How to Attach Your Camping Tent to a Backpack

If you are planning to go on a multi-day backpacking trip, then you will need to carry your tent with you. In this article, we will give you some tips on hanging your tent on your backpack.

Pros and cons of packing your tent outside your backpack

Experienced backpackers like to put their tents outside their backpacks because it leaves more space for them to carry other equipment. You don’t have to worry about the tent crushing your gear, and it’s easier to get what you need out of your pack.

However, packing your tent outside of your pack runs the risk of tearing your tent. But as you walk through the woods, sharp objects such as tree branches can damage your tent. In addition, if your tent and backpack are not properly attached, the tent may fall off your backpack. In case it falls to the ground and rolls off a cliff, then you may not be able to continue your backpacking trip.

Preparing your tent

Make sure your tent is dry. A wet tent may not only make your tent moldy or damaged, but it will also increase your load.
Lay your tent flat on the ground. Pack your tent poles in a bag. Then place this bag on the side of the tent to support the tent. Then roll up the tent.
Open the tent bag and place the rolled-up tent in it.
If your tent bag is not waterproof, then you can use a waterproof bag to protect your tent. Even though your tent may be waterproof, your tent may still get moldy or damaged if water gets into your tent.
This way, your tent is ready to go.

Attaching your tent to your backpack

Use the loops on your backpack

If your backpack has loops for securing your gear and your tent’s bag has straps on it, then you can tie them together. This is one of the easiest ways to attach your tent to your backpack. Simply pull the tent bag straps over the loops on your backpack to secure the tent tightly to your pack.

Use the compression straps on your backpack

If you have compression straps on the sides of your backpack, you can thread them through your tent bag and attach the buckles. Tighten the straps so that your tent is securely fastened to your pack. This method does not require your tent bag to have any straps. And it’s closer to your core muscles, so the pack is more stable overall. You just need to make sure the straps are strong enough to carry your tent.

Using an outer frame backpack

Frames provide strong support due to their rigid construction. If your backpack straps have an outer frame, then you can use it to carry a bulky tent. It also distributes the weight evenly on your back, so you won’t feel tired even if you hike for a long time. Most outer frame backpacks have lashing points at the bottom. Simply attach your tent to these tie-down points.

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Richard

Richard is a nature enthusiast with a master’s degree in Geology. He lives to explore, and has done incredible adventures in Europe, Asia, and all across America. When he's not writing, he's probably on a hiking trip or camping in the mountains.