Imagine this: You’ve just had a successful hunt. The adrenaline is pumping, and you’re ready to bring your prize home. But then comes the hard part – getting all that meat out of the backcountry. It’s a huge job, and the right gear can make all the difference between a triumphant carry and a grueling struggle.
Choosing a hunting pack for packing out meat is a big deal. There are so many different kinds, and it’s tough to know which one is best for your needs. You want a pack that’s strong enough, comfortable enough, and fits everything you need without falling apart. Getting it wrong means aching shoulders, sore backs, and maybe even having to leave some of your hard-earned meat behind.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of hunting packs designed specifically for meat retrieval. In this post, you’ll learn what makes a great pack for this tough job, discover key features to look for, and get tips to help you pick the perfect one. We’ll break down the confusing jargon and show you how to choose a pack that will be your trusty companion on many successful hunts to come.
Our Top 5 Hunting Packs For Packing Out Meat Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hunting Packs For Packing Out Meat Detailed Reviews
1. SPIKA Hunting Backpack Internal Frame for Men Waterproof Hunting Pack Camouflage with Rifle Holder Extendable 40L+ Capacity
Rating: 9.3/10
The SPIKA Hunting Backpack is built for adventure. This camouflage pack offers a huge 40L+ of expandable storage, perfect for all your gear. It’s made with tough, waterproof material to keep your things dry. Plus, it has a special holder for your rifle and lots of pockets to organize everything.
What We Like:
- It holds a lot of stuff, up to 40L or more, so you can pack for long trips.
- The 500D nylon body is strong and waterproof, keeping your gear dry from splashes.
- YKK zippers are used for easy access to your main bag.
- It has many compartments to keep your items organized.
- A front stash pocket and an outside spot for a water bladder help you stay hydrated.
- The roll-top snow collar and side pockets add extra storage and protection.
- A removable hood and rain cover keep the backpack safe from the weather.
- It has a rifle holder and places to attach walking poles or an ice axe.
- The removable internal frame makes carrying it more comfortable, even when it’s full.
- Duraflex hardware is lightweight and makes the bag comfortable to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The camouflage pattern might be too specific for general outdoor use.
- While durable, the 500D nylon might not be the absolute toughest material available for extreme conditions.
This backpack is a solid choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Its many features and large capacity make it a reliable companion for your next adventure.
2. ALPS OutdoorZ Dual-Function Hunting Backpack with Freighter Frame for Hauling Gear/Adjustable Torso
Rating: 9.5/10
The ALPS OutdoorZ Dual-Function Hunting Backpack is a hunter’s best friend. It’s built tough and designed for serious backcountry adventures. You can carry a lot of gear into the woods and then haul your harvest back out. This pack is ready for any big game hunt.
What We Like:
- It’s a two-in-one system. The big pack bag works with the strong freighter frame. You can carry your camp stuff in, and then remove the bag to haul out meat.
- The frame has a shelf and straps to hold heavy things securely. It helps spread the weight evenly so you can carry more comfortably.
- You can keep all your gear organized. It has a main pocket, side pockets, a spotting scope pocket, and a rifle holder.
- The pack bag is made of strong, water-resistant fabric. It can handle rough use and bad weather.
- The frame is adjustable to fit your torso perfectly. The padded parts make it comfortable to wear, even with a heavy load.
- It’s ready for a hydration reservoir. It also has many places to strap extra gear like sleeping bags or tripods.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the pack a bit bulky for shorter trips.
- While durable, the ripstop fabric might snag on very sharp objects.
This ALPS OutdoorZ backpack offers incredible versatility and comfort for serious hunters. It’s a solid investment for anyone tackling challenging hunts in remote areas.
3. Kooprimit Game Bags Elk
Rating: 8.7/10
Gear up for your next hunt with the Kooprimit Game Bags! These 5-pack bags are designed for hunters who need reliable and reusable ways to store their game. They are made from strong, breathable material that keeps your meat fresh. Plus, they come with handy reflective tags to help you find them in the dark. Whether you’re hunting deer, elk, or moose, these bags are an essential addition to your hunting kit.
What We Like:
- The drawstring closure is quick and easy to use, making it simple to secure your game.
- The polyester fabric is durable yet lightweight, and it lets your meat breathe to stay fresh.
- You get four 48-inch quarter bags and one 28-inch bag for different cuts of meat or offal.
- Reflective tags are a smart feature for finding your bags when it’s dark.
- These bags are machine washable, so you can reuse them again and again.
- They work for various game animals like deer, caribou, elk, and moose.
What Could Be Improved:
- The drawstring is meant for closing the bag, not for hanging the bag directly, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.
The Kooprimit Game Bags offer a practical and durable solution for preserving your hunt. They are a solid choice for any serious hunter looking for quality and convenience.
4. Gociean Game Bags Elk Hunting Meat Bags
Rating: 8.5/10
The Gociean Game Bags Elk Hunting Meat Bags are designed to help hunters properly store and protect their harvested game. This 5-pack includes four large 48-inch quarter bags and one smaller 28-inch bag, perfect for various cuts of meat or smaller items like offal. They are made from a durable, breathable polyester mesh that keeps insects out while allowing air to circulate, helping to cool the meat. Each bag can hold up to 120 pounds, and the openings are wide enough to easily fit large game quarters. These bags are also reusable and machine washable, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for hunters.
What We Like:
- The polyester mesh is very breathable, which helps keep the meat cool and fresh.
- It’s also durable and strong, so it won’t tear easily when carrying heavy game.
- The drawstring closure is a great feature that makes it easy to secure the bags tightly.
- Having a smaller bag included is handy for storing smaller parts of the animal.
- The reflective strips are a smart addition for finding your gear in the dark.
- These bags are reusable and can be washed in a machine, which is convenient and good for the environment.
- They are suitable for a wide range of game animals, including elk, deer, and caribou.
What Could Be Improved:
- The drawstring is only meant for closing the bag, not for hanging the bag itself, which might be a slight inconvenience for some.
Overall, the Gociean Game Bags offer a practical and reliable solution for hunters looking to preserve their game. They are well-made, easy to use, and provide good value for their price.
5. Allen Company Backcountry Quarter Bag – Reusable
Rating: 9.4/10
When you bring home that big game, you want to keep your harvest clean and protected. The Allen Company Backcountry Quarter Bag is designed for just that. These bags are tough and reusable, perfect for carrying elk, caribou, or deer. They shield your meat from dirt, bugs, and anything else the wilderness throws at you.
What We Like:
- These bags keep your meat safe from dirt, bugs, and the elements.
- They are breathable, which helps prevent spoilage.
- The drawstring closure keeps everything secure.
- They are reusable and washable, making them good for many hunts.
- They are lightweight and come with a handy pouch for easy packing.
- The bags are big enough (20″ x 30″) for most high-country game.
What Could Be Improved:
- The white color might show dirt easily, though they are washable.
Overall, the Allen Company Backcountry Quarter Bag is a smart choice for hunters who value quality and protection for their game. They offer peace of mind in the field.
Choosing the Right Hunting Pack for Packing Out Meat
When you successfully harvest an animal, the real work begins: getting that meat out of the field. A good hunting pack makes this tough job much easier. This guide will help you find the best pack to haul your prize home.
Key Features to Look For
1. Capacity
Think about what you’ll be carrying. Do you hunt big game like elk or deer? You’ll need a larger pack, often 5000 cubic inches or more. Smaller game might only need a 3000-4000 cubic inch pack. Some packs are designed to expand, giving you more room if needed.
2. Frame Type
There are two main types: internal frame and external frame.
- Internal Frame Packs: These are newer and hug your body. They offer better balance and are less likely to snag on branches.
- External Frame Packs: These are older but can carry very heavy, bulky loads. They often have more attachment points.
For packing meat, a sturdy frame that distributes weight well is crucial.
3. Load Lifters and Hip Belt
These are super important. Load lifters are straps that connect the top of your pack to the shoulder straps. They pull the weight closer to your back. A good, padded hip belt transfers most of the pack’s weight to your hips, not your shoulders. This makes a huge difference on long hauls.
4. Durability and Construction
You need a pack that can handle rough terrain and sharp objects like antlers. Look for strong stitching and reinforced areas.
5. Ventilation
Packing out meat involves a lot of sweating. Packs with good back panel ventilation will keep you cooler and more comfortable.
6. Meat Compartment/Haul System
Some packs have a special compartment designed for meat. Others have straps and systems to attach meat bags securely to the outside. This keeps the meat clean and separate from your other gear.
Important Materials
The materials used in a pack affect its weight, durability, and water resistance.
- Nylon (Ripstop Nylon): This is a very common and strong material. Ripstop means it has a special weave that prevents small tears from spreading.
- Cordura: A brand of nylon known for its extreme durability and abrasion resistance.
- Polyester: Another common fabric, often lighter than nylon but sometimes less durable.
- Water-Resistant Coatings: Many packs have coatings like DWR (Durable Water Repellent) to help shed rain and snow.
Look for materials that are tough but not overly heavy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Adjustable Torso Length: This lets you fine-tune the pack’s fit to your body.
- Plenty of Pockets and Straps: These help organize your gear and attach extra items.
- High-Quality Zippers and Buckles: These are often the first things to break, so good ones are a sign of quality.
- Ergonomic Design: How well the pack contours to your body for comfort.
Reducing Quality:
- Cheap, Thin Fabric: This can tear easily.
- Weak Stitching: This can come apart under heavy loads.
- Poorly Padded Hip Belt or Shoulder Straps: This leads to discomfort.
- Flimsy Frame: The frame needs to be strong to support weight.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good pack feels like an extension of your body. It should be comfortable to wear for hours, even when fully loaded. You should be able to move freely without the pack hindering your steps or balance. Think about how you’ll use it. Will you be hiking through thick brush? Crossing streams? The pack needs to withstand those conditions.
The primary use case is packing out harvested meat. This means the pack must be able to carry heavy, potentially awkward, and messy loads. Many hunters also use these packs for general backcountry hunting, carrying essentials like water, food, extra layers, and safety gear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature for a meat-packing hunting pack?
A: The most important features are a strong, supportive frame and a well-padded hip belt. These help you carry heavy loads comfortably.
Q: Can I use a regular hiking backpack for packing out meat?
A: While you might be able to, a dedicated hunting pack is designed for the weight and shape of meat. They have better load-carrying capabilities and often features to keep meat clean.
Q: How do I determine the right pack size?
A: Consider the size of game you hunt. Elk and moose require larger packs than deer or antelope. It’s better to have a little extra space than not enough.
Q: What does “cubic inches” mean for pack size?
A: Cubic inches measure the total volume or space inside the pack’s main compartments. Larger numbers mean more carrying capacity.
Q: How important is the pack’s frame?
A: The frame is very important. It supports the weight and transfers it to your hips. A good frame prevents the pack from sagging and digging into your back.
Q: Should I look for a pack with a separate meat compartment?
A: It’s helpful. A dedicated meat compartment keeps the blood and mess away from your other gear and can be easier to clean.
Q: How do I clean a hunting pack after packing out meat?
A: Most packs can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Some may be machine washable, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. Air dry completely.
Q: Are external frame packs still a good option?
A: Yes, external frame packs can be excellent for very heavy and awkward loads. They offer great ventilation and can be more versatile for strapping on gear.
Q: What is a “load lifter” strap?
A: Load lifters are straps that connect the top of your shoulder straps to the top of the pack. They help pull the weight closer to your body, improving balance and comfort.
Q: How much weight can a good hunting pack carry?
A: A well-designed hunting pack with a strong frame and good suspension system can comfortably carry 50-100 pounds or more, depending on the pack’s construction and your own strength.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!