# The 5 Must-Haves on Your Hunting Checklist

Every good hunter understands that being prepared — and organized — is the key to a successful trip. It's easy to become preoccupied with the prospect of bagging your first buck, but a lot goes into making the hunt successful. Making the right plan ahead of time can help you stay focused in the field because you'll have everything you need to be comfortable, safe, and ready to have fun out there.

Making a hunting essentials list can help you streamline your packing process and evaluate your gear to ensure you're prepared for any situation. We've compiled a few hunting gear lists and tips that you must have on your hunting checklist to help you with successful hunting.

### 1. Weapon

A weapon of choice is the most important item on any hunting supplies list. There would be no hunt if it didn't exist, so ensuring it's up to the task is critical to success. When pursuing elk, [elk hunting gear](https://skregear.com/blogs/elk-hunting/must-have-elk-hunting-gear-for-any-hunter-in-2023) makes hunting prey easier because it improves your chance of scoring a kill by allowing you for a more accurate shot.

Make sure your weapon is maintained and you have all the supplies you need to keep it ready for a takedown throughout the hunt weeks, if not months, before your scheduled hunt. Stock up on ammunition, ensure your arrowheads haven't rusted, replace any frayed bowstrings, and perform any other necessary maintenance so your weapon works properly when hunting season arrives.

### 2. Camouflaged Clothing


Camouflaged clothing is necessary for elk hunting because it keeps you out of sight of any animals. Your base layer is the most important layer of your hunting clothing. Merino wool is recommended as a base layer. Depending on how cold or warm the weather will be when you go elk hunting, you can purchase different Merino wool base layers weights. Merino wool is preferred due to its excellent wicking properties. Mostly because Merino wool is anti-odor. Even after three days of sweating in that base layer, Merino wool keeps the hunter's odor fairly neutral.

### 3. Binoculars


When hunting, your eyes are an invaluable tool. Binoculars enlarge your vision and expand your field of view. As a result, they are an absolute requirement for all methods of hunting. You can better visualize how to make your next move, whether close or far from your game. Binoculars are a dependable and long-lasting addition to any hunting trip.

### 4. Flashlight


An essential tool for hunting is a flashlight. You must have it with you because you will be moving through dimly lit locations where a flashlight's brilliance will be necessary in order to proceed.

Flashlights illuminate the area before you, allowing you to follow the path in the woods. Check your flashlight batteries before going hunting, and keep spares on hand.

A headlamp will be ideal because it will free up your hands. Ensure you have a good flashlight or headlamp with enough brightness for the job.

### 5. Scent Killer

Scent killer is a must-have item on any hunting supplies list, and many inexperienced hunters overlook it. Wash your hunting clothes and other fabric gear in scent-killer detergent before heading out into the wilderness to remove any lingering scents that may expose you to your target during the hunt.

Scent-killer spray should be used on items that cannot be washed with detergents, such as your weapon, decoys, knives, survival kit, and other hunting gear. Stuff anything you want to keep scent-free for as long as possible, such as a deer decoy, into scent-control bags after spraying.

Bonus:

### Trail Cameras

Trail cameras allow you to collect data on your target species without putting them under undue stress by invading their habitat regularly. Install trail cameras along paths to track their movements and learn about their activity patterns. Set them up near food sources to see if the animal you're looking for frequents these areas. You can plan and set up an ambush designed for maximum effectiveness if you know enough about the animal you intend to hunt.

### Rain Gear


Inclement weather can provide some of the best hunting opportunities. Rain can help you hide from your prey by washing away scents and drowning out the sound of your movements. Rain can also obscure vision, allowing you to sneak closer before taking the shot.

A good set of rain gear should be on your list of hunting supplies if you want to continue hunting in the rain. When shopping for rain gear, look for clothing specifically designed for hunting. To keep animals from being spooked by the constant thump-thump of rain against the fabric, some hunting rain gear uses materials and construction that dampen the sound of rain landing on them.

### Quick-Dry Travel Towel

A travel towel is a must-have item for any hunting trip. Its quick-drying ability will keep you light on your feet as you walk through the woods. It is extremely absorbent, making it an excellent sweat towel. It is gentle and does not irritate your skin. A travel towel can also be used to clean up any unexpected spills.

## Conclusion

You'll also want to do pre-hunt prep work, such as scouting your range and obtaining your tags. Don't be afraid to reassess your checklist after the hunt and add or remove items as you see fit. After all, being prepared is the first step toward a successful hunting trip — and having a good time.