Ashwin Lewis
When preparing for camping or hiking trips, it's essential to know how to efficiently pack your backpack. Sleeping bags are often the bulkiest item a backpacker carries, and they may not always fit inside your backpack. This guide will explore various methods for attaching your sleeping bag and mat to the exterior of your backpack, as well as considerations for keeping your gear dry and secure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag positioning | Inside the backpack (especially in rainy conditions) or outside the backpack |
| Sleeping bag shape | Square or rectangular (fold); mummy-shaped (roll) |
| Compression | Compression sacks/straps squeeze the sleeping bag into a more manageable size |
| Backpack type | External-frame backpacks have tie points at the bottom; internal-frame backpacks have compression straps on either side |
| Attachment methods | Tie points/straps; bungee cords; paracord; carabiners; twine |
| Weight distribution | Avoid attaching items below the backpack, which can alter weight balance and strain the back |
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What You'll Learn
- Using compression sacks to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size
- Folding vs rolling your sleeping bag to fit it into your backpack
- Attaching your sleeping bag to the bottom or sides of your backpack
- Using the tie points at the bottom of your backpack
- Using compression straps to attach your sleeping bag to your backpack
Using compression sacks to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size
Sleeping bags are often the bulkiest item a backpacker carries, and they can be a challenge to fit inside your backpack. Compression sacks are a great solution to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size. They are stuff sacks with straps that you can pull to compress the sleeping bag, and they come in many sizes, styles, and weights.
Firstly, when choosing a compression sack, it is good to get a bag with a looser fit. You can refer to the fit guide on the packaging, but sometimes a test fit is the only way to know. Consider the type of insulation of your sleeping bag: down sleeping bags compress more than synthetic ones, so you might need a smaller sack for down. For example, small (6L to 10L) compression sacks are for ultralight down summer bags, medium (10L to 20L) for most 3-season down sleeping bags, and large (20L to 30L) for synthetic bags or winter-grade down sleeping bags.
Secondly, when using a compression sack, it is best to stuff your sleeping bag inside rather than folding or rolling it. Folding can create creases in the material, potentially causing cold spots over time and wearing out the insulation faster. Rolling can compress the insulation, which may affect its thermal performance. Instead, grab the end of the sleeping bag and push it into the compression sack as far as you can. Keep stuffing it in one handful at a time. After you have stuffed the sleeping bag into the compression sack, hold the drawstring tight and pull the loose straps evenly over the ends. It is recommended to put the sack on the ground and press your knee into it as you pull the straps to relieve stress on the straps and stitching.
Finally, it is important to note that you should not store your sleeping bag in a compressed state as it will break down the insulation. Compression sacks are great for squeezing more into your backpack, but they should only be used during travel. Additionally, consider using a waterproof compression sack to add a layer of protection and ensure your sleeping bag stays dry.
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Folding vs rolling your sleeping bag to fit it into your backpack
Sleeping bags are usually the bulkiest items in a backpacker's kit. They can be a challenge to fit into a backpack, and sometimes they have to be attached to the outside.
When it comes to folding versus rolling your sleeping bag to fit it into your backpack, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the shape of your sleeping bag matters. Folding is generally easier for square or rectangular sleeping bags, while rolling is better suited for mummy-shaped bags.
If you're going to fold your sleeping bag, make sure it matches the width of your backpack. This will make it easier to secure and prevent it from shifting around too much. However, folding can create creases in the material, potentially causing cold spots over time. On the other hand, rolling your sleeping bag can help compress the insulation more effectively, especially if you roll it tightly. This can help maintain the loft of the insulation, which is crucial for keeping you warm.
To roll your sleeping bag, start by laying it out flat and zipped up. Fold it in half lengthwise, and then start rolling it firmly from the foot end. This will help squeeze out any trapped air and create a tighter roll. Use the built-in straps or additional paracord to secure the roll. If your sleeping bag has straps at the bottom, roll it from head to toe instead.
While rolling can be more space-efficient, it's important to consider the potential impact on the insulation. Rolling can compress the insulating material, which might affect its effectiveness over time. Additionally, prolonged compression can cause the bag to lose loft, impacting its ability to trap hot air and keep you warm. Therefore, it's recommended to store your sleeping bag loosely rolled or lightly folded when not in use.
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Attaching your sleeping bag to the bottom or sides of your backpack
If your backpack has an external frame, it may have tie points at the bottom that are meant for attaching your sleeping bag. Simply attach the hooks of your sleeping bag to the frame. If the cord feels loose, wrap it around the frame a few times to ensure your sleeping bag is tightly secured. This method adds a little extra weight to your pack, so consider this when planning the rest of your gear.
Another option is to use compression straps to attach your sleeping bag to the sides of your backpack. Compression straps are designed to consolidate your pack's load, but they can also be used to carry bulkier items like sleeping bags. Ensure that the compression straps are long enough to accommodate your sleeping bag and that the buckles are strong enough to bear the weight. This method can alter the pack's weight distribution, so balance out the weight on the other side to avoid straining your back.
If your backpack doesn't have built-in straps for gear attachment, you can use aftermarket straps, sturdy carabiners, paracord, or bungee cords to attach your sleeping bag. When using paracord or bungee cords, make sure to attach one end to one side of your pack and then carefully secure your sleeping bag, ensuring it is tightly held in place.
To make attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack easier, consider using a compression sack to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size. Square or rectangular sleeping bags are easier to attach when folded, while mummy-shaped bags are better when rolled tight and secured with straps or paracord.
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Using the tie points at the bottom of your backpack
If your backpack has tie points at the bottom, you can use them to attach your sleeping bag and mat. This method is ideal if you're using an inflatable sleeping pad, as it will likely be small enough to fit inside your backpack, leaving the adjustable straps at the base free for your sleeping bag.
Before you begin, consider the size and weight of your sleeping bag. Sleeping bags can be bulky, even when compressed, and you may need to use compression sacks to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size. It is much easier to attach a compact bag than a bulky one. If your sleeping bag is particularly large, the straps at the base of your backpack may not be long enough to accommodate it. In this case, you can use bungee cords, which are elasticated and have a hook on either end.
If your sleeping bag has built-in straps, you can use these to attach it to the tie points at the bottom of your backpack. If your sleeping bag does not have built-in straps, you will need additional straps or pieces of twine to attach it. Make sure to tighten the straps well to avoid your sleeping bag swinging around or falling out.
If you are attaching items to the outside of your backpack, be careful when hiking under trees, and always stow your sleeping bag in a waterproof bag to protect it from rain.
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Using compression straps to attach your sleeping bag to your backpack
Compression straps are a great way to attach your sleeping bag to your backpack. They are designed to consolidate your pack's load, but they can also be used to carry bulkier items like your sleeping bag.
Before using compression straps to attach your sleeping bag, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the straps are long enough to accommodate your sleeping bag when fully extended. Most backpacks won't have straps that are long enough, especially if you have a larger three- or four-season bag. Secondly, attaching a sleeping bag to the side of your backpack will significantly alter the pack's weight distribution, making it harder to balance while hiking. Finally, compression buckles on many packs may pop open under strain, so ensure yours can handle the weight before trusting them with your precious sleeping bag.
If you can balance out the weight on the other side, using compression straps can be a viable option. You can attach the sleeping bag near the bottom or on top of the pack. It is also recommended to periodically inspect your sleeping bag and its attachment points to ensure that the straps have not loosened and that your bag has not shifted.
If you have an internal-frame backpack, you can attach one of the hooks to one side of your pack and then crisscross the cord several times before attaching the second hook to the other side. For added security, loop the cord through your bag's stuffing sack straps. If you have an external-frame backpack, simply attach the hooks to the frame and wrap the cord around the frame until your sleeping bag is held tightly in place.
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Frequently asked questions
If your backpack has an external frame, you can attach the hooks to the frame. If the cord is loose, wrap it around the frame until the sleeping bag is held tightly. Alternatively, if your backpack has tie points at the bottom, you can slide your sleeping bag into them and tighten them to avoid the bag swinging around or falling out. You can also use compression sacks to squeeze your sleeping bag into a more manageable size.
If you are using an inflatable sleeping pad, you can place it under the hood, in the pack's central well, or in a side pocket. This will leave the adjustable straps at the base of the pack free for larger cargo. If the straps are not long enough, you can use bungee cords.
Attaching gear to the outside of your backpack can be worrying, as it may get damaged or soaked when it rains. However, if you are careful when hiking under trees, attach your sleeping bag carefully, and stow it in a waterproof bag, it should be fine.
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