could also consider bringing a game call. Pack this somewhere near the top of your bag so you can access it easily.

11. Rangefinder

A rangefinder is pretty small and can ensure that you make ethical shots at all times. You don’t want to risk wounding an animal, only for them to escape. A rangefinder will help you to make more accurate shots.

12. Compass

A compass is a basic piece of gear, but it’s always worth having one with you. If it gets dark, it can be hard to find your way back. A small compass can make sure you’re always pointing in the right direction.

13. Battery Pack for Phone

If you’re out all day, consider bringing a portable charger for your phone. These can be pretty small and could be vital, especially if there is some kind of accident or emergency and you have to make a phone call. Pack your portable charger/battery pack in a plastic or ziplock bag to avoid it getting wet.

14. Survival Blanket

You probably won’t need it, but a survival blanket is worth bringing. They’re lightweight, they take up barely any space, and they could keep you warm if something were to go wrong or you are unable to get back home as quickly as you’d like.

15. Fire Lighter

Throw a firelighter and a fire starter in your pack. You never know when you may need to start a fire, and these small items could make a big difference.

We hope this has helped you to plan what to take in your hunting pack!