Western Hunting Packs: Choosing the Right Pack for Elk Hunting and Backcountry Success

The short answer — your hunting pack is one of the most important pieces of gear you'll own because eventually every successful hunt ends with carrying meat

Most hunters spend countless hours researching:

• Rifles
• Bows
• Optics
• Broadheads

Yet many give almost no thought to the piece of equipment they'll likely use more than anything else.

Their pack.

The reality is simple.

If you're hunting elk in the West, sooner or later you're going to carry:

• Water
• Layers
• Food
• Optics
• Emergency gear
• Meat

And when things go right, you'll carry a lot of meat.

A quality hunting pack can make the difference between an enjoyable pack out and a miserable experience that leaves you questioning every life decision you've ever made.

The best western hunting packs aren't just storage systems.

They're meat-hauling tools.

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Why Hunting Packs Matter More Out West

Western hunting differs dramatically from many eastern hunting styles.

Hunters often cover:

• Miles of terrain
• Steep elevation changes
• Long days
• Remote country

Your pack becomes your mobile basecamp.

Everything you need for the day is riding on your back.

A poor pack creates:

• Fatigue
• Sore shoulders
• Back pain
• Reduced mobility

A quality pack helps you move efficiently and stay comfortable.

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The Number One Job of a Hunting Pack

Many hunters think storage is the primary purpose of a pack.

It's not.

The primary purpose is hauling weight.

Especially meat.

When you kill an elk, you're no longer carrying:

• Rain gear
• Snacks
• Optics

You're carrying:

• Quarters
• Backstraps
• Neck meat
• Trim meat

Potentially hundreds of pounds over multiple trips.

A hunting pack should be evaluated first as a meat-hauling system.

Everything else comes second.

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Internal Frame vs External Frame Packs

Most serious western hunting packs use internal frame systems.

Advantages include:

• Better comfort
• Better load control
• Improved balance
• Greater mobility

Modern internal frame packs have become extremely capable.

Many can comfortably haul:

• 80 pounds
• 100 pounds
• More

when fitted correctly.

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Pack Size Matters

One mistake many hunters make is buying the wrong size pack.

The perfect pack for a day hunt isn't always ideal for a backcountry hunt.

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Day Hunt Packs

Typically:

• 1,500–3,000 cubic inches

Ideal for:

• Water
• Layers
• Lunch
• Emergency gear

Great for hunters returning to camp every night.

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Multi-Day Packs

Typically:

• 4,500–6,500 cubic inches

Designed for:

• Camping gear
• Sleeping systems
• Food
• Extended trips

These shine during backcountry hunts.

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Expedition Packs

Typically:

• 6,500+ cubic inches

Ideal for:

• Remote wilderness hunts
• Extended stays
• Alaska hunts
• Deep backcountry adventures

Many western hunters use these systems because they can compress down for day use while still hauling meat.

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The Most Popular Western Hunting Pack Brands

Several companies consistently dominate western hunting camps.

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Kifaru\

Premier Hunting Gear & Accessories | Kifaru – Kifaru Intl

Known for:

• Exceptional load-hauling ability
• Custom fit options
• Durability

Kifaru has developed a loyal following among serious backcountry hunters.

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Stone Glacier\

Hunting Day Pack – Stone Glacier

Popular because of:

• Lightweight design
• Excellent load carriage
• Simplicity

Stone Glacier packs are common among mountain hunters.

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Exo Mountain Gear\

Exo Mtn Gear — Backcountry Hunting Pack Systems

Known for:

• Comfort
• User-friendly design
• Excellent meat-hauling capability

Many hunters consider Exo one of the best all-around systems available.

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Mystery Ranch\

MYSTERY RANCH Backpacks | Built for the Mission

A long-time favorite.

Advantages include:

• Comfort
• Durability
• Proven performance

Many guides and outfitters trust Mystery Ranch packs.

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Meat Shelf Systems Changed Everything

One of the biggest innovations in hunting packs has been the meat shelf.

A meat shelf allows hunters to:

• Separate meat from gear
• Carry heavy loads more efficiently
• Improve balance

This feature has become standard on most premium hunting packs.

Once hunters experience a quality meat shelf system, they rarely go back.

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Fit Matters More Than Brand

A $900 pack that doesn't fit you properly is still a bad pack.

Proper fit includes:

• Torso length
• Hip belt sizing
• Shoulder strap adjustment
• Load lifter positioning

The hip belt should carry most of the weight.

Not your shoulders.

A properly fitted pack feels dramatically different under heavy loads.

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Weight vs Comfort

Many hunters chase lightweight gear.

Sometimes too aggressively.

Saving a few ounces sounds great until you're carrying:

• 80 pounds
• 100 pounds
• 120 pounds

of elk meat.

Comfort often matters more than shaving a few ounces.

A slightly heavier pack that carries weight better is usually worth it.

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What Should Be in Your Day Pack?

A typical western hunting pack may include:

• Water
• Rain gear
• Extra layers
• Food
• Headlamp
• First aid kit
• Knife
• Tags
• Navigation tools
• Optics
• Emergency shelter

The exact list changes depending on terrain and season.

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Don't Forget Emergency Gear

Western hunting country can be unforgiving.

Weather changes fast.

Every pack should include:

• Emergency layers
• Fire starter
• Navigation tools
• Headlamp
• First aid supplies

The goal is preparing for the unexpected.

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Mobile Hunting and Pack Selection

Many successful hunters today use a mobile approach.

Instead of setting one camp and staying put, they:

• Relocate frequently
• Adapt quickly
• Follow elk movement

This style demands a versatile pack system.

The ability to move efficiently often creates opportunities.

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Why Good Packs Save Hunts

Every experienced elk hunter has a pack-out story.

Some are funny.

Most aren't.

When an elk hits the ground:

The hunt is only half over.

A quality pack makes that final phase dramatically easier.

And unlike some gear purchases, you'll appreciate every dollar spent when carrying meat down a mountain.

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Common Pack Mistakes

Many hunters:

• Buy packs that are too small
• Ignore fit
• Prioritize weight over comfort
• Never train with loaded packs
• Underestimate pack-out difficulty

Successful hunters train with their pack before season.

The first time you carry 80 pounds shouldn't be after killing a bull.

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How TAGZ Helps Hunters Plan Better Hunts

A good pack helps after you find elk.

TAGZ helps hunters find them.

TAGZ helps organize:

• Draw odds
• Unit research
• Terrain analysis
• Hunt planning
• Access strategies

before you ever shoulder your pack.

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How to Scout a Western Hunt: Finding Elk Before the Season Starts | TAGZ Insights

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FAQ — Western Hunting Packs

What size pack do I need for elk hunting?

Most day hunters use 1,500–3,000 cubic inch packs, while backcountry hunters often use 4,500–6,500+ cubic inch systems.

What is the best hunting pack brand?

Popular choices include Kifaru, Stone Glacier, Exo Mountain Gear, and Mystery Ranch.

Do I need a meat shelf?

Yes. Most serious western hunters consider a meat shelf one of the most valuable features available.

How much weight should a hunting pack carry?

Quality hunting packs can comfortably haul 80–100+ pounds when properly fitted.

Should I train with my hunting pack?

Absolutely. Pack training is one of the best ways to prepare for western hunting.

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