i also use a backpack similar to urs. mine has a side area pouch that carries my shotgun, i do carry shooting sticks, a bipod is worthless in this part of oklahoma unless it extends enough for sitting shots, the grass is so tall here theres no way u can lay down and see anything to shoot. I recently started using a 4wheeler to get me closer into my stands. i put a secondary muffler on to help quiet the noise. saves on walking. also helps because 99% of he coyotes in this area get shot at from trucks, so if they see one coming they usually high-tail it out of the country before i can even get anywhere close to the stand. Ive had coyotes stand and stare when they see a 4wheeler, like theyve seen a UFO, they dont see them much around here. a buddy of mine uses a mountain bike to go from stand to stand, he has had good success with this. he leaves the truck back at the ranch house and rides the bike in. instead of trying to carry less stuff it may be easier to just find a better method of carrying it or get u closer and shorten ur walk down. If ur back pack doesnt have it, u might look into one that has a chest strap and waist strap with good frame work. they will really lighten the load by taking some of the weight off of ur shoulders. A good quality back pack is a good investment. I am currently considering an electric 4wheeler type vechicle to use to help get me closer to my stands quietly. I currently use a ghillie type net that i throw over the 4wheeler to hide it. the only disadvantage to going to mouth calls only is, sometimes if i have to do alot of calling at one stand, i can get pretty winded by the time tge coyote comes into range. Heavy breathing is never good for accurate shooting. so the e caller helps relieve some of my energy and wind for concentrating on a good shot.