How to Pack a Game Bag for a Multi-Day Backcountry Hunt

Quick answer

To pack a game bag for a multi-day backcountry hunt, focus on rapid cooling, even load distribution, and protecting meat from flies and debris using breathable, reusable bags.

Step-by-step packing process

1. Step 1: Quarter and debone the meat: Remove the hide and quarter the animal. For multi-day trips, deboning saves weight and allows tighter packing. Trim off silver skin and bloodshot meat to reduce spoilage risk. Common mistake: Leaving bone in adds unnecessary weight and bulk.
2. Step 2: Place meat into game bags: Fill each bag loosely—overstuffing traps heat and slows cooling. Fold the bag top over to seal out flies but leave a small gap for air exchange. Use separate bags for different cuts to keep them organized. Checkpoint: Confirm each bag has air circulation space.
3. Step 3: Cool the meat before packing: Hang the filled bags in a shaded, breezy spot for 30–60 minutes before loading your pack. If you can’t hang them, lay them flat on clean rocks or logs away from direct sun. Common mistake: Packing warm meat leads to spoilage within hours.
4. Step 4: Load bags into your pack strategically: Place heavier game bags at the bottom of the main compartment, against your back. Lighter bags go on top or in side pockets. Distribute weight evenly between your pack and your partner’s pack if hunting with a team. Checkpoint: Adjust straps so the load feels balanced and doesn’t shift while walking.
5. Step 5: Plan for overnight hangs: If you’re not hiking out the same day, hang all game bags in a bear-proof cache at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from tree trunks. Use reflective cord or tags to locate them in the dark. Common mistake: Hanging bags too low or without a bear hang invites scavengers.

Game bags that help

• High Country Pack Ultralight Game Bag Set: The Argali High Country Pack Ultralight Game Bag Set is made from a durable, breathable, and reusable nylon blend material that breathes to allow meat to cool quickly while keeping all flies off. This material prevents moisture buildup and spoilage during multi-day carries, and the bags are light enough to pack extra without adding significant weight.

  

• Moose Kit Game Bag Set: The Argali Moose Kit Game Bag Set includes reflective logos for ease of finding at night and 275 lb reflective cord for hanging. Reflective details help you locate your meat cache in low light, and the strong cord supports heavy loads during overnight hangs.