How To Attach Tent To Backpack

If you are planning on going backpacking for a long period, then you know taking a tent is a must! However, we know as well as anyone that tents can be a hassle to carry around while you’re walking, climbing, etc.

Is It Risky To Pack Your Tent On The Outside Of Your Backpack?

Many experienced backpackers will carry their tents on the outside of their backpacks, which allows them to save space for the other items that they need.

By doing this, you will be able to make the gear you have easily accessible as well as have the ability to carry more. This allows you to keep your equipment in good working order. 

However, while there are benefits to attaching your tent to the outside of your backpack, there are also a few drawbacks. The biggest disadvantage is the potential of ripping the tent.

The tent hangs on to the outside of the backpack, so it is far more likely to be hit by branches and other sharp objects. If this happens, then your tent may get torn, ripped, or otherwise ruined. 

Additionally,  if you carry your tent on the outside of your backpack and you have not attached it properly, then the tent can fall without you realizing it and be lost to the wilderness.

This puts you at risk because you may be left stranded without a tent to protect you, keep you warm, etc. 

However, if you learn how to attach your tent properly, and are mindful when going through branches, etc, then you minimize these risks.

It is helpful to keep your tent in a protective bag to help minimize the risk of tearing it, too. 

How To Prepare The Tent 

So, it is important to learn how to attach your tent to your backpack correctly for a plethora of reasons. To do so, the first thing you need to learn to do is to prepare your tent. 

Lay The Tent Out On The Ground 

The first step to preparing your tent is to lay it out on the ground. Make sure that it is flat. Then, you need to align the tent poles in a bag along the tent’s side (not the center of the tent!.) These poles will support the tent when you want to repack it. 

Roll Your Tent 

The next thing you need to do is roll your tent. You first need to ensure that the bag of poles is in line with the side of the tent to further ensure that the tent will stay in the position you want it to. In this case, rolled up. 

Now, you need to begin rolling the tent. Roll it a few times and then roll the tent peg bag. This helps to support the tent. Once you have done this, you can continue rolling your tent. 

Place The Rolled Tent In The Tent Bag 

The middle poles will provide central support for the tent and make it easier for you to manage. You must remember to pack the tent while it is dry, as a wet tent is the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Plus, trying to put a wet tent into a bag is difficult, and it will be difficult to carry because it is heavier than a dry tent. 

It is also a good idea to ensure the tent bag is waterproof. 

How To Attach A Tent To A Backpack? 

Now you have prepped your tent, you can go ahead and attach it to the backpack. There are many different ways you can do this, from compression straps to external frames.

It is a good idea to experiment with a few different methods and work out which one is best for you. 

Using Closed-Loop Ties 

You can find these in your backpack. If your tent has any outward straps, then you can tie these to the closed-loop ties.

You should pull the straps on the tent bag over the backpack loops, and make sure the tent is secured tightly. 

This is a very easy way to attach your tent to your backpack that also ensures you will not lose your tent if it slips.

Using Compression Straps 

However, if your backpack does not have any closed-loop ties, then you will need to follow this method. Compression straps can be found on the side of the backpack and feature buckles that you can tighten around the tent.

The tent will be compressed and made more stable. However, you need to make sure that the weight on both sides of the backpack is balanced. 

Place the compression straps over the tent back to connect the buckles, using the loose straps to make sure the tent is tight and secure. 

Using External Frame Backpacks

These backpacks feature outer frames that ensure the weight of a heavy load is distributed so you can walk further and carry more without getting fatigued. 

These frames have a tie at the bottom which helps you to tie your tent and prevent it from swinging. 

Where Is The Best Place To Attach Your Tent? 

It is best to attach your tent to the bottom of the backpack, no matter if you are attaching it to the inside or the outside. This helps reduce the pressure on your back and minimizes the risk of back pain.

Final Thoughts 

There are many different ways to attach a tent to a backpack, from closed-loop ties to external frames.

You must ensure that you prepare the tent by using the method above, have a waterproof tent bag and attach it securely to minimize any harm coming to the bag or yourself.

It is also helpful to attach the tent to the bottom of the backpack. 

We hope this article tells you all you need to know about attaching a tent to a backpack.