If you’re new to hunting—or just need a grab-and-go day pack that won’t cost more than your boots—there are some surprisingly solid backpack options under $150. No, they’re not ultralight carbon frames or pack-out monsters, but they’ll carry gear, haul layers, and survive more abuse than most people think.
Below are six entry-level or single-day packs worth checking out. Some are budget-focused. Some punch above their weight. All have seen real time in the woods—and won’t wreck your bank account.
TideWe Waterproof Camo Hunting Backpack
If you just need to carry gear to a stand, haul some water, and stay dry when a storm rolls in, the TideWe Hunting Pack is tough to beat for the price. It’s not premium—it’s practical. You get a rain cover, 2200 cubic inches of storage, a full front-zip layout, and a price tag that’s sometimes under $60. This is a great choice for beginner hunters, youth gear, or a loaner pack to keep in the truck.
Best for: Budget hunters, youth gear, stand-hunting in unpredictable weather.
ALPS OutdoorZ Ranger (Realtree APX)
This is one of those “just works” packs that ALPS built its name on. The Ranger isn’t flashy, but it’s durable, fits surprisingly well for a one-size daypack, and hits the sweet spot for basic carry needs—extra layers, gloves, snacks, tags, and a sidearm or rangefinder. The camo is older-gen Realtree, but it still blends in just fine, and the price is almost always under $50.
Best for: Walk-in bowhunts, turkey runs, or minimalist big-game sits.
ScentLok BE:1 Grinder Lite Pack
ScentLok doesn’t always get credit for good packs, but the Grinder Lite is genuinely solid. You get carbon alloy scent-control lining (if you care), a soft outer shell that stays quiet in cold brush, and compression straps that actually help keep it low-profile. At around 1800 cubic inches, it’s not huge—but big enough for mid-season layering, wind checker, gloves, and calls.
Best for: Whitetail sits, quiet entry, scent-conscious setups.
Code of Silence DoubleBack Pack
This is a good step-up option if you’re hunting Midwest-style ag edges or using ground blinds and want something that blends in and rides quiet. The wool-blend shell is ultra-quiet, the pockets are placed smartly, and it looks as good off-season as it does on a tree hook. It’s more expensive than the budget packs above, but it’s built with a hunter’s workflow in mind—not just “outdoor general” use.
Best for: Ground blind sits, timber edges, layering without bulk.
Badlands ATX 12
The ATX 12 is one of Badlands’ smaller packs, and it’s a great single-day rig for when you want something tough but compact. You won’t haul quarters out with this, but you will carry essentials, layers, optics, and a hydration bladder with ease. The lifetime warranty doesn’t hurt either.
Best for: Day hunts, spot-and-stalk without meat haul, Western glass & go.
Badlands VARIO 65 OS
Technically not “entry level” by price alone, but hear this out: if you’re planning to move from day hunts to full-blown packouts later, the Vario 65 OS is a modular frame system you can grow into. With the right accessories (which you can add later), it becomes a multi-day hauler. Out of the box, it functions great as a stripped-down daypack with real suspension. Not cheap—but smart if you're forward-thinking.
Best for: Newer hunters planning to upgrade over time, frame training, expandable loadouts.
Final Thoughts
Every one of these packs will carry your gear into the field and get it home again—without wrecking your bank account. If you’re building out your first hunting setup, or just need a backup rig that rides clean and quiet, these are excellent places to start.
