Spoiler alert my first time was quite the learning experience.
I have used mediocre packs and packs not intended for hunting.
Learn from my lesson choose one made by a company that makes them for backpack hunting.
Backcountry hiking and hunting is a fantastic way to unplug and get your mind right. However, preparation can make the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a risky mishap.
I used a Stone Glacier R3 pack and its awesome.
when you’ve got something to carry your gear, you will need clothes to wear.
Personally, I wearSitka Gearand have for a while.
Without a way to carry all your gear, the hunt will be off to a rocky start. This pack from Stone Glacier is a wonderful option for carrying a week’s worth of backcountry hunting gear.
I own the overwhelming majority of their hunting clothes.
Companies such asPnuma, Kuiu and Stone Glacier also have great options for backcountry hunting.
Your clothing system can make or break your hunt.
Select clothing that is appropriate for your expected environment. Also, plan for unexpected weather events like rain and cold fronts.
Hats, gloves and neck gaiters are personal preferences and based on the seasons.
Grounded Choices
Walking around the mountains will teach someone how good or bad their footwear is.
I have rolled ankles and gotten blisters wearing subpar boots.
A good pair of boots can make your break the hunting experience. Choose quality boots like these from Zamberlan.
Pick boots from a company that makes boots for the mountains, specifically.
My current pair are Zamberlan Wasatch Boots, but I have worn Crispi or Salomons with good luck!
Get waterproof ones with a stiff sole, good tread profile and the right size for your feet.
A headlamp allows you to have working light while keeping your hands free for tasks like meal prep.
Put your foot in a good pair of socks like those from Darn Tough.
A good pair of socks and a good pair of boots will double-check your feet dont let you down.
Pro-tip: Dont forget to break in those fancy new hunting boots before you embark.
While a cell phone can duplicate many of the features of a unit like this, a standalone GPS will connect in many remote areas where a cell phone cannot.
The sleep system you choose will work in conjunction with the shelter of your choice.
Using a four-season tent is ideal, but they can be heavier.
I used a Big Agnes sleeping bag with a 0-degree rating.
Water filtration options are a must for any outdoor adventure. You need water more than you need food.
Sleeping pads come in all shapes, sizes and weights.
Life or Death
Survival gear is a must, and these items are often overlooked, unfortunately.
For water filtration, pick a unit that filters out everything that can harm you.
Don’t step foot into dangerous predator country without options. Bear spray and a 10mm pistol are a great way to start.
Single-person models or a base camp style from Katadyn are suitable.
Clean water is a must, for obvious reasons.
A GPS/satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach is a must-have.
There is an infinite number of things you can carry into the field. Be careful to pick the things that are lightweight and deliver what you really need.
This comes at the cost of a subscription service, but its well worth it.
It allows loved ones to feel at ease when you are more out of reach.
The inReach gadget also has the most important feature of all, the SOS emergency button.
This feature will send out a distress signal to local search and rescue to come to save you.
Its for emergencies only, but could quite literally stash your life.
When navigating the backwoods in areas where dangerous predators exist, carry protection.
In my humble opinion and experience, carry both a sidearm and bear spray.
A cliched saying, I know, but its true.
If in bear, mountain lion or wolf country, carry something like a 10mm pistol.
This could be the Springfield Armory Ronin 1911 or theSpringfield Armory XD-M Elite 10mm.
10mm has proven to be effective, so theres no need to debate that.
Honorable Gear Mentions
A backpack backcountry packing list is extremely extensive.
These items are of lesser importance, but still very useful.
), comfort foods and snacks.
It shows you what works and what doesnt.
Every time I go out into the backcountry, I realize how to reduce how much gear is needed.
Backpack hunting is a learning experience, and thats part of the fun.
Failures happen, mistakes will be made, and great experiences will be had.
