What You Really Need in Your Hunting Pack

Back in my dad’s day, heading out for a hunt meant grabbing a knife, a shell belt, a canteen, and maybe a sandwich or two stuffed in a coat pocket. Simple, light, and effective.

These days? My back hurts before I’ve even left the trailhead—and I haven’t packed an ounce of meat yet.

The truth is, what you really need in your pack depends on the situation, the season, and your personal preferences. It also depends on who you ask—some folks swear by minimalist setups, while others pack like they’re staying overnight (even if they’re not).

I’ll admit, I have a tendency to overpack. But after a tri...