Best Hunting Backpacks Reviewed & Rated for Quality

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Reebow Gear Military Tactical
Test Winner: Reebow Gear Military Tactical
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Whether you’re a hunter who enjoys the company of all your gadgets or you are a minimalist, having a good hunting backpack can be the difference between success and failure. Advancements in fabric and other materials have decidedly yielded lighter, more durable backpacks that are capable of carrying heavier loads more safely and comfortably. Even with knowing obvious details about your needs, it can be difficult and time-consuming to wade through information about what each backpack on the market may have to offer and which one better suits your needs. This list of the top 10 hunting backpacks condenses the information that you need and presents it in a straightforward way so you can more easily determine which is the right one for you.

Standout Picks

Alps OutdoorZ Commander
This backpack comes in the form of a frame, with the ability to attach the pack. It has a lot of room for gear and easily accommodates a lengthy hunt. The compartments are spacious, well organized, and easy to access. It is a durable pack, reinforced in all the right places, and its padded shoulder straps and waist belt make it comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.
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Eberlestock X2
The X2 is one of the more interesting daypacks on the market. It is well-made and receives many accolades for its durability. The pack is top loading. It features dual hydration compartments and a flexing chassis that can be used as a seat or cradle loads strapped to the pack. It also comes with oversized compression straps for lashing on heavy loads. It can accommodate a side scabbard to carry a shotgun or hunting rifle, or the ARCG ButtBucket to carry a compound bow.
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Badlands Diablo Dos
This backpack is one of the toughest backpacks on the list. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty. It is light, weighing only 4 lbs. 2 oz. It is 2,100 cubic inches and functions nicely as a daypack. It has several unique features to maximize comfort and is hydration compatible.
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Gonex Tactical Rucksack
If you are a hunter who is concerned about the durability of your hunting backpack, then you will want to consider this rucksack by Gonex. The backpack is made from a 900D oxford material that is much heavier duty than what is typically used for a hunting backpack. It is also water resistant so that you can put your backpack down on wet grass or snow and it will keep your gear dry.
Amazon Link
Tenzing TZ 2220
The TZ 2220 is a well-made daypack, weighing in at 4 pounds, with 2,200 cubic inches. It has all the standard features and includes ample pockets for organization, a fold-out bow or firearm carrying boot, and fold-out rain cover. It is hydration compatible and also comes with compression straps.
Amazon Link
Reebow Gear Military Tactical
This backpack is durable and has been engineered for hunting and other purposes. It has all of the features that a hunter may need such as a molle system, primary and secondary compartments, and a waist belt. You can also purchase it in two different camouflage colors so that you can easily blend in with your surroundings while you are wearing the backpack. This makes it the perfect choice for a hunting backpack.
Amazon Link
$34.50
Badlands 2200
This backpack works great as a daypack or even for an overnight trip. It has 2,750 cubic inches of space and can easily accommodate all of your gear, with pockets for bows, rifles, spotting scopes, tripods, and hydration. It also comes with a blaze orange meat shelf and the aluminum frame helps to transfer weight off of your back and onto your hips. It is also one of the more stealthy backpacks on the market and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Amazon Link
Mardingtop Tactical
The Mardingtop tactical backpack is another great choice for a hunting backpack. It has been designed to resist water so that light rain or some wet grass won't end up soaking your gear. You can also store plenty of water with you thanks to the hydration compartment. These are just some a few features that turn this backpack into the ideal backpack for hunting near or far in the wilderness.
Amazon Link
$46.99
Allen Company 19099 Pagosa
The 19099 Pagosa is an 1800 cubic inch daypack. It offers plenty of pockets to keep your gear organized and accessible. It also comes with features to enhance comfort when carrying that heavy load, such as padded shoulder straps and a waist belt. The fabric used in the construction of this pack is quiet and will help you avoid being detected by your prey.
Amazon Link
Fieldline Country Pro Treeline
The Country Pro Treeline is a great entry-level daypack. It is lightweight and manageable, which make it a good choice for the young hunter. It is also a good choice for the limited budget. It is hydration ready and has plenty of space and compartments to organize your gear.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Durability

The durability of the backpack can make the difference between a hunting trip that is enjoyable and one that is less than enjoyable. The last thing you want to experience is having your gear fall out of your backpack because it burst at the seams or have the backpack fall off of your back because a chest strap broke.

Your backpack should be strong enough to last you for years at a time so that you do not need to worry about replacing it each time that you go on a hunting trip. This will help save you money in the long run because you will spend less money on a high-quality backpack than what you will end up spending on inexpensive backpacks that keep needing to be replaced. When you are considering the durability of the backpack, you should consider the thickness of the material, the quality of the stitching, carrying straps or handles, and the zippers. All of these parts will make the difference between a long lasting backpack and a backpack that you have to replace after only a few trips.

Size

The size and capacity of the backpack will be an important part of your choice in a hunting backpack because it is recommended that you pick the right size backpack for your hunting trip. You should use a larger backpack for longer hunts, but on a shorter hunt, you will want to use a smaller backpack.

The size of the backpack will determine how much gear you are able to bring along with you while you are hunting. If the backpack is too small, then you will not be able to bring enough gear, while a backpack that is too large may encourage you to bring items that you do not need. For these reasons, you will want to have a backpack that has enough capacity for your needs.

Backpacks have interior and exterior capacity. Most of the time, we consider the interior capacity of the backpack. This would include things such as main and secondary pockets as well as pockets on the outside of the backpack. Sometimes these pockets are expandable while other times they have a fixed width and cannot be expanded.

After you have taken a look at the backpack’s interior capacity, you will also want to check out the backpack’s exterior capacity. This includes any items found on the outside of the backpack that allow you to attach additional gear to the backpack. Some of the more common features include molle webbing, carabiner loops, or tent straps. Molle webbing is a feature that allows you to hook exterior pockets, water bottles, or other gear to the outside of the backpacks.

Style

You can purchase backpacks with either an internal frame or an external frame. There are a lot of similarities between an internal framed backpack and a backpack that has an external frame, but there are a few areas where an internal framed backpack may perform better than one with an external frame and vice versa.

Depending on what you are hunting and how long you are going to be hunting, you may want to choose a backpack with an external frame rather than an internal frame backpack. Generally speaking, a backpack that has an external frame is generally better suited for hunting trips where you are going to carry a lot of gear while a backpack with an internal frame is better for long hunting trips.

Water Resistance

Since hunting inherently happens outdoors, you will want to make sure that your backpack is able to protect your gear from moisture. Moisture can come from things such as rain, moisture from grass or brush, or snow. If you are planning on hunting in areas that are subject to a lot of moisture, then you may want to look for a backpack that is fully waterproof as a way to protect your hunting gear.

Otherwise, you should at least look for a hunting backpack that can resist moisture so that it doesn’t penetrate through the backpack and get your clothing or other items wet. You will have a much better time hunting if your gear stays dry and useful as opposed to ending up soaked and waterlogged.

Features

Backpacks have different features and those features can make a large difference in how useful the backpack will be when you are hunting. When you are shopping for a hunting backpack, you should take the time to make sure that it has the proper set of features so that you can use it to its fullest potential.

Having a backpack with the right extra features is a great way to make sure that you enjoy your hunting backpack completely while you are out hunting. Some features tend to be more popular than others but some of the most sought-after features include a water bladder pocket, expandable pockets, molle webbing, sleeping bag straps, and water bottle pockets.

BEST HUNTING BACKPACKS REVIEWED & RATED FOR QUALITY

1. Alps OutdoorZ Commander

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Alps OutdoorZ Commander
Amazon Link

This backpack comes in the form of a frame, with the ability to attach the pack. It has a lot of room for gear and easily accommodates a lengthy hunt. The compartments are spacious, well organized, and easy to access. It is a durable pack, reinforced in all the right places, and its padded shoulder straps and waist belt make it comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded.

Versatility
The fact that the Commander comes in the form of a frame with the ability to attach and detach a pack, makes it one of the most versatile packs on the market. When the pack is easily detached, the frame makes an efficient, durable way to carry meat with less mess.

Size
With 5,250 cubic inches, the Commander can easily accommodate enough gear for the “long hunt.” The main compartments of the backpack are spacious, and although it is top-loading, there is direct access to the lower compartment. It has a rifle holder and plenty of pockets for all your accessories, including a hydration pocket and port.

Cost and Value
Considering the versatility, durability, and size of this pack, it is priced very reasonably. It strikes a great balance between quality and affordability and its price is relatively average when compared to other backpacks on this list.

Amazon Link

2. Eberlestock X2

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Eberlestock X2
Amazon Link

The X2 is one of the more interesting daypacks on the market. It is well-made and receives many accolades for its durability. The pack is top loading. It features dual hydration compartments and a flexing chassis that can be used as a seat or cradle loads strapped to the pack. It also comes with oversized compression straps for lashing on heavy loads. It can accommodate a side scabbard to carry a shotgun or hunting rifle, or the ARCG ButtBucket to carry a compound bow.

Space Maximizing Design
Although this pack appears small at first glance and is only 1,830 cubic inches, the side wing pockets and other organizational features of this pack can transform it from a daypack into a one or two-night pack. In addition, by purchasing the necessary attachments, the pack can hold a bow or firearm. The design also allows easy access to all your gear.

Comfort
The unique design of this pack makes it comfortable, regardless of whether you have it cinched tight to maneuver with a light load or fully expanded and carrying a heavy load. The weight of the pack is transferred away from the back and shoulders and onto the hips.

Cost and Value
This pack is on the upper end of price for its size. However, it has significant versatility in terms of its use and receives high marks for quality of materials and construction. An important thing to note is that the X2 does not include a side scabbard or ButtBucket.

Amazon Link

3. Badlands Diablo Dos

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Badlands Diablo Dos
Amazon Link

This backpack is one of the toughest backpacks on the list. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty. It is light, weighing only 4 lbs. 2 oz. It is 2,100 cubic inches and functions nicely as a daypack. It has several unique features to maximize comfort and is hydration compatible.

Strong and Durable
The Diablo Dos has the distinction of having the highest strength to weight ratio of any hunting pack on the market. This means that this pack has more versatility than a standard daypack.

Comfort
One of the features that make this pack so comfortable to carry is the Hypervent suspension which allows cool air to flow between the pack and your back. The design of the Diablo Dos also ensures that the weight of the pack will be distributed comfortably.

Cost and Value
Although the Diablo Dos is at the higher end of cost when compared to other packs on this list, it has several features that set it apart. In addition, the lifetime warranty certainly reduces the risk of spending a little more money.

Amazon Link

4. Gonex Tactical Rucksack

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Gonex Tactical Rucksack
Amazon Link

If you are a hunter who is concerned about the durability of your hunting backpack, then you will want to consider this rucksack by Gonex. The backpack is made from a 900D oxford material that is much heavier duty than what is typically used for a hunting backpack. It is also water resistant so that you can put your backpack down on wet grass or snow and it will keep your gear dry.

Durable
The backpack has been built to be long-lasting and durable. It uses thicker material than what is typically used in hunting backpacks and it also uses high-quality zippers and chest straps so that it holds up while you are on the hunt.

Breathable Mesh
The shoulder straps and the back of the backpack have a breathable mesh material. This allows the backpack to wick away moisture from sweating so that you do not get wet in these areas of your body while wearing the backpack.

Cost and Value
You can plan on seeing this backpack sold at an average price for a hunting backpack. This makes it into an excellent value because of the added attention that has been placed on making it durable and long-lasting.

Amazon Link

5. Tenzing TZ 2220

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Tenzing TZ 2220
Amazon Link

The TZ 2220 is a well-made daypack, weighing in at 4 pounds, with 2,200 cubic inches. It has all the standard features and includes ample pockets for organization, a fold-out bow or firearm carrying boot, and fold-out rain cover. It is hydration compatible and also comes with compression straps.

Specialized Compartments
This day-pack has ample specialized compartments to keep your gear organized, and more importantly, easily accessible. The front compartment contains several pouches to hold smaller items. There is also a pocket that can easily accommodate longer items. The zippers for each pocket are color coded.

Bow Bucket
It can be difficult to find a smaller pack capable of safely and securely carrying a bow. This pack has that capability and will keep your bow’s fragile parts well-protected.

Cost and Value
The TZ 2220 is an averagely priced pack by comparison to other packs on this list. It includes some practical features other models do not have, such as the rain cover, making it a good value for the cost.

Amazon Link

6. Reebow Gear Military Tactical

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$34.50
Reebow Gear Military Tactical
Amazon Link

This backpack is durable and has been engineered for hunting and other purposes. It has all of the features that a hunter may need such as a molle system, primary and secondary compartments, and a waist belt. You can also purchase it in two different camouflage colors so that you can easily blend in with your surroundings while you are wearing the backpack. This makes it the perfect choice for a hunting backpack.

Ventalated Back
The area that contacts your back is padded and ventilated. This helps keep your back from getting hot and sweaty while you are wearing the backpack on long hikes to your hunting area or even short walks on a hot day.

600D Nylon
The backpack is made from a 600D nylon material. This helps the backpack stay lightweight yet durable even when it has been fully loaded up with your hunting gear. The nylon material also helps to resist water in case of light rain.

Cost and Value
This backpack is sold at a price that is lower than the average price for hunting backpacks. This turns it into a bargain purchase since you get many of the higher-end features found in hunting backpacks without spending a lot.

Amazon Link
$34.50

7. Badlands 2200

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Badlands 2200
Amazon Link

This backpack works great as a daypack or even for an overnight trip. It has 2,750 cubic inches of space and can easily accommodate all of your gear, with pockets for bows, rifles, spotting scopes, tripods, and hydration. It also comes with a blaze orange meat shelf and the aluminum frame helps to transfer weight off of your back and onto your hips. It is also one of the more stealthy backpacks on the market and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Stealth
The Badlands 2200 pack is made from whisper-quiet KXO-32 fabric. It also blends into a variety of environments and scent suppression helps the hunter to go undetected.

Lifetime Warranty
This pack comes with a lifetime warranty, making it easy to quell any fears about strength and durability.

Cost and Value
This particular backpack is slightly more expensive than packs of comparable size. However, the “extras” that come with this backpack, including the lifetime warranty, make it well worth the price difference.

Amazon Link

8. Mardingtop Tactical

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$46.99
Mardingtop Tactical
Amazon Link

The Mardingtop tactical backpack is another great choice for a hunting backpack. It has been designed to resist water so that light rain or some wet grass won't end up soaking your gear. You can also store plenty of water with you thanks to the hydration compartment. These are just some a few features that turn this backpack into the ideal backpack for hunting near or far in the wilderness.

Hydration Compartment
The backpack includes a hydration pocket which allows you to insert a hydration bladder as large as 2.5 liters. A tube for the bladder can be run through the top of the backpack so that you can have water when needed.

Waist Belt
There is a waist belt on the backpack so that you can secure it to your body when it has been filled to capacity. This helps reduce stress on your back muscles so that you do not get sore.

Cost and Value
You will see this backpack sold a price that is average for a hunting backpack. This turns it into a great value because you get premium features such as a hydration bladder and water resistance at a fair selling price.

Amazon Link
$46.99

9. Allen Company 19099 Pagosa

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Allen Company 19099 Pagosa
Amazon Link

The 19099 Pagosa is an 1800 cubic inch daypack. It offers plenty of pockets to keep your gear organized and accessible. It also comes with features to enhance comfort when carrying that heavy load, such as padded shoulder straps and a waist belt. The fabric used in the construction of this pack is quiet and will help you avoid being detected by your prey.

Comfortable
The padded straps and waist belt help distribute the weight of this pack in a comfortable manner. In addition, all straps are easily adjustable and accessible.

Organization
For the size of this pack, it offers plenty of pockets with easy access to keep your gear organized. In addition, high visibility and easy grip zipper pull make accessibility to gear even easier.

Cost and Value
This backpack yields fair quality for the price. It is one of the more affordable packs on the market and there is value in some of the features it possesses. However, the durability of construction can be an issue with this pack, particularly when compared to other packs on this list.

Amazon Link

10. Fieldline Country Pro Treeline

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Fieldline Country Pro Treeline
Amazon Link

The Country Pro Treeline is a great entry-level daypack. It is lightweight and manageable, which make it a good choice for the young hunter. It is also a good choice for the limited budget. It is hydration ready and has plenty of space and compartments to organize your gear.

Weight
This is one of the lightest backpacks on the list, weighing a mere 1.7 pounds. This makes it a great choice for the beginner or young hunter.

Price
The Country Pro Treeline is priced substantially less than the other packs on this list. It is hard to ignore that fact and it reinforces that it’s an appropriate fit for the novice or young hunter.

Cost and Value
When compared to other packs on the list, hands down, the price of this pack cannot be beaten. However, if you are looking for a pack to accommodate more than the most basic of gear or something more rugged, this may not be the right pack for you.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Editorial Team, REI, Outdoor Site
  2. Editorial Team, Nomadic Matt, Travel Blog