Optimal Packing Advice

[apizza]

Hi All,

Relatively new backpack archery hunter here. Mostly doing 2 nights, maybe push to 3 in CO. I need advice on packing, i see a bunch of guys doing 6 days in my pack SG Sky 5900.

Heres a pic of everything I got minus extra clothes, bow and tripod for my binos.

Bag: Nemo Forte
Tent: MSR Elixir 1
Pad: Exped
BearVault 475 - If this goes in the meatshelf, it bulges into the pack.
Pillow (could drop)
FrogTog Rain Gear
Kill kit plus random stuff light stove, small spade etc.

Everything here would fit because I did it last year (plus a hydro bladder), but felt I was way to heavy (40~lbs).

How do I optimize this without going overboard on spending more money? Any tips would be appreciated!

 

[LongWayAround]

Ditch the bear canister.

 

[apizza]

Ditch the bear canister.

Go ursack?

 

[WeiserBucks]

Go ursack?

I use a DCF stuff sack.

 

[LongWayAround]

Go ursack?

If you're only going for two or three days, I would just throw a gallon ziplock or two in my backpack.

If you go for a week, I would use the lightest possible stuff sack.

 

[Lawnboi]

I would guess that next to zero hunters carry a bear proof canister or sack. I know I never have.

A dcf dry bag is probably your lightest option, with some cordage and a small carabiner to hang.