In a Hurry? Our Top 3 Picks to Buy!
It isn’t easy or even possible to carry all your hunting gears in your hands. Thus here comes a bow hunting backpack handy. Most hunting gear can be quite heavy, and a backpack makes the load easy to carry. The backpack will carry all hunting gear and also have room for carrying the crossbow and arrows.
Whether you go camping for a few days or go on a hunting expedition for weeks, selecting the best backpack is most important. It helps balance the weight between your head and shoulders. Also, it helps the upper and lower back from receiving too much pressure.
There is some type of frame that’s comfortable enough to lug around for miles and balance all weight on our back. If you are walking miles in the day or night, you need some major comfort while doing so. With plenty of options, some things need to be considered. Here are the 10 Best Bow Hunting Backpack in 2022, along with a buying guide.
Comparison Chart For Top 10 Best Bow Hunting Backpack
| Product Name | Capacity | |
|---|---|---|
| ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS | View on Amazon | |
| Badlands Sacrifice LS | 3400in3 | View on Amazon |
| Badlands Carbon Ox | 3234in3 | View on Amazon |
| ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Pack | 2700in3 | View on Amazon |
| Badlands 2200 | 2250in3 | View on Amazon |
| Badlands Superday | 1950in3 | View on Amazon |
| Eberlestock X2 Pack | 1830in3 | View on Amazon |
| INSIGHTS Hunting | 1789in3 | View on Amazon |
| Eberlestock Team Elk Pack | 935in3 | View on Amazon |
| Timberhawk Big Basin | 882in3 | View on Amazon |
Which are the 10 Best Bow Hunting Backpacks In 2023?
1. ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS
| ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500 cu.in |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Water Bladder | Compatible, accommodate up to 3L. |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Pattern | Realtree Edge |
| Extras | clip-style holster, H2O pocket, rain cover |
The ALPS Traverse is one of the top-rated bow hunting backpacks for hauling meat. It provides a huge storage space of 3200 cubic inches that allows you to store all your essential gear. It features an extra 1200 cubic storage space for meat so you can take home your trophy meat comfortably on your back. Apart from this, there are straps where you can attach your bow or gun. It comes with a holster on the bottom to attach the bow tip or gun to prevent shaking.
Furthermore, it has a waist belt that will help you carry the load. Also, there is a holster on a belt where you can keep a second gun. Its unique H frame design and extension straps make it easier to use and comfortable. Another amazing thing is its drop-down pocket and front zippered wing pockets that will let you keep weapons and valuable gear. However, its shoulder trap needs improvement while other parts, including the back, are perfectly cushioned. You can carry heavy loads without any problem.
Reasons To Buy
- Carry heavy loads.
- Unique H frame design.
- Extension lashing straps.
- Padded shoulder.
- Scope pocket with tripod sleeve holder and waist belt.
- Easy to access pocket.
Reasons To Avoid
- The strap needs improvement.
What’s the bottom line?
This is another ALPS backpack powered with amazing features and solid build quality. Best of all, it has an adjustable torso that fits ranges 15-20 inches.
2. Badlands Sacrifice LS Camouflage Hunting Pack
| Badlands Sacrifice LS Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3400 cu.in |
| Weight | 3 lbs 13 oz |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Water Bladder | Compatible up to 3L |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Pattern | Approach |
| Extras | Hip belt pistol holster, detachable bow boot |
It is sewn with rip-stop, water-resistance nylon that prevents any tears and water damage during treks. It is built on a load transferring frame that reduces the weight users carry. Also, it distributes areas where it is less burden and better for your body. A Hypervent frame offers good back comfort and enables air to flow through to your back to keep you cool. There are 7 compartments in the bag, including 2 main compartments, 2 longer side pockets for sights/scopes, and 3 accessory compartments.
This bag is made of Ripstop fabric using tough nylon fibers that have a great strength-to-weight ratio. Further, its C6 Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment doesn’t let moisture seep into the bag.
Apart from this, the bag can hold a bow safely through straps on the front of the bag. The Badlands top-loading backpack comes with easy access hip belt pouches, multiple lash points, and plenty of pockets that let you carry more gear. When it comes to design, it is constructed using a neutral color palette that allows the Approach pattern to adapt to your surroundings and light conditions.
Reasons To Buy
- Lightweight design.
- Designed to carry lots of stuff.
- Lifetime unconditional warranty.
- Rip stop fabric that prevents tears.
- More carrying capacity at the lightest weight.
Reasons To Avoid
- Need to buy a separate hydration bladder
What’s the bottom line?
This LS Hunting Pack strikes the sweet spot and satisfies the needs of every hunter. Overall, it is an excellent option that uses innovative technology and superior build quality with many features.
3. Badlands Carbon Ox
| Badlands Carbon Ox Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3234 cu.in |
| Weight | 6.12 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | 3 Liter |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Pattern | – |
| Extras | Gun Carry Boot, weatherproof cover |
Badlands Carbon Ox model has an internal aluminum frame that helps shift weight off your back and onto the frame. Also, the bag features a built-in padded lumbar support that is vital as it helps maintain your spine’s natural curve. Further, it ensures that you are not straining your lower back while carrying the bag.
There is an air vent in the back area to keep you comfortable and cool while on the move. It has a padded belt that is adjustable along with shoulder strap as well. With a capacity of 3234 cubic inches spread across 9 pockets, it is well built to handle whatever you need it. The 9 pockets include – main pocket, top compartment, face compartment, 2 Hip Pockets, 2 mesh side pockets, and 2 internal pockets.
In addition, you can shrink the pack size using side compression straps. If you want to keep a low profile, simply tighten the side compression straps around the sides and front of the face, reducing the size.
Reasons To Buy
- Pack size can be reduced if you aren’t packing heavy.
- Multiple pockets.
- Cushioned lumbar support.
- Comes with a rain cover.
- Lifetime Warranty.
Reasons To Avoid
- High profile when full
What’s the bottom line?
If you are searching for a meat hauler for the big game, this Badlands Carbon Ox is the best game hunting pack. Also, it has the ability to carry a full elk quarter.
4. ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Pack
| ALPS Pursuit Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2700 cu.in |
| Weight | 4 lbs 1 oz |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Compatible, but not included |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Camo Pattern | Realtree Edge |
| Extras | Quiver Holder, Rain Cover, Front Pocket |
This Pursuit backpack is a great choice for a hunter that can use it to its full potential. It is built upon a heavy-duty aluminum frame. Also, the straps and back are well padded that offer amazing comfort. Its padded waist belt comes with two pockets and can accommodate clip-style holsters. Best of all, it features adjustable waist and shoulder straps that allow you to fit your bag how you want it to.
It is a quite organized backpack and has a large main compartment, a front pocket, and two mesh pockets on either side. Further, there are quiver holding straps on another side. Its belt has two pockets for instant access to any items. Besides, there are lashing points on the front of the bag for a user to add external storage.
Furthermore, there is a protected sleeve inside the main compartment for a hydration bladder. You can fit and a hole for the hydration hose to go through. Apart from this, it boasts a drop-down pocket near the bottom of the pack that will secure your bow safely. Another amazing feature is its drop-down shelf. The front pocket flap that you zip can be used as a shelf. You can use this shelf to keep your smaller items binoculars/scope easily accessible.
Reasons To Buy
- Water-resistant.
- Variety of ways to carry a hunting bow.
- Quick ditch system for quick shot setup.
- It comes with a hydration bladder and hose.
- Best for multi-day treks.
- Internal sleeve designed to protect scope/sights.
Reasons To Avoid
- The capacity to weight ratio isn’t so good.
What’s the bottom line?
This ALPS Pursuit Backpack is one of the versatile packs that come with an organizational shelf pocket to keep gear at your fingertips. All in all, it is easy to hang on a tree with its D-ring clip.
5. Badlands 2200 Hunting Backpack
| Badlands 2200 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2250 cu.in |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Yes, 2L |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Pattern | Approach |
| Extras | Built-in Meat Hauler |
You simply can’t go wrong with a Badlands backpack if you have a good budget. The Badlands 2200 is a high-end backpack with plenty of storage and a comfortable fit. When it comes to material quality, sound, comfort, or storage, the Badlands 2200 has nothing to complain about, but there is one thing that can trouble you: size. Because if you have small height, the backpack was a little too big for you. To get the waist strap to sit properly on your back, you had to tighten it all the way.
If you are 6 feet tall and weigh 180 pounds, it is perfect for you. Its interior structure is significantly expandable, allowing it to accommodate larger equipment and loads. With its hidden fabric shelf compartment, this pack starts to appeal to big game hunters. This bag can easily compress into a standard daypack and then simply enlarge as the hunt progresses.
There are four compartments and five pockets in the Badlands 2200. One of the best features of the bag is that you can quickly access your belongings from both the front and rear without having to remove the pack. When correctly packed, this is a fantastic feature for gaining access to difficult terrain. 2200 is made of KXO 32 camo fabric that is incredibly durable and also quite quiet.
Reasons To Buy
- Water-resistant packs resist moisture and dirt.
- Compartment for meat, tripod, and scope pockets.
- ThermoMold Suspension.
- Compatible with hydration system.
- Comes with a rifle boot and in-built hip belt pistol holders.
- Camouflage design.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not suitable for small height hunters.
What’s the bottom line?
This backpack is perfectly padded for comfort and has a meat shelf that isn’t common in hunting backpacks. Overall, you can comfortably carry this best hunting backpack with heavy loads.
6. Badlands Superday Hunting Daypack
| Badlands Superday Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1950 cu.in |
| Weight | 3.15 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Yes, 2L |
| Warranty | – |
| Pattern | Team Elk |
| Extras | Detachable Rifle/Bow Boot, Molded Foam Suspension |
Looking for a champion bow hunting backpack for a short hunting trip? The Badlands Superday Hunting Backpack is the best option. Its size and capacity make it great for quick hunting trips. It has a storage capacity of 1950 cubic inches, that is not so large or too small. Furthermore, as the backpack is from the Badlands brand, the quality is amazing. It is built to last. The Superday is perfect for hunting as it does not produce as much noise as most modern hunting backpacks.
The materials used in the backpack’s construction are noiseless. Even when fully loaded and climbing over a rough path, the backpack is comfortable to carry. The backpack features seven pockets in total to store everything. You can also keep your belongings organized in three compartments. The rifle/bow boot is adjustable, and the backpack’s belt has webbing for carrying a pistol. Also, it is available at an affordable price.
Reasons To Buy
- Molded foam prevent muscle aches and pain.
- Provide additional support and stability.
- Plenty of rooms with three compartments and seven pockets.
- Sturdy construction and attractive design.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not suitable for long trips.
What’s the bottom line?
Whether you are planning for a bow hunting trip or need a pistol for your adventures, this backpack is an excellent option for you. Its shape adjusts to all torso lengths and offers a comfortable walk.
7. Eberlestock X2 Pack
| Eberlestock X2 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1830 cu.in |
| Weight | 4.12 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Compatible |
| Warranty | – |
| Camo Pattern | Dry Earth Mircosuede |
| Extras | Water resistant, Quick-access pockets |
When it comes to bow hunting backpacks, Eberlestock is another popular choice. It contains a total of 12 pockets to keep your hunting gear and clothes organized. The side pockets open up like wings when you open the straps in the center. You can attach your bow or rifle that you want to attach firmly to the backpack to these “wings.”
Large inner compartments on the interior can be used to hold either water bladders or a tripod. The outside clips can be expanded to create a space for meat transportation easier.
Overall, this is an excellent and versatile suitable for a one to three-day hunt. The large pockets can hold all of your essentials, and the extendable clips make carrying meat a breeze. This backpack is suitable for those who are short. If that is not the case, you should consider the other options on the list. For taller men and women, the Tenzing, Badlands, and Outdoorz packs are ideal.
Reasons To Buy
- Ample FlexChassis that can flip forward.
- Padlock webbing tie-points for accessory attachment and lashing on gear.
- Oversized compression straps.
- Tubular aluminum Intex frame.
Reasons To Avoid
- Not suitable for a taller person.
What’s the bottom line?
It is a robust little pack with unique features and a rugged Intex tubular frame. Overall, it is perfect for heavy load, with quick access pockets for spotting scopes and tripods.
8. Insights Hunting The Vision Bow Pack
| Insights Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1789 cu.in |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Compatible |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Pattern | Realtree Excape |
| Extras | Tree stand shelf, Weatherproof |
This high-priced hunting backpack might alarm a few hunters, but it justifies the price as it makes the hunting trip an unforgettable experience. You can stow away your compound bow, quiver, arrows, optics, and electronics in this backpack. It comes with a safe compartment and external load attachments that make your hunting needs accessible. Another great feature is the special design that allows you to wrap it around the tree when you are busy with your task.
For all bow hunting missions, it can be your great companion. Its mesh pockets come in handy, and you can use them to fit your quiver as well. You can easily climb with your backpack as it adjusts to your body and distributes weight. Besides, the ergonomic design ensures a maximum level of comfort. All in all, it is ideal for short and long hunting trips.
Reasons To Buy
- Compact and attractive design.
- Comfortable for long-distance use.
- Plenty of room for keeping every hunting essential.
- TS3 front panel system.
- Wide main weapon compartment.
Reasons To Avoid
- Bit noisy.
What’s the bottom line?
With a heavy-duty interior and internal clip, it adjusts based on bow size. Best of all, it has a unibody chassis integrated between the bow compartment and backplate to keep the load evenly distributed.
9. Eberlestock Team Elk Pack
| Eberlestock H31 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 935 cu.in |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Hydration Bladder | Compatible |
| Warranty | – |
| Camo Pattern | Team Elk |
| Extras | – |
Eberlestock is one of the leading manufacturers that is famous for its premium quality products. This M5 elk pack is designed for elk hunting that means it provides a lot of space for meat hauling. Plus, it offers a whopping 3100 cubic inches capacity. Unlike ALPS traverse, this pack is comfortable to wear and features an aluminum frame. This frame gives you support and helps to carry the heavy load. Moreover, there is a fold-away scabbard where you can attach your gun and has a custom attachment system for bow users.
This backpack has enough room that makes it suitable for a multiple-day hunt as well as works best for a one-day hunt. The various pockets and zippered pouches are placed in easy to reach places. However, depending on your height, you may find this backpack uncomfortable. It is more suited for people under 5’8 and under. All in all, it offers superior storage and all-round versatility.
Reasons To Buy
- Great for multi-day trips.
- Front loading and top-loading access.
- Fold away rifle scabbard.
- Double full-depth spotting scope.
Reasons To Avoid
- Chest strap may be uncomfortable for some.
What’s the bottom line?
Overall, it is an excellent backpack that provides a lot of space, waist belt, and padded straps that help you carry the load comfortably. It is versatile and suitable for many activities.
10. Timberhawk Big Basin Daypack
| Timber Hawk Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1168cu.in |
| Weight | 3.89 lbs |
| Bow Attachment | Yes |
| Water Bladder | Compatible but not included |
| Warranty | – |
| Camo Pattern | Realtree Xtra |
| Extras | Noise reducing fibers, 4 accessory pockets, Multiple webbed accessory loops |
The Hawk backpack is ideal for hunters who need a backpack that can last for a few days or a full day’s hike. The bagpack has noise-reducing fibers that helps it make ultrasonic adjustments easily and reduces the audio signature in the field. The pack is not water-resistant, but it comes with a cover to keep it dry.
This backpack has high-density breathable foam padding on the back and shoulder straps, as well as a silent stalk and quick-ditch system. You can unclip the pack and drop it quickly because it’s not heavy. The main compartment is roomy and has 4 accessory pockets for easy access. Not only does the backpack carry a bow with ease, it can also securely carry a bow in a various of ways.
Reasons To Buy
- Windproof.
- Water repellent.
- Silent during movement.
- Long-lasting.
- Resistant to scuffs and tears.
Reasons To Avoid
- Stiff zippers.
What’s the bottom line?
It delivers excellent versatility and functionality, along with superb storage capabilities. All in all, it is the perfect option for multiple-day hunting as compared to rivals.
How To Choose The Bow Hunting Backpack?
Being able to access your gear easily when needed is a must for every hunter. A bow hunting backpack reflects the way you like to hunt, and so you will see not everyone uses the same one. Some like a backpack that can carry everything they need, and others may want room for a bow, a quiver, water, and some basic survival equipment.
Selecting the best one is a daunting task with so many choices and features. Here are the important features that you should consider before buying a bow hunting backpack.
Bow Attachment
A bow attachment on a backpack is the first thing you should consider when buying the hunting backpack. However, it does come down to personal preference, whether you want one or not. A space for holding a bow is convenient for you as sometimes you may need free hands and finding a place to put your bow so it is safe from damage.
Carrying Capacity
This is something that can vary in importance based on user preference. If you are a hunter that comes prepared for any scenario, the carrying space your backpack has will matter to you. Besides, if you like to hunt light, less carrying space won’t be a deal-breaker for you when buying your hunting backpack.
| Pack Volume | No. of days |
|---|---|
| 3000 – 4000 ci | 1-3 days |
| 4000 – 5000 ci | 3-7 days |
| 5000 – 6000 ci | 7 – 10 days |
| 6000 + ci | 10+ days |
Storage Space
Check for storage space according to your need. A pack must have enough space to hold all of your hunting gear. Most of the high-quality packs have the main compartment, multi pockets, and few pouches. Besides, some are also equipped with quiver holders and pockets on the belt for clip-style holsters.
Hydration Bladder
When searching for a bow hunting backpack, you should look at if the pack has a hydration bladder or not. Or at least the space to accommodate one that you can buy separately.
Material
Look for a backpack made with material that can handle a certain amount of weight. Ripstop is either polyester or nylon that is an excellent material for bags. Some bags have mesh material in certain areas like the sides and front. Shells made for backpacks are also in trend. Shells ABS provides comfort and uniqueness. Also, it is sound-absorbing material.
Comfort
Hunting backpack should be comfortable so that you can easily carry it for a longer period. Generally, popular backpacks ensure comfort by including padding. Cushioning can be on the waist belt or shoulder strap. Some bags have adjustable sternum that provides extra support. Furthermore, some backpacks have airflow systems so that you can stay cool as you carry them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How To Clean The Bow Hunting Backpack?
Dirt, blood, and grime make for a hot mess when you return home from hunting. Your hunting pack also requires cleaning to stay is perfect. Open all compartments and zippers and give it a good shake. However, it is crucial that you don’t put your backpack in a washer; this can damage the pack. You can clean it in a tub or bucket with a cupful of a gentle detergent.
2. Is Camouflage Pattern Necessary For A hunting Backpack?
Camo design gives a real advantage when in the woods and increase your chances of success. It allows you to blend in woods and is perfect for elk and deer hunting. There are various patterns available such as mossy oak, and realtree xtra.
3. Difference Between Multi-day and Single day backpack?
Single day pack is usually sized 3500 cubic inch and is perfect for a day or two-day hunt. It is enough for carrying essential cloth and gear. On the other hand, a multi-days pack offers more space, and you can put extra stuff.
