Be sure you have the things to survive and find your way back out. A "few miles" back in the deep woods may not sound like far. But if it's an over cast day and it should start snowing making it tough to follow your tracks and the woods look totally different, it's easy to get turned around.
Must have as basics:
[ul][*]Good Topo Map, compass and GPS (if you can get one) Practice using them before you go into the Big Woods.[*]Several ways to start a fire (e.g waterproof matches, butane lighters, etc.) in more than one pocket and pack.[*]Inner and outer clothing that will keep you warm and dry when it drops 20 degrees colder than you thought it might be.[*]Water and/or way to purify water[*]High-energy food that'll be easy to carry and keep.[*]Basic bone saw, folding buck sawor small axe you can cut branches and small dried trees if necessary for building shelter and fire. Even with a tent, I'd still take this.[*]Obviously all the equipment (e.g. rifle sited in for the distant you expect most like to shot, with extra ammunition, field dressing equipment like a good fixed blade, strong knife and sharpener.)[*]Rope for dragging you animal and/or hoisting quartered animal high in between trees out of way of most predators and carrion, if you need to leave it over night to get help bring it out.[*]Good comfortable, warm, waterproof leather boots that you'll need to support your feet and keep them in good shape for the many miles each day you will walk in tough terrain.[*]Several pairs of warm wool or mohair socks that'll keep you feet warm and dry.[*]Warm sleeping bag, if you're really planning to stay out over nights with way to keep you dry at night (see above).[*]Flashlight with extra batteries that'll fit it and your GPS.[*]You can add any number of things that you think you can reasonably carry in. 25 lbs. will feels like 75 after 4-5 miles remember.[*]Take time to stop listen, rest, drink enough water.[*]One of the most important things is to let someone else back home or who knows you exactly the area you'll be hunting in and when you'll be out. If you're not out or haven't contact them by that day/time + 4-5 hours, please ask them in advance to contact those who can look for you. I'd do this, even if you take another friend with.[*]I'll say a prayer for you safety, good success and good time.[/ul]