Best Bow Hunting Backpack That You Should Buy Right Now

Find out the best bow hunting backpacks in today’s market and read their reviews based on user feedback. These backpacking solutions are lightweight and comfortable, so you can focus on your hunt instead of getting tired.

Do you need the perfect bowhunting backpack to haul heavy loads and keep all your gear organized and easily accessible?

Look no further because we have the best hunting backpacks for you. They are lightweight and nimble, so you can use them comfortably while hunting and storing everything you need!

You don’t need to go elsewhere for a better backpacking solution for your hunting trips. Read our reviews of the best bow-hunting packs and purchase the one that suits you best!

Selecting The Best Bow Hunting Back Pack

It can be hard to find the best hunting backpack because there are so many options on the market, each trying to add an extra feature to make it special and stand out.

With the different hunting backpacks on the market, knowing which one is right for you can be hard. Not only do you need to consider your budget, but you also need to think about what features are important to you.

We've done all the research for you and found the best bow-hunting backpack based on user reviews. Our top backpacks are comfortable to wear, have a lot of storage space, and are perfect for carrying all your gear.

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We know you want the best, so we work hard to provide it. Our team of experts is constantly selecting products for our site that meet high standards and offer great value, too! Our opinions are based on independent trials and tests, but as an Amazon Associate, we earn from some qualifying purchases. This helps us to keep the site running without costing anything extra for you.

Best Value For Money Backpack for Bow Hunting

ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS

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Why You Will Love It

The Traverse EPS backpack from ALPS OutdoorZ is one of the best bow-hunting backpacks for hunters who need a versatile and durable pack. It's designed to function as a multi-day backcountry bag but can also haul meat after you bag that big game, making it perfect for any hunting situation.

The backpack features a comfortable and supportive suspension system and ample storage space for all the gear you need in the field. Additionally, the Traverse EPS is hydration-compatible to stay refreshed on long days in the field.

Whether packing out your latest trophy or exploring new terrain, the Traverse EPS from ALPS OutdoorZ will help you get there.

What You Should Know

Weight – 6.8 lbs

Warranty – Lifetime.

Bow Attachment – Yes.

Carrying Capacity – 4,500 Cu In

Hydration Bladder – Compatible, bladder not included.

The ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS hunting backpack is a great choice for backcountry hunters looking for an affordable, comfortable, and easy-to-use backpack.

This backpack features a unique H-frame design that is expandable for meat hauling and several convenient pockets for storing all the gear for your hunting trip.

The backpack also includes a section for holding a bow, making it a great choice for hunters who want to keep their bow cams safe. The straps on the backpack are also adjustable, making it easy to customize the fit for comfortable carrying.

Overall, the ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS hunting backpack is an excellent choice for any bowhunter who wants an affordable, easy-to-use, and comfortable backpack.

What Could Have Been Better

The ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS hunting backpack is an improvement over its older Traverse X cousin, but it still feels heavy and bulky. Also, you have to remove the pack to release your bow.

However, the backpack is very well-made and can hold many gear. It is made from durable materials and will last for years, and its super warranty policies further back it.

With its superior features, competitive pricing, and rock-solid warranty, the Traverse EPS is the best choice for hunters who need the biggest bang for their buck.


Also, check out our picks for the best soft rifle cases.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Badlands Sacrifice LS

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Why You Will Love It

This wasn't an easy choice, but ultimately, we did sacrifice the Badlands 2200 in favor of a lightweight backpack more targeted toward a bowhunter. However, Badlands 2200 is undoubtedly a great choice if you are not a bowhunter, and weight is not an issue.

The Badlands Sacrifice LS backpack is one of the lightest backpacks today. But don't let its size fool you - this backpack has features and can carry massive loads, making it perfect for big game hunting.

The Sacrifice LS backpack features a spacious main compartment that can hold all your gear, plus a front pocket for quick access to essential items. The pack also features an innovative AirTrack suspension system that keeps your back cool and comfortable, even when carrying a heavy load.

Best of all, the Sacrifice LS backpack is made with Badlands' renowned quality and craftsmanship, so you know it will stand up to anything you throw at it.

Whether you're headed out for elk hunting or need a backcountry pack, the Badlands Sacrifice LS backpack is a perfect choice and will surely become one of your favorite hunting backpacks.

What You Should Know

Weight – 3 lbs 13 oz.

Bow Attachment – Yes

Carrying Capacity – 3400 Cu In

Warranty – Lifetime (best we have seen)

Hydration Bladder – Compatible (up to 3L) but not included

The Badlands Sacrifice LS hunting pack was created with the dedicated bow hunter in mind. This backpack has rip-stop, water-resistant nylon to prevent tears or water damage during treks. It also features a load-transferring frame to reduce the weight you carry and distribute it to areas where it's less of a burden and better for your body.

With 7 compartments, the Badlands Sacrifice LS hunting pack provides plenty of storage space for all your gear. Its comfortable shoulder straps and padded waist strap make it easy to carry, even when fully loaded.

Whether you're an experienced hunter or just getting started, the Badlands Sacrifice LS hunting pack will provide you plenty of space on its meat shelf to carry that elk quarter without being too harsh on your back.

Badlands Sacrifice LS Features
Badlands Sacrifice LS Features

What Could Have Been Better

The straps that keep your bow securely in place are located in the front end of the bag, and though these are quite strong, some users feel a bit unsafe. If you are like them, you can buy their Bow Boot Attachment that will hold your bow in a more secure way.

Overall, the Badlands Sacrifice LS is the best hunting backpack option for those looking for a high-quality, lightweight hunting pack.


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Best For Multi-Day Hunts

Timber Hawk Killshot

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Why You Will Love It

The Timber Hawk Killshot is the best backpack for bowhunting for hunters who want to be prepared for anything on their next full-day or multi-day trek.

This backpack has a great design that lets you quickly and quietly drop it and be ready to shoot at a moment's notice.

The Killshot is also versatile and functional, with excellent storage capabilities, making it the perfect choice for a long hunt.

What You Should Know

Weight – 7 lbs 6 oz.

Warranty – Lifetime

Bow Attachment – Yes.

Carrying Capacity – 3324 Cu In

Hydration Bladder – Yes, 2L bladder included with a hose.

The Timber Hawk Killshot hunting backpack is made from polyester twill fabric wrapped around an internal frame. This makes the backpack sturdy yet silent, producing no sound that could come from movements or friction. It also features quick ditch straps for you to unload it rapidly.

The shoulder straps are highly functional, and the backpack gives you 3 different ways to store your bow. It also features an internal sleeve to carry your spotting scopes and rangefinders without damaging them. The pack also includes a built-in rain cover for inclement weather conditions.

The Killshot has sufficient storage space to carry your hunting essentials and compartments to store sleeping bags, pillows, portable stoves, and other items for a multi-day trip. It has multiple lashing points to attach external storage spaces, but it is better to add any more weight to an already heavyweight bag!

What Could Have Been Better

The Timber Hawk Killshot hunting backpack is made from stiff fabrics, making it heavy and bulk up when packed. Many users do not like the shape and volume.

Additionally, the zippers are stiff and might break after repeated usage. Though, the lifetime warranty will give you some peace of mind.

While this backpack is not the lightest or most comfortable option on the market, it is one of the most durable. If you are looking for a backpack that will last you many years of multi-day hunting trips and withstand heavy usage, then the Timber Hawk Killshot is the perfect pack to consider.


Discover the best practices for attaching a haul line to your firearm.

Best Budget

ALPS Outdoorz Pursuit Backpack

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Why You Will Love It

The OutdoorZ Pursuit is a heavy-duty aluminum-framed backpack perfect for budget hunters. It features well-padded straps and back for outstanding comfort, as well as an adjustable waist strap and shoulder straps to ensure the perfect fit.

The drop-down compartment is ideal for hunting from your stand, and the large main compartment provides plenty of space for all your gear.

Whether you're an experienced hunter or just starting, the OutdoorZ Pursuit is the perfect backpack for all your hunting needs.

What You Should Know

Weight – 4 lbs 1 oz.

Warranty – Lifetime

Bow Attachment – Yes.

Carrying Capacity – 2700 Cu In

Hydration Bladder – Compatible, bladder not included.

ALPS Outdoorz Pursuit Hunting Backpack is a great backpack for carrying all of your hunting gear. The backpack is roomy enough to fit everything you need, yet not so bulky that it becomes a nuisance.

This pack features a lot of compartments to keep your essential gear organized and easily accessible. You can also carry 2 quivers on its sides, and the drop-down shelf is an absolute blessing for hunters, hauling all their gear up into their tree stands.

The drop-down pocket is a great feature for storing your bow, and the compression straps help to keep the backpack tight and secure.

What Could Have Been Better

The backpack is slightly heavier than some of its competitors, and the volume-to-weight ratio could have been better. Additionally, the drop-down pocket is not accessible when the backpack is on your back, making it difficult to retrieve your bow quickly in an emergency.

Overall, the ALPS Outdoorz Pursuit hunting backpack is a great option for hunters who are on a budget but need a high-quality, roomy backpack to accommodate their hunting gear.


Also, check out our article on The Best Mechanical Broadheads for Hunting.

Worthy Contenders

Tidewe Hunting Backpack
Tidewe Hunting Backpack

Tidewe Hunting Backpack 5500 cu

The Tidewe Hunting Backpack has a capacity of 5500 cu and comes with a solid external frame. This backpack features a large main compartment with a high-quality strapping system, perfect for carrying your bow or rifle.

The main compartment also has multiple small compartments and pockets, as well as a waist bag and side pockets, providing around 90 L of storage space. It also has a protective rain cover. Plus, the extension bag with a drawstring on the top increases the main compartment's capacity even further.

The TideWe hunting pack is designed to be adjustable to fit different body sizes by simply readjusting the shoulder sling and frame. This allows for a comfortable and customized fit for anyone who uses the pack and distributes the weight evenly.

Additionally, the ergonomic design with soft and breathable padding offers pressure reduction on the body, making it ideal for long walks or hikes. However, the external frame makes the bag feel bulky and quite heavy, and its maximum weight capacity is quite low for its volume.

Overall, the TideWe hunting backpack 5500 CU is a nice bow-hunting pack that does many things correctly and can hold its ground compared to the heavyweights above. If you want a mid-range backpack for your bowhunting trips, you can confidently choose this bag.


Insights Vision Bow Pack
Insights Vision Bow Pack

Insights The Vision Bow Pack

The Insights The Vision Bow Pack is a nice hunting backpack for those who want to be ready for anything. With a spacious main compartment that easily fits long bows, quivers, arrows, and other essential gear, this backpack has everything you need to make your hunt successful. It also has a cleverly designed system of pockets that can be put to multiple uses.

The cool mesh back support panels and padded shoulder straps make it comfortable, even when carrying a heavy load. And if you ever need to access your gear quickly, the hideaway hip belt and unibody chassis make it easy.

Apparently, the Insights Vision Bow Pack is a great product, and yes, it is. However, its long-term durability is questionable, and its warranty coverage is not rock solid like that of Badlands or Timber Hawk.


If you need to get some energy and keep your gut healthy during your hunting trips, check out our article on the Best Prebiotic Sodas.

Frequently Asked Questions

You're considering buying a bow-hunting backpack but have questions about them first.

Buying a new gear can be tough, especially if you're unsure what to look for. There are a lot of different features and options to choose from, and it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

We've compiled this list of the most frequently asked questions about bowhunting backpacks to help make your decision easier. We answer the most important questions about capacity, fit, organization, etc. Plus, we've included our top picks for the best archery-hunting backpacks on the market so you can find the perfect one for you.

Do I need a backpack for hunting?

Well, it is not an absolute necessity, but having a backpack with you on your hunting trips is strongly advisable as it will allow you to carry a lot of gear comfortably. 

However, if you have a stand or blinds and chair nearby and don't need to hike for longer distances, you can do away with a specialized backpack, but if you are going backcountry hunting on a multi-day hunting trip, a hunting backpack is a must.

Can I use my hiking backpack as a bow-hunting backpack?

You could use your hiking backpack as a bow-hunting backpack, but it will not be the best choice. If you can remove the waist belt, sternum strap, and V-shaped opening on the front of the pack, you will have a larger opening in the middle that can accommodate a bow.

Additionally, you could attach a quiver to the outside of the pack. The main compartment can hold the meat if scraped and deboned properly. But just make sure to line your bag with a heavy-duty meat bag to avoid damaging your hiking bag with bloodstains. Even after all these, it can be pretty messy and will not be comfortable to carry for long distances.

However, if you don't like to buy two separate bags, you can choose a lightweight hunting bag with supporting frames like those from the Exo mountain gear series. It will also double up as your hiking bag when you are not going for a hunting trip.

How big should a hunting pack be?

It will depend on several factors, the most important being the game you will be hunting and your main weapon of choice. A hunting backpack should be big enough to carry all your gear but not too big or bulky to become a nuisance. A good average size is considered to be around 2,000 cubic inches.

How long should a bow-hunting backpack last?

A good-quality bow-hunting backpack should last many years with proper care. Look for a backpack made from durable materials, such as Cordura or nylon, with strong zippers and stitching.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your backpack every five years, even if it's still in good condition. As with any hunting gear, it's important to keep your backpack in top condition and updated to be always prepared for the next hunt. But, if you are using it for a short trip from your van to your tree stand, you need not worry for decades.

What should I keep in my hunting backpack?

You should always keep a few key things in your hunting backpack, regardless of where you are hunting or what game you are after.

First, make sure you have a good knife. A knife is an essential tool for any hunter and can be used for everything from skinning and gutting your prey to preparing food while out in the field.

Second, pack a basic first aid kit. This will come in handy if you injure yourself while out hunting. It should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain relief medication, etc.

Third, bring along some sturdy rope. This can secure your prey to your pack when transporting it back to your vehicle or campsite.

Fourth, don't forget your map and compass (or GPS unit). It's important to know where you are when hunting, and a map and compass (or GPS) will help you do that. It is best to pick a hunting watch with an in-built GPS.

Fifth, ensure you have enough food and water for your trip. It's always better to pack more than you think you'll need, just in case you get stranded or lost while out hunting.

Finally, for extended hunting trips, bring an outdoor shelter, bed bag, tent-type blanket, more food, and a camping stove.

Also, ensure enough room in your luggage for a meat case after taking your basic things, game bags, bug repellants, headlamps, mobiles, power banks, axes, and other small things. If you are hunting in groups, have set a base camp a little away from your stand, or hunting blind, remember to bring a two-way radio.

What are the different types of bow-hunting backpacks?

There are a few different bow-hunting backpacks, each designed for a specific purpose.

The first type is the day pack, designed to be lightweight and compact so you can easily carry it on long hunts. A daypack typically has one or two main compartments for storing your gear. It may also have additional pockets for holding small items like a GPS unit, binoculars, or a water bottle.

The second type is the meat pack. These packs are designed to hold your harvested game and usually have a large main compartment and several smaller pockets for storing other items. Meat packs often have an internal frame, which helps to distribute the weight of the meat evenly so that it's easier to carry.

The third type is the treestand pack. These packs are designed to help you transport your treestand and other gear into the woods and usually have straps or loops for attaching the stand to the pack. They also have plenty of room for storing other items like your bow, arrows, safety gear, and sometimes even an additional place to store your climbing sticks.

However, most backpack manufacturers club all of these into a versatile pack, so that you can have only one pack that does everything.

What is the best bowhunting backpack brand?

There are a lot of great hunting backpack brands on the market. Some more popular brands include Badlands, Tenzing, and Stone Glacier. So, it depends on what you're looking for in a backpack and your budget.

But if you are specifically searching for a backpack that will house your compound bow and carry your harvested game, you should probably go for Badlands bags. Their bags are intelligently designed to hold maximum weight comfortably for years without breaking apart, and all their bags come with solid, no-questions-asked replacement warranties.

Also, check out our article on the Best camping chairs for bad backs.

Factors to consider while buying bow hunting packs

A bowhunting backpack comes in different sizes; some are designed to carry bows, while others are designed to carry firearms. Some of the important things you have to check while buying your bag include:

Materials:

The backpack you choose should be made of high-quality, durable materials. This is especially important if you use the backpack in rough terrain or harsh conditions.

Stitching:

The stitching on the backpack should be strong and reinforced to prevent the bag from ripping or tearing.

Padding:

Look for a backpack with padding in the main compartment and straps. This will help to protect your gear and make it more comfortable to carry.

Harness System:

The harness system is the part of the backpack that goes over your shoulders and around your waist. Make sure to choose a backpack with a comfortable and adjustable harness system. This will help distribute the weight evenly and prevent the bag from bouncing around while walking.

Waist Belt:

A padded waist belt helps stabilize the backpack and keep it from shifting while you're walking. It should be adjustable to get a snug fit and have padding to make it more comfortable. I have a friend who swears by his waist belt and even clips his GShock and a knife! Some hunting packs also come with an additional waist bag or fanny pack.

Hip Belt:

The hip belt helps to take some weight off your shoulders and transfer it to your hips. This makes it easier to carry the backpack for long periods. Some backpacks come with several utility pockets on the hip belt for extra storage.

Waterproof:

If you plan on hunting in wet conditions, look for waterproof bow hunting packs with a waterproof cover. This will help to keep your gear dry and prevent it from getting ruined.

Size:

Make sure to choose a backpack that is big enough to hold all your gear but not so big that it's cumbersome. You should also ensure the straps are adjustable to get a comfortable fit.

Weight:

The backpack's weight is important, especially if you plan on carrying it for long periods. Choose a backpack that is made of lightweight materials and that has padded straps to help distribute the weight evenly.

Frames:

Most backpacks these days come with some internal frame, but some frameless options and bags with external frames are available. The main benefit of a backpack with a frame is that it helps to distribute the weight evenly, which makes it more comfortable to carry.

Frameless backpacks are usually lighter and more compact, ideal for hunters hiking long distances. Nowadays, the best packs come with a carbon fiber frame that gives them strength without adding weight.

Compartments:

Look for a backpack that has multiple compartments or pockets. This will help you to organize your gear and keep everything in its place.

Attachments:

Some backpacks come with loops or straps to attach additional gear, like a sleeping bag or tent. This can be a convenient feature if you plan on camping in the backcountry.

Meat Hauling Capabilities:

If you plan on harvesting the game while hunting, look for a backpack with meat-hauling capabilities. This means that the backpack is designed to hold quarters or deboned meat and has a built-in tarp or rain cover.

Price:

Backpacks can range in price from $50 to $500, so it's important to set a budget before shopping. Remember that the more expensive backpacks are usually made of higher-quality materials and have more features.


Finally, What Is The Best Bow Hunting Backpack For You

Now that you know what to look for in a great bowhunting backpack and the best options available on the market, it’s time to decide. For your reference, our top picks are :

Best Value For Money - ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS

Best Lightweight - Badlands Sacrifice LS

Best For a Multi-Day Hunt - Timber Hawk Killshot

Best Budget - ALPS Outdoorz Pursuit Backpack

Best of Rest - Tidewe Hunting Backpack

Just click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons & add them to your cart – you won’t regret it!

We hope our buying guide has helped, and we think you’ll be happy with whichever backpack you choose.

best bow hunting backpack

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