Essential Hunting Gear Checklist for Deer and Elk Adventures

Hunters know that success in the field starts long before opening day – it begins with assembling an essential hunting gear checklist. When you’re gearing up for whitetail deer in the hardwoods or elk in the high country, having the right deer hunting gear and elk hunting gear can make or break your adventure. This comprehensive guide breaks down the must-have items for deer and elk hunts. We’ll cover everything from proper clothing layers to high-tech scouting tools, highlighting reputable products and key considerations for both deer and elk hunting scenarios. Let’s dive into the ultimate hunting gear checklist for your next big adventure.

Clothing & Apparel (Layering System and Seasonal Tips)

Proper clothing is the foundation of any hunting gear checklist, as it keeps you comfortable, concealed, and safe in varying conditions. Layering is the core principle – by wearing a base layer, insulation layer, and outer shell, you can add or shed layers to match activity level and weather changes. For example, a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer work together to regulate temperature and keep you dry. This system lets you handle chilly pre-dawn hours, midday hikes, and unexpected storms without overheating or freezing. Always avoid cotton (which retains moisture); instead choose merino wool or high-performance synthetics for base layers that dry quickly and resist odor. I recommend investing in quality layering pieces from brands like First Lite, Sitka Gear, Pnuma, or KUIU, which design apparel specifically for hunting in a range of climates.

Seasonal Considerations: Early-season archery hunts for deer or elk might mean warm days – think lightweight, breathable gear and ventilation. Late-season rifle hunts can bring frigid temps, so pack heavy insulation (down or synthetic puff jackets and bibs) for long, cold sits. Remember that deer and elk don’t see colors the way we do: both species are essentially dichromatic, meaning they have limited color vision (primarily in the blue and yellow spectrum). Avoid wearing bright blues or yellows that stand out in their eyes. Instead, stick to camo patterns or earthy tones like browns and grays which blend with the environment. This not only camouflages you but also conveniently hides dirt and bloodstains from the hunt.

Footwear: Don’t overlook your boots – your feet need to stay supported and warm (or cool) through all kinds of terrain. For elk hunting in rugged, mountainous country, a durable and stiff hiking boot is crucial. Many Western elk hunters swear by brands like Kenetrek Mountain Extreme or Crispi Nevada for their ankle support and aggressive traction on steep slopes. These uninsulated or lightly insulated boots paired with quality merino wool socks (e.g. Darn Tough or Smartwool) help prevent blisters during long treks. In contrast, whitetail deer hunters sitting in tree stands on frosty mornings might prefer warmer, insulated boots to combat the cold. Pack boots or rubber boots such as the LaCrosse Alphaburly Pro (1600g insulation) keep your feet warm during motionless hours on stand, and their scent-free rubber construction also helps minimize human odor on the ground. Whatever boot you choose, break them in well before the season and wear appropriate gaiters in snow or wet conditions. Finally, include gloves and a beanie or hat in your clothing kit – warmth and concealment for your extremities are just as important. In rifle seasons, always carry the required blaze orange vest/hat for safety (check your local regulations for exact requirements).

Checklist – Clothing & Apparel:

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking next-to-skin layers (merino wool or synthetic). These regulate your temperature by pulling sweat off your skin so you stay dry and warm.

  • Our Picks: Pnuma Outdoors long underwear for cold weather, or Under Armour HeatGear for warm early seasons.

• Insulating Layers: Mid-layers like fleece jackets, vests, or lightweight puffers that trap body heat. Choose insulation based on season – down or synthetic puffy jackets are great for cold hunts, while a heavy camo hoodie or wool sweater might suffice in milder weather.

  • Our Pick: Sitka Kelvin Lite

• Outer Shell: A waterproof/windproof jacket and pants to shield against rain, snow, and wind. For active elk hunting, a breathable rain shell is ideal. Treestand whitetail hunters often choose quiet, insulated outerwear to stay warm without alerting deer.

  • Our Picks: For high end – high priced items, KUIU has a complete breakdown for perfect shell. On a more budget friendly approach, my go to hunting rain gear is Pnuma 3L.

• Hunting Boots: Sturdy boots matched to your terrain and season. Elk hunters should look for mountain hunting boots with strong ankle support and stiff soles (Kenetrek, Crispi, Scarpa or Meindl). For deer in marshy or cold areas, insulated rubber boots (LaCrosse, Muck Boot Arctic Pro) keep your feet warm and scent contained. Always wear quality wool socks and consider gaiters in deep snow.

  • Our Picks: Our sister publication, Crossbow Magazine, performed an all encompassing selection of hunting boots for every possible scenario – check that out.

• Accessories: Gloves (lightweight gloves for shooting plus heavy mittens for cold), a warm beanie or hat (blaze orange if required), and possibly a face mask or neck gaiter for concealment and warmth. Don’t forget UV-protection sunglasses for high-elevation elk hunts and a spare pair of dry socks in your pack. Dressing in layers and smart clothing will ensure you stay comfortable and hidden, increasing your chances of success.

Optics & Scouting Gear (Binoculars, Rangefinders, GPS)

Having sharp eyes is essential for hunting, but even the best eyesight can’t compare to quality optics. Intermediate hunters know that good binoculars and rangefinders can be game-changers in spotting animals and judging distances accurately. Whether you’re glassing distant ridges for elk or picking apart dense whitetail habitat at first light, investing in reliable optics will pay dividends. In fact, recent field tests by us ranked a premium binocular, the Zeiss SFL 8×40, as the year’s top hunting binocular for its combination of clarity and lightweight design. While top-tier European binoculars like Zeiss, Swarovski, or Leica offer incredible brightness and resolution, there are also plenty of mid-range binoculars that deliver excellent performance for a fraction of the cost. For instance, the Nikon ProStaff P3 8×42 and Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42 are popular choices among serious deer and elk hunters – they provide a wide field of view, sharp image, and good low-light performance without breaking the bank. When choosing binoculars, 8×42 and 10×42 are versatile configurations: 8-power is steady and bright for Eastern wooded hunts, while 10-power gives a bit more reach for Western open country. Always use a comfortable bino harness to keep your binoculars at the ready on your chest – this also prevents them from bouncing around or getting in the way as you hike.

Beyond binoculars, a laser rangefinder is another piece of scouting gear that no modern hunter should overlook. Estimating distance by eye can be tricky, especially across a canyon or in flat light, and a rangefinder ensures you know the exact yardage before you take a shot. This is crucial for bowhunters who need to compensate for arrow drop at 30 vs. 50 yards, and for rifle hunters making longer shots on elk across a meadow. Look for a rangefinder that has at least reflective range out to 500–1000 yards and angle compensation (for steep uphill/downhill shots). Leupold and Vortex both make excellent handheld rangefinders, such as the Maven CRF.1-6×22 (I use this for hunting and golfing) or the Vortex Crossfire, which are compact and fast-reading. Many new rangefinders even have ballistic calculators built-in to help rifle hunters adjust their aim for bullet drop. If you prefer minimal gear, consider a pair of rangefinding binoculars that combine both functions in one unit – though they tend to be expensive, it’s a convenient option for the high-tech hunter.

For those pursuing elk in wide-open country or mule deer on distant alpine basins, a spotting scope can be a valuable addition to your kit. While not every deer hunter needs a spotter, western hunters often carry a lightweight spotting scope on a tripod to judge antler size or assess animals from a mile away. Compact models like the Maven CS.1 Spotting Scope offer a great balance of portability and performance. By setting up a spotting scope on a stable tripod, you can pick apart far hillsides without having to hike closer and risk spooking game. This is more relevant for open-country elk or mule deer hunts; if you primarily hunt whitetails in thick woods, you might opt to leave the spotter at home and save weight.

Navigation & Scouting Tech: Modern hunters increasingly rely on GPS tools and apps for navigation and scouting. A handheld GPS unit (like the Garmin eTrex or Garmin GPSMAP series) or a GPS smartwatch can be a lifesaver in unfamiliar backcountry, ensuring you can find your way to a downed elk or back to camp after dark. Many hunters now use smartphone apps such as onX Hunt, BaseMap, or HuntStand, which provide offline maps, property boundaries, and even public land hunting unit info right on your phone. If you go this route, be sure to download maps ahead of time and carry a portable battery pack to recharge your phone in the field. For truly remote wilderness hunts (common in elk hunting), consider carrying a satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach Mini, which not only provides GPS navigation but also lets you send emergency SOS or text messages home when you have no cell service. And of course, always pack a traditional compass and a paper topo map as backups – technology can fail, and you don’t want to be lost in the mountains because of a dead battery.

Checklist – Optics & Scouting Gear :

• Binoculars: Quality 8×42 or 10×42 binoculars for scouting game.

  • Our Picks: The Vortex Diamondback HD 10×42 is a great mid-budget option, while high-end picks like the Zeiss SFL 8×40 offer top-tier quality but top-tier price.

• Rangefinder: A laser rangefinder to get exact distances before shooting.

  • Our Pick: Maven CRF.1-6×22

• Spotting Scope (Optional): For open terrain hunts, a spotting scope on a tripod helps you glass far-away animals without moving.

  • Our Pick: Maven CS.1 Spotting Scope

• GPS / Navigation: A reliable GPS device or mapping app with offline maps.

• Other Scouting Aids: A wind checker (more on scent control later) can help determine thermals and wind direction while glassing. Also consider a small notepad or use your phone notes to record animal sightings, patterns, or sign (scrapes, tracks) during pre-season scouting. Trail cameras (discussed later) are another powerful scouting tool to monitor animal activity when you’re not in the field.

Firearms, Bows & Accessories (Deer vs. Elk Considerations)

Your choice of weapon – and how you set it up – is perhaps the most critical aspect of hunting gear. Firearms and bows must be matched to the game you pursue and the environment in which you hunt. The good news is that many rifle calibers and bow setups can work for both deer and elk, but there are some important distinctions to consider. In general, elk are larger, tougher animals found in more open terrain, so hunters often favor slightly more powerful rifles or heavier arrow setups for elk than they might for whitetail deer. Let’s break down the essentials:

Rifles & Ammunition: For an intermediate hunter, a versatile, mid-caliber bolt-action rifle is often the go-to choice. Classic cartridges like the .30-06 from Federal or .308 Winchester have long been proven to effectively take down both deer and elk, given proper shot placement. In fact, these .30-caliber workhorses are often cited as all-purpose big game rounds – the .30-06 in particular is considered the “granddaddy” of North American hunting cartridges and is versatile enough for almost any game. The .308, its shorter cousin, also delivers ample knockdown power within moderate ranges (say out to 300 yards), and has manageable recoil for most shooters.

If you expect longer shots (common in Western elk country or open plains deer hunts), you might consider flatter-shooting magnum calibers. The 7mm Remington Magnum and .300 Winchester Magnum are popular choices for hunters who want extra reach. A .300 Win Mag can push a heavier 180-grain bullet as fast as a .30-06 pushes a 150-grain, delivering more energy downrange. That added horsepower is useful for elk, especially big bulls at longer distances. The 7mm Rem Mag, likewise, offers flat trajectory and is known as an excellent all-around Western cartridge. Keep in mind, magnums come with increased recoil and often heavier rifles, so make sure you can shoot them comfortably. Ultimately, shot placement and knowing your effective range are more important than sheer caliber size. Plenty of elk have been cleanly taken with .270 Winchester or even the popular 6.5 Creedmoor, but those require disciplined shot selection. If you plan to hunt both deer and elk with one rifle, a happy medium many hunters land on is a .30-06 or 7mm Rem Mag – each can humanely harvest an elk while not being overkill for deer.

When selecting a rifle, choose a well-built model from a reputable manufacturer that fits you well. Brands like Remington, Winchester, Ruger, Tikka, Savage, Weatherby, Browning and others all make reliable hunting rifles in a variety of price ranges. Feel them in your hands and shoulder them to see what fits best. As one guide puts it, reputable gun makers will have options for every budget and purpose – even entry-level rifles today can be quite accurate. Many intermediate hunters like rifles such as the Ruger American or Savage Axis for affordability, or mid-priced favorites like the Tikka T3x, Bergara B-14, or Remington 700 for a step up in quality. If you’re heading into rough backcountry for elk, consider a lightweight rifle model to save your legs (there are even carbon fiber barrel options, albeit pricey). Regardless of rifle choice, top it with a quality scope suitable for the distances you’ll hunt. A clear, bright scope in the 3-9x or 4-12x range is versatile for most deer and elk situations. Brands like Leupold, Vortex, Swarovski, and Zeiss offer excellent optics but in my opinion, Hawke offers top quality at a much more affordable price.

Bow Hunting Setup:

If you’re archery hunting, your bow and arrow setup must be dialed in well before season. Modern compound bows are technological marvels – even mid-range models today are capable of outstanding accuracy and lethality, far beyond the bows of a couple decades ago. A hunter can find a quality compound bow at almost any price point now, from a few hundred dollars up to over a thousand, and expect good performance. Top manufacturers like Mathews, Hoyt, Bowtech, PSE, and Elite continually innovate to make bows faster, smoother, and more accurate. For deer and elk, a compound bow with draw weight in the 60–70 pound range (or whatever you can draw smoothly) and around a 28-30 inch draw length is common. Ensure your bow is properly tuned and matched with the right arrows and broadheads. Elk are larger and have tougher hide and bone than deer, so many elk bowhunters favor a slightly heavier arrow setup (higher grain weight arrows, high F.O.C. (front-of-center) balance) and fixed-blade broadheads known for deep penetration. Sturdy fixed-blades like the G5 Montec, Slick Trick, or Magnus Stinger are popular for elk. They don’t have moving parts and tend to bust through shoulder bones better. For whitetail deer, where shots are often closer and vitals smaller, mechanical broadheads (expandable blades) like Rage Hypodermics or NAP Killzones are very common due to their wide cutting diameter and typically excellent blood trails. Many deer hunters have success with mechanicals on deer, but some also use fixed blades – it often comes down to personal preference and confidence in your gear. Whatever you choose, practice extensively with field points and broadheads (broadheads can impact differently) at the ranges you expect to shoot. It’s wise to have your bow chronographed and use a sight tape or multi-pin sight set for your arrow’s trajectory, so you know your hold at 20, 30, 40 yards and beyond.

Bow Accessories: Along with the bow itself, a number of accessories make up a complete archery hunting rig. A dependable arrow rest (like a Quality Archery Designs drop-away rest), a sight with multiple pins or a single adjustable pin for longer shots, a stabilizer to balance the bow, and a comfortable release aid (trigger or thumb release) are all critical. Many bowhunters also add a quiver that mounts on the bow (TightSpot quivers are a popular lightweight choice) to carry arrows quietly. For elk, you might carry a few extra arrows or a small repair kit (spare release, Allen wrenches, etc.) in case of equipment issues far from camp.

Other Firearm/Bow Accessories: No matter your weapon, there are some universal accessories worth having. A good sling for your rifle will save your arms during long walks – and can serve as a shooting aid if wrapped around your elbow for stability. Likewise, many rifle hunters use shooting sticks, bipods, or tripods to steady their shot in the field, especially at longer ranges on elk. If you’ll be shooting from a seated position (like in a blind), practice with those aids beforehand. For bowhunters, a lightweight rangefinder mounted to your bino harness or belt is invaluable for quick distance checks when a buck or bull is coming in. Also consider string silencers and limb dampeners for your bow to reduce noise, and always carry a few extra bow accessories like spare string loops or serving material – you never know when something might break on a backcountry hunt. Finally, practice with your weapon in field-like conditions. If you’re rifle hunting, shoot from sitting, kneeling, and using a pack as a rest. If archery hunting, practice from an elevated platform if you hunt from a tree stand, or at steep angles if you’ll be in mountainous terrain. The more familiar you are with your firearm or bow, the more confidently you’ll handle that adrenaline moment when a deer or elk is in front of you.

Checklist – Firearms & Bows

We don’t have a checklist for firearms or bows.  It’s important to go to an archery or gun store near you and get fitted for your specific needs and learn to responsibly handle.  Our recommendations are above should you wish to forego.

Calls, Lures & Decoys (Game-Specific Attractants)

One of the thrilling aspects of hunting deer and elk is the ability to call or lure these animals into range. Using calls, scents, and decoys can greatly increase your chances by playing on an animal’s natural instincts – be it curiosity, territorial aggression, or mating urges. However, each species responds differently, and it’s important to use the right tool at the right time. Below is a checklist of calls and attractants, with tips for both whitetail deer and elk:

• Deer Calls (Grunts, Bleats & Rattling): Whitetail bucks are vocal animals, especially during the rut (breeding season). A grunt call mimics the short grunting sound of a buck, often used to claim territory or pursue a doe. Blowing a few tending grunts when you spot a buck can sometimes coax him closer, thinking another male is moving in. Popular grunt tubes include the Primos Buck Roar II or Flextone All-N-One that let you adjust tone. A doe bleat imitates the call of a doe, particularly a doe in estrus (ready to breed). The famous “Can” call by Primos (you literally flip the can over to produce a bleat) has lured in many curious bucks looking for a doe. Use bleats sparingly so as not to alarm deer – one or two bleats every 20-30 minutes can pique interest. Rattling antlers (clashing two antlers or synthetic rattling sticks together) can simulate the sound of two bucks fighting, which in the pre-rut and rut can draw in dominant bucks eager to assert themselves or check out the commotion. You can use real shed antlers or products like the Knight & Hale Pack Rack (plastic “rattling” device) for convenience. Rattling works best in areas with balanced buck populations and during peak rut; it can be less effective in heavily hunted or skewed populations where bucks avoid fights. When using deer calls, remember to also pay attention to scent and wind – deer will often circle downwind of the source of calling, so make sure your scent is controlled (more on that below). And don’t over-call: if a deer is responding or coming in, go quiet and let him come looking for you.

• Elk Calls (Bugles and Cow Calls): Elk are famously vocal, especially during the fall rut when bulls bugle to attract cows and challenge rivals. Learning to use elk calls is almost a requirement for archery elk hunters. The two main types are bull bugles and cow/calf calls. A bugle call reproduces the loud, haunting bugle of a bull elk. This sound serves to locate other bulls and demonstrate dominance. Hunters often use a bugle tube (a specialized horn) combined with either a mouth reed or external reed diaphragm to create the sound. If you’re new, products like the Primos Hoochie Pack or Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull kit can simplify the learning curve. Bugling can locate bulls from a distance – often you’ll hear an answer echo back through the timber. However, mature bulls can be wary; sometimes a bugle will cause a subordinate bull to slip away to avoid a fight quietly. That’s where cow calls come in. A cow call mimics the mews or chirps of a cow elk and can appeal to a bull’s mating instinct or curiosity. Handheld mouth-blown calls (like the Primos “Hoochie Mama” squeeze call or open-reed cow calls from companies like Phelps Game Calls) make realistic cow sounds with minimal practice. Use cow calls in a sequence to sound like a small group of cows; this can bring a bull trotting in looking for ladies, especially if he’s heard your bugle and thinks there are cows with that “bull.” During peak rut, a strategy is to do a challenge bugle (aggressive bugle with grunts) to get a bull fired up, then sweeten the deal with some cow calls as if an estrus cow is with you. Be prepared: a fired-up bull might come in fast and silent.

  • Tip: Practice your calls extensively before season. Elk have astute ears, and a poor or out-of-place call can alert them. Many hunters carry multiple diaphragm reeds with different tones. Keep calls accessible around your neck or pinned to your jacket for quick use. And as always, watch the wind; a bull will often try to approach from downwind of what he hears to scent-check, so you may need to set up accordingly.

• Scents & Lures: Whitetail deer are very responsive to scent lures, particularly during the rut. A classic example is using doe estrus urine (such as the well-known Tink’s #69 Doe-in-Rut). These scents mimic the urine of a breeding-ready doe and can literally stop a cruising buck in his tracks as he searches for the source. Hunters apply estrus scent to drag rags (to lay a scent trail as they walk to their stand), or place scent wicks soaked in the lure around their setup. This can be especially effective in pre-rut and rut when bucks are trolling for does. There are also buck attraction scents (like tarsal gland scents or dominant buck urine) which can trigger territorial behavior in other bucks; using these in a mock scrape (a scrape you create and scent-mark to simulate an intruding buck) can draw locals in to investigate. When using any scent, play the wind – you want the scent to carry toward where you expect deer, and you don’t want your own human odor blowing that way. Many hunters pair lures with scent elimination routines: wearing scent-lock clothing, spraying down gear with scent killer spray, and storing clothing in bags with natural cover scents (like leaves or pine boughs). According to seasoned hunters, a wind-checking powder or device is indispensable – it shows even the slightest breeze direction, allowing you to position yourself correctly to keep your scent away from approaching game. If the wind shifts, don’t be afraid to move or end a calling sequence; a deer that catches human scent will vacate. Elk can also respond to scent lures, though it’s less common than with deer. Some hunters use cow elk urine or estrous scent in areas like wallows or travel corridors. It might give a curious bull a reason to linger, but overall, elk rely more on sound and sight than scent lures. Cover scents (like pine scent, earth scent wafers, or even cow manure in cattle country) can be used to mask human odor for both deer and elk hunts, but their effectiveness is debated. It’s more important to focus on being scent-free – use odorless soaps, keep your hunting clothes clean and sealed, and use the wind to your advantage. Many scent-control products (sprays, wipes, etc.) are available to help eliminate or cover human scent, and devices like Ozonics (ozone generators for blinds/stands) are marketed for scent reduction, though they require a financial investment.

• Decoys: Visual decoys can add a whole new dimension to your hunting strategy by giving animals something to see (and focus on) when they respond to calls or scent. For whitetail deer, decoys are often used in open field setups or during the rut. A doe decoy placed in a field can entice a rutting buck to come out of cover to check her out, especially if you’ve also used some estrus scent nearby. Similarly, a buck decoy with a smaller set of antlers can draw dominant bucks looking to chase off an intruder. When using a deer decoy, position it upwind of your stand (so that when a buck circles downwind to scent-check the “deer,” he will expose himself to your position). Also, face the decoy toward you if it’s a buck decoy – an approaching real buck will typically come head-on to challenge, which will ideally face him in your direction for a shot. Brands like Flambeau and Primos make lifelike decoys, and there are lightweight Montana Decoy pop-up versions that fold for easy carry. For elk, decoys are commonly used in archery season to help distract a bull’s attention as he comes in. Elk decoys often depict a cow elk; a popular tactic is to place a cow decoy (like the lightweight, fabric Montana Cow Elk Decoy) 20-30 yards behind you when calling. A bull responding to your calls might see the decoy and be convinced, allowing you to draw your bow while his eyes are on the fake elk. Some decoys can be mounted to your bow or held in front of you (like the Ultimate Predator decoys) as you stalk – bowhunters have had success sneaking within range using these 2D decoys as cover. The downside of decoys is the extra bulk; carrying a full-size hard decoy through the woods is impractical, so most hunters use collapsible models for elk. Also, be very careful using decoys during firearm seasons or on public land – you don’t want other hunters mistaking your decoy for a real animal. Always attach some orange flagging to a decoy when walking it in or out.

Using calls, scents, and decoys effectively takes practice and sometimes a bit of experimentation. It’s wise for intermediate hunters to observe animal behavior and adjust tactics accordingly. For example, if deer seem call-shy in your pressured area, you might call very sparingly or stick to scent-only. If elk aren’t bugling one week, you might rely more on spot-and-stalk than calling. Always be adaptable. And remember: these tools should augment solid hunting fundamentals like playing the wind, staying still, and being in the right location. When used at the right time, though, a convincing call or whiff of scent can be the final element that brings that trophy into your shooting lane.

Backpack & Field Supplies (Knives, Game Bags, First Aid, etc.)

Success favors the prepared hunter. In addition to your primary hunting gear, you’ll need a collection of field supplies to handle everything from field dressing a downed animal to surviving unexpected nights out. Organizing these items in a suitable backpack will ensure you have what you need when the moment of truth arrives. The exact supplies may vary if you’re day-hunting whitetails from a stand vs. backpacking for elk in the wilderness, but the fundamentals remain similar. Below we cover the essential field gear every deer and elk hunter should carry:

Hunting Pack: Begin with a reliable backpack to store and organize your gear. For deer hunters heading to a tree stand or blind, a compact day pack (with a capacity of around 20-30 liters) is often sufficient. Look for one with multiple compartments and quiet fabric to avoid noise when rubbing against the bark. You might hang it on a tree hook within arm’s reach of your stand. Popular whitetail packs include the Badlands Superday, which have straps for carrying a bow or rifle as well. Elk and backcountry hunters, on the other hand, typically need a larger pack with a frame (50+ liters) capable of hauling meat. If you’re planning a DIY elk hunt miles from the road, you’ll want a sturdy pack like the Mystery Ranch Pop Up 40 – a favorite known for its comfortable load hauling. These packs have internal or external frames and load shelves to secure meat bags. Even on a day elk hunt, carrying a frame pack can allow you to pack out the first heavy load of meat immediately. Ensure your pack has a good hip belt and load lifters to transfer weight to your hips. Organize essential items (like your knife, headlamp, calls, license) in the pack’s top or hip-belt pockets for quick access.

• Tip: Practice packing and adjusting your backpack before the hunt; a well-fitted pack reduces fatigue and noise.

Knife and Field Dressing Kit: The real work begins after you’ve harvested an animal. A sharp, dependable knife is indispensable for field dressing and butchering game. Many hunters carry two knives: a small-capable knife for gutting/skinning and perhaps a heavier knife or saw for bone cutting (like splitting a pelvis or ribcage on a deer). Replaceable-blade knives (such Outdoor Edge RazorLite) are popular because you can switch to a fresh scalpel-sharp blade when one dulls – very handy when skinning a tough elk hide. Fixed-blade hunting knives like the Buck 117 are also excellent, just bring a sharpener or sharpening stone to touch up the edge as needed. A well-designed hunting knife will make quick work of slicing hide, deboning quarters, and butchering meat. If you hunt elk or moose, consider packing a compact bone saw or a specialized tool like the Wyoming Saw for quartering – although many hunters now use the gutless method to quarter big game, which avoids needing to cut bone at all. Along with your knife, carry a pair of long field dressing gloves (shoulder-length plastic gloves) to keep your hands clean when reaching inside a carcass. Some hunters also include flags or a small roll of orange flagging tape to mark blood trails or the location of a gut pile (helpful in dense woods, and as a warning to other hunters that game has been taken there).

Game Bags: If you’re hunting elk, deer, or other big game that may need to be packed out in pieces, game bags are a must. These are breathable fabric bags that keep dirt, insects, and debris off your meat while allowing it to cool. For elk, you’ll typically carry at least four large game bags to hold four quarters, and perhaps a couple smaller ones for backstraps, tenderloins, and trim meat. Reusable game bags (like those from Caribou Gear or Argali) are durable, lightweight, and can be washed and used for multiple seasons. Even deer hunters can benefit from game bags – if it’s hot out, you might quarter a deer to cool it faster or transport it, and a bag will keep the meat clean. After you’ve field dressed and quartered the animal, hang the game bags in shade to promote air circulation and cooling. If hunting in bear country, be mindful of where you leave meat; you may need to hang it high in a tree or immediately haul it a safe distance from your hunting area.

• Pro Tip: Pack a small bottle of black pepper or citric acid powder to sprinkle on the meat in game bags – this can deter flies from laying eggs if the weather is warm.

First Aid and Emergency Kit: Safety should always be a priority. At minimum, carry a first aid kit tailored for hunting injuries – things like bandages, gauze, medical tape, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Add in some blister pads (if you’re logging miles for elk), and butterfly bandages or even a sterile suture kit for deeper cuts. For hunters who process game, accidents can happen with sharp knives, so having QuikClot or a similar hemostatic agent for serious bleeding is wise. A basic tourniquet (and the knowledge to use it) could be life-saving in case of a bad fall or knife accident in the backcountry. Beyond first aid, an emergency survival kit can be a lifesaver if you end up lost or stranded overnight. This should include fire starters (waterproof matches/lighter and tinder), a space blanket (for warmth), a whistle, signal mirror, and a small compass if you’re not already carrying one. A headlamp is absolutely essential – choose one with at least 200+ lumens of brightness and carry extra batteries. Field dressing often goes past sunset, and hiking out in the dark without a light is dangerous. Many hunters carry two headlamps or a headlamp plus a small flashlight as backup. If you’re hunting in remote, rugged country (especially for elk), consider adding a personal locator beacon (PLB) or your satellite communicator in your emergency kit as well, in case of injury where you can’t self-rescue.

Hydration and Food: Hunting can be physically demanding, and dehydration or hunger will quickly sap your concentration and energy. Always carry water – the amount depends on the day’s heat and your activity, but 2 liters for a half-day hunt and 3+ liters for a full-day backcountry hunt is a good rule. Hydration bladders (e.g. a CamelBak or Platypus, often 2-3L capacity) are great for easy sipping without slowing down. For longer treks, a lightweight water filter or purifier (Sawyer Squeeze, Katadyn BeFree, or Lifestraw) can allow you to refill from streams and wallows, common in elk country. Pack some high-energy snacks like trail mix, protein bars, jerky, or energy gels. If you’ll be out all day, a hearty sandwich or some packable lunch will keep you fueled. Elk hunting especially can resemble a mountain hike with hunting mixed in – you might burn thousands of calories in a day. Don’t neglect electrolytes; some drink mixes or salt tablets can help prevent cramps on strenuous hunts. And after the harvest, having an easy-to-eat snack in your pack can recharge you for the hard work of packing out meat.

Other Handy Tools: A few more items can make your life easier in the field. A multitool (like a Leatherman) is worth its weight – use it for anything from tightening screws on your gear, to pulling cactus spines from your hand, to cutting rope. About 20 feet of paracord or rope is useful for many purposes: drag a deer out, hang meat or food away from bears, or tie something to your pack. If you’re a treestand hunter, a haul line to pull your bow or rifle up once you’re in the stand is a must (many use paracord for this too). Electrical tape or duct tape (wrap a few feet around a pencil or water bottle to save space) can repair gear or even serve as a makeshift bandage or blister cover in a pinch. A small sharpener or sharpening stone will keep your knife honed through multiple animals (alternatively, extra replacement blades if you use a Havalon-style knife). And don’t forget your hunting license, tags, and any permits – secure them in a Ziploc bag or license holder in an easily accessible pocket. In many areas, you’re required to notch or sign your tag immediately upon harvest, so have a pen or knife ready for that as well. Finally, if you hunt in bear country, you might carry bear spray in an accessible holster, especially if you’re elk hunting in grizzly territory (e.g., Montana, Wyoming). It’s a crucial safety tool that hopefully you’ll never need, but it’s there just in case.

With a well-thought-out pack full of these supplies, you’ll be ready not only to harvest an animal, but also to take care of the meat and yourself afterward. Many of these items are things you hope to never need (like first aid or survival gear), but if the situation arises, you’ll be beyond grateful to have them. Practice packing, unpacking, and using these items before the season – know exactly where everything is in your bag so you can grab it by feel if needed. When that big buck or bull is down and daylight is fading, you want to move efficiently through field dressing and game care, and being organized is key.

Trail Cameras

We have tried every camera there is and none have worked better than SpyPoint – so we’ll keep this section simple. The SpyPoint Flex-S Solar Cellular is a hassle free option – you won’t have to keep loading batteries and won’t have to go out to the field to check for photos. With the app, you can easily manage camera settings, receive instant image alerts, and monitor deer or elk activity from your phone, reducing human disturbance in your hunting areas.

By following this comprehensive hunting gear checklist and tailoring it to your specific deer or elk hunting adventure, you’ll be prepared for just about anything the wild throws at you. From layering up against the mountain chill, to glassing a distant ridgeline with quality optics, to field-dressing your harvest with the right tools – having the proper gear and knowledge is half the battle. The rest is up to your skills, patience, and respect for the game you pursue. Good luck this season, hunt safe, and may your next deer hunting gear or elk hunting gear investment bring you one step closer to the trophy of a lifetime! Happy hunting!