Herbie Murray
Sleeping bags are often the bulkiest item in a backpack, and there are several ways to secure them. The best place for a sleeping bag is inside your backpack, but if this isn't an option, there are various methods for attaching it to the outside. It's important to keep the bag centred and snug against your pack to make it easier to carry and ensure it doesn't come loose. You can use the backpack's lid, compression straps, or gear loops to secure the sleeping bag, or use bungee cords or carabiners if your backpack has an external frame. It's also recommended to wrap your sleeping bag in something waterproof to protect it from damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best place for the sleeping bag | Inside the backpack |
| Reason | Protection from damage and water |
| Types of backpacks that are good for attaching sleeping bags | Hiking Backpacks, Travel Backpacks, Hybrid Backpacks |
| Types of backpack straps that can be used | Compression straps, Gear loops, Built-in straps, Tie-down points, Straps on the bottom |
| Other items used to secure sleeping bags | Bungee cords, Dry bag, Trash compactor bag, Waterproof pack liner |
| How to use bungee cords | Criss-cross the cord over the pack and attach the hooks to either side |
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What You'll Learn
Use the lid
Using the lid is a great way to secure your sleeping bag to your backpack. The lid is the flap at the top of your backpack. This method is best for keeping your sleeping bag secure and carrying the weight high and centred, which makes it easier to carry.
To use the lid, first, lay your backpack flat on the ground, front side down, and ensure all the straps are unbuckled and untangled. Then, open the top flap, place your sleeping bag on top, and fasten the flap over it.
It is important to note that this method may not work if your backpack is already packed full or if you have items in the flap pocket. Additionally, if your sleeping bag is attached to the outside of your backpack, it may get caught on branches or sway, causing you to lose energy.
Before attaching your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, consider whether it will be possible to pack it inside. This is the best place for your sleeping bag as it will be protected from damage and kept dry. If your backpack has a bottom compartment with its own zipper, you can store your sleeping bag there without having to empty your entire pack.
If you do decide to attach your sleeping bag to the outside of your backpack, make sure it is tightly secured and snug against your pack. You may also want to wrap your sleeping bag in something waterproof, such as a trash bag or rain cover, to protect it from getting wet.
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Use compression straps
Compression straps are designed to let you consolidate your pack’s load, but they can also be used to carry bulkier items like your sleeping bag. If your backpack has compression straps, you can loosen the buckles, slide your sleeping bag in, and tighten them to secure your bag in place.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the straps will need to be long enough to accommodate a sleeping bag when fully extended. Secondly, attaching a sleeping bag to the side compression straps will significantly alter the pack’s weight distribution, making it tricky to balance while hiking. If possible, use compression straps at the top or bottom of your backpack. Additionally, compression buckles on many packs have a tendency to pop open under strain, so ensure yours can handle the weight before trusting them with your sleeping bag.
To avoid the issues that can arise from using compression straps, consider using a compression sack. Sleeping bag compression sacks are often not waterproof, so consider using a dry bag or a trash compactor bag to line your whole pack and keep your sleeping bag dry.
If you don't want to use a compression sack, there are other methods to attach your sleeping bag to your backpack. You can use the lid of your backpack by fastening the lid over your sleeping bag, holding it securely in place. Alternatively, if your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, you can attach these to your backpack's gear loops.
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Use gear loops
If your backpack has gear loops, you can use them to secure your sleeping bag. Gear loops are meant for attaching gear like sleeping bags. If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, you can attach them to the gear loops on your backpack.
To do this, first loosen the straps of the gear loops on your backpack. Then, place your sleeping bag in the centre of your backpack and adjust it so that it doesn't swing around behind you. Finally, pull the straps tight and secure your sleeping bag in place.
Make sure that the straps are 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.
If your sleeping bag stuff sack does not have adjustable straps, you can use carabiners to attach the bag to the gear loops. You can also use paracord, but make sure you know how to untie the knots at the end of your journey.
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Use bungee cords
Bungee cords are an excellent option for securing your sleeping bag to your backpack, especially if your bag's straps are too short or you have no room under the hood. They are elasticated and have a hook at each end.
Firstly, it is important to remember that bungee cords are stretchy, so if you don't secure them well, your sleeping bag might bounce off during your hike. It is also important to ensure that the sleeping bag is not too heavy, as the elastics are designed to be stretchy and a heavy item could bounce around.
When using an internal-frame backpack, attach one of the hooks to one side of your backpack (on the daisy chain or compression straps). Then, crisscross the cord over your backpack several times before attaching the second hook to the other side. If you want added security, you can loop the cord through your bag's stuffing sack straps.
If you are using an external-frame backpack, simply attach the hooks to the frame. If the cord feels loose, wrap it around the frame a few times until your sleeping bag is held tightly in place.
The main downsides to this method are that you will have one more piece of gear to remember and a little extra weight to carry.
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Use waterproof protection
When packing your sleeping bag, it is important to keep it dry and protected from the elements. If your sleeping bag gets wet, it can be challenging to dry it out on the trail. To prevent this, you can use a dry bag or a similar protective cover to shield your sleeping bag from moisture.
One option is to use a bivvy bag, a waterproof and breathable outer shell that goes over your sleeping bag. These are lightweight, compact, and allow you to bed down almost anywhere. Some popular choices include the Terra Nova MoonLite, Rab Ascent Bivi, and the Vaude Bivibag Active.
Another option is to use a waterproof spray on your sleeping bag. These sprays, such as DWR, aid in water runoff and help keep your bag dry. However, it's important to note that they won't make your bag completely waterproof, and they may affect the breathability of the fabric.
If you're looking for a simpler solution, you can try using a plastic bag or a trash bag to cover the end of your sleeping bag that is most likely to get wet. This can be an effective way to keep your feet dry without sacrificing breathability.
Additionally, when storing your sleeping bag at home, it's important to dry it thoroughly before placing it in a large breathable cotton or mesh sack for storage. This will help keep your bag in good condition and prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
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Frequently asked questions
The best place for your sleeping bag is inside your backpack, where it will be protected from damage and kept dry. If there isn't enough space inside your backpack, you can attach your sleeping bag to the outside using the lid, compression straps, or gear loops.
If your backpack has a lid, or "top lid", you can place your sleeping bag underneath and fasten the lid over it. Alternatively, if your backpack has compression straps, you can loosen them, slide your sleeping bag in, and tighten them again. If your sleeping bag stuff sack has adjustable straps, you can attach these to your backpack's gear loops.
To keep your sleeping bag dry, wrap it in something waterproof, such as a trash bag or rain cover. You can also use a dry bag or a waterproof pack liner.
Make sure your sleeping bag is tightly secured and snug against your backpack. If you're attaching it to the outside of your backpack, consider using bungee cords or carabiners for added security.
