I use a good leather possibles bag (like the muzzleloading guys use, but without the foofaraw decorations). Had a local Amish saddlemaker sew me one up this spring using the one my Mom made 20 years ago as a pattern (finally retiring that one!). Wish I had a dollar for every mile I've carried that old bag. The original was made of leather from a bison Dad killed, and this one is from a nice, medium, cow leather. The cow leather is better - less stretchy.
I carry a half dozen screw in steps, a knife, flashlight, pruning saw, my haul up and tie in ropes in the main bag, and an extra bowstring, hunting license, tags and a pen in a small front pocket and I'm good to go.
When I need to carry a backpack along to sit a treestand for 3 or 4 hours then its time to carry less junk! Really this bag is about all I use anywhere for a daypack.
R