When going on a camping trip, the most important piece of equipment you require is a tent. While there are quite a few ways to pack a tent, you also have to keep in mind that you need to pack light. That’s why it is better to carry the tent in your backpack.
The best way to carry a tent on a backpack is to attach it to the outside of the backpack. But you can’t just attach it anyhow. There are a few steps you need to follow to properly pack the tent so that it isn’t damaged.
The following are the steps you need to follow to make sure your tent is properly attached to your backpack
How to Strap A Tent to A Backpack
Packing a tent for backpacking is very important. If you get it wrong, you will not only damage the tent but in turn, will also ruin the camping trip. To get the full out of your camping trip, follow these simple steps :
1. Using A Backpack Having An External Frame
Although backpacks with interior frames can certainly do the job, you will obtain the best results by using an external frame backpack. These backpacks are designed particularly to carry the tent as well as other things on the outside.
2. Understanding The Risks Involved
Before you set off camping, you need to understand the risks that come with carrying a tent on the outside of your backpack. First, the risk of the tent being snagged. As you are carrying the tent on the exterior, it is very susceptible to outside damage from sharp objects as well as branches and twigs. Snagging the tent might even result in it being torn and cut.
Second, the tent outside means it will be away from your eyesight. So, you will not have any control over it. As a result, it may fall off without you even noticing until it’s too late.
3. Ensuring Rain Protection
Tents are waterproof. But that doesn’t mean that water can’t enter them while it’s packed. Once water gets into the tent, you will have a whole new problem to deal with. So, to avoid it, pack the tent inside a waterproof bag such as Ziploc bags first.
4. Testing The Backpack For External Packing Suitability
While the external frame backpacks are suitable for carrying the tent on the outside, you can also use an internal frame backpack. But the condition is that the internal frame backpacks must have a lot of compression straps as well as a perfectly working frame. Test the compression straps as well as the frame to make sure you can carry the tent on its exterior.
5. Using Closed-Loop Ties
The closed loops are perfect for exterior tent-carrying as they are designed in such a way that even if the tent falls from the backpack, it will still be attached to it. This loop will allow you to have the peace of mind that you won’t lose your backpack. In the absence of closed-loop ties, you can use any sort of secure knot.
6. Attaching The Tent To The Backpack’s Bottom
The best place to attach the tent is to the bottom of your exterior frame backpack. This is to minimize the stress that’s being put on your back. Apart from this, attaching the tent at the bottom will make walking easier.
How to Pack A Tent in A Backpack
Yes, carrying the tent on the exterior is the best method, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the only method. What happens if you don’t have an exterior frame backpack? In that case, packing the tent in a backpack is the only ideal solution. Here is how should go about it :
1. Packing The Tent Inside A Stuff Sack
The best thing about stuff sacks is that they compress your tent in such a way that you have a lot of space inside the backpack. You should use a waterproof stuff sack. Remember, you should only pack the tent in a stuff sack, not store it. While storing it, leave it loose always.
2. Packing The Tent At The Very Middle
The most comfortable way to pack your tent inside a backpack is to pack it in the very middle. Also, pack it in such a way that the tent rests against your back. This method of packing will allow the weight of the heavy objects to be evenly distributed, making movement easier.
3. Packing Loss In Case Of Ultralight Backpacking
If you are thinking about ultralight backpacking, don’t use the stuff sack at all. By packing loose, you can let go of a little bit of weight. Aside from this, the tent can be squished among the other things in your backpack, leaving a lot of space. This method has a downside though, as the tents can be damaged by the items in the backpack.
4. Splitting Things with A Partner
The best way to travel or go camping is with a partner. This will allow you to have company as well as share some of the loads with them. If you sleep inside only one tent, this will make backpacking easier.
Also Read: How to Pick Camping Cot for your Bad Back.
How to Pack A Wet Tent
After you are done with your camping trip, you may have to pack a wet tent. Dry the tent as much as you can if that’s possible. Then pack it inside a waterproof bag or in the absence of one, just directly inside your backpack. Once you reach home, ensure that the tent has been completely dried off before storing it.
Final Words
So, as seen above, the best way to carry a tent on a backpack is to attach it to an external frame backpack. But, this is not the only way to make your camping trip enjoyable. Make use of whatever backpacks you have and have a beautiful trip.