Putting Insights Outdoors Hunting Packs to Work in the Field

By: Adrian Jessen

When it comes to hunting packs, I’ve learned there’s a big difference between something that looks good on paper and something that actually works once it’s been dragged through brush, tossed in the back of a truck, and hauled miles into the woods. 

Over the past several seasons, we’ve spent a lot of time using different packs from various companies in real hunting situations - from quick day hunts to longer sits, from UTV scouting to days with miles-long hikes, from saddle setups to firearm and crossbow hunts, and even just hauling gear back and forth to camp. And this year, we focused on the wide variety of options available from Insights Outdoors.

Rather than relying on one “do-it-all” pack, we’ve found ourselves rotating through several different options depending on the hunt. Each pack fills a specific role, and after extended use, certain details - materials, zippers, layout, and comfort - have stood out as the reasons these packs will likely continue to earn a place in our lineup.

Starting at Camp: Traveler Gear Duffle Bags

Before we ever shoulder a pack and head into the woods, the Insights Outdoors Traveler Gear Duffle Bags are usually the first pieces of gear we interact with. These bags have become our go-to for hauling gear to camp, organizing clothing, and keeping everything contained in the back of the truck or UTV - or even just traveling to visit family.

They offer both XL and XXL sizes, and we’ve been impressed with how much abuse they can handle. The material feels strong and sturdy from the start, and that impression has held up over time. These bags are abrasion- and tear-resistant, which is precisely what you want when they’re being slid across tailgates, tossed onto gravel, or stacked with other gear. The rubberized bottom pieces also help ensure the pack's longevity. 

One feature that really makes a difference is the water-resistant fabric. It does a solid job of keeping gear dry in less-than-ideal conditions, whether at camp or while carrying it. All the edges of the lid are designed with rain flaps that cover the zippers, helping keep water out. 

And speaking of zippers - this is a theme across every Insights pack we’ve used. The zippers are heavy-duty, smooth, and confidence-inspiring. They don’t feel flimsy or prone to failure, even when the bag is stuffed to the brim. The large fabric pull tabs are another detail we appreciate, especially when working in the dark or wearing gloves.

Storage is where these gear bags really shine. The semi-structured design helps them retain their shape while remaining flexible enough to pack efficiently. Mesh pockets throughout the bag make it easy to organize smaller items, and MOLLE webbing on the exterior allows for additional attachments if needed.

They feature multiple carry options: top handles, side handles, and a shoulder strap. The bags are shown as convertible to backpack carry, though ours didn’t come with backpack straps. Even without that option, these duffles have become a staple for transporting gear and keeping things organized before and after hunts.

Minimalist and Purpose-Built: Saddle Stalker Backpack

The most gear-specific pack we’ve used from Insights Outdoors is the Saddle Stalker Backpack. This pack is clearly designed with the minimalist saddle hunter in mind, and it shows in both layout and function.

Rather than a traditional “bag” design, the Saddle Stalker focuses on efficiently carrying sticks, platforms, and essential saddle gear into and out of the woods. One standout feature is how well it minimizes noise. Fabric placement between metal components helps prevent clanking while walking, which is a big deal when slipping into a setup early or leaving quietly after dark.

There’s no main storage compartment as you’d see on a traditional backpack, but there are straps on the bottom that work well for securing a jacket or extra layers. MOLLE webbing throughout allows for additional storage customization, letting you add pouches or accessories based on your setup.

Comfort hasn’t been overlooked either. The padded backpack straps and waist belt make longer hikes manageable, even with a loaded saddle setup. For hunters who truly embrace a minimalist approach, this pack does exactly what it’s designed to do.

That said, if you’re the type of hunter who tends to carry extra layers, snacks, or backup gear “just in case,” the limited carry capacity may feel restrictive. For us, it excels as a purpose-built saddle pack, but it’s not the one we reach for when we want maximum versatility.

Lightweight and Mobile: Drifter V2 Lightweight Day Pack

At the other end of the spectrum is the Drifter V2 Lightweight Day Pack. This is the smallest and lightest pack we’ve used from Insights Outdoors, and it’s ideal for short to mid-range hikes, warmer-weather hunts, and situations where you don’t need bulky layers.

With a 26-liter capacity and weighing under 2 pounds, the Drifter V2 punches above its weight class in storage. The main compartment is ample for smaller items and lighter layers, and the pack includes a top zippered pocket with mesh compartments for organizing smaller gear. A front zippered pocket provides quick access to essentials like snacks, calls, a flashlight, or snips.

One of our favorite features is the expandable open front pocket. It’s perfect for stashing a light jacket or even a turkey decoy for quick access. Cinch straps on the sides allow the pack to expand when needed or compress when carrying a lighter load, helping keep it from feeling loose or unbalanced.

Both sides feature elastic storage pouches for water bottles, and the front panel is MOLLE compatible for added versatility. It’s also hydration-bladder compatible, complete with a tube port for hands-free hydration on the move.

Comfort is solid across the board, with thick, padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a padded mesh back panel that promotes airflow, especially appreciated during warmer early-season or spring hunts. One downside for me personally is that the chest strap sits lower than I prefer, but at 5’4” and about 135 pounds, most “one-size-fits-all” packs tend to run a bit large anyway.

If the Drifter V2 had a built-in way to attach a padded seat, it would be close to the perfect turkey hunting pack. As it stands, it’s an excellent lightweight option that doesn’t feel flimsy or stripped down.

The Workhorse: Element V2 Day Pack

The pack I’ve used the most overall is the Element V2 Day Pack. At three pounds with a 30-liter capacity, it offers a noticeable step up in storage without becoming bulky or cumbersome.

One of the defining features of the Element V2 is the TS3 front pocket system. This versatile design allows the front pocket to be used in three different configurations. You can open it slightly and use it as a standard pocket, fold it open into a shelf that hangs from the tree, or fully open it to create additional pockets and an easy-access basket - perfect for binoculars or frequently used gear.

There’s a small zippered pocket on top ideal for a headlamp, and inside the main compartment, you’ll find a mesh sleeve that can also hold a hydration bladder. A pocket on the waist belt adds quick-access storage, while two side zippered pockets provide additional organization - though they’re small and don’t seem like they would hold very much.

As with the other packs, MOLLE webbing is present, allowing for customization. The Element V2 also includes a concealed rain fly, which is a nice touch for unexpected weather.

After extended use, I do have a few minor critiques. I wish there were more small pockets on the front of the pack instead to better separate frequently used items. And I often find myself wanting more room in the main compartment for bulky cold-weather layers. That said, the open front area with cinch straps does a great job of carrying climbing sticks, extra clothing, or even an elk shed.

Built for Weapons: Shift Pack

My husband has primarily been using the Shift Pack, and it’s one of the most specialized designs in the lineup. This pack is built to “shift” between carrying a crossbow and a long gun, making it especially useful during firearm or crossbow seasons.

The front compartment detaches and features a formed panel that protects your optics. The pack also includes a padded, open groove for securing a crossbow/long gun, along with a concealable bottom pouch. Like the Element V2, it features the TS3 front compartment system.

Storage includes a main compartment, two zippered side pockets, and a small top pocket. One downside is the lack of dedicated side water bottle pockets, meaning bottles need to be stored in the larger side compartments.

MOLLE webbing and a waist belt allow for added customization, and the pack features a suspended back panel that promotes airflow and comfort. Similar to my experience with the Element pack, my husband has mentioned wishing for a bit more room in the main compartment for bulky layers. He doesn’t hunt with a crossbow, so he often uses the weapon carry area to store his jacket.

Final Thoughts

Across every pack we’ve used from Insights Outdoors, a few things consistently stand out: durable materials, thoughtful design, and excellent zipper quality. These packs don’t feel like they’re built for occasional use. They’re built to be hunted hard.

Rather than trying to make one pack fit every situation, Insights Outdoors has created a lineup that allows hunters to choose the right tool for the job. Whether it’s hauling gear to camp, slipping into a saddle setup, chasing turkeys, or carrying a firearm safely and comfortably, these packs have proven themselves where it matters most - out in the field.