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A hunting backpack is something that varies between every hunter. Your hunting backpack reflects the way you like to hunt and so you’ll see not everyone uses the same one. Some like a backpack that can carry everything and anything they need. Others may just want strictly the essentials. Room for your bow, a quiver, water, and some basic survival equipment.
The main idea is that most hunters consider a backpack a necessity when they’re out. But it can’t be just any backpack, you need one specifically made for hunting. And in particular for this post…bow hunting!
This post for the best bow hunting backpacks will tell you:
- What features you should look for in your bow hunting backpack.
- The 7 Best Bow Hunting Backpacks in 2024.
- Each backpack’s specifications & features.
What To Look For In a Bow Hunting Backpack
Bow Attachment
A bow attachment on your pack is the very first thing you should consider when looking to buy the best bow hunting backpack for you. But it does come down to personal preference whether you really want one or not. Generally, you should check whether the pack you want has one. It’s convenient for you as sometimes you may need free hands and finding a place to put your bow so it’s safe from damage can be a challenge.
Hydration Bladder
In my opinion, this should be your #1 priority.
Why? Plain and simple – Dehydration is deadly. This is why I prioritize this feature highest. When searching for your best bow hunting backpack you should always look at if the pack has a hydration bladder or not. Or at the very least the space to accommodate one that you can buy separately. The reviews of the best bow hunting backpacks in this article will tell you if the packs have a hydration bladder or pocket space for one. I’ve got you covered! (and hydrated!)
Carrying Space
This feature is something that can vary in importance based on your personal preference. If you’re a hunter that comes prepared for any scenario, the carrying space your backpack has will matter to you. If you like to hunt light then little carrying space probably won’t be a deal-breaker for you when it comes to shopping for your best bow hunting backpack. The same principle applies to the next consideration.
Weight
In a similar vein to carrying space, the weight of your pack will vary based on your preferences. If you like to hunt light then you’ll want your backpack to align with that preference as well. And vice versa with heavy hunting backpacks.
The weight of your pack and its carrying space usually have a positive correlation. So realistically you can’t expect tons of carrying space without the extra weight. Although the best hunting backpacks recommended here make sure you’re getting the most carrying space out of as little weight as possible!
7 Best Bow Hunting Backpacks
#1 The Best Bow Hunting Backpack: Badlands Sacrifice LS Hunting Pack
Rating – 10/10
Carrying Capacity – 3400 Cubic Inches in total. 2160 Cubic Inches in main compartment.
Weight – 3 lbs 13 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes. Can also buy a Bow Boot accessory made by Badlands for extra security.
Hydration Bladder – Compatible but not included. Can accommodate up to a 3L Bladder.
Warranty – Lifetime, no questions asked, any issue they’ll fix it. (See Warranty section below.)
Shop Now for the Badlands Sacrifice LS Hunting Pack on Amazon.com!
At the top of the list we have the very best, the Badlands Sacrifice LS Hunting Pack. LS standing for lighter and stronger as this backpack is a revamped version of the original Sacrifice hunting pack.
And boy is this thing better.
This pack strikes the sweet spot and satisfies the needs of any type of hunter. The Badlands does everything you demand it to and more.
Fabrics
The Sacrifice LS is sewn with rip-stop, water-resistant nylon to prevent any tears and water damage during your treks.
It’s built on a load transferring frame to reduce the weight you carry, as well as distributing it to areas where it’s less of a burden and better for you body. (Taking weight off your shoulders and onto your hips.)
It also has a Hypervent frame that provides good back comfort and allows air to flow through to your back to help keep you cool.
Size
The Sacrifice LS has an astounding 3400 cubic inches in total space while weighing in at only 3 pounds 13 ounces! This backpack gives you the most space at the lightest weight.
There are 7 compartments total in this bag:
- 2 Main compartments. (The 2 compartments holding 2160 cubic inches.)
- 2 Longer side pockets for Sights/Scopes
- 3 Accessory compartments.
Bow Attachment
The pack is able to hold your bow safely through straps on the front of the backpack. (Highlighted in the video at 1:05.)
If you’re a little skeptical about the straps – Badlands sells an affordable Bow Boot attachment that will provide extra security for your bow and it is compatible with the Sacrifice LS.
Warranty
One of the best things about this backpack (and all Badlands’ backpacks) is their warranty. They provide an unconditional lifetime warranty on all their products, all you have to do is pay shipping to their facility and back. The unconditional part is legit too, it’s none of that fine print BS you normally find. If it breaks or tears or anything at all, they’ll fix it for free! Here’s the warranty straight from their website www.badlandspacks.com.
The specs, features, and warranty, make the Badlands Sacrifice LS backpack the #1 pick for the best bow hunting backpack.
Shop Now for the Badlands Sacrifice LS Hunting Pack on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Extremely lightweight - Great Carrying Capacity - Lifetime unconditional Warranty - Rip stop fabric to prevent tears - Water resistant - Rain cover included - Most carrying capacity at lightest weight | - Need to purchase your own hydration bladder |
#2 – Timber Hawk Killshot
Rating – 9.7/10
Carrying Capacity – 3324 Cubic Inches.
Weight – 7 lbs 6 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Hydration Bladder – Yes, 2L bladder included with hose.
Warranty – Lifetime, no questions asked. Just like Badlands!
Shop Now for the Timber Hawk Killshot on Amazon.com!
The Timber Hawk Killshot is a great backpack for someone that’s looking to go on a full-day or possibly 2-3 day trek. While it can be heavy when fully loaded, the Killshot has a great design that allows you to drop it quickly and quietly, ready to shoot at a moment’s notice.
Fabric
The Killshot is made from polyester twill fabric wrapped around an internal frame. Making it a sturdy, yet silent backpack, producing no sound that could come from movements or friction. The Killshot is not water-resistant, but it does come with a rain cover that will keep it dry.
The shoulder straps on this pack are highly functional. The shoulder straps have a silent stalk, quick ditch system so you can unclip and drop the pack quickly, ready to take your shot. The straps also contain small pockets that can fit a radio/phone/GPS for easy, convenient access.
Bow Attachment
This pack can securely carry a bow in a variety of ways, highlighted in this video made by Timber Hawk themselves!
An added bonus of the Timber Hawk Killshot is that while it can securely carry a bow, it can also carry a gun or tripod. Making it not just one of the best bow hunting backpacks but also a good all around hunting pack!
Storage
Along with the straps that allow for bow carrying, the Killshot has many lashing points on it that allow for external storage to be added on.
However, be aware that this backpack is already very heavy when fully loaded. Although you probably won’t need it, adding on extra external storage may make this pack so heavy it strains you to carry. Avoid this at all costs, as it can cause injuries. Even the smallest injuries while you’re hunting on multi-day trips can become very serious problems.
There is also an internal sleeve designed to carry your spotting scope or sight without damaging it!
The versatility and functionality of this pack along with it’s excellent storage capabilities make this pack a fair rival to the Badlands Sacrifice LS. Don’t forget it’s no questions asked lifetime warranty! If you’re looking to go on a multi-day hunt, I’d recommend you pick up the Timber Hawk Killshot. And be sure to drop it using the quick ditch straps! 😉
Shop Now for the Timber Hawk Killshot on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Many sizing options - Windproof - Water-repellent - Quiet during movement - Resistant to tears and scuffs - Long-lasting | - Bulky - Stiff fabrics - Stiff zippers (they break in) - Sizing issues |
#3 – ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Traverse X
Rating – 9.5/10
Carrying Capacity – 2900 Cubic Inches.
Weight – 6 lbs 1 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Hydration Bladder – Compatible, bladder not included.
Warranty – Lifetime.
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Traverse X on Amazon.com!
The ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Traverse X (say that 5 times fast…phew) is an excellent backpack to bring with you on a long stand due to it’s great pocket organization, tough fabric, and stow-away meat shelf.
Fabric
The fabrics used across the Traverse X is 1860D Nylon Ballistic fabric and Hypalon. 1860D Nylon Ballistic is a tough, thick fabric that was initially used in WW2 for flak jackets to prevent shrapnel from piercing soldiers. This means it is an excellent fabric due to it’s resistance to tearing and wearing down.
Hypalon is also used on the high-stress areas of the pack and on the lashing points. Hypalon is one of the highest strength, yet flexible materials so this being used on the areas mentioned means this pack will be lasting even longer!
A rain cover is also included to keep the pack dry while on your stand.
Organization
The pockets and compartments in this backpack are so well organized that you’ll find yourself amazed at just how convenient they really are.
The two side wing pockets (pictured left) are fleece lined, so they can safely carry your scopes and sights without causing damage to the glass.
There are two waist-band pockets that are 7 inches wide and 2.25 inches deep, allowing for easy access to any smaller items you might bring. (Phone, GPS, Radio, Maps, etc.)
Also highlighted in the picture on the left are the many pockets on the front of the pack. These help you easily access whatever you’re looking for without having to turn your main compartment inside out.
Lastly, the stow-away meat shelf (pictured left) can easily “hold more meat than you can physically carry!” (Quote straight from ALPS themselves.) The secondary benefit of this stow-away meat shelf is it’s not located inside the main compartment so it doesn’t take away from any of the space the bag provides.
The Traverse X also is bladder compatible. Although it doesn’t include one, there is a pocket that has enough space to carry one and includes a hole for a hose to fit through.
Bow Attachment
Lastly, there is a drop down pocket to hook your bow to. This bow compatibility is a plus of course because we’re looking at the best bow hunting backpacks.
The only issue I’d say with the drop down pocket is that you can’t remove the bow yourself unless you take off the backpack. If you’re walking and see an opportunity, you’re going to have a hard time capitalizing on it since this pack doesn’t have a quick ditch system like the Timber Hawk Killshot does.
That’s why I’d recommend the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Traverse X to a hunter that sets their bag down beside them on their stand and doesn’t move much. If you make organization in your hunting pack a priority, I know you’ll love this backpack!
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Extreme Traverse X on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Extremely warm - Waterproof - Windproof - Varying insulation amounts based off areas of body to maximize mobility - Lifetime warranty | - Have to remove full bib when nature calls |
#4 – In Sights Realtree Xtra Multi Weapon Pack
Rating – 9/10
Carrying Capacity – 1789 Cubic Inches.
Weight – 4 lbs 8 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Hydration Bladder – Compatible, bladder not included.
Warranty – 1 Year Warranty.
Shop Now for the In Sights Realtree Xtra Weapon Pack on Amazon.com!
The In Sights Realtree pack is often quoted in the bow hunting community as one of the most revolutionary packs out.
And personally, it’s one of my favorites.
This pack was specifically made for bow hunting and it shows in the design and utility. The patented weapon enclosure is quite the feature as you’ll see further below.
The mobile, lightweight, and compact design of the Realtree pack makes it the perfect pick for the “always on the move” hunter.
Compartments & Pockets
For the small size of the Realtree, it makes great use of the limited space it has.
The Realtree has two main compartments with mesh organization pockets inside. The main compartment has a designated spot for a hydration bladder and a hose hole out of the main compartment.
On both sides of the pack, there are dual holsters so you can strap in quivers for easy and secure carrying. On the belt there is a small zipper compartment that allows for quick access to any smaller items you carry. The bottom of the pack has a strap system that allows you to carry additional gear or clothing as well. Everything in the pack stays well secured so you never have to worry about items coming loose during your trek.
Weapon Enclosure
First and foremost, the weapon enclosure on the In Sights Realtree can accommodate not only bows but rifles as well. Making this pack not strictly a bow hunting pack, but a general hunting pack if you choose to use it as such.
Moving on, the weapon enclosure on the Realtree pack is nothing short of amazing. It is a padded fold-over weapon compartment.
The weapon is placed inside a mesh pocket to keep it even more secure inside the fold. The picture on the left shows a clear example of how your bow will look once inside the weapon enclosure.
The benefits of this enclosure are:
- Keeps bow secure.
- Frees both your hands, makes climbing easier.
- Protects bow from any external damage.
- Ability to freely move without having to worry about bow coming loose.
If you’re looking for a compact pack to keep up with your fast-moving hunts I’d recommend the In Sights Realtree Multi Weapon pack!
Shop Now for the In Sights Realtree Xtra Multi Weapon Pack on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Low profile - Lightweight - Extremely secure weapon enclosure - Quiver holsters on either side of pack | - Small warranty term compared to the other packs on this list - Need to purchase own hydration bladder - Low carrying capacity - Rain cover not included |
#5 – ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit (Best Bow Hunting Backpack for the Money)
Rating – 8.8/10
Carrying Capacity – 2700 Cubic Inches.
Weight – 4 lbs 1 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Hydration Bladder – Compatible, bladder not included.
Warranty – Lifetime.
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit on Amazon.com!
The ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit pack is an excellent pack that can be extremely useful for a hunter that can use it to its full potential. The utility this pack can give you while you’re on stand is hard to match due to it’s super handy drop down shelf!
The OutdoorZ Pursuit is built upon a heavy-duty aluminum frame. The straps and back are padded well to provide great comfort. The waist and shoulder straps are adjustable so the pack will fit how you want it to. The Pursuit also has an orange rain cover included.
Compartments
The OutdoorZ Pursuit pack by ALPS has great compartmentalization, and paired with the drop down shelf (mentioned below) you’ll have quite the organized pack.
The Pursuit has a large main compartment, a front pocket and two mesh pockets on either side. There are quiver holder straps on either side of the pack as well. The waist belt has two pockets for quick access to any items you may keep there. Lastly, their are lashing points on the front of the pack for you to add any external storage.
Inside the main compartment there is a protected sleeve for a hydration bladder to fit and a hole for a hydration hose to go through.
The quiver holders on both sides of the pack are excellent for a few reasons:
- Since they’re on the outside, you’ll get more room inside the main compartment.
- You can carry two quivers if you’d like.
- They’re easily accessible while the Pursuit is on your back.
Lastly, there is a drop down pocket near the bottom of the pack to secure your bow safely. However, it’s not accessible while the pack is on your back. So you’ll have to take it off to retrieve your bow.
Drop-Down Shelf
The drop-down shelf is easily the best thing about the Pursuit backpack. The front pocket flap that you zip can be used as shelf that once set up, is quite sturdy.
The benefits you get while on stand from this convenience are immense. You can use the shelf to keep your smaller items easily accessible. Or you can use it to keep your binoculars/scope within a quick reach.
There are many ways you can use it and I’m sure that if you buy this pack you’ll quickly figure out what you like best. Regardless of personal preference, this pack is very versatile with the help it provides while you’re out hunting.
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Great for multi-day treks - Quick ditch system for quick shot setup - Quiet - Water resistant - Rain cover included - Variety of ways to carry bow on the pack - Internal Sleeve designed to protect scope/sights - Hydration bladder and hose included | - Heavier weight - Capacity to Weight ratio could be better |
#6 – ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS
Rating – 8.7/10
Carrying Capacity – 4500 Cubic Inches total. 3300 in Main Compartment. 1200 in Expandable Pocket.
Weight – 6 lbs 4 oz.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Hydration Bladder – Compatible but not included. Can accommodate up to a 3L Bladder.
Warranty – Lifetime.
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS on Amazon.com!
The ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS (Expandable Pack Section) pack is great for its ability to accommodate and adapt to a hunter’s different needs. It can be used as a pack for holding only the necessities in the beginning and later change into a great meat hauler.
Carrying & Sizing Adjustability
The Traverse EPS has an H frame design that the bag’s fabric is wrapped around. The H frame is made from tubular aluminum, a lightweight & sturdy material. This H frame helps distribute weight equally around your upper body and hips, making sure you’re not straining to carry your pack.
The Traverse’s shoulder and waist straps are well padded so you won’t be feeling uncomfortable carrying it. There will be no need to worry about any chafing! 🙂
It gets better:
ALPS put great consideration into this pack. The ability of this backpack to adjust to different body sizes is amazing. The Traverse has a torso adjustment strap that can adjust to fit torsos from 16 to 21 inches long.
Not only will this help fit you, it will also allow the H frame to properly distribute the weight across your upper body.
The shoulder and waist straps are adjustable as well so you can adjust them to your preference.
Whatever makes you comfortable and the pack feel lighter!
Storage
The Traverse EPS is a well-organized pack that can expand to fit your needs.
The Traverse has a main compartment that is 3300 cubic inches, a side pocket, two front wing pockets, and two easy access pockets on the waist straps. In addition, there is an internal pocket that is purposely designed for your scope and protects it from any external damage/scratching.
To top it all off, there is the EPS (Expandable Pack section) located on the back of the pack, which zips open to give you an additional 1200 cubic inches of storage capacity.
The EPS is typically used to haul meat since it’s made from mesh so it ventilates and won’t spoil the meat.
Just make sure you’re not packing anything in there that you can’t fit elsewhere once you put meat in it!
Lastly, the bow attachment on the Traverse (Pictured left) easily carries the bow and keeps its secure between the two front wing pockets.
Keeping the bow close to the pack is an additional benefit as well since you’ll be able to move more naturally without having to worry about the bow hitting anything your body doesn’t.
The attachment is capable of carrying a rifle as well. Although not at the same time as the bow. But if you’re looking for a backpack that can do both rifle hunting and bow hunting then you might care about this!
Since this is the best bow hunting backpack article however I figured I’d highlight it as a bow attachment!
If you’re looking for great meat hauling backpack with plenty of space that can preserve your game meat then I’d recommend the ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS!
Shop Now for the ALPS OutdoorZ Traverse EPS on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Plenty of pockets - Compartments and pockets are well organized - Meat-shelf with virtually unlimited capacity - Thick, long-lasting fabric - Tough fabric added on in areas of high stress - Lifetime warranty - Rain cover included | - Need to purchase own hydration bladder - Stow-away shelf can prevent you from attaching your bow. |
#7 – Tenzing TZ 3000 Big Game Hunting Pack
Rating – 8.5/10
Carrying Capacity – 3100 Cubic Inches.
Weight – 6 lbs 8 oz
Hydration Bladder – Compatible but not included. Can accommodate up to a 3L bladder.
Bow Attachment – Yes.
Warranty – Lifetime.
Shop Now for the Tenzing TZ 3000 Big Game Hunting Pack on Amazon.com!
Tenzing are well-known for their high quality and functional hunting packs. The TZ 3000 is no different.
The TZ 3000 is a mix between two of Tenzing’s best products – the TZ 2200 (a lightweight, daypack), and the TZ 4000 (an overnight, large storage pack).
Tenzing gave you the best of both worlds with this pack.
Support & Comfortability
The TZ 3000 has an internal aluminum frame that helps shift weight off your back and onto the structure’s frame and your hips. These areas are much better for you to carry a load on.
This pack gives you a built in padded lumbar support which is very beneficial as it helps maintain your spine’s natural curve. Ensuring that you’re not straining your lower back while carrying your backpack. Tenzing also included an air vent on the back area to keep you cool and comfortable while on the move.
The Tenzing TZ 3000 has a padded waist belt which is adjustable, along with the shoulder straps as well. This will make carrying the load of the pack on your waist that much easier and much more comfortable.
Carrying Capacity
With a carrying capacity of 3100 cubic inches spread across 9 specialized pockets this pack is well equipped to handle whatever you need it to.
The 9 pockets are:
- Main Compartment
- Top Compartment
- Face Compartment
- Hip Pockets (x2)
- Mesh Side Pockets (x2) (Can hold quivers)
- Internal Pockets (x2)
A nice addition to the TZ 3000 is the ability to shrink the packs size down using the side compression straps. If you’re looking to keep a low-profile and aren’t planning on using all the space provided you don’t have to deal with the high-profile look. Simply tighten the side compression straps around the sides and front of the face and it will dramatically reduce the size of the TZ 3000. That’s not all these straps are good for however.
The Tenzing TZ 3000 has the ability to carry a full elk-quarter.
Here’s how:
With the help of those compression straps mentioned above, you can leave the top of the main compartment open and using the compression straps to make sure the main compartment doesn’t unzip and everything that’s supposed to be inside, stays inside. This feature on the TZ 3000 is often referred to as a snake-like jaw. Here’s a video that better shows what this looks like when done. As well as how to do it:
If you’re in the market for a meat hauler for big game that can carry beyond it’s physical size while still being able to downsize, I’d recommend the Tenzing TZ3000 Big Game Hunting Pack!
Shop Now for the Tenzing TZ 3000 Big Game Hunting Pack on Amazon.com!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Pack size can be reduced if you're not packing heavy - Padded lumbar support - Quiver holders on either side of pack - Variety of pockets - Snake-like jaw can hold items bigger than the pack itself - Rain cover included - Lifetime warranty | - Capacity to Weight ratio could be better - High profile when full - Need to purchase your own hydration bladder |
Summary
As you can see, there’s plenty of choices when it comes to picking a hunting backpack.
- If you’re looking for the backpack that can do it all then I’d recommend the Badlands Sacrifice LS!
- For something lightweight and low profile, you can’t go wrong with the In Sights Xtra Multi Weapon Pack.
- Shopping on a budget? No problem! I’d suggest the ALPS OutdoorZ Pursuit, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
It’s most important that you pick the backpack that helps make your hunting easier.
Doing so by picking the backpack that fits your hunting style and fulfills your needs!
I hope this buying guide on the best bow hunting backpacks has helped you come to a decision! 🙂
