The type of hunting expedition you choose will dictate the exact supplies you need to bring, but some general items are a must. Camouflage hunting clothing, a gun or bow and arrows, a hunting knife for processing game, and a map and compass are essential tools.
First-aid kits, fire-starting tools (like a flint and steel or survival kit), a lightweight tarp, and emergency signaling devices can save the day in unpredictable situations. Read on Elk Calls to learn more.
A well-stocked first aid kit is a must for anyone who steps foot outside, but it’s especially critical for hunters. A first aid kit addresses not only cuts, wounds and sprains but also dehydration, infections and other issues that can threaten survival in the wilderness.
To build the right first aid kit, draw upon your experience in the field and in the emergency room. Critical care nurse Marcus Granger has accumulated more than his share of scrapes and bumps, and he has used those lessons to create a kit that’s both comprehensive and easy to carry in the backcountry.
The basic items include first-aid ointment, a first aid manual and the supplies to treat wounds and other common ailments. He also includes a survival blanket, a knife and a multitool in the kit. Medications are also included, including antibiotics, antihistamines and pain relievers. It’s important to know how to use these medications, so consider getting CPR and Wilderness First Aid certifications. These classes usually take two eight-hour days, and they provide the knowledge you need to save a life in the backcountry, or even your own.
Another important addition is a tourniquet. This device, designed by a military combat medic, can temporarily stop uncontrollable bleeding, and it’s a top-tier addition to any hunting first aid kit. A tourniquet is useless if it’s not properly applied, however, so make sure you’re familiar with its usage before taking it out on the trail.
Pack a couple of resealable plastic bags to organize and compartmentalize your medical supplies. Put wound supplies in one bag, medications in another and utility items such as Duct tape in a third. Then fit it all into a backpack, fanny pack or makeup case that’s light, compact and easy to access in an emergency. And, remember that your first aid kit isn’t just for you; it should be a resource for the rest of your group as well. A collaborative approach to prepping is best for the harsh conditions of the backcountry, and it improves everyone’s chances of survival should a hunt prove perilous.
Water
There is nothing quite like the thrill of stalking your game, aiming your shot, and then bringing home the catch. However, it takes more than just a quality hunting rifle and the right ammunition to enjoy a successful hunt. Other essentials include hunting gear, food, navigation tools, and water. Leaving these items behind can mean the difference between a great adventure and disaster.
Having the proper hunting gear is a necessity, but so is having a solid plan for your hunt. Create a checklist of your hunting essentials and then practice with them at home or on shorter camping or hiking trips before taking them out on the trail. This will help ensure you have all the supplies you need for a safe and enjoyable trip.
You’ll be sweating and exerting yourself while hunting, so it is important to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased performance, so make sure you pack plenty of water for your trip. You can also use a water filtration system to ensure you have clean drinking water while in the wilderness.
It is also a good idea to bring some high-energy snacks in case you get hungry while hunting. Make sure to pack some protein-rich foods, such as beef jerky or trail mix. You should also bring a first aid kit with bandages, hand sanitizer and alcohol wipes, a tourniquet, cordage for splints, pain medication, and any other emergency medical items you may need.
Lastly, it’s important to bring some navigation tools with you, such as a GPS device or a map and compass. This will help you avoid getting lost in unfamiliar territory and increase your chances of finding your way back to your vehicle or a safe location.
Understanding the importance of water sources is a critical component of hunting, especially in the modern era of sustainability and ethical hunting. “Find A Hunt” is dedicated to supporting hunting practices that take conservation into consideration and that respect wildlife populations, their habitats, and the resources they need for survival. By recognizing the importance of these vital resources, we can make hunting a better experience for everyone involved.
Food
While the hunt itself may be the biggest game in town, proper nutrition and hydration are just as important. Make sure to pack lightweight, high-energy foods and snacks like granola bars and trail mix that won’t spoil too quickly in the wild. It’s also wise to bring water purification tablets to ensure that you can access clean drinking water in remote locations.
You’ll need a good sleeping bag and tent for shelter, as well as a reliable hunting knife, gun cleaning kit and other gear depending on the type of game you plan to pursue. A rangefinder, bug repellent and a field dressing kit are also essential to bring along. Finally, it’s a good idea to have a backpack that can carry extra ammo, supplies and your kill for transport back to camp.
Your weapons are, of course, the most crucial pieces of equipment for any hunting trip. Choose a rifle or bow and arrows based on the kind of game you’re going after, and don’t forget to bring the appropriate ammo for your chosen weapon.
Choosing the right clothing and accessories is important, too. Whether you’re planning for a spring, summer or winter hunt, you’ll want to have insulated clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Start by shopping your closet and removing items that are too bulky or don’t fit well. Long johns and wool socks are great for cold weather, as are warm hats and gloves.
Other necessary items for any hunting adventure include a map or GPS, orange tape and a compass to help you navigate in unfamiliar terrain, odorless insect repellent and sun protection, as well as hunting scents and decoys to lure prey closer. It’s always a good idea to bring toilet paper, a small first aid kit and some camping gear like a cooking stove and supplies for food prep. A flashlight, headlamp or lantern and a comfortable camp chair are helpful too. Finally, don’t forget a good pair of hiking boots that can handle the terrain you’ll be covering on your hunt.
Shelter
A shelter is a place where people, animals, or objects are protected from wind and rain. It is also a temporary refuge or residence. A person who shelters someone is someone who provides them with a safe and secure place to live, usually for an extended period of time. A shelter can be made from many different materials, including branches and logs. The most important thing is that it is sturdy enough to withstand the elements.
The ability to create a shelter is an essential survival skill, especially for hunters who spend extended periods of time outdoors in various weather conditions. Having the ability to create a shelter can help ensure the hunter’s safety and comfort in the wilderness, even in the event that they are lost.
One way to build a shelter is to create a frame using longer sticks or branches and then tie them together with cordage or vines. Then, use shorter branches to create a lattice on top of the frame. This can provide protection from wind and snow while still allowing air to circulate. For extra warmth, add evergreen tree boughs or dried grasses for bedding.
Another option is to build a floorless shelter such as a tipi. These shelters are more complicated to set up, but they are very durable and do well in the wind and with snow loads when pitched properly. They do not protect against bugs, though, so they may not be ideal during buggy seasons.