Hunt Prep – Gear List: Everything you Need for your Western Hunt

Aug 30, 2024

Western Hunt Checklist

Here’s a comprehensive packing checklist for a western hunting trip that covers hunting gear, personal items, and other needed equipment:

Scouting during an elk hunt in Wyoming.

Photo Credit: Mule Deer Hunt – Poker Creek Camp / Cokeville / Wyoming

Hunting Gear

    • Rifle/Bow
      • Clean and zeroed
      • Extra ammunition/arrows
    • Binoculars
    • Rangefinder
      • To gauge distance accurately
    • Optics Cleaning Kit
      • For maintaining clear vision
    • Hunting Knife
      • Sharp and durable
    • Game Calls
      • Species-specific calls as needed
    • Decoys
      • If applicable for your hunt
    • Backpack/Hunting Pack
      • With hydration system or water bottles
    • First Aid Kit
      • Include basic medical supplies and personal medications
    • Field Dressing Kit
      • For processing game in the field
    • Hunting License and Tags
      • Ensure they are valid and up-to-date

Hunter field dressing an elk in Montana.

Personal Items

  • Clothing
      • Base Layers: Moisture-wicking and thermal
      • Mid Layers: Fleece or insulated jacket
      • Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jacket
      • Hunting Pants: Durable and camouflaged
      • Gloves: For warmth and dexterity
      • Hat/Beanie: For warmth and sun protection
      • Underwear/Socks: Quick-drying and comfortable
      • Boots: Waterproof and broken-in
  • Personal Hygiene Items
      • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal care items
      • Travel-sized soap and hand sanitizer
  • Sunscreen and Lip Balm
      • High SPF for sun protection
  • Insect Repellent
      • For areas with high insect activity
  • Towel
      • Compact and quick-drying

Lightweight Equipment

  • Tent
    • Lightweight and weather-appropriate
  • Sleeping Bag
    • Rated for the expected temperatures
  • Sleeping Pad
    • For added comfort and insulation
  • Camp Stove and Fuel
    • Lightweight and compact
  • Cookware
    • Pot, pan, and utensils
  • Water Filter or Purification Tablets
    • For safe drinking water
  • Headlamp/Flashlight
    • With extra batteries
  • Multi-tool
    • For various tasks around camp
  • Fire Starter/Matches
    • Waterproof and reliable
  • Emergency Blanket
    • For added warmth and safety

Miscellaneous

  • Maps and Compass/GPS
    • For navigation and tracking
  • Notebook and Pen
    • For recording observations or notes
  • Camera/Phone
    • For capturing memories and emergencies
  • Snacks and Energy Foods
    • Lightweight and high-energy options
  • Trash Bags
    • For packing out all waste
  • Repair Kit
    • For any gear maintenance or emergencies

     

      Plan a Western Hunt