The Best Bow Hunting Backpacks
Bow hunting became more popular during the past several years.
If you are a bow hunter in a search for a perfect backpack for your necessary gear, you came to the right place!
It is important to you to have all your gear perfectly secured and we found the best out of the best.
Highest Rated Bow Hunting Backpacks (by Customer Reviews)
- 1ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit
- 2ALPS OutdoorZ Pathfinder
- 3ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS
- 4ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix
- 5Badlands 2200 Camouflage Hunting Pack and Meat Hauler
- 6ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer
- 7Eberlestock X2 Pack
- 8Timber Hawk Killshot
- 9Tenzing TZ 4000
- 10Tenzing TC SP14 Shooters
1
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit
If you are tired of digging up the smaller things you wanted to carry with yourself while hiking/hunting, ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit is the only reasonable solution!
This hunting backpack comes with plenty of different slips, so you can organize it better than your own wardrobe when you are packing the necessary gear!
ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit comes with the removable waist belt, that, an this comes with no surprise – has two more pockets, and will tight up your backpack even stronger by your body.
This one is designed so that you can be completely hands free – there are side pockets for the water or any other liquid you decided to carry, and there is also the weapon holder, where you can place your arrows or any other weapon you want.
The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit can carry a lot of weight, which means that you can practically pack whatever you want there – from clothes to the heaviest gear, without any risk of having your backpack tearing apart in the middle of the road.
The strips are extremely easily adjustable and the back side of the backpack is designed so that it completely follows the shape of your body and makes you comfortable.
This backpack weights 4 pounds and its dimensions are 22 x 14 x 4 inches.
It is great for the hikers and camper as well.
With this hunting backpack you are also getting a rain cover, that is easily installed over it if the rain starts pouring.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Enough and well-organised outside pockets
- Removable waist belt with two extra pockets
- Rain cover included
- Aluminium frame
- Water holder
- Weapon holder
- Padded back
Cons
- Waist belt can loose up after a while
Jake's TakeALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit is the right feet of every hunter/hiker that wants to keep his or her gear well – organized.
It has a lot of pockets from all of its sides and the zippers won’t allow even the tiniest piece of gear to fall out.
The only disadvantages that are noticed so far is the waist belt itself – according to some of the customers’ reviews, it can loose up a bit after an hour or two of carrying.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
ALPS OutdoorZ Pathfinder
ALPS OutdoorZ is one of the rear manufacturers that produced two – parts backpack.
The first part is a fanny pack with a waist belt and the shoulder straps with pads with great number of pockets – the main one that is opened from the top, the front side one, two on the sides, and two on the belt itself.
The day pack can be installed on the fanny pack and you are spreading the space this way.
When you install these two parts one on the another, you get the free middle space with strings, where you can secure your weapon, but you can easily reach it as well.
Still, in order to use up all the space there is, you have to load the lower pack first, and then install the day back pack.
Still, you can go through the wild without any fear of being noticed by your pray, thanks to the pattern that helps you to easily become one with the nature.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Two – parts backpack
- You can use those two parts individually
- Weapon holder
- Additional pockets
- Bottle holder
- Meat holder
- Camera holder
Cons
- You can’t create the unique great space from these two parts
Jake's TakeThe best part of ALPS OutdoorZ Pathfinder is that it can be used in everyday life.
Both parts of this backpack have their own purpose and once installed together, it can act like the perfect luggage for all of your necessary gear.
The backpack itself isn’t heavy at all and it is designed that way that you have the great support to your body with the heaviest load.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS
The best thing about ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS is that, even though there is already a lot of space for the load, it can be spread even more.
Unlike some other hunting backpacks, it doesn’t have too many pockets, but it has the ones that are the most essential – meat holder, weapon holder, 2 waist pockets, internal pocket, side pockets, and a large inner space, that can easily be more widen.
Even though it seems that the load you usually bring will barely be packet in the backpack, it will turn out at the end that there is a lot more space to stash your gear.
Since it has the 3300 cubic inches of space, you will need a special system that will provide you comfort when you carry your whole load.
But don’t worry – ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS is completely adjustable – from the shoulder pads, to the waist strap, you can easily adjust everything by your own measure and provide the lightness of your complete load on the go.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Expendable space
- Clip styled waist belt
- Water holder
- Rain cover
- Weapon holder
- Meat holder
- 6 additional pockets
- Multi – layer foam base
- Frame made of aluminium
Cons
- No internal frame
Jake's TakeThe best thing about ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS is that it can completely adjust to your body shape and even the strips can be adjusted so that you don’t even feel the weight you are wearing on your shoulders.
It has molded foam in it, so it is easily modified by your needs.
The space inside is huge and you can stash anything you need for your trip, but it can also spread even more, for some extra gear.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix
ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix is one of the most secure hunting backpacks on the market.
It is produced with webbing that tights your gear and for the weapon securing there are bottom and wing pocket to do this job.
It is designed so that its base provides additional conform and the support to your back.
Besides the webbing system and additional pockets, ALPS OutdoorZ Matrix has extension lashing straps, that is perfect for the longer gear.
The pattern provides the perfect camouflage in the wild and, if it starts pouring from the sky, there is rain cover installed to protect your gear from getting wet.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Webbing for additional security and attachments
- Bottle holder
- Weapon holder
- Waist belt with additional pockets
- Versatile design
- Camouflage
- Built – in rain cover
- Padded shoulder strips
- Center aluminium stay
- Extension lashing straps
Cons
- No meat holder
- Strips can loose up after a while
Jake's TakeALPS OutdoorZ Matrix is among the greatest backpacks for professional bow hunters for so many reasons.
First of all, it can carry a lot of load and it has the system that saves your back from the pain.
Besides that, it has the additional pockets for all your necessary gear, as well as the extensions for longer gear.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Badlands 2200 Camouflage Hunting Pack and Meat Hauler
Badlands 2200 is all in one product – closet, meat holder, liquid and weapon holder, overnight pack, daily package, and its patter is great camouflage.
The first thing you will notice about the Badlands 2200 is its design.
First of all, the colors are mixed up that way that you will practically become one with the nature.
The back line is adjustable and it has a molted foam on the back side, that adjusts to your spine and the whole back, so it won’t make you uncomfortable at any moment.
You will also see the pockets for liquid, that can carry 2 liters bottle, and the weapon wallet.
Unlike the most of the hunting backpacks, Badlands 2200 has the majority of its pockets on the inside – this way, you have like a great drawer with plenty of tiny boxes on the side and the grand space for bigger stuff.
There is also the meat holder, so your hands can be completely carry-free.
The whole backpack is made out of T – 6 aircraft aluminium that reduces the risk of your things getting wet from the rain or even mud to zero.
In case you are a bow hunter, Badlands 2200 is the perfect fit for Badlands Bow Boot.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Built – in meat shelf
- Internal and external pockets
- DWR – treated fabric
- Molted foam in fabric
- T-6 Aircraft Aluminum internal frame
- Pattern adapts to surroundings
- Versatile
- Has weapon holders
- Whisper quiet fabric
Cons
- Sets above sholders
- Might be too long for some people
Jake's TakeWith Badlands 2200 you easily become one with the nature.
The pattern itself is made the way you can stay near the tree or the bush and your pray will never notice you.
Besides that, it can be used as a pray carrier, wardrobe, camp carrier, weapon holder, and it perfectly fits by your body line.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer
Why to pick ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer hunting back pack?
First of all, it has the capacity of 41 liters for your essential gear and extra pockets for smaller items.
Second, the whole backpack is designed so that you have easy reachable pockets, including weapon holder.
It also has the pattern that is similar to the colors common in nature, which makes it perfectly camouflaged in nature.
Since the backpack is huge and it can carry a lot of load, there had to be some feature that supports your whole body while carrying it on your back.
As for the weapon, ALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer has the drop – down pocket where you place the necessary weapon and be sure it won’t be lost during the road.
That’s why manufacturers combined PE frame sheet while designing this backpack that supports your back while carrying the heavy load.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Expandable pocket for weapon
- Each pocket additionally secured with the strips
- Bottle holder
- Padded shoulder straps
- Built – in rain cover
- PE frame sheet
Cons
- No meat pocket
- Strips can loose up after a while
Jake's TakeALPS OutdoorZ Trail Blazer provides the perfect accommodation for a heavy load.
Its capacity of 41 liters in general guarantee you will have as many space you need for all the necessary and even unnecessary gear you think you should carry with yourself.
This backpack doesn’t have too many pockets, but it is organized that way so you will have every essential by your hand.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Eberlestock X2 Pack
Eberlestock X2 Pack has squared shape, that provide its malfunctioning – it can be used both as the backpack and, thanks to the FlaxChassis feature, you can also place it on the ground and use it for sitting.
This backpack has plenty of space to stash all of your hunting gear, but it also has two extra pockets on its sides that go from the top to the bottom and can carry extra gear.
Besides two bottles holders, that can easily carry two 2,5l bottles, and a bow holder, there are also extra lashing straps on click at the front side of the backpack where you can attach some extra gear.
Unlike some other backpacks, Eberlestock X2 Pack doesn’t have that many extra pockets, but it can stash everything you need for a two – days bow hunting trip.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Two big side pockets with additional space
- Internal aluminium frame
- Padded back panel
- FlaxChassis feature
- Dual hydration pockets
- Extra lashing straps
Cons
- Might feel heavier
- Might be uncomfortable for taller people
Jake's TakeEberlestock X2 Pack is a practical backpack that can both carry your load and be used for sitting on a break.
Even though it lacks in extra pockets, its space can widen even more, since it has two side pockets that spread as wings for some extra space and it has extra lashing strips for attaching additional gear.
Still, because of its shape it might be uncomfortable to be carried by tall people.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Timber Hawk Killshot
With the total capacity of 56.2l Timber Hawk Killshot is the number one backpack for the hunting trips that last for more than a day.
It has the usual pattern – the colors of nature, that will help you to easily camouflage in the wilderness.
This backpack is highly secured from all ends and you can rest without being afraid of having anything lost on the road.
It has extra pocket for a bottle holder, that is easy reachable, so you don’t have to worry of the hydration.
Besides the bottle holder, there are several sleeves and pockets inside and on the outside of the backpack, where you can carry the tinier gear such as knifes, camera, GPS, or simply take some snacks with you.
The waist belt is going to secure the load even more and it also has two additional pockets for stashing.
Since the capacity of the backpack is rather big, Timber Hawk even developed the additional system to support your whole body while carrying the backpack on your shoulders.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Weapon holder
- Bottle holder
- Built – in rain cover
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Waist belt
- Additional pocket
- Can be used for several days trips
Cons
- Waist belt and shoulder strips can loose up after a while
- No meat holder
Jake's Takeif you are into bow hunting that includes camping for a few days, Timber Hawk Killshot Backpack is the best choice you can make!
In this one, you can carry as many things you need, such as the tend, additional clothes, weapon, snacks, camera – basically anything you can think of for a project like that.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Tenzing TZ 4000
Tenzing TZ 4000 can be adjusted in 3 different sizes, depending on your needs.
It can bring necessary hunting gear, but also clothes, tend, water – basically everything the one can need in this situation.
On the outside, there is a special room for your bows and you will have it by your hand all the time.
This hunting backpack is already big enough, but it can also expend even more to add all necessary gear.
Tezing TZ 4000 comes for a great price, but it is specifically made for the professional bow hunters that take this sport seriously!
It also comes with enough pockets -21 in total, so you can be sure all of your tiny equipment will have its own space.
For the ones with the real pray, there is a meat holder, that has its own breathable system, so you can be sure your meat will remain fresh.
With 9 compression straps – 5 vertical and 4 horizontal, you can be sure your load is completely safe.
This backpack also comes with the rain cover, so you can be sure your gear will never get wet.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Adjustable torso suspension
- Air cooled back pad
- Bow holder
- Gun carrying boot
- Rain cover
- Security straps
- Meat holder
- Hydration system
- Comes with rain cover
Cons
- No key attachment
- Waist straps can loose up after a while
Jake's TakeTenzing TZ 4000 hunting backpack is said to be one of the best on the market for professional bow hunters,
It has enough space for all required gear – 21 pockets, and meat and weapon holder, and the huge main space, that it can even be wider.
Even though its price might seem over the top, you can be sure that you will get all the benefits you need for comfortable hiking and hunting.
However, your shoulder tripe pads can be placed too high, so pay attention to adjust them right before you wear it.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Tenzing TC SP14 Shooters
Tenzing TC SP14 Shooters is among the simplest backpacks for bow hunters out there.
It has a a main great pocket that is a bit diged in the middle.
That middle part is a weapon holder that is secured with for additional strips, so you can be sure your weapon won’t slip through it.
The base has foam pads that will keep you comfortable while carrying and the waist belt will tight the backpack to your body even more.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Secured weapon holder
- Aluminium frame
- Additional pockets
- Secured waist belt
Cons
- No meat pocket
- No pockets on waist belt
Jake's TakeIf you are a beginner or bow hunting is just a hobby for you , choose Tenzing TC SP14 Shooters.
It doesn’t have too many pockets, so you won’t get lost with it, but it has enough space to stash all the gear you need.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Bow Hunting Backpacks Buying Guide
You will need several things to go bow hunting.
Some of them are arrows, field points, bow sight, peep sight, quiver, and your personal items.
It means that you need a functional and practical backpack.
Bowhunting backpacks become a thing people realize that they needed something practical and that simple backpack or hiking backpacks don’t work as needed.
If you need a bowhunting backpack, you can check the list above to find my recommendation with the pros and cons of each model.
However, to be fully aware of what you need and what makes a good bowhunting backpack, keep reading my buying guide.
Great Bowhunting Backpack Characteristics
Your backpack needs to be comfortable, durable, to have enough volume for everything you need, lightweight, and to have an organization that suits your needs.
Some of these elements are a matter of personal preference, while others are a matter of quality.
Comfort and Longevity
The backpack should be able to withstand from 30 to 100+ pounds.
It means that you can easily find a backpack that will be comfortable when you carry a small load, such as 30 pounds.
Finding the one which is comfortable when you are wearing 100 pounds on a steep slope is challenging.
But, if a backpack has certain construction elements, it can be considered as comfortable.
Those are sturdy and stiff vertical frame and proper frame size.
What does proper frame size mean?
It means that a frame should transfer the load to your belt and hips, instead of keeping it on your shoulders.
That has much to do with raising the backpack harness on your shoulders.
The last thing that affects comfort is the hip belt.
The belt should be comfortable, and should bruise you or slip.
On the other hand, bowhunting backpacks are often more durable than comfortable.
It is because the comfort depends on your needs and durability is easier to achieve.
For example, a heavier backpack isn’t necessarily more durable than the lighter one.
The stitchings and material make the difference between the backpack that will last for many seasons and the one that will fall apart after a few uses.
Packing Capacity
The preferred volume of the bowhunting backpacks is different for all hunters.
However, I will break things down about how much volume you need for hunting adventures of different lengths.
Volume: 3000-4000 ci
Backpacks with smaller capacity, such as 4000 ci or smaller is a choice for people whose adventures don’t last for more than three days.
Still, it is a limited backpack, and pick it only if you never go to a multiday hunting trip.
Volume: 4000 – 5000 ci
The next category is still light, but backpacks with 5000 ci can hold stuff for seven days.
It can be wise to pick a larger bowhunting backpack, to have enough space for all the things, than stick to the smallest.
Larger backpacks don’t weigh significantly more than smaller ones if made properly.
If you go on an adventure with your family, choose the larger backpack.
Volume: 5000-6000 ci
For a trip that lasts from seven to ten days, you will need a large backpack, such as those with 6000 ci capacity.
It can hold all your items, and still have a room left if you pack wisely.
Volume: 6000ci +
Passionate bowhunters which are ready to go in nature for more than 10 days, need a reliable ally, such as 6000 ci + capacity backpack.
These usually have better organizational pockets and packing systems, as they can hold lots of items.
However, packing needs are individual.
What someone carries for a two-days trip, another hunter may need for a seven-day trip.
Pick the larger backpack, instead of squeezing everything and even losing your tools if you left them hanging from the backpack.
Weight
In most cases, you will carry your backpack during the hunt.
Your stuff and gear are already heavy, so try to find a lighter backpack.
In case of the multi-days hunts, trust me, even 10 pounds can make a difference, as far as overall backpack and load go.
That is why sticking to light, yet sturdy backpack is important.
Have then in mind next time you start packing.
Material
There are a few fabrics commonly used for manufacturing backpacks.
Those are Cordura nylon, nylon packcloth, fleece or microfleece, X-Pac laminate, or Spectra X-Grid.
Fabrics on the backpack must meet the standards for several criteria.
Those include water resistance, tear strength, abrasion resistance, and noise.
Cordura Nylon/Nylon Packcloth
Nylon is a common choice for bowhunting backpacks because it is a budget-friendly option, easy to sew with average performance.
The water-resistance depends on the coating and the abrasion on the weave type.
If done properly, a nylon backpack is an excellent choice.
Also, nylon is moderately quiet.
Because of everything said, nylon can be used for mild showers, but for prolonged hunting in the rain you will still need a rain cover.
Fleece
Fleece is quiet but has lower tear-resistance and none water-resistance.
I don’t recommend these, as they can break easier than others and you need a rain cover even light showers.
X-Pac
X-Pac is a professional-grade fabric, waterproof in most cases.
What is also good about X-Pac is that it is stain resistant, which means there won’t be bloodstains on it and the cleaning is easier.
The material produces more noise, especially on cold temperatures and costs significantly more.
Spectra-X Grid
The latest improvement in the world of bowhunting backpacks is the Spectra-X Grid.
It is super-strong material, with great abrasion-resistance.
On top of everything, it is lightweight and quiet.
Still, it resists water, but not as X-Pac.
Load Shelves
Backpacks able to carry meat between suspension and pack bags have load shelves.
It is a nice and versatile feature, but it adds weight.
Other pros are practical – the blood won’t mess up your gear inside the pack, and the position of the meat is easier to carry around.
Except for the weight, the drawback is the higher price tag.
Conclusion
When picking the right hunting backpack for yourself, there are several things you need to pay attention to.
The main feature is the weapon holder.
The rest is up to you.
You can choose from the high capacity backpacks, over the two – piece ones, or even the simplest one, that can act like the everyday backpack, but has the weapon holder as the additional feature.
You can choose the number of pockets you need, but don’t rush your decision – not every backpack is perfect for everyone!
What's your take on Bow Hunting Backpacks? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
