Snacks (granola bars, crackers, etc.)
Water (this year adding a Sawyer filter also)
550 cord
Game bags
Knives
Contractor size plastic bags
Hunting licenses and tags (I have a specific wallet for hunting. Only tags and ID go in it)
Trail markers (either ribbon or reflective clips for branches)
A couple types of calls
Battery pack/usb charger
Extra archery release
First aid supplies
Emergency whistle and compass
I think that's about it. Maybe a bit more than some people, but it packs down nicely.
Snacks
Water
First Aid Kit
Small tool set for bow
Extra release
Kill kit (Knives, Hatchet, Tag, Pen, Zipties, ziplock bag, contractor bags)
Headlamp
Maybe clothing depending on weather
I am still trying to dial in my system, work in progress, I tend to over carry due to I hunt solo 90%.
I went to a "Modular" system, meaning I use small specific bags for each of my current hunting needs. Then I can Drop - Go in what I need in my MR Metcalf for the day or days depending on the hunt and conditions. The bags are colored / labeled- Tool bags from Amazon, so I can easily identify when I dig through my pack in the dark. Red - Fire, Yellow processing gear etc.
One item I don's see on the above lists, is I carry a little pitch wood in my fire starting kit. I have struggle in the past starting a fire when I'm cold and its wet and need to start a fire.