What’s in My Shed Hunting Pack: Real Gear I Carry Every Season

🥾 Boots That Don't Quit

Let’s start from the ground up. I’m not messing around with trail shoes or sneakers. Waterproof, broken-in boots with ankle support are non-negotiable. You’ll be off-trail more often than not.

🎒 The Pack

I use a medium daypack. Just enough room for water, snacks, gloves, a shed or two, and maybe a layer if the weather turns. Bonus if it has side straps or loops for carrying antlers out hands-free.

🧤 Gloves (the Kind You’ll Wear)

I used to leave these behind. Now I don’t. Whether it’s cold mornings, thorny brush, or dragging out a big shed, gloves come in clutch.

🗺️ Navigation

I’m a fan of onX Hunt and Gaia GPS. Especially if you’re near private property lines or covering big country, these apps help you mark hot spots and avoid trespassing headaches.

🕶️ Binoculars

Not every shed is visible from the trail. A decent pair of binos lets you glass open hillsides or check a patch of white across a field without a half-mile detour.

🧢 Headlamp

You never think you’ll need it — until you do. Whether the sun dips early or you lose track of time following fresh tracks, a headlamp is small insurance that’s worth the space.

💧 Water + Snacks

Yes, you’ll need both. Even in cooler weather, covering 5–10 miles while zig-zagging burns more energy than you’d think.

📸 Phone or Camera

Whether you’re tracking your route, snapping pics, or documenting your best find of the day, make sure your phone is charged — and ideally in airplane mode to conserve battery.

🦴 Strap or Sling for Sheds

If you find a big matched set or several antlers, you’ll be glad you brought a way to lash them to your pack. A bungee cord, Velcro straps, or even paracord work great.

Final Thoughts

Don’t overpack. The lighter your load, the more ground you’ll cover — and that’s key to success. Bring the essentials, dress for the weather, and stay flexible.

At the end of the day, the best gear is the stuff that helps you stay out longer, walk farther, and enjoy the hunt more. And when you do spot that tine sticking up through the grass, every ounce of effort will be worth it.