In the realm of the hunt, not all backpacks are created equal. The intrepid bowhunter needs more than just a pack; they require an ally, a silent companion that cradles their arsenal while whispering quick accessibility.
In our opinion, the best bow hunting pack is the ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix Hunting Pack.
A good bow hunting backpack includes sufficient internal storage to offer shelter from the elements, a change of clothes out of wet ones, perhaps a sleeping bag for hardcore hunters who don’t mind spending the night, and plenty of pockets to stash gear inside. (If you´re looking for bow hunting backpacks with a bow holder, read our review)
Here are our recommended bow hunting backpacks which offer a selection of benefits depending on your requirements.
Here are our Top 5 Picks
Compression straps around a pack help to reduce its size to a manageable level. A few packs may also include a hydration pocket ready for a water bottle that feeds water using a bladder through a port in the pack itself.
The water bottle* and bladder are separate purchases and handy little extras that’ll get used more often than one would imagine, particularly since the trips get longer with greater experience and larger groups.
ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix Hunting Pack
The ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix Hunting Pack—a piece of equipment so vital, it feels like an extension of your own body.
Crafted for the wild, it boasts a unique design to enfold your bow, crossbow, or any other essential gear, allowing for swift retrieval that could mean the difference between a trophy or a tale of ‘the one that got away.’
In my seasoned experience, nothing rivals the utility and comfort this pack delivers. Its ingeniously padded waist belt whispers promises of endless support and an aluminum stay that kisses your back with just the right amount of sturdiness for those long treks through nature’s labyrinth.
PROS:
- Innovative system for securing bows and gear
- Dedicated hand weapon compartments
- Ample zippered pockets for organized storage
- Built-in hydration pocket and port
- Comfortable padded waist belt
- Included rain cover
- Lightweight at just over 4 pounds
CONS:
- While it boasts no cons in my book, let’s not dwell on perfection.
Two good-sized exterior mesh pockets on either side make it easy to stash small items. Two front pockets and waist belt pockets provide additional quick access storage, and an interior pocket keeps possessions organized with this 2,700-cubic inch pack.
The Realtree Xtra HD brown camo fabric doesn’t add significantly to the weight with the whole pack weighing in at 4 pounds, 1 ounce.
Allen Company 19099 Pagosa Daypack, Realtree Xtra, 1800 Cubic Inches
The Pagosa daypack boasts a 1,800-cubic-inch capacity, clothed in Realtree Xtra and Mossy Oak camouflage.
Its interior features a striking canary yellow lining for increased low-light visibility, simplifying item location. A dedicated back pocket allows for neat organization of slender essentials.
PROS:
- Comfort padding for extended wear
- Supportive waist belt
- Compression straps for compact carry
- Interior yellow lining for visibility
- Camo blend for stealth
- Ready for hydration system
CONS:
- No included water bladder
- Lacks a dedicated gun compartment
The zippers on this pack are a breeze to handle, even in low light—a real plus for dawn and dusk outings. The padding on both the shoulder and waist straps is generous, providing comfort for the long haul.
And with waist straps adjustable up to 52 inches, it’s a versatile fit for any hunter. In my experience, this is an exceptionally user-friendly choice for any bow-hunting adventure.
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit Hunting Back Pack
The Outdoorz Pursuit pack comes in Mossy Oak or Realtree camo, perfect for forest stealth. It’s versatile, fitting various bows and tucking away when you’re arrow-free. With an aluminum stay and ample padding, it ensures comfort all day.
Quick-lash webbing loops and a handy lower pocket keep essentials at reach, plus the padded waist belt includes extra pockets for convenience.
PROS:
- Front lashing system
- Multiple pockets and two mesh pockets
- Front pocket that unzips outwards
- Aluminum stay for support and numerous back padding for comfort
- Hang pack from a D-ring clip
- Holds a bow, rifle or gun
- Quiver holder
- Hydration pocket and port provided
CONS:
- none
There are also some mesh pockets for easy convenience. A hydration pocket and port are provided.
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander Freighter Frame + Pack Bag
The Commander Freighter Frame and Pack Bag is a robust choice for hunters, especially those with rifles, providing easy carry and ample weapon storage, including for handguns.
Its durable brown nylon wards off tears, and plentiful lashing points and straps enhance convenience.
The standout feature is the detachable freighter frame, adding to its versatility, and the generous 5,250 cubic inches of space, topped with an expandable spindrift collar for extra room.
It includes a designated rifle pocket, a scope storage pocket, and an efficient Clevis pin system.
From my experience, this backpack is a solid investment for bow hunters seeking reliability and comfort in the field.
It’s designed to make your hunting expedition as hassle-free as possible, a fact I can attest to after several successful outings.
PROS:
- Top-load rifle holder and lower pocket
- Detachable storage pack and frame
- Abundant lashings, pockets, and webbing
- Clevis pin system
- Hydration pocket and port
CONS:
- None; offers excellent value.
A hydration pocket is present and a port for a water bladder as well. The whole package weighs 7.3 lbs.
ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber Day Pack
The ALPS OutdoorZ Dark Timber Day Pack is a modest, no-frills pack ideal for bare essentials but unsuitable for larger hunting gear or bows.
Available in Mossy Oak or Realtree camo, it’s compact, with side straps to slim it down for comfort. The waist and shoulder padding ease the load during transport.
Despite its size, it smartly includes a front pocket, side meshes for quick grabs, and dual interior pockets to keep things organized. Its bartack webbing is a nice touch for clipping on items like a flashlight.
In my experience, it’s a great lightweight option for short trips when you need to stay agile and don’t require extensive gear. It’s not for the gear-heavy hunter but perfect for those who prefer to pack light and move fast.
Helpful for quick, low-maintenance excursions into the woods.
PROS:
- A simple backpack with multiple pockets
- Attachment points for extra gear
- Comfort-focused with padded waist and shoulder straps
- Side compression straps for a compact fit
- Side pockets for easy access
- Ready for hydration system
CONS:
- Not designed for carrying weapons
There is also a hydration pocket and a port ready to fit a hydration pack (purchased separately). The pack offers 2,285 cubic inches of storage and weighs 2 pounds 1 ounce.
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Choosing the optimal hunting backpack boils down to the quarry you pursue and the gear you carry. For the rugged elk chaser, a robust pack is paramount, designed to haul heavy loads and withstand the rigors of backcountry treks.
Bow enthusiasts, on the other hand, should seek out packs with secure bow attachments and accessible arrow storage to ensure stealth and efficiency.
For those seeking versatility, a compact pack with essential compartments and hydration access will suffice.
The best pack fits your hunt: it doesn’t just carry your gear; it complements your pursuit. So choose wisely—your backpack is as crucial as any tool in your hunting arsenal.
