HUNTINGsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 08 - HUNTING PREPARATION
THE HUNTERS PACKING LIST
The best way to make sure you’ve got everything you need out there, is to stay organized. We’ve got a categorized list to help you with that:
Your Day Trip Supplies:
- A map of the hunting area.
- Good binoculars.
- A compass and/or GPS.
- Food and water.
- A flashlight with spare batteries.
- Nylon rope, wire or twine.
- A rain coat or poncho.
- Duct tape.
- Trail markers.
Your Firearm Gear:
- Your firearm.
- Your ammunition.
- A waterproof firearm case.
- Trigger lock.
- Basic firearm cleaning tools.
- Decoys (if applicable).
- Calls (if applicable).
- Gun sock.
Your Field Dressing Equipment:
- Orange tape.
- A sheath knife.
- A meat sack (never use plastic bags—they trap heat and moisture which will spoil the meat).
- Plastic bags (for carrying your garbage/dirty tools).
- Latex gloves (to keep your hands clean and to keep the meat free from contamination).
- Assorted knives (various sizes could be helpful).
- A folding saw or battery-powered saw (you won’t need this for a squirrel but you might want it if you’re quartering a dead bear).
- A plastic sheet.
- A razor blade.
Wise Words: Knife Knowledge
There are a lot of different knives out there. So, what’s the best knife to use for field dressing? A sharp, drop point knife that’s the right size for the job. Wooden handles provide the best grip.
Your Emergency Supplies:
- A first aid kit.
- A pocketknife.
- A whistle.
- A signal mirror.
- Signal flares.
- A thermal blanket.
- A candle.
- Waterproof matches and a lighter.
- A fire starter puck.
- High protein food and water.
- A small axe.
- A sleeping bag.
- Iodine tablets (for water purification).
- Extras you may need: eye glasses, prescription meds, etc.
