Don’t Leave Home without These Items of Hunting Clothing, Gear, and Other Essentials
Despite the old adage claiming to the contrary, clothes—and for that matter, gear—do not make the man or woman; but they can help make their life that much easier in situations like winter hunting. While a mild winter is being forecast, you can still expect there to be frigid, treacherous days while you’re out hunting the moose or other game that you’ve drawn for this season. Whether you’re new to winter hunting or just want a refresher, here’s your checklist of absolute essential hunting gear and hunting clothing. It could keep you warm, ensure the success of your hunt, or even, should the worst happen, guarantee your safe return. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather a starting point for you—feel free to make adjustments based on the specifics of your hunt.
Hunting Clothing
• Warm, insulated parka (down-filled is a good choice, camouflage optional)
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Warm, dextrous gloves
• Snow pants
• Hat and scarf or other face protection
• Thermal undergarments (socks, underwear)
• Change of socks
• Sunglasses (the glare off a snowbank can and will ruin an otherwise-perfect shot if you let it)
• Hunter’s orange vest
Hunting Gear
• Your weapon of choice (firearm, bow, crossbow)
• Additional ammunition, arrows, or bolts
• Gun cleaning kit/spare bowstring
• Knife and sharpener
• Binoculars
• Rangefinder
• Meat saw
• License and tags
Other Gear
• Food, snacks
• Water, water purification tablets
• Prescription medication
• Basic first-aid kit
• Map, compass, GPS
• Matches AND butane lighter
• Emergency blanket
• Satellite phone
If You’re Planning a Multi-Day Hunt
• Warm sleeping bag
• Tent
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Personal heater/fire-starting skill
If You’re Using a Sled/Snowmobile
• Extra fluids and fuel
• Battery and jumper cables
• Shovel
• Vehicle tarp
Additional Considerations
Having the right hunting gear and warm, thickly-insulated hunting clothing is just the beginning to a successful winter hunt. If there is anything specific about your hunt that you foresee having potential complications, be sure to prepare for every possible outcome—preparedness is essential! Make sure that your vehicle, weapons, tools, and GPS are in good working condition, and that you have the correct maps. Fire-starting materials, medications, and first-aid items should be stored in waterproof containers.
An incredibly important thing that even the most seasoned hunters should always be sure to do, is to let someone know when and where you plan to go, and when to expect you back. This way, should the worst happen and you become lost or injured and are unable to contact anyone for help, there will be a much better chance for your safe return. At the end of the day, your safety is the number one concern, and should be taken seriously.
