If you need to camp outdoors for a few days, then a tent is a necessity. For backpacking campers, if they don’t want to return to their original campsite, then they need to carry a tent on their back. The way you pack your tent directly affects the comfort of your hiking and camping.
Usually, there are two ways to pack your tent into your backpack. One is to put the tent in your backpack. The other is to hang your tent on your backpack.
If you pack your tent incorrectly, then you will feel the hike is very hard. In addition, you can damage your tent, your backpack, or in severe cases, your back.
Below we will provide some tips for packing your tent in your backpack.
Choosing the right backpack
We can’t put too much pressure on packing your backpack, as this can affect your comfort while hiking.
If your backpack is packed properly and the weight is distributed properly, you won’t feel tired even if you hike for hours. However, packing incorrectly can lead to back pain and make you need to take multiple breaks during your hike.
Choosing the right backpack is especially important. We recommend that you look for a backpack with an internal frame for your hike. This type of backpack has more space and you can put your tent inside the backpack.
If your tent is still too big, you can use a compression sack to wrap it tightly around your tent, making them smaller and easier to pack.
How to fit your tent in your backpack
Unfold your tent
Before putting your tent in your backpack, you need to make sure your tent is dry. Carrying a wet tent is heavy. And it tends to cause the tent to get moldy. Unroll your tent and lay it flat on the ground. Put the tent poles in their bags and place them at the bottom of the tent.
Roll up your tent
Roll your tent and poles together into as small a package as possible. Note that you need to keep them aligned in a row. And roll them along as straight a line as possible. The poles between the tents will provide sturdiness and stability to this package.
If you feel that the roll is not good, you can unroll the tent and try it again. If your tents are packed loosely, then it may shake in your backpack or even unroll and damage your tent and backpack. So the tighter the tent is rolled, the better.
Many tents will come with an extra bag. You can put the rolled-up tent in the bag that comes with it and tighten it up.
Inventory your belongings
Take stock of what you are carrying. Put the heavier items at the bottom of your pack. This allows the weight to be evenly distributed across your shoulders, spine, and top of your hips. It is important to note that your pack should not weigh more than 30% of your body weight.
A sleeping bag should usually be placed at the bottom of your backpack because it is the last item you will pick up while camping and it is heavier. Place the packed tent on top of the sleeping bag.
Generally, you need to put the tent upright in the corner of the pack. If you think it takes up too much space by putting it this way, you can try placing it horizontally. But you need to make sure to put it in the middle of the position. This way you can pack other items to ensure that it does not wobble.
Secure the tent outside the backpack
Pros and cons of securing your tent outside your backpack
You may see a lot of hikers who put their tents outside of their backpacks. These backpacks will usually have an external frame. This frame is specifically designed for putting items outside. Doing so will free up more space in your backpack while reducing the strain on your back.
However, placing the tent on the outside of the backpack may get hung up on branches and damage the tent. It may also come into contact with other sharp objects. If it rains, you may also get your tent wet.
You need to secure your tent properly to avoid falling off.
Attaching your tent to the outside of your backpack
The loops and straps on your backpack can be used to secure your tent. They are usually at the bottom of the backpack. Once you have placed your tent on the external frame, make sure you tie it down properly and don’t leave any room for movement.
Thread the straps through the threaded loops on each side of the pack to prevent the tent from slipping out of the pack. Then tie a tight knot at the bottom.
There, now you are ready to travel.
Final Words
Before you start your trip, it’s a good idea to practice packing your tent at home so you know the pros and cons of both. Choose the best way to pack your tent to travel comfortably.
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