How to Carry a Gun While Hiking: Best Holsters for Backpackers and Day Hikers

How to carry a gun while hiking or backpacking? The most effective way to carry a gun while hiking is with a chest holster. It allows quick access above waist straps, distributes weight evenly, and avoids interference from backpacks or layers.

Hiking with a firearm introduces unique challenges that most standard holster setups aren't built to handle. Waist-mounted carry conflicts with hip belts. Shoulder holsters get buried under chest straps. IWB rigs collapse under shifting weight. If your loadout includes a firearm, and your terrain includes elevation, layers, water, or time in bear country, your holster system needs to be functional under stress.

This guide lays out how to carry a gun while backpacking or hiking with gear that actually supports mobility, retention, access, and comfort. It breaks down which holsters are best suited to trail use, what mistakes to avoid, and how to integrate your firearm into a system designed for endurance, not just range time. You’ll also learn where the laws get tricky, and how to legally stay armed across state lines and public land jurisdictions.

What are the Best Holster Types for Hiking and Backpacking?

Holster Type	Best For	Advantages	Limitations
Chest Holster	Backpackers, multi-day hikers, hunters	Unobstructed draw, balances weight, avoids hip belt conflict	Not discreet; requires adjustment under layers
Drop Leg Holster	Open terrain, tactical hikers, short trips	Fast draw, easy to access, frees up waistline	Snags in brush, shifts with motion
Inside Waistband (IWB)	Light pack hikers, concealed carry on trail	Concealable, low profile, familiar carry style	Conflicts with hip belts, pressure build-up on long hikes
Shoulder Holster	Cold weather, minimal torso gear	Good under jackets, clears waist-mounted gear	Interferes with pack straps, slower access
Cargo Pocket Carry	Ultralight hikers, compact pistols	No waist interference, easy to set up	Slow access, weak retention, not secure under movement

#1. Chest Holsters (Top Pick)

Ideal for: Backpackers, big game hunters, multi-day hikers, anglers

Why they work: Chest holsters sit above the waist belt, avoiding the constant clash between your firearm and your pack. They offer fast access while standing, sitting, or crawling, and they stay consistent even when you’re loaded with gear.

A chest holster keeps your weapon in a fixed, front-facing position that doesn’t shift, bounce, or get buried under clothing layers or shoulder straps.

Common issues solved:

• Waist-mounted holsters become unusable once you tighten your hip belt. You can’t draw without unbuckling or twisting unnaturally.

• Drawing from a shoulder rig or waistband with gloves, rain gear, or a hydration tube draped across your chest is unreliable. Chest holsters remain exposed and reachable.

• Large-frame revolvers and full-size pistols are heavy and awkward on the hip. Chest holsters center the weight across your torso, which reduces fatigue and keeps the weapon balanced.

Compatible with: Large revolvers, full-size pistols, compact handguns with optics or weapon-mounted lights

If your pack weight exceeds 35 lbs or your terrain includes elevation gain, a chest holster becomes less of a preference and more of a requirement.

#2. Drop Leg Holsters

Ideal for: Tactical hikers, law enforcement, short hikes in open terrain

Why they work: Drop leg holsters provide fast, natural access and draw speed when you’re not loaded with a heavy pack or moving through dense brush. They ride low on the thigh, which can feel more intuitive for those used to open carry.

Common issues solved:

• IWB carry becomes uncomfortable or inaccessible when hiking in minimalist clothing or with load-bearing packs.

• Shoulder and waistband carry can feel cramped when other gear crowds the torso.

Limitations:

• Drop legs are notorious for catching brush or snagging on rocks, especially in narrow trail corridors.

• The thigh platform shifts under prolonged motion, and poor strapping causes bounce or discomfort.

• They work best when there’s no backpack hip belt to interfere.

These holsters are rarely a match for technical hikes but still offer fast access during short outings or for open carry in low-brush environments.

#3. Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holsters

Ideal for: Day hikers, concealed carriers, low-pack hikers

Why they work: IWB holsters offer traditional concealment and work well with lighter gear setups. For those looking to hike without signaling open carry, IWB can still be effective when paired with smaller packs and limited torso gear.

Common issues solved:

• Concealment needs on public trails or multi-use areas

• Lightweight solutions when hiking without a full-frame pack

Limitations:

• Waist belts from backpacks often crush the firearm against your body, making the holster hard to access and increasingly uncomfortable over time.

• Sweat and heat buildup in the waistband area can cause irritation or wear.

This method is better suited for low-mileage day hikes, where flexibility in draw isn’t compromised by a hip belt or heavy load.

#4. Shoulder Holsters

Ideal for: Cold-weather hikers, light-gear carriers

Why they work: Shoulder holsters keep the gun off your waistband and conceal easily under an outer shell. For those carrying gear like GPS units, bear spray, and tools on the waist, moving the firearm higher may help balance distribution.

Common issues solved:

• Wearing a sidearm with cold-weather layers, heavy jackets, or long coats

• Distributing load away from hips or waist

Limitations:

• Most hiking backpacks include sternum or chest straps that interfere with the holster harness

• Reaching across the chest can be awkward if pack straps are tight or if layers bulk up the draw path

Shoulder holsters are rarely the primary choice for backpackers, but they do see niche use in winter hiking or moderate-load situations.

#5. Cargo Pocket Carry

Ideal for: Subcompact pistols, ultralight hikers, backup firearms

Why they work: A clipped IWB holster dropped into a cargo pocket or built-for-pocket holster provides an off-belt, low-profile carry option. It stays away from the waistband, which is a benefit when using hip belts.

Common issues solved:

• Reduces waistband friction or compression during extended treks

• Offers a minimalist solution for carrying a backup or low-caliber pistol

Limitations:

• Access is slow compared to chest or waistband carry

• Pockets may shift the position of the firearm when moving

• Less secure under dynamic movement

This method is more of a workaround than a primary solution. It’s effective only for small pistols and when other options aren’t viable.

How to Choose the Right Holster for Your Hike?

Match the Holster to Your Load

Your pack determines how your body moves, where your straps apply pressure, and which carry methods are realistic.

Once you’ve buckled down a hip belt, anything riding inside your waistband will likely become uncomfortable, if not unusable. Likewise, shoulder holsters can interfere with hydration tubes, sternum straps, or binos.

Chest holsters tend to integrate well with framed packs because they avoid all those high-friction zones. They allow freedom of movement while keeping your firearm anchored and accessible.

Consider the Terrain

Dense brush, steep climbs, river crossings, or exposed ridgelines all present different kinds of movement stress.

If your trail includes technical sections, your holster needs retention. Not just “tight enough,” but secure enough to stay in place when you're climbing over deadfall or sliding down shale.

Drop leg rigs often catch on underbrush. IWB carry becomes slow and awkward during scrambling. Chest rigs tend to offer the least compromise when your path turns vertical.

Weather and Clothing Matter

Cold weather means layers. Rain means slippery straps, soaked webbing, and soft fabrics that snag. Heat means sweat, fatigue, and irritation where straps or gear rub. Your holster setup should be adjusted based on seasonal clothing and activity intensity.

Synthetic materials with water resistance tend to fare better in long, wet hikes. Holsters with closed retention or a sweat guard offer better comfort in warm climates. You don’t need the holster to do everything — you need it to survive your worst conditions without compromising draw or fit.

Know Your Firearm Setup

Some pistols ride comfortably in minimalist holsters. Others — especially full-size pistols or revolvers with optics, threaded barrels, or mounted lights — require a more specialized fit.

If your handgun includes attachments, ensure the holster supports the total dimensions. A poorly matched holster increases draw resistance, causes premature wear on your gear, and opens the door for failure when you need access most.

Match Holster to Firearm Type

Smaller pistols like micro-compacts are easier to carry but harder to draw under stress, especially with gloves or cold hands. They fit well into minimalist holsters, pocket holsters, or under lighter layers.

Revolvers, on the other hand, are often carried for backcountry defense. They have more mass, longer barrels, and more weight to manage. That changes your carry equation.

Revolvers benefit from holsters with more structure and retention — especially chest holsters or purpose-built leather rigs. Make sure your carry method accommodates the grip profile and cylinder width. A poor match here leads to draw issues, imbalance, or pressure points on your gear.

Open Carry vs Concealed Carry Needs

Hikers in backcountry or wilderness zones often carry openly. It’s faster to draw, easier to access with gloves, and not subject to the same concealment compromises. But when you're sharing trails with tourists, families, or in multi-use parks, keeping your firearm concealed can avoid unnecessary conflict or attention.

If your route includes both urban and wild zones, you may need a hybrid solution — something that conceals well in town and transitions to accessible once you hit the trailhead. In these cases, a discrete chest pouch or layered IWB system can provide flexibility.

What are the Legal Considerations for Carrying a Gun While Hiking?

Before you pack your sidearm and hit the trail, it's critical to understand the legal framework around firearms in outdoor environments. Laws differ not only from state to state but also between federal, state, and private land jurisdictions. The last thing any hiker wants is to cross an invisible boundary line and find themselves in violation of a firearm ordinance.

Understand Jurisdictional Layers

Many popular trail systems — such as the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail — pass through a mix of national parks, national forests, state lands, and private property. Each of these areas can fall under different rules for possession, transport, and use of firearms.

• National Parks: Firearm possession is legal under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (as amended by the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009), provided the carrier complies with the laws of the state where the park is located. However, discharge of firearms is still prohibited unless specifically authorized (e.g., legal hunting in designated areas).

• National Forests and BLM Land: These lands typically allow open and concealed carry as long as state laws permit it. Regulations around discharge vary, so always check with the local ranger district.

• State Parks and State Forests: Regulations vary widely. Some states allow concealed carry with a valid permit. Others prohibit firearms altogether. It's essential to confirm rules with the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or equivalent authority.

• Private Property and Easements: If a trail crosses or abuts private land, you're subject to the property owner's rules. Some allow carry; others do not. If marked with signage, you are legally obligated to comply or risk trespassing charges.

Reciprocity and Interstate Travel

Many hikers travel across state lines during multi-day trips. In these cases, your concealed carry permit may not be valid in adjacent states. Permit reciprocity is governed at the state level, and some states do not recognize permits issued elsewhere.

Use tools like:

• handgunlaw.us

• State Attorney General reciprocity maps

• Official DNR or state law enforcement websites

If you’re crossing states, store firearms in compliance with 18 U.S.C. §926A (Firearm Owners Protection Act) when required: unloaded, locked in a container, and inaccessible to the driver/passenger compartment.

Federal Restrictions Still Apply

Regardless of state carry laws, federal buildings (such as visitor centers, ranger stations, or administrative offices) are firearm-free zones. Carrying inside can lead to federal charges.

You also cannot carry on tribal land without explicit permission. Tribal nations are sovereign, and their firearm laws are separate. Trails often cross or skirt tribal lands, and these borders are not always marked. When in doubt, avoid carrying or contact tribal authorities in advance.

Legal Use vs. Legal Possession

Just because you can legally possess a firearm doesn’t mean you can use it in every scenario. Defensive gun use laws vary widely between stand-your-ground states and those that require duty to retreat. Know the law where you hike. Understand how it applies to defensive encounters involving both humans and wildlife.

Summarized Legal Checklist for Trail Carry:

• Check local and state laws before entering any new trail system

• Confirm reciprocity if traveling between states

• Avoid federal buildings, tribal lands, and posted private property

• Understand the difference between legal carry and legal use

• Carry a printed or digital copy of your permit if applicable

• Store legally when transporting through non-carry zones

Carrying on trail requires as much legal awareness as it does gear readiness. Assume nothing. Research everything.

Concealed Carry While Hiking: What Actually Works

Carrying concealed on the trail isn't as simple as replicating your daily urban carry. When you're navigating elevation, sweating through gear layers, and shifting between climates, your setup has to adapt or it will fail.

If you're serious about CCW while hiking, the challenge is concealment without sacrificing access, stability, or comfort.

Gear Layering Complicates Access

Most hikers wear some combination of a base layer, a weather-resistant shell, and a loaded pack. That means any firearm carried on the waist, inside a jacket, or under a strap becomes a puzzle to retrieve. Even a well-positioned holster becomes a liability if you have to unzip, unclip, or reach around your gear to access it.

If your pack has a hip belt, it will press directly over the IWB holster. If your chest strap runs across a shoulder rig or sling pouch, it can restrict movement or block a draw. You need to account for all gear interfaces when evaluating a concealed method.

Reliable CCW Methods That Work on Trail

• IWB for Light Loads: If you're carrying a minimalist daypack or hip pack, an IWB holster can still function as intended. It's close to the body and discreet, especially under a light hiking shirt or fleece. But the second you strap on a full-frame backpack, that waistband real estate disappears. For concealed carry to work here, the gun must stay above or completely outside the belt line.

• Cargo Pocket Carry: A well-designed cargo pocket holster gives you off-belt carry in a way that keeps the firearm from bouncing or printing. This method only works with subcompact or micro pistols, and only if your pants are tailored to distribute the weight correctly. Don’t rely on open pockets or casual retention. You need a holster inside the pocket to keep the gun secure and properly oriented.

• Under-Jacket Carry: In colder months or on early morning hikes, layering a light jacket over an IWB or belt-mounted holster can conceal the firearm effectively. This works best when you're not using a heavy waist pack or hip belt. It also assumes you can unzip or clear the jacket quickly — not always guaranteed under rain gear or windbreakers. Practice clearing your garment under load before you commit to this method.

• Chest Packs (e.g., Hill People Gear Kit Bag): For those who want concealed access but prefer chest-level positioning, a chest pack with an integrated holster sleeve can bridge the gap. These packs look like small admin pouches and ride on the sternum without attracting much attention. They're ideal for compact pistols and can integrate with hydration systems or binocular rigs.

Environmental Factors That Affect Concealment

• Sweat: Extended exertion leads to moisture buildup. Leather holsters degrade quickly in this environment. Choose Kydex or synthetics if you plan on hiking in humid or high-output conditions.

• Body Expansion: Blood sugar swings, hydration changes, and elevation can alter your waistline slightly over the course of the day. What fits snugly in the morning might feel tight or constricted by mid-afternoon.

• Temperature Shifts: A cold-weather holster that fits well over a parka might become exposed or loose once layers come off. Adjust your carry method to account for changes in clothing and accessibility as conditions evolve.

Concealed carry on trail requires constant evaluation. You need a method that works with your gear, not against it. Just because a holster conceals well in the parking lot doesn’t mean it will hold up after four miles of uphill switchbacks with a loaded pack.

Frequently Asked Questions About Carrying a Gun While Hiking

Can I carry a gun while hiking in a national park?

Yes, you can carry a firearm in national parks as long as you follow the gun laws of the state where the park is located. However, discharge of firearms is prohibited in most areas, and firearms are not allowed inside federal buildings. Always double-check state-specific rules before entering.

What is the best holster for hiking with a backpack?

The most functional holster for hiking with a backpack is a chest holster. It stays clear of waist belts and allows quick access even when you're seated, layered, or carrying a full pack. It's also compatible with large-frame revolvers and pistols equipped with lights or optics.

Is it legal to open carry on a hiking trail?

Open carry is generally allowed on hiking trails where state law permits it. However, the legality can change based on land jurisdiction (e.g., national forests, private land, or state parks). When in doubt, verify local ordinances or opt for concealed carry if legally permitted.

What is the best way to conceal a firearm while hiking?

For true concealment, a chest pack with an integrated holster, such as the Hill People Gear Kit Bag, is a top option. It allows hidden carry in a functional location while hiking. IWB and cargo pocket carry are also possible with light gear loads, but concealment gets more difficult as gear increases.

Should I carry a revolver or semi-auto while hiking?

This depends on your environment. Many hikers in bear country prefer large-frame revolvers in .44 Magnum or .454 Casull for deep penetration and reliability. In other regions, full-size or compact semi-autos offer faster reloads and higher capacity. Your holster setup should support the specific dimensions and weight of your handgun.

How do I carry a gun while backpacking across multiple states?

Use a holster that allows for quick removal and lockable transport. When crossing state lines, ensure your concealed carry permit is honored (check reciprocity agreements). If not, unload and lock the firearm in accordance with 18 U.S.C. §926A, especially when passing through states with restrictive laws.

Can I use a drop leg holster while hiking?

Yes, but only in certain conditions. Drop leg holsters are best for open terrain and short hikes. They can snag on brush and shift during long treks. If you’re carrying a full backpack, a chest holster or a properly placed IWB holster will usually perform better.

How do I protect my gun from sweat and weather while hiking?

Choose holsters made of Kydex or water-resistant synthetics. Avoid leather in wet environments. Make sure your carry method allows airflow and doesn’t trap sweat directly against your firearm. Chest holsters tend to fare better in this regard than IWB options.

Are there any gun holsters designed specifically for hiking?

Yes. Brands like Alien Gear offer holsters and chest packs designed for outdoor use. We take into account pack compatibility, draw access under load, and all-weather retention.

What size pistol is best for concealed carry while hiking?

Compact and subcompact pistols are easiest to conceal but can be harder to draw quickly under layers or stress. If you’re hiking in areas with wildlife threats, a compact 10mm or full-size pistol may offer better performance. Match the pistol size to your holster and environmental needs.

Final Thoughts

Trail conditions don’t tolerate poor gear choices. When you're miles in, layered with sweat and gear, and your firearm becomes unreachable or unstable, it's too late to wish you'd chosen better. A holster system built for hiking should account for your body, your load, and the environment you're moving through.

Chest holsters continue to be the most reliable option for anyone hiking with a full pack. For lighter trips or specific concealment needs, IWB and chest pouches offer flexible alternatives—but only when matched properly to your gear and terrain. The right carry method reduces fatigue, improves draw speed, and keeps your firearm secure even under pressure.

If you're ready to build a holster setup that actually supports how you move in the backcountry, check out the dedicated selection at Alien Gear Holsters. We design holsters that work where others fail—from adjustable chest rigs to multi-mount platforms that adapt to how you carry.

Visit our online store and find a holster that’s built for the trail—not just the range.

👉 Explore Hiking and Outdoor Holsters at Alien Gear