With the calendar already flipped to fall, another successful hunting season is likely on your radar. You’ve decided on your location, which game you plan to hunt and who’s joining you on your outdoor expedition.
But to ensure your carefully-planned hunting trip is a success, it’s time to focus on your equipment. Even if this isn’t your first rodeo — err, hunting trip — it’s important to double check your supplies to make sure you’ve accounted for everything. Of course, if anything is missing or showing its age, you can purchase something new or replace it before you head out.
With that in mind, check out these five essential pieces of equipment you’ll want to pack to enjoy your hunting trip.
1. Solid Pair of Boots
Whether you’re walking in the woods hunting for deer or duck hunting in a marshy swamp, hunting boots can make or break your day. If your pair showing signs of wear, definitely replace them before you head out. Pro tip: Always look for waterproof boots no matter what type of game you’re hunting. Insulated boots can also ensure your feet stay dry, warm and protected during your hunting trip.
2. Proper Clothing
As Cross Bow Critic notes, wearing the right clothing on your hunting expedition will make a huge difference, both for your comfort and safety. Additionally, wearing the proper gear means you’ll have the energy to focus on your hunt and stay out longer, as opposed to worrying about the weather.Â
Traveling to areas where camouflage is recommended? Then you should definitely invest in a jacket and pants that conceal your appearance and movement and which are designed for a range of outside temperatures. Locate a popular outdoor retailer, like Cabela’s or REI, in your area to find some great hunting gear at reasonably low prices.
3. Sturdy Truck and Accessories
Of course, getting to and from your hunting site safely is the name of the game. And, if you’re fortunate to haul some big game back home, a solid and dependable vehicle is a must. While you likely own a trusty pickup truck that’s provided countless hunting trip memories, you’ll want to make sure it’s ready to handle your next big journey.
First things first: Check your tires. After all, your vehicle should be ready to travel on a number of different surfaces and terrain, including paved highways and muddy side roads with ease. If your tires look worn and are showing signs of rot, consider replacing them altogether from a reputable tire shop or online retailer like TireBuyer.com.
4. A Headlamp
As Tracks and Wings notes, investing in a headlamp is even more important than a flashlight while hunting. Of course, with a headlamp, both of your hands will be free to carry a gun or dress an elk or deer after sunset. A headlamp with a red/green light is ideal, as animals tend not to be scared off by this type of color.
5. Pair of Binoculars
Binoculars are a must-have for any hunting trip; after all, they can certainly help you spot deer from a long distance or see a group of ducklings by a marsh dozens of yards away. If you’re at a high vantage point, like the top of a mountain, use your pair of binoculars to scope out the areas below and/or choose your next nearby hunting spot.
