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Robbie
January 22, 2026
9
min read

The Right Pack for Every Adventure — Putting Insights Outdoors Bags to the Test

Choosing the right hunting pack isn’t as simple as picking the biggest or the lightest — it depends on your hunt, your gear, and your style. If you’ve been searching for the right pack for your next hunt, one of these might just be your match.

4.9

Finding the perfect hunting pack is harder than most people realize. Over the years, Adrian has cycled through more packs than we can count in her search for “the one,” only to discover that no single bag truly does it all. 

The reality is, your pack needs to change with your hunting style — I’m comfortable carrying a smaller, lighter pack for predator calling or turkey season, but that setup rarely cuts it on a cold deer hunt when layers, snacks, and extra gear come along. And if you’re heading into elk country? That’s a whole different game that often calls for a larger frame-style pack altogether. 

With so many options — and so many different needs — how do you decide what’s actually the right pack for you? That’s exactly what we set out to explore in this overview of several bags from Insights Outdoors.

With several different options, it should be easy to find the pack that you need

Usually, we focus on reviewing one product or comparing a few similar ones. Today, though, we’re switching it up and showcasing a lineup of gear from Insights Outdoors—bags, packs, and cases we’ve been using this fall that have proven themselves in the field.

Insights sponsored our video and article, but that doesn’t change a thing: we’re giving you our honest thoughts and opinions. You may not be familiar with Insights yet, but if you’ve used Frogg Toggs products, you already know what to expect in terms of quality—and Insights lives up to that standard.

Lifetime Warranty

Before we dive into specifics, one thing worth noting across all Insights products is the Lifetime Warranty. Any defects under normal wear and tear? They’ll repair or replace your bag. For gear that’s getting thrown in truck beds, strapped to tree stands, or hiked miles into the woods, that peace of mind is huge.

Traveler Gear Duffle Bags

With several mesh pockets inside, these may be our favorite new traveling bags

First up are the Traveler Gear Duffle Bags, available in XL and XXL. These bags impressed us right out of the box.

  • Durable Construction: Abrasion- and tear-resistant material with a rubberized bottom for rugged use.

  • Weather Resistance: Water-resistant fabric and rain flaps over the zippers.

  • Organization: Several side mesh pockets throughout and MOLLE webbing for expanding capacity.

  • Carry Options: Handles on top and sides, shoulder strap included, backpack carry possible (though ours didn’t include straps).

These bags are roomy, semi-structured, and built to withstand heavy use. The zippers are heavy-duty, and the large fabric pullers make them easy to operate even with gloves.

Both Adrian and I feel these bags will quickly become our favorite travel bags. They’ve been exactly what we needed on the trips we’ve used them for so far.

Soft Bow Case

Padded bow case with excellent zippers and ample storage

Insights Soft Side Bow Case:

  • Protection: Padded felt interior with adjustable Velcro straps fits most compound bows.

  • Exterior Durability: Water-resistant, sturdy material with quality zippers.

  • Storage: Multiple exterior pockets for quivers, tripods, and other gear.

  • Carry Options: Handles for easy transport and hidden backpack straps for hands-free carrying.

A note: it’s a soft case, so don’t pile heavy gear on top of it—but for transporting your bow safely in the woods, it’s excellent.

Saddle Stalker Backpack

Easily carry sticks, platform, and add accessories to the exterior when saddle hunting

The Saddle Stalker Backpack is designed for the minimalist saddle hunter.

  • Quiet Gear Transport: Metal parts covered with fabric prevent noise while hiking.

  • Comfort: Padded backpack straps and waist belt for long treks.

  • MOLLE Webbing: Add extra storage if needed.

  • Limited Carry Capacity: No large main compartment—best for hunters who pack light.

It’s perfect for carrying sticks, platforms, and essential layers in the woods. 

This may be the one I’m the most excited about. I haven’t found a great way to carry the saddle platform and gear until now. Adrian gave me a couple of Eberlestock Sustainment MOLLE pouches for Christmas to expand the carrying capacity, and I could see myself using this pack a lot.

Day Packs: Drifter V2 & Element V2

Loved this pack while traveling for our Oregon Cow Elk hunt and even during the hunt

Drifter V2 Lightweight Day Pack

  • Capacity: 26 liters, under 2 pounds.

  • Features: Mesh compartments, expandable front pocket, water bottle pouches, TS3 front pocket system.

  • Comfort: Thick, padded, adjustable straps with a padded mesh back panel.

This pack was actually perfect for traveling this past fall. I used it as a carry-on when we flew to Oregon for our cow elk hunt. It had just enough space for everything I needed, namely my computer, a book, a water bottle, and a coat.

I think this would be ideal for short hikes or warmer-weather hunting, with just enough space for essentials and a hydration bladder.

Adrian used this pack the most during deer season

Element V2 Day Pack

  • Capacity: 30 liters, 3 pounds.

  • Features: TS3 front pocket system, concealed rain fly, zippered and mesh side pockets, water bladder compatible, padded straps, and back.

  • Observations: Great storage for longer trips, but we’d like a few more smaller pockets for organizing extra layers or tools.

This is the pack that Adrian used the most this past deer season and during the elk hunting trip. She found it a great pack overall, but had trouble getting used to the TS3 front pocket system and wished for some smaller pockets to keep her odds and ends organized.

Shift Pack

I carried the Shift Pack all of deer season even though I didn't use it to pack my weapon

The Shift Pack is designed for hunters switching between a crossbow and a long gun.

  • Weapon Carry: Detachable front compartment with protective panel, padded open groove for weapon, concealable bottom pouch.

  • Storage: Main compartment, two side pockets, small top pocket, TS3 front compartment, MOLLE webbing, padded waist belt.

  • Notes: No dedicated water bottle pockets, and the main compartment could be slightly larger for heavy layers.

Throughout deer season, I carried this pack. Believe it or not, I never actually used it as a weapon-carrying pack. I primarily used the main compartment, then shoved extra jacket layers into the spot where the weapon would normally go. 

While I didn’t opt to secure my weapon in this pack while hunting, I can see the benefits of easily carrying a crossbow or rifle. If you’re looking for an easy way to safely stow your weapon while riding a four-wheeler or on a really long hike, this pack could definitely meet your needs. Most of my hikes to the stand aren’t long enough that I’d want to pack my weapon. 

Vision V2 Bow Pack

Easily stores you bow and carries your gear while riding a four wheeler or heading to the stand

Finally, the Vision V2 Bow Pack:

  • Bow Transport: Large padded compartment for a compound bow.

  • Storage: Pouches for quivers or tripods, TS3 front system, open cinch strap area, MOLLE everywhere, bladder-compatible main compartment, waist belt with pocket.

It’s very similar to the Shift pack, but with a compound bow-focused layout. Just like the Shift Pack is for a crossbow or rifle, I could see this pack making it significantly easier to carry your compound bow while riding a four-wheeler to the stand. No need to store the bow on your wheeler and risk it falling off or hitting a limb with this pack. 

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Durable, high-quality materials that stand up to heavy use
  • Water-resistant with rain flaps to protect gear
  • Lifetime warranty on all products
  • MOLLE webbing for expandability and customization
  • Padded straps and back panels for comfort
  • Variety of pack sizes and specialized designs for different hunting or travel needs
  • Thoughtful organization features, including multiple pockets and TS3 system
  • Cons
  • Some packs have limited main compartment space for larger layers or gear
  • Chest straps may sit lower than preferred for smaller hunters
  • Certain specialized packs may not fit every style of hunting or activity
  • TS3 system may not be ideal for all users who prefer more small, separated pockets
  • FAQs

    Q: Are Insights Outdoors bags waterproof?
    A: All Insights packs and bags are water-resistant and feature rain flaps over the zippers to help keep your gear dry. While they can handle rain and moisture, they are not fully submersible.

    Q: Do the packs come with a warranty?
    A: Yes! Insights Outdoors backs all of their products with a Lifetime Warranty. If your bag has any defects under normal use, they will repair or replace it.

    Q: Can I attach extra gear to the packs?
    A: Absolutely. Most packs feature MOLLE webbing, allowing you to expand capacity and customize storage with additional pouches or accessories.

    Q: Are the packs comfortable for long hikes?
    A: Yes. All Insights packs have padded shoulder straps and back panels, and many include waist belts to distribute weight comfortably during long treks.

    Q: Are the packs suitable for different types of hunting?
    A: Insights offers a wide range of packs designed for various hunting styles, from lightweight day packs for turkey or predator hunting to larger frame packs for deer or elk hunts. There are also bow-specific packs and general travel bags included in their lineup.

    Q: Can these packs carry a bow or firearm safely?
    A: Certain packs, like the Soft Bow Case, Vision V2 Bow Pack, and Shift Pack, are designed to safely carry a bow or firearm. They include padded compartments, secure straps, and protection for your gear.

    Q: Are these packs only for hunting?
    A: Not at all. Many of the packs are versatile enough for outdoor adventures, travel, or even general use. They come in camouflage and solid colors to suit a variety of needs.

    Q: What’s the TS3 system?
    A: TS3 is a smart front compartment system that lets you quickly access and organize gear while in the field. It’s particularly handy for tree stand setups, but not all hunters may prefer it over traditional pocket layouts.

    Should I Buy This Thing?

    We’ve been impressed with the quality and thoughtful design of Insights Outdoors bags.

    Highlights from all their bags include:

    • Durable materials: Solid zippers, abrasion-resistant fabric, and water resistance across the board.

    • Functional design: MOLLE webbing, TS3 front pockets, multiple carry options, and padding where it counts.

    • Versatility: Bags and packs that work for hunting, travel, or everyday use.
    Set your sights on the right bag or pack for you

    A lot of thought went into making gear accessible, quiet, and comfortable in the field. Whether you’re in a tree stand, hiking miles into the woods, or just need a dependable duffel for gear transport, these packs make sense.

    Hopefully it will be easy to choose just which bag or pack you need based on the information above. Keep in mind, most of those links above are affiliate links and if you purchase through those links, we receive a small commission with no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Review This Thing!

    The only tweak we’d love to see? A “Blind Bag” design with a larger main compartment and smaller organizational pockets—perfect for hunters who need quick access to lots of small gear instead of relying solely on the TS3 system.

    Don’t hesitate to reach out via email or drop a comment on the video if you’ve used Insights Outdoors packs. Let us know which ones you like best and how you’ve used them in the field.

    Written by
    Robbie

    Robbie has enjoyed the outdoors since he can remember. His earliest memories include hours upon hours of squirrel hunting and learning how to enjoy all aspects of hunting season in God's wonderful outdoors. Now he is always working hard and testing gear in the field to give you the best review and most thorough information he possibly can.