Hunting is a demanding physical activity that combines skill, endurance, and patience. While a lot of people are passionate about this pastime, not everyone – especially novices – might be aware of all the essentials that they should carry on a hunting trip. It is critical that you don’t burden yourself with too much stuff when you go hunting, as you need to remain mobile and avoid fatigue.
Besides the obvious like water and food to last you through the trip, here are some other essentials that shouldn’t be amiss from your checklist.
- A good pair of hunting boots
Although hunting boots tend to be more expensive than the regular footwear that you can find on the market, they are worth the investment. They are sturdy, and they will protect your feet when you must walk on hunting trails for hours.
- A reliable backpack
The ideal backpack should be able to accommodate all your essentials and remain as lightweight as possible. Also, make sure that you get one with enough padding so that it doesn’t end up becoming uncomfortable. A waist strap is another essential feature your backpack must-have.
- A scent eliminator
It doesn’t matter how well concealed you are or if you are completely silent. You may be able to scare away the prey without even knowing. Wild animals have a heightened sense of smell, and that means that they can sense you from a fair distance. As a result, your list of essentials should include a scent eliminator. Luckily, there are plenty of them on the market.
- A high-quality rifle scope
Unless you decide to go crossbow hunting, the chances are that your weapon of choice is a hunting rifle. If that’s the case, you should consider getting a rifle scope, too, such as the high-quality models from Meopta. Securing a kill is much easier when you use proper equipment.
- A pocket knife
A multi-functional knife that fits in your pocket is a must-have on a hunting trip. Such a sharp object will help you with a variety of tasks, from skinning animals to cutting ropes and other things. For any outdoor adventure, a pocket knife is pretty much indispensable.
- Camouflage clothes
Just as the wild animals shouldn’t be able to smell you, they shouldn’t be able to see you, either. Get camouflage clothes and footwear that will make you blend with the environment easily.
- Have a survival kit at hand
When you are out in the woods, whether you are by yourself or with others, it is essential that you carry with you a survival kit. It should contain some critical items, such as disinfectant, bandages, some medicine, rope, matches, and so on. Survival kits are available, so you won’t have to build yours from scratch.
- Some sort of fire starter
Even in summer, nights can be pretty chilly out in the woods, so you will most likely need something to start a fire. Magnesium starter, cotton balls, and a zippo lighter are just a few things you should have in your fire starting kit.