Imagine finally harvesting that big buck or bull after a long, tough hunt. The excitement is real! But then comes the hard part: getting all that heavy meat back to your truck. Do you have the right gear for the job? Many hunters struggle with this challenge. Choosing the wrong pack can mean painful blisters, ripped seams, or multiple trips in tough terrain. It’s frustrating when your gear lets you down when you need it most.
Picking the perfect pack for hauling meat is crucial for a successful and safe packing job. You need something strong, comfortable, and designed for the specific weight you expect to carry. Don’t let a weak pack ruin your hard-earned success.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great meat hauling pack. You will learn about frame types, materials, and features that make packing out heavy loads easier. Keep reading to find the pack that will make your next recovery a breeze!
Table of Contents
Top Hunting Packs For Packing Out Meat Recommendations
Bestseller No. 1
Gociean Game Bags Elk Hunting Meat Bags, 48inch 5-Pack Rolled Heavy Duty Quarter Bag, Reusable & Breathable Meat Game Bag with Reflective Strip for Elk, Caribou, Deer, Moose, Antelope, Duck
- Highly Breathable & Durable: Gociean game bags are made of all-polyester, with a dense enough mesh to keep out mosquitoes, while also ensuring that the hunting meat bags are hard-wearing and durable. Compared to cotton bags, our meat game bags have more breathable features that promotes airflow and helps cool meat.
- Upgraded Closure Settings: Our heavy duty elk quarter bags add a drawstring setting at the closure, making it easier to pull and shrink the bag. The roll design also allows for more convenient storage of hunting meet. (Tips: The drawstring is specifically designed for tying the bag closure and is not suitable for direct hanging!)
- Product Configuration Of The 5-Packs: The 5-Pack big hunting bag set has 4 quarter bags with 48inch, and an additional 1 parts bag with 28in to store some offal, bone-in meat, etc. Each hunting pack has a load capacity of up to 120lbs, and the meat bags opening can be stretched to 21inch to easily meet your needs!
- Machine Washable & Reusable: After use, the game meat bag can be put directly into the washing machine for cleaning. The sturdy material can meet repeated use and is extremely durable. Also we have added reflective strips to each hunting game bags so that you can easily find it in the dark with just a flashlight.
- Wide Range Of Applications: Our wild game bags are suitable for most hunting animals such as deer/caribou/elk/moose etc.
Bestseller No. 2
Quewpk Game Bags Elk Hunting Meat Bags 5 Pack, 4 Pack 48" & 1 Pack 28" Stretchable and Reusable Rolled Heavy Duty Quarter Bags with Reflective Labels for Elk, Caribou, Deer, Moose, Antelope, Duck
- PREMIUM-GRADE MATERIAL: Crafted from high-performance polyester fiber, our hunting game meat bags perfectly balances rugged durability and feather-light portability. Engineered with a reinforced polyester blend, it boasts exceptional tear resistance—retaining structural integrity even in the harshest outdoor conditions (e.g., dense underbrush, rough terrain, or heavy loads).
- EXTRA-LARGE CAPACITY&EASY PORTABILITY: Engineered for hunters’ real needs, each elk game bags stretches up to 22 inches—offering ample space to store and transport large game like a quarter of elk or moose for deer hunting trips. The 5-piece set is thoughtfully sized: 4 large bags (12" x 48") for bulk game storage, plus 1 compact bag (12" x 28") for smaller cuts, duck bags hunting gear, or hunting accessories.
- EASY TO LOCATE:Integrated reflective strips boost visibility exponentially in low-light environments—even total darkness. Simply shine a flashlight, and the strips instantly reflect light, making these tag bags game bags stand out sharply against dense woods, brush, or night skies. No more fumbling to find your gear: quick, hassle-free identification whenever you need it.
- EFFORTLESS SEAL DESIGN: The heavy-duty drawstring is engineered for a secure, tight fit, locking in freshness and safeguarding your game’s integrity. Whether you’re packing meat in the field or transporting it back, this user-friendly sealing system ensures your valuable prey stays safely contained—no spills, no loss, and hassle-free storage/transport every time.
- VERSATILE & HIGHLY VISIBLE: Designed for multi-species hunting, our game meat bags are perfect for storing elk, caribou, and a wide range of wild game. We have stood the test of time, and you can always rely on us for any inquiries or assistance.
Bestseller No. 3
GearOZ Elk Game Bags Hunting Meat Bag 5-Pack Reusable Rolled Heavy Duty Quarter Bags, Big Game Hunting Essentials for Elk/Caribou/Moose/Deer, 48" x4, 28" x1
- BREATHABLE COTTON FABRIC: GearOZ game bags are made from durable and high-quality cotton material, which is ideal to store the game meat from dirt, debris, etc. They're hunting essentials in big game hunting season like elk, caribou, deer, bear, and other game.
- NO MORE WORRY OF SPOILAGE: designed with breathability, it allows your harvested meat to cool down while retaining its moisture. This helps to minimize the risk of meat drying out and spoiling during transportation or storage. The breathable fabric of our game bags promotes air circulation, preventing the buildup of excess heat and moisture that can lead to spoilage.
- EASY TO FIND: The reflective strip enhances visibility in low light conditions. This feature makes it easier for you to locate your game bag even in the dark by simply using a flashlight. The reflective strip reflects light, making the bag stand out and facilitating quick and convenient identification.
- WASHABLE & REUSABLE: crafted using high-quality, tightly knitted pure cotton fabric, it ensures durability and longevity, allowing the bags to withstand the rigors of hunting trips. Despite its sturdiness, the fabric remains lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport. Additionally, the fabric is washable and reusable, allowing you to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. The game bags can stretch up to 21 inches, providing ample space for storing your harvested game.
- 5-PACK: Including 4 pieces of 12*48-Inch bags, which are ideal for storing larger game meat such as elk, caribou, or deer. And 1 piece of 12*28-Inch bag specifically designed for storing livers or other viscera separately. Additionally, the pack includes 5 ropes that can be used for securely bundling the mouth of the bags to ensure proper closure.
Bestseller No. 4
SPIKA Hunting Backpack Internal Frame for Men Waterproof Hunting Pack Camouflage with Rifle Holder Extendable 40L+ Capacity
- Capacity:Extendable 40L+ storage capacity can carry the items needed for day trips and long-distance sports to a greater extent.
- Materials:Durable 500D treated nylon body can prevent splashing and keep the backpack dry.ykk zippers.Industry leading duraflex hardware lightweight makes the bag more comfortable to use.
- Internal design: Ykk zippers can quick access to main compartment,Multiple compartments which categorizes items of different categories.Backpack comes with front stash pocket,external water bladder compartment stay hydrated.
- External design:Roll top snow collar and Side pockets, Removable hood and Rain cover can effectively protect the exterior of the backpack,with rifle holder and walking pole and ice axe attachment.
- Removable Frame:Internal frame can minimize the burden on the backpack,suitable for the outdoorsman that wants to go in light and come out heavy.
Bestseller No. 5
MOXULE Pro 3600 Camo Frame Backpack - Meat Hauler Pack with Rain Cover for Outdoor
- Pro-grade, lightweight suspension - An ergonomic aluminum frame with air-suspension, wide soft shoulder straps, a profile-adjustable hip belt, and a height-adjustable lumbar reduces load strain for multiple days in the backcountry. Frame weight: 3.3 lb; total system: 6.82 lb.
- Modular frame system - Fully removable frame can be used independently, secured to the pack’s top hat, or paired with the MOXULE 40L/60L/80L hunting backpacks for expanded capacity and mission flexibility.
- Massive, expandable capacity + meat-haul ready - frame pack capacity: 3600 cubic inches; an adjustable meat shelf which expands an extra 2,500 cubic inches of storage between the frame and bag for hauling meat or gear, and supports about 150 lbs.
- Detachable top hat & versatile carry - Detachable hat converts to a small daypack with stowable shoulder straps, also hat can attach the frame independently; removable holder mounts front or side and also secures a gear; included rain cover features a dedicated outlet for protected side carry.
- Built to perform in the field - Constructed from 3-layer brush tricot polyester with water repellent, YKK zippers, Duraflex buckles, and heavy nylon webbing; features a bottom shoe pocket, shoulder-height adjustment, and thoughtful pocketing for organization and durability.
Bestseller No. 6
TIDEWE Hunting Backpack 5500cu with Frame and Rain Cover for Bow/Rifle/Pistol
- Large Capacity：Specs (Dimensions) are 31.5” x 21.7” x 11.8”, the main compartment with high quality strapping system features a two-in-one carrier for your bow or rifle. The large main compartment with multi small compartments, waist bag and side pockets offers a total 5500 cubic inches (90L) capacity. The extension bag with drawstring on the top increases the main compartment capacity. TIDEWE hunting backpack can pack everything you need for 3-5 days outdoor hunting journey.
- Ergonomic Design & Comfortable：TIDEWE Large pack is designed with adjustable shoulder straps and frame, customizing your personal size. The ergonomic design with soft and breathable padding offers pressure reduction makes long walks much easier and comfortable on your body. Curved top frame design is suitable for your head placement, protecting your head from being hit. The lightweight and compact frame, along with the folding freighter shelf, is perfect for your hunting trip.
- Hunting Conducive：TIDEWE hunting backpack is made of noise free next camo g2 fabric. The reinforced Hypalon is used at the frame connection part to reduce collision noise. The next camo g2 enables the hunting pack integrating into the hunting environment. These premium soundless design will assist you in remaining undetected while hunting.
- Trusted Quality：High performance next camo g2 fabric, long-lasting buckle and exquisite stitching delivers the TIDEWE external frame hunting back incredible durability.
- User-friendly Design：TIDEWE is committed to your ultimate hunting experience by unique design. The zippered quick access design helps you take out gears from the big bag conveniently and easily. This framed hunting backpack is compatible with 2 or 3-liter hydration systems, keeping you hydrated for those long walks in the woods. Waterproof rain cover is perfect for keeping all your gears dry in case you get caught in rain. High quality strapping system makes it easy for heavier load.
Bestseller No. 7
Allen Company Backcountry Quarter Bag - Reusable, Heavy-Duty, Drawstring Hunting Meat Bags - Durable Big Game Bags for Elk, Caribou, Deer - 4-Pack - 20" x 30" - White
- GAME BAGS: Shield your meat from dirt, debris, flies, and other environmental hazards with our heavy-duty bags. Designed to store and transport big game quarters, our bags ensure your meat maintains its quality and freshness.
- SUITABLE FOR MOST HIGH-COUNTRY GAME: Pack out deer, elk, caribou, sheep, and other game with ease. Our lightweight bags come with a packing pouch and don't take up room or add extra weight to your gear. Features a drawstring closure for extra security.
- BREATHABLE AND MOISTURE-WICKING: Engineered from premium fabric, our bags promote air circulation around your meat, preventing spoilage from excess heat and moisture.
- REUSABLE HUNTING GEAR: Built for durability and longevity, our rugged game bags handle all of the rigors of the backcountry wilderness. These hunting accessories are both washable and reusable for cleanliness and hygiene. Measures 20" x 30".
- ALLEN CO: We share your passion for the great outdoors. Our unwavering dedication lies in crafting superior hunting, shooting, and archery gear that combines quality and value.
Bestseller No. 8
ALPS OutdoorZ Commander + Pack Bag – 5,250 in³ Hunting Backpack with Freighter Frame, Rifle Holder, Spotting Scope Pocket, Ripstop Fabric, Adjustable Coyote Brown Pack
- Dual-Function System: Full-Capacity Pack Bag + Freighter Frame: Engineered for versatility in the field, the Commander + Pack Bag combines a massive 5,250 in³ pack bag with the rugged Commander Freighter Frame, allowing hunters to carry a full load of gear into camp and haul out meat or supplies after the bag is removed. The freighter frame includes a freighter shelf and secure lashing straps that support heavy, uneven loads while maintaining optimal weight distribution
- Highly Organized Storage with Purpose-Built Compartments: Designed with functionality in mind, the pack features a top-loading main compartment, two hinged side accessory pockets, a spotting scope pocket, a rifle holder, and a front pocket—ensuring essential gear is always accessible. An internal horizontal divider allows strategic organization of contents, while lower door access with #10 zippers provides quick entry to the bottom of the pack
- Heavy-Duty Construction and Weather Resistance: Built from durable, water-resistant ripstop fabric, the pack bag is designed to withstand abrasion, exposure to the elements, and the rough handling that comes with extended backcountry use. A spindrift collar with drawcord provides added capacity and protects the main compartment contents from dust and moisture
- Adjustable Anodized Frame with Comfort Suspension System: The anodized aluminum frame is equipped with a cotter and clevis pin adjustment system for fast and reliable torso customization (17–23"). The padded waist belt and shoulder harness, combined with a breathable back panel and load lifters, ensure optimal comfort and support during high-mileage hauls, even under extreme weight
- Hydration Compatibility and Tactical Lashing Options: Integrated hydration sleeve compatibility keeps hydration accessible during long treks, while external webbing loops and multiple lashing straps offer custom attachment points for bulky gear like sleeping pads, game bags, or tripod systems. Also included are convenient pockets for flashlight, knife, and shooting sticks, making this a comprehensive solution for extended wilderness hunts
Choosing the Right Hunting Pack for Packing Out Meat
When you successfully harvest an animal in the backcountry, getting the meat out safely and efficiently is the next big challenge. A good hunting pack designed for packing meat can make this tough job much easier. This guide helps you pick the perfect pack for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
A great meat hauling pack needs specific features to handle heavy, awkward loads. Don’t settle for a standard daypack.
Frame System and Support
- Internal Frame: Look for a strong internal frame, usually made of aluminum. This transfers the weight of the meat directly to your hips, not just your shoulders.
- Hip Belt and Harness: The hip belt must be wide and well-padded. A good harness system spreads the load evenly.
- Load Lifters: These straps connect the top of the pack to your shoulders. They pull the weight closer to your body, improving balance.
Meat Hauling Specifics
- Meat Shelf/Fender: This is crucial. It’s a gap or extension between the main pack body and the frame. This allows you to strap boned-out quarters *behind* the main bag, keeping blood and smell away from your gear and back.
- Durability and Cleanability: The materials must resist punctures from sharp bone edges. The interior should be easy to wipe clean of blood and fluids.
Capacity and Compression
- Volume (Liters): Consider the size of the animals you hunt. A pack around 50-70 liters is often a good starting point for deer or elk.
- Compression Straps: Strong straps cinch down the load. This keeps the meat stable, preventing it from shifting as you hike.
Important Materials
The material dictates how long your pack lasts and how much it weighs. You need a balance between strength and light weight.
Fabric Strength
- High-Denier Nylon or Polyethylene (e.g., Dyneema): These fabrics resist tearing and abrasion. A higher denier (like 500D or higher) usually means more toughness.
- Water Resistance: While most packs aren’t fully waterproof, good DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings help shed rain and moisture from the meat.
Frame Materials
- Aluminum or Composite Rods: These materials offer excellent strength without adding excessive weight. Lighter frames are easier to carry when the pack is fully loaded.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Small design details significantly affect performance when you are exhausted and carrying 80 pounds.
Quality Enhancers:
- External Frame vs. Internal Frame: External frames offer superior ventilation and are often easier to strap awkward loads onto. Internal frames carry heavy, dense loads more stably on rough terrain.
- Ventilation Back Panel: Mesh or suspended back panels keep the pack off your back. This dramatically reduces sweat buildup, improving comfort on long climbs.
- Modular Design: Packs that allow you to remove the main bag and use only the frame and meat shelf are excellent for quick, short hauls.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Webbing and Plastic Buckles: Cheap straps and buckles break under the intense strain of heavy meat. Always check the quality of all connection points.
- Poor Stitching: Weak seams will fail when the pack is overloaded. Look for reinforced stitching in high-stress areas.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the pack determines what features matter most to you.
Scenario 1: Long, Solo Backcountry Hunts (Multi-Day)
If you plan to stay out for several days, you need a large-capacity pack (70L+). You must carry your tent, food, and water alongside the meat. A pack that converts well from a gear hauler to a dedicated meat hauler is ideal. Comfort over many miles is the priority here.
Scenario 2: Day Hunts or Local Retrieval
For shorter trips where you might only hike a few miles from the truck, weight savings are key. A lighter, minimalist pack that focuses purely on the frame and meat shelf (sometimes called a “frame pack”) works best. You sacrifice some gear capacity for lower starting weight.
Scenario 3: Packing for Two People
If you are splitting the load with a partner, ensure your pack has excellent external lashing points. You might strap a partial quarter to the outside of your pack while carrying your partner’s essential gear inside.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Meat Hauling Packs
Q: Do I need a dedicated meat pack, or can my regular backpack work?
A: A regular backpack usually lacks the necessary support, durability, and the crucial meat shelf. Dedicated packs handle the weight and mess much better.
Q: How much weight should a good frame handle?
A: A quality aluminum frame should comfortably handle 100 to 150 pounds, depending on the pack’s design.
Q: What is the difference between an internal and external frame for meat hauling?
A: Internal frames keep the load tight against your back for better balance on steep trails. External frames often offer better ventilation and are easier to strap large, irregular items onto.
Q: Should I get a pack with a built-in waterproof liner?
A: While helpful, most hunters use heavy-duty contractor bags or specialized meat bags inside their pack for hygiene and waterproofing.
Q: How important is pack weight when empty?
A: Very important! Every empty pound adds up when you add 80 pounds of meat. Look for packs under 6 pounds if possible.
Q: What does “load transfer” mean?
A: Load transfer is how effectively the pack moves the weight from your shoulders down to your stronger leg and hip muscles via the hip belt.
Q: Can I use a pack cover for meat protection?
A: Pack covers only protect the outside from rain. They do not protect your back from blood or protect the meat from sharp objects. You need internal liners or dedicated meat bags.
Q: How important are external webbing loops (daisy chains)?
A: They are very important for securing tools like knives, saws, and extra straps externally, keeping them accessible.
Q: Is the color of the pack important?
A: For camouflage purposes, yes. However, when hauling meat, functionality and strength are far more important than matching your hunting attire.
Q: How do I clean a meat pack after use?
A: Rinse thoroughly with cold water immediately. Use a mild soap or a specialized enzyme cleaner. Let it air dry completely before storing it to prevent mold.