Caribou Gear FAQ

Caribou Gear Frequently Asked Questions

Get clear answers about Caribou Gear game bags, hunters tarps, meat care, cleaning, sizing, and backcountry use. This FAQ is built to help hunters choose the right gear, use it correctly in the field, and keep meat protected from the shot to the pack-out.

You’ll also find answers on shipping, warranty, returns, and outfitter questions so you can move faster and buy with more confidence.

Quick Links

Start with the core categories and support pages below.

Product & Fit

What makes Caribou Gear game bags different from cotton or cheesecloth bags?

Caribou Gear bags are built from a proprietary breathable synthetic that is lightweight, durable, and reusable. Unlike cotton or cheesecloth, the fabric resists tearing, sheds debris, dries quickly, and helps protect meat from insects and contamination without trapping moisture.

Which Caribou Gear game bag set should I use for elk, deer, moose, or caribou?
  • Elk: Wapiti or High Country sets for quarters plus loose meat.
  • Deer / Mule Deer / Antelope: Muley or Carnivore sets depending on quarter or boned-out strategy.
  • Moose / Caribou: Magnum or larger Wapiti-style configurations sized for bigger quarters and trim.
  • Bear: Carnivore or Magnum depending on your packing approach.

When in doubt, size up for airflow, easier handling, and cleaner hanging.

Are Caribou Gear bags truly reusable?

Yes. With proper cleaning and storage, Caribou Gear bags are built for multi-season use. Many hunters use the same set for years.

How much do Caribou Gear game bags weigh?

Weight varies by set and species application, but all systems are built for backcountry use without giving up strength. Check the individual product page for exact ounces, grams, and per-kit details.

Do your bags help keep bugs off the meat?

Yes. The tight-weave synthetic helps block insects and debris while still allowing airflow to support surface drying. In heavy bug pressure, pair good hanging practices with shade, airflow, and a meat-safe citric spray if needed.

Are Caribou Gear bags breathable?

Yes. Breathability is one of the main reasons hunters use them. The fabric is designed to promote airflow, cooling, and crusting, which helps protect meat quality during pack-out and transport.

What is the difference between the Carnivore, Muley, and Wapiti kits?
  • Carnivore: Built around boned-out meat and compact packing.
  • Muley: Sized for deer-class quarters and trim.
  • Wapiti: Built for elk-sized quarters and heavier loads.

Choose based on species, terrain, quarter vs. bone-out strategy, and how far you expect to pack.

Do Caribou Gear bags reduce spoilage risk?

They are designed to support best practices: breathable containment, cleaner handling, better bug protection, and faster hanging. Proper field care still matters—shade, airflow, clean hands, and temperature management are all part of the system.

Use & Best Practices

How do I use game bags to cool meat quickly?
  1. Quarter or bone out the animal promptly and keep the meat clean.
  2. Load the meat into Caribou Gear bags and hang it in shade with airflow.
  3. Keep bags off the ground and avoid stacking warm meat.
  4. Rotate or reposition as needed if you need more breeze or cooler air.
Can I hang meat in the sun?

Shade with airflow is the better option. Brief sun exposure may happen, but it should not be your plan if you are trying to protect meat quality.

Should I bone out the meat or keep it on the quarter?

Either can work. Bone-in gives structure and can hang predictably. Boned-out can reduce pack weight and speed up the exit. Choose based on temperature, terrain, distance, and your pack-out plan.

Do Caribou Gear bags work in wet or snowy conditions?

Yes. The synthetic fabric dries fast and keeps airflow better than many traditional materials. In steady precipitation, use a Hunters Tarp for cover while still protecting ventilation.

My quarters feel warm. What should I do?

Increase airflow immediately. Separate pieces, hang higher, move deeper into shade, relocate to a breezier spot, or plan your movement around cooler hours if temperatures are climbing.

How do I reduce pack weight without compromising meat care?

Use a species-appropriate kit, avoid unnecessary extra gear, bone out when it makes sense, and use an ultralight tarp or liner when you need a cleaner field surface without added bulk.

Can I label or color-code my bags?

Yes. Mark the tag area with quarter positions like FL, FR, RL, and RR or identify hunters by name. It saves time at camp and during processing.

Care & Cleaning

How do I wash and sanitize Caribou Gear bags?
  1. Rinse off blood and debris in cool water.
  2. Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
  3. No bleach, no fabric softener, and no high heat.
  4. Air dry completely before storing.
Will washing affect durability or breathability?

No, not if you follow the care instructions. Proper cleaning helps maintain performance and extends service life.

Can I reuse bags within the same hunt?

Yes. Rinse them, let them dry fully, and make sure they are clean before loading meat again.

Hunters Tarps & Accessories

When should I use the Montana or Colorado Hunters Tarp?

Use a Hunters Tarp for a clean field surface, emergency shelter, weather protection, and better meat-care support in rain, snow, or wet ground conditions.

Are Caribou Gear tarps blood and stain resistant?

They are built to resist absorption and clean up far easier than many improvised field surfaces, which makes them useful for both shelter and meat-care work.

What accessories pair best with Caribou Gear bags?

Popular additions include a Hunters Tarp, lightweight cord or hanging accessories, and sanitary processing gear that helps keep the work area cleaner and more organized.

Orders, Shipping & Warranty

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes. If you experience a material or workmanship issue, contact the Caribou Gear team with your order details and photos so they can review it.

What are your shipping timelines?

Most in-stock orders ship quickly. Timing depends on your location, the shipping method selected, and current inventory status at checkout.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, international shipping is available to many regions. Duties and taxes vary by country and may be collected at checkout or on delivery depending on destination.

What is your return policy?

Unused gear in original condition can typically be returned within the stated return window. If you need help with a current order, use the Contact Us page.

Programs, Bulk Orders & Support

Do you have an Outfitter / Guide or Pro Purchase Program?

Yes. Qualified professionals can apply for program pricing through the Guide / Outfitter Program.

Can I place a bulk or team order?

Yes. Caribou Gear supports bulk orders for outfitters, guides, and larger organizations. Reach out through the Contact Us page for quotes and recommendations.

Are Caribou Gear materials designed for meat contact?

The bags are built specifically for big-game meat care in the field. Clean handling, cooling, airflow, and proper transport still matter to protect food quality and safety.

Do bright-color bags affect animals or regulations?

High-visibility elements can make identification and recovery easier. Always verify local tagging, transport, and game-handling regulations for the state or unit you are hunting.

Ready to Upgrade Your Pack-Out System?

Start with the core Caribou Gear categories below, or contact the team if you want help choosing the right setup for your hunt.