What should be in my “essential” hunting kit?

The type of hunt you plan on should dictate exactly what you bring with you, but there are, generally speaking, some essentials every hunter should have.

• Licenses (and possibly permits, depending on your state’s laws)
• Required animal tags
• First aid kit
• Maps of the area and/or a GPS
• Compass
• Communication device
• Sharp knife
• Calls for your target animal
• Backpack to hold your gear

You’ll need to bring along your preferred method of take (aka gun or bow), as well as any accessories and ammunition. (Remember, it is essential that your ammunition match your firearm, and that you inspect your arrows for any damage.)

Dress for the weather and the terrain. This typically will mean camouflage, sturdy boots, gloves, rugged pants, and under-layers. Waterproof or water-resistant clothing is useful in every environment, and moisture-wicking clothing will also help keep you comfortable. For warmth, seek wool or synthetic fibers; cotton will retain moisture and make you colder.

Be sure to wear the correct amount of blaze orange for your season and your area—it will keep you safe from other hunters, who may mistake you for game. It’s proven to be effective, and most game animals can’t even see it!

All of this equipment can be found online, in sporting goods stores, or perhaps as hand-me-downs from a family member or friend.
Here are some specifics you may need, depending on your hunting needs.

Game Care Kit for Field Dressing

• Black pepper to repel insects
• Cheesecloth bags for organs you plan to use as meat
• Cooler and ice
• Disposable plastic gloves
• Fluorescent orange flagging
• Foil
• Gambrel and pulley system
• Hand towels
• Large bag for caped or trophy head
• Plastic bags for cleanup
• Plastic or cotton gloves
• Salt (noniodized) for hide care

Survival Kit and Equipment

• Base plate compass with signal mirror
• Candle
• Emergency high-energy food
• Extra boot laces
• Extra pair of glasses
• Extra two-day supply of prescription medicine
• Fire starters—waterproof matches, butane lighter, etc.
• First-aid kit
• Fishing line and hooks
• Flashlight with spare batteries and bulbs
• Folding saw
• Iodide tablets for water purification
• Knives
• Map
• Metal, waterproof carrying case that can double as a cooking pot
• Nylon rope
• One-sided razor blade
• Plastic sheet or large garbage bag
• Poncho
• Signal flares
• Small can of lighter fluid
• Snare wire or twine
• Thermal foil blanket
• Tissues
• Water
• Whistle (plastic)

Equipment for Firearm Hunters

• Ear protection
• Eye protection
• A cleaning rod
• Swab
• Gun case for transport

Equipment for Archery Hunters

• Three-fingered gloves or finger tabs
• Mechanical release
• Armguard
• Quiver
• Broadhead wrench, if appropriate

If You Use an Elevated Stand

• Safety harness
• Climbing line
• Haul line
• Whistle

Hunters Using a Boat

• A personal flotation device

Having the right gear can be the difference between a difficult situation and a perfect hunt, so always plan accordingly!