10 Things you Need in Your Hunting Pack
Hunting Season is nearly upon us. And all I can say is IT’S ABOUT TIME!
There is nothing like the feeling of waking up at the crack of dawn, grabbing your gear, and heading out for the hunt. If you know, you know.
And no matter what your weapon of choice is or what tag you were lucky enough to draw, safety always comes first during the hunt. It doesn’t matter if you are just out for a day hunt or if you are backpacking in with all of your gear.
When prepping your gear to head out into the field it’s imperative that you pack the essentials. And it never hurts to have a quick reminder of what you need to bring along.
1. Water
It might seem obvious but sometimes that makes it easy to overlook. Always pack water with you. And if you are going to be packing all of your gear on your back, it’s smart to have a backup. Pack a water filtration system or some purification tablets. But no matter what – pack your water.
2. First Aid Kit
There are a hundred and one reasons why you should always have a first aid kit in your hunting pack. You are heading out into the wild where there is rarely service, there are predators, and anything can happen. To head out without a first aid kit isn’t really option.
3. Headlamp/Flashlight
Its not uncommon to end up out in the field after dark. Packing your game in takes time. Be sure and pack a headlamp or flashlight with you. This can help when tracking game, setting up camp, or just hiking back to camp. You’ll definitely regret it if you forget this item.
4. Knife
Another item that may seem obvious is a good knife. You will need this in order to process your animal and prep it for leaving the field. Make sure you pack a sharp and strong knife on every trip out into the field. Be sure to handle it safely.
5. Cold Weather Gear
If you live in Wyoming you know that the weather can change in a minute. You can head out in warm 80 degree fall weather and in an instant a storm can blow in that makes the temperature plummet and the windchill become dangerous. To head into the field without proper emergency cold weather gear is unwise.
6. Compass
It’s easy to get turned around during the hunt. Make sure that you are prepared to find your way back to your vehicle or back to camp. These days most of us pack a GPS or enjoy the benefits of Onyx maps right on our cell phones. However, it never hurts to keep a small compass in your pack in case of emergency. They take very little space and can save your butt.
7. Emergency Snacks/Food
Most of the time you either have plans to head back to camp or back home after a good hunt. But if you are ever in an emergency situation, it's always smart to have some sort of ration in your pack. We aren’t saying that you need to pack a 3-course meal. But packing something small and light is worth the space in your pack.
8. Fire Starter
Always keep some fire starter in your pack. When you come back cold and tired the last thing you want to do is spend a long time trying to get a fire going. And of course, be sure to take proper safety precautions to maintain your fire and put it out completely before leaving camp.
9. Toilet Paper
Yes, I know plenty of people who would argue that this isn’t essential and that is fine. However. This can definitely come in handy when you need to …. You know.
10. Hunting License/Permits & Pen
This should definitely be an obvious one. But sometimes in the excitement of the hunt we forget these. Be sure you always have your license on you along with your Conservation Stamp and any other permits required for you method of hunting e.g. Archery Permit, Hunter Safety Card etc. And be sure to pack a pen along with you. This will help you fill out the tag once you have your game down.
When packing your hunting backpack, it never hurts to double check the essentials. Not only is it a matter of convenience but it is also a matter of safety. Find everything that you need at Wind River Outdoor Company – Wyoming’s Premier Outdoor Store.
Written by: Alyx Zgurich