Whether you’re going on your first elk hunt or just doing some preseason scouting, it’s important to have the right gear. We’ve put together a list of hunting essentials to help ensure you have everything you need.
A quality frame backpack is a must for carrying your gear and animal quarters. It should be comfortable, distribute the load evenly and have compartments for extra supplies. Get Prepared at Bugle For Elk for hunting adventures.
Whether you’re planning on an overnight trip or a day hunt, being prepared is the best way to keep yourself comfortable in the field. That’s why a travel towel is one of the most essential hunting gear items to bring along. It keeps your body and clothing drier for longer, which can improve your shooting and stamina. Plus, it packs down to a small size in a bag or pouch for easy storage in your backpack or a day pack.
Depending on where and when you hunt, the weather could change your plans or force you to move to a different spot. A lightweight poncho will allow you to stay dry in the event of rain or unexpected showers, while also providing insulation during colder climates. And it fits easily into a backpack or satchel for quick access in the event of a storm.
Rugged terrain and the hidden dangers of fallen branches, cliff edges, and other obstacles can cause minor injuries on even the most experienced hunters. That’s why having a first aid kit in your hunting backpack is important, even for short day hunts. This kit should include bandages, disinfecting wipes, a small thermometer, and a first aid manual.
A good pair of socks is an essential piece of hunting gear. Moisture-wicking socks help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters, so you can stay out longer and move more comfortably. Opt for a light-weight pair with a soft feel. For additional comfort, a pair of compression socks can reduce swelling and soreness. And don’t forget a comfortable chair or cushion for those long sitting hours in your hunting blind or tree stand.
An Odorless Bug Spray
There’s nothing that ruins an outdoors experience like an entourage of pesky bugs chomping on your skin. To keep bugs away, you’ll want a high-quality bug spray that protects against mosquitoes, ticks and other pests that spread diseases like West Nile virus or malaria. These sprays have a high concentration of active ingredients that help create a spatial insect repellent, keeping you safe from the little critters while enjoying your favorite activities.
The scentless version of Sawyer’s popular 20% picaridin spray is a good choice for those who don’t want a strong chemical smell or a sticky residue that takes too long to dry. It also comes in a lotion form, making it more packable than sprays and allowing you to rub it on quickly in the event of a sudden mosquito hatch.
For something even more portable, you could also opt for Grand Tongo’s Town and Jungle Protection. While they’re not scentless, they have a pleasant, unique smell and are easy to use on gear and clothing before you head into bug-infested wilds.
A Portable Charger
As hunters gear up for their next trip, they need to make sure they have all the essentials that are needed to successfully hunt and to stay safe in the wild. From the right clothing and gear to carry with them, to extra ammo, a first aid kit, navigation tools, and more, it is important that hunters pack all the items they need before heading out into the woods.
A good portable charger, like the UGreen 145W Power Bank, is necessary to keep in your hunting backpack so that you can charge your devices and use maps or GPS when you are out on the hunt. It has three USB ports and can charge up to 145W total through them, which is more than enough to charge most devices. It also features a small LCD screen that shows you a numerical battery percentage, which is helpful when trying to figure out how much longer your device can remain charged.
Other essentials that hunters should keep in their hunting packs include a first aid kit, a survival blanket, and some food. A first aid kit should contain items to deal with common injuries, such as cuts and blisters, poison ivy, and even broken bones. A survival blanket is lightweight and reflects body heat to help prevent hypothermia in the event of an emergency. Finally, it is important to bring food for the hunt and plenty of water in a water bottle or hydration pack that can withstand the elements.
It is also vital that hunters have a way to field-dress their game and take it out of the woods so that they can transport it home safely. Having a field dressing kit and knife in your pack will help you process your kill and prepare it for transport.
A Neck Wallet
Getting the right hunting gear is crucial. There are a lot of products on the market that promise dead bucks, but the real money is spent on items that will help you actually fill your tags. Some of these pieces aren’t cheap, but they’re well worth the investment when you consider how much time and effort they’ll save you in the field.
A neck wallet is one of the best travel accessories for hunters, as it’s a discreet way to keep ID, credit cards, and other valuables secure and away from thieves. This neck wallet can be worn under a shirt or scarf for added protection, and it comes in a variety of colors and fabrics to fit your style and budget. Some of these wallets also have RFID-blocking fabric to prevent identity theft, which is especially important when traveling abroad or visiting other countries where pickpockets are more common.
Another must-have item for hunting trips is a backpack. You’ll want a pack that will be comfortable to carry and large enough to hold all of your essentials. Many hunters like to pack a daypack for their hunting trips, while others choose a larger backpack with plenty of storage for their travels. Some backpacks even come with hidden compartments to hide valuables in the event of a theft.
Other must-haves for hunting trips include toilet paper, a pair of quality socks that wick moisture and prevent blisters, odorless bug spray, and a compass or GPS device to navigate remote areas. Having the right supplies can make the difference between a successful hunt and an unsuccessful one, so it’s important to plan ahead with a comprehensive checklist.
A Trail Camera
A trail camera is an excellent addition to your hunting supplies because it helps you monitor your property for wildlife activity. These devices feature durable construction to withstand outdoor elements and camouflage designs that blend in with natural settings. They also minimize noise for discreet performance that doesn’t scare away animals. Most models are fully waterproof for a variety of hunting environments and come with mounting straps or clips to securely fasten them in trees and other landscape features.
Before choosing a trail camera, determine your needs and goals. For example, do you want a device that captures images with high resolution? If so, look for a model that offers 12 MP or more. However, keep in mind that higher-resolution values are typically interpolated and may not provide as detailed of an image as a lower-resolution option. Also, consider whether you need a camera that connects to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities to view captured data remotely. Other desirable features include time stamps, moon phase settings, and barometric pressure indicators that help you understand how weather and terrain affect animal behavior.
In addition to having the right equipment, it’s essential for hunters to carry first-aid kits, a survival blanket, a signal mirror, and a camping stove or portable water filter. A first-aid kit should be stocked with items that address common injuries and illnesses, including burns, cuts, and shock.
A survival blanket is lightweight, reflects body heat, and can prevent hypothermia. A camping stove or portable water filter is another essential piece of backcountry hunting gear because it can save lives by providing a safe and reliable source of drinking water. It’s also helpful to have a small tool set with basic tools and spare parts for simple repairs, such as a wrench, pliers, and a pair of scissors.