I leave my bow on the ground or propped against another nearby tree (making sure to attack my pull rope to the bow!!), already have my full body harness on underneath my gear and attach my backpack to my back as I climb the tree. However, most hunts I am only hunting 2-4 hours and no need for the backpack. During the rutt or shotgun season when I stay in the woods all day, the backpack is fully packed and sits under my seat for easy access to water and food.