Evie Summers
Sleeping bags are often the bulkiest item in a backpack, and sometimes they have to be attached to the outside of the bag. There are several ways to attach a sleeping bag to an internal frame backpack. One way is to use the tie points at the bottom of the backpack, which are meant for sliding in a sleeping bag. Another way is to use bungee cords, which are elasticated cords with hooks on both ends. Attach one hook to one side of the backpack, crisscross the cord over the bag, and attach the other hook to the other side. Alternatively, carabiners can be used to secure the sleeping bag by clipping it to the backpack's frame or straps.
Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag placement | Bottom placement is a good choice for most people, especially for short trips or well-trodden paths. It frees up internal space and keeps less frequently used items out of the way. |
| Backpack type | Hiking backpacks often have built-in loops and straps for extra gear. Travel backpacks have additional compartments. Hybrid backpacks are versatile but may require extra attachments. |
| Attachment methods | Use the backpack's lid, compression straps, or gear loops. Bungee cords, carabiners, and paracord can also be used for quick attachments. |
| Sleeping bag storage | Sleeping bags can be stored inside the backpack, providing protection from damage and water. They can also be compressed and placed in a stuff sack or waterproof bag to save space. |
| Weight considerations | Attaching items below the backpack can alter the weight balance and strain the back. Lighter sleeping bags are preferable for bottom placement to avoid affecting the center of gravity. |
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What You'll Learn
Using the tie points at the bottom of a backpack
However, attaching a sleeping bag to the bottom of your backpack can affect your centre of gravity. This can be avoided by using a lighter sleeping bag. It is also important to ensure that the straps are long enough to accommodate a sleeping bag when fully extended. Attaching a sleeping bag to the bottom of your backpack can also result in an imbalanced weight distribution, with several pounds added to one side, making it tricky to balance while hiking. To counter this, you can balance out the weight on the other side.
If your backpack has an external frame, it may have tie points at the bottom that are meant for sliding your sleeping bag into. Make sure to tighten these well to avoid your bag swinging around or falling out, and take care when setting your backpack down, as the sleeping bag will be at the bottom.
When attaching your sleeping bag to the bottom of your backpack, it is important to periodically inspect the attachment points to ensure everything is secure. Straps should be tightened just enough to hold the sleeping bag firmly in place, but not so much that they deform the bag or put undue stress on the straps. Over-tightening can lead to wear and tear on both the sleeping bag and the backpack over time.
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Attaching with bungee cords
Bungee cords are a great way to attach your sleeping bag to your internal frame backpack. They are flexible and can secure your sleeping bag in various positions. Bungee cords are also excellent for quick attachments. However, remember that they are stretchy, so if you don't secure them well, your sleeping bag might come loose during your hike.
Firstly, make sure your sleeping bag is dry and compressed. Place it into a compression sack or stuff sack to reduce its size. If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, attach these to your backpack's gear loops. If your backpack does not have proper attachment points, you can create your own by using a strong, durable cord or rope to create loops on your backpack.
Now, attach one end of the bungee cord to one side of your backpack. You can attach the hook to a gear loop, daisy chain, or compression strap. Then, wrap the cord around the compressed sleeping bag and backpack several times, crisscrossing the pack, before attaching the second hook to the other side. Make sure the cord is tight enough to hold the bag securely but not too tight to cause damage.
If your backpack has tie points at the bottom, you can use these to secure your sleeping bag. This is a good option if your backpack has an external frame, as it will prevent the bag from swinging around or falling out. However, be careful when setting your backpack down, as the sleeping bag will be at the bottom.
To avoid damage to your sleeping bag and backpack, do not over-tighten the bungee cord. Check the attachment regularly, especially if you are traversing challenging or varied terrain.
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Using the lid to hold the sleeping bag in place
If your backpack is at maximum capacity and you're unable to fit your sleeping bag inside, you can use the lid to hold the sleeping bag in place. This method is ideal for backpacks with a “top lid” that can bind down.
First, place your sleeping bag on top of your backpack. If your sleeping bag has a stuff sack, ensure that it is inside. Then, stuff the sleeping bag between the pack and the top lid. Finally, cinch it down with the lid, fastening it over your sleeping bag to hold it securely in place.
While this method can be a little awkward and may make your backpack top-heavy, it is a good option when internal space is limited. This method is also useful when you need quick access to your sleeping bag, such as during short and light trips or when setting up camp for longer outings.
It is important to note that attaching gear to the outside of your backpack comes with some considerations. You will need to be careful when hiking under trees to avoid damaging your sleeping bag. Additionally, it is crucial to stow your sleeping bag in a waterproof bag to protect it from the elements, such as rain or water at the bottom of a canoe.
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Attaching to the backpack's gear loops
Attaching your sleeping bag to your backpack's gear loops is a great way to keep your bag secure and safe. If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, you can attach the straps to the gear loops on your backpack. Pull the straps tight so that the sleeping bag doesn't swing around as you move. If your bag's stuff sack has loops, you can attach these to the gear loops using a carabiner or cord. However, using just one carabiner or cord will cause the bag to swing, so you will need two carabiners or extra cord to keep it stable. This will, unfortunately, add extra weight to your pack.
If your sleeping bag stuff sack doesn't have any straps, you can use a bungee cord to attach it to the gear loops. Hook the cord into one of the loops on one side of your pack, wind it tightly around your pack several times, and then hook the other end into a loop on the other side. You can also use paracord, but be sure you know how to untie the knots so that you don't have to reach for your knife at the end of the day.
If your backpack has multiple attachment points, webbing straps are ideal. Thread the straps through the loops on your sleeping bag and then attach them to the backpack's webbing loops. Tighten the straps to ensure the sleeping bag is secure.
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Using carabiners or integrated straps
If your backpack lacks specific sleeping bag straps, you can use carabiners or integrated straps to attach your sleeping bag to your internal frame backpack. Carabiners are versatile clips that can be used to attach your sleeping bag to your backpack's frame or available straps. They are ideal for balance and accessibility. Before attaching your sleeping bag, ensure that the carabiners are strong enough to support its weight.
To attach your sleeping bag using carabiners, first, place your sleeping bag in a compression sack to reduce its size. This makes it much easier to attach to your backpack. Then, loop the carabiners through the straps or loops on your sleeping bag and clip them to the gear loops or daisy chains on your backpack.
If your backpack does not have proper attachment points, you can create your own using a strong, durable cord or rope. Attach the cord to stable parts of the backpack frame or straps, then use these loops to secure your sleeping bag with carabiners. Make sure your DIY solution is strong enough to hold the weight of the sleeping bag.
Another option is to use integrated straps. Most backpacks have built-in adjustable straps on the bottom, sides, or top for attaching gear. If your backpack has these straps, tighten them to secure your sleeping bag in place. Ensure that the sleeping bag is centred to maintain balance. If the straps on your backpack are not long enough, you can use bungee cords instead. These are great for quick attachments but remember to secure them well, or your sleeping bag might bounce off mid-hike.
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Frequently asked questions
If your sleeping bag stuff sack doesn’t have any straps, you can use a bungee cord to attach it to the loops on your backpack. Hook one end of the cord into one of the loops on one side of your pack, wind it tightly around your pack several times, and then hook the other end into the other side.
If your backpack has an external frame, it may have tie points at the bottom that are meant for sliding your sleeping bag into. You can also use the lid of your backpack to fasten your sleeping bag, holding it securely in place. If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, attach these to your backpack's gear loops.
Attaching a sleeping bag to the bottom of a backpack frees up internal space for other essentials like food, water, and clothing. It also keeps items you won't need until you set up camp out of the way.
Attaching a sleeping bag to the bottom of a backpack can affect your centre of gravity and strain your back, especially if it is a heavier sleeping bag. It is also more exposed to damage and getting wet.
If you are attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, make sure it is in a strong, waterproof stuff sack with loops for straps. You should also be careful when hiking under trees and when setting your backpack down, as the sleeping bag may be vulnerable to damage or getting soaked.
