10 Best Bow Hunting Backpacks of 2023
Finding a bow hunting backpack can be a struggle, but not anymore! With our list of the best bow hunting backpacks, you will find the one for you in no time.
The Best Bow Hunting Backpacks Reviewed and Rated
1. Badlands 2200 Backpack – Best Bow Hunting Backpack
I recommend purchasing this backpack if you can because it will last a lifetime. Instead of buying two or three backpacks throughout your hunting carrier, why not just buy a high-quality backpack like this one? If it happens to break, you are backed up by their lifetime 100% guarantee.
The Badlands 2200 is made of KXO-32 Fabric, a very soft material that will keep you stealthy on your hunt. The KXO-32 Fabric has a light-colored camo pattern that will blend in with most environments.
There is nothing negative to say about the Badlands 2200 regarding the quality of the material, sound, comfort, or storage, but there was one thing that bothered me: Size. I am a smaller guy, and the backpack was a bit too big for me. I had to tighten the waist strap to the max to get it to sit right on my back.
If you are in 6 feet and 180 pounds range, you will consider this the best bowhunting backpack you have ever worn. I would consider other options on this list for the smaller guys out there or look into other sizes they offer.
2. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Pack – Archery Backpack With Quiver
You can attach your bow on the front side of the backpack with two straps, and you have a quiver hold on the side, making it easy to use the arrows if necessary.
The total weight of the backpack is only 4 lbs, which is very light. The Outdoorz hunting backpack is waterproof and camouflaged as well. The material is a Mozzy oak up-country camo that holds up well in most weather conditions.
Usually, when I go on my hunting trips, I bring plenty of stuff, which adds up to a lot of weight pretty fast. That is why the straps are one of the essential parts of the backpack for me. I can assure you this backpack did not disappoint in that area. The straps are comfortable to wear even with a lot of stuff in them, and the waist strap helps balance the weight.
Overall, this is a great bowhunting backpack that offers a lot of space, can carry a variety of crossbows and guns, and has padded belts/straps that make carrying the backpack very comfortable.
The only improvement they could have made would be to make the hinges a bit larger so it would be easier to use them with thick winter gloves. Besides that, I am a super happy customer who recommends this backpack to most people that ask about hunting backpacks on this blog.
3. Tenzing TZ 4000
- Fully adjustable torso suspension with 2 fluted, rigid...
- Channeled, air cooled back pad
- Foldout carrying boot allows your to carry your bow or gun
The Tenzing TZ 4000 is another great choice. It offers a lot of space and several different pockets, allowing you to organize your hunting equipment the way you like.
Another special feature is the three expandable and breathable meat pockets. These make it a lot easier to haul the meat.
Several Amazon users rave about this backpack because of its comfort, ease of use, and the amount of equipment you can fit. You can easily carry a spotting scope and a tripod with side straps. It is, of course, equipped with a gun holder where you can attach either your gun or bow.
Some backpacks have a mediocre attachment system that results in the gun or crossbow swinging and bumping, but not this one! Attach it properly, and I am sure you won’t even notice the backpack or your gun.
What’s missing from this backpack is some elastic pockets or clips on the waist belt to attach my GPS or hunting knife
and key attachments in the front pocket to securely attach valuables. Besides these minor things, there isn’t much else you could ask for. It’s one of the best bow-hunting backpacks for backcountry, elk hunting, and meat hauling because of its size, pockets, and
compartments.
4. Eberlestock X2 Pack
- - X-project packs are designed for the hunter that wants...
- - The X2 opens its wings to unveil two tuck pockets inboard...
- - At the bottom of the pack is the FlexChassis, ready to...
Eberlestock is another go-to brand when it comes to bow hunting backpacks.
Eberlestock is another go-to brand when it comes to bow hunting backpacks.
It has 12 pockets, which you can use to organize your hunting gear and clothes.
If you open the straps in the middle, as you can see in the picture, the side pockets open up like wings. In these “wings,” you can attach your bow or any other equipment that you want to attach firmly to the backpack.
On the inside, you have big inner pockets that you can use to store water bladders or a tripod.
The outside clips can be expanded, making a large space that you can use to make hauling meat easier.
Overall, this great and versatile backpack is perfect for a 1-3 day hunt. You can store all the necessary equipment with the big pockets, and hauling meat is no issue with the expandable clips.
This backpack would be great for me, but I have heard taller people complain about the smaller size. For taller people, the load lifters on the shoulders don’t do their job as they should, leaving all the weight on the hips.
If you are short, then this is an ideal backpack. If not, you should look into the other options on the list. The Tenzing, Badlands, and Outdoorz packs work great for taller men and women.
5. ALPS OutdoorZ Big Bear Hunting Day Pack
The Alps day pack is made to be a light and a portable backpack that should fit everything you need for a day outside.
As you can see in the picture, it is minimized to just a small bag, but you can expand it by unzipping the upper pocket. This extends it to the size of a regular-size backpack.
If you use it as a mini backpack, you have 800 cubic inches, which is big enough to fit snacks and essential gear. If you extend it to a regular-size backpack, you will have an additional 1900 cubic inches.
There are two side pockets on the sides that can hold your water bottle and range finder or GPS.
The material of this day pack is quiet, and the zippers are as well. I like that they have implemented bigger ropes on the zippers so you can use the zippers while using gloves. It can get quite cold where I live sometimes, and having big zippers can help a lot when it comes to handling the backpack and keeping fingers at body temperature.
There are small and handy features added to this backpack to make it very unique. One of those features is the pockets you can attach to the front of the pack. You can choose from three different pockets: Binocular pocket, camera packet, and turkey call pocket. In these, you can keep the essential gear that you want to have easy access to.
Overall, this is a great hunting backpack that has a lot of unique features. If you are looking for a versatile hunting backpack to use for shorter hunts, then I recommend you to take a look at this one.
I couldn’t see any bow holder or a gun holder on the backpack, which is a huge minus, but if you are creative I am sure you can find a comfortable way of attaching your bow or crossbow.
6. ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS Hunting Pack
- Carry heavy loads with expandable 1, 200 cu. in. section,...
- Drop down pocket and front zippered 'wing pockets' allow you...
- Enjoy the padded shoulder harness, padded spotting scope...
The Traverse is one of the best bow hunting backpacks for hauling meat. It offers a huge storage space of 3200 cubics, in which you can fit all your essential gear.
With all this space you can easily use this backpack for a multi-day hunt.
The reason I said it’s the best for hauling is meat is because of the extra 1200 cubic storage space you have for just meat. This way, you can take home your trophy meat comfortably on your back.
As you can see in the picture, there are straps where you can attach your gun or bow. There is also a holster on the bottom where you can attach the tip of the bow or gun to prevent shaking. This seems like a small detail, but it makes a huge difference wh n you are walking long distances.
This backpack also has a waist belt, whi h will help you carry the load. On the waist belt you will find a holster where you can keep a second gun, which is a nice detail.
But there is a significant problem that has been mentioned a few times on their feedback page, and that is the straps. Some users have experienced the backpack straps cutting into their shoulder because they are too thin.
If you are taking a full 3200 cubic backpack with badly designed straps it could result in a very uncomfortable walk. Though this is one of the most popular and highly rated backpacks out there, Istill recommend that you be prepared to make a custom padding for the shoulders if you experience the same issues others have.
7. Eberlestock M5 Team Elk Pack
- With its body-following contours and a bottom-shelf design,...
- Made to be quiet and comfortable for all day hunting and...
- The M5 has two optimal access points. With both...
As you know, Eberlestock is a great manufacturer and famous for its quality. The M5 elk pack is proof of this.
This is a backpack specially designed for elk hunting, which means it offers a lot of space for meat hauling.
You have a whopping 3100 cubic inches to work with. so it doesn’t matter how big of an elk you shot. The M5 has room for it.
Unlike the ALPZ traverse, the M5 is very comfy and can wear. It has an aluminum frame, which gives you support and helps you to carry the heavy load.
It also comes with a fold away scabbard where you can attach your gun, and it has a custom attachment system for the bow you ers.
Overall, it’s a great backpack that offers a lot of space and padded straps and a waist belt that help you to carry the load comfortably. Still, though this backpack has a lot of room, I think you would go short on space for a multi-day hunt, but it works great for a one day hunt.
The backpack is on the shorter side. It gets its space because of the width, which means that for taller people this backpack can turn out be too small. If you think you will start with this, I recommend looking at the Badlands 2200 (#1) and Alps Outdoorz (#2).
If you an e a shorter guy like me, I believe this is one of the best hunting backpacks for elk hunting. What doesn’t make it a clear winner is the shorter length and the smaller side pockets, where more prominent rangefinders and equipment can’t fit.
8. Badlands Superday Backpack
- ULTIMATE HUNTING DAYPACK: The Superday packs all the gear...
- HYDRATION COMPATIBLE: Holds a 2 liter water bladder snugly...
- CARRIES HEAVY LOADS WITH COMFORT: Our ergonomically-advanced...
The Badlands Superday is a backpack designed for a one day hunt. It has 1950 cubic inches of space, which gives you plenty of room to bring your gear and other essentials. It’s designed with quiet materials and zippers to ensure you stay hidden throughout your hunt.
It has an excellent frame and padding, making it super comfortable to wear. The waist belt works perfectly and gives you the support you need throughout your hunt. This pack is also equipped with a gun holster for a second gun, and it has small pockets as well for smaller gadgets.
It has seven pockets where you can put your keys, ammo, or your cell phone, and three bigger compartments where you can organize the rest of your hunting equipment.
Still, while the waist-belt is well-equipped, the pockets and holsters are hard to reach and use while you are wearing the backpack. This is the only downside I have heard of.
Besides this, it’s a beautiful backpack that is comfortable, offers ample space, and has all the features I look for in a hunting backpack.
9. Tenzing TZ 3000
The Tenzing TZ 3000 has enough space for you to be able to hunt for 2-3 days. It has several different storage compartments to organize your hunting gear. The outer material is durable and silent.
If you are going to walk several miles with enough gear for 2-3 days, you need a backpack that is comfortable to carry. The Tenzing TZ has nailed that part. With the bow holster, your bow will stay perfectly still and the waistband will take a lot of the load off your shoulders, making a mountainous hike feel like a walk in the park.
The Tenzing TZ has implemented a lot of handy features such as nylon pockets on the inside for organization, but my favorite part is that you can access the main compartments through the sides. This doesn’t seem like a big thing, but when you are trying to stay stealthy in your tree stand it’s nice to have the option to access your stuff through the sides instead of having to tilt or go through the top of the backpack.
The holster is perfect for a bow because of the design, but it can be too large for some guns, resulting in swinging back and forth. However, since we are focusing on bow hunting, this one is a perfect fit.
This is one of the best bow hunting backpacks out there. It is absolutely up there with the Badlands 2200 and Alps. Read through the reviews on Amazon and you’ll find several users raving about this backpack as well.
10. SITKA Gear Bivy 30
- BIVY 30 PACK - Available as one size fits all. (Available...
- PURPOSE BUILT - Built with enough room for the...
- VERSATILITY - An easy to remove lid allows you to decrease...
If you want a light hunting backpack that still offers a lot of space, the Sitka is an option to consider.
They have lowered the number of pockets to decrease the weight. Having a lot of pockets to stay organized can be a good thing, but a lot of brands overdo it. Not the Sitka. Sitka is known for their lightweight backpacks, and the Bivy 30 is no exception.
Not all backpacks can hold up with 75-80 pounds of meat in them, but the Sitka can. It’s made of high-quality materials and straps, making it durable and strong. With the bigger compartments, you can easily haul your meat through the woods.
You also get two frontal straps where you can attach your bow without it swinging or interfering with your hike or hunt.
The Bivy 30 has one of my favorite features as well: Access to the main pocket through the sides. This is to stay stealthy while you are in a tiny space or in a tree stand by letting you reach to the bottom of the backpack without having to take out all the other stuff.
This is another great bow hunting backpack that will last for years with its quality materials and strong build.
How to Choose the Best Bow Hunting Backpack
When you are choosing a bow hunting backpack, there are a few factors you should take into account. Some of these are weight, size, design, bow holder, and frame.
Single-day Backpack
If you are looking to hunt for only a day or two, your best option is a single day pack. They are usually in the 3500 cubic inch size, which is enough for you to carry your essential clothing and gear. This size isn’t too big either for you to walk long distances comfortably.
When I am purchasing a single day pack I like to look at the weight. Having a low-weight backpack helps a lot when I go for longer distances. Two extra pounds doesn’t sound like a lot, but it sure feels like it.
A bow holder or gun holder is essential as well. When I bring my bow I always attach it to the backpack, and having a bow holder makes that a lot easier. The bow holders allow you to carry the bow without it swaying and bumping around, which can be very annoying in the long run.
Day packs are my favorite bow hunting backpacks because they usually fit everything I need for my regular hunting trips. Most of the bowhunting backpacks on this list are daypacks, as you can see. This is because I strongly believe they are more than enough for most hunters.
However, for some occasions you will need a bigger backpack as well, such as for multi-day hunts and when you have a bigger trophy to bring home.
Multi-Day Hunting Backpacks
The benefit of having a large multi-day backpack is that you will have more space. However, this can lead to you bringing a lot of unnecessary gear. Make yourself a list of what you need before you start packing and you should be fine.
I usually pack the same amount of clothing as I would for a single day hunt. The only extra stuff I bring for a multi-day hunt is my hammock, sleeping bag, socks, underwear, and food. This way I can keep my backpack light enough to still be able to walk for longer distances.
What do You Pack in a Hunting Backpack?
These are the things you should pack in your hunting backpack:
- Water – if you have a bladder in your backpack, make sure you fill it up before you go. Bring some extra water as well if there is no water supply in the area you will be hunting in. If you know you have a river or any water supply close to you, then you should be okay with the 3L bladder.
- First aid kit – You can never predict the future. Always bring a first aid kit and some extra meds that you may need. I like to keep this in the top of my backpack so I always know I have it easily accessible.
- Headlamp – Yes, I know you have a phone with a light, but never depend on that! A phone can die, so make sure to bring a headlamp or a flashlight to have a source of light if needed.
- Matches – You always want to bring a box of matches as well. They don’t add much weight and if you are going to stay stealthy you never know when you will need a heat source.
- Rain gear – If you don’t bring this, you will regret it. Just becuase the weather report says it’s going to be rainbows and sunshine all day doesn’t mean it’s true. If you are sitting in your tree stand soaking wet you won’t last very long; I know I wouldn’t.
- Food/snacks – Bring a few extra meals in case you want to stay for another night or just for plain survival. Take some snacks with you as well. If you are going to hike long distances you should have some snacks in your inner jacket pocket. Don’t bring just sugary snacks because they won’t give you the long energy source you need; at least mix it up with some fiber or nuts.
- Knife – As you know, a knife is a tool you don’t want to forget. It has so many uses in the woods and it would be a shame to forget it.
- Rubber gloves – If you are going to field dress an animal you want to stay safe and clean by using a pair of gloves. If you have forgotten them then there should be a pair in your first aid kit.
- Toilet paper – If you are not a leaves person, I recommend you bring some toilet paper. You don’t need to bring a whole roll, but roll a few layers up in a plastic bag and you should be fine. Bring some extra to light a fire if needed as well.
- Hunting license – Bring it.
These are some of the essentials that I bring with me on my hunting trips. Write them down and make sure to go through this list before every hunt.
I hope you found this list of best bow hunting backpacks useful. If there is a backpack you think I should have mentioned, please tell me in the comments, and I will try my best to include it.
If you liked this article, make sure to check out our newest article on the best bow quivers.
