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How to Attach a Hiking Pole to Your Backpack: Tips and Tricks

If you’re an avid hiker, you know the importance of having a good set of hiking poles.

Hiking poles can improve your balance and stability, reduce the impact on your joints, and help you tackle steep and rocky terrain.

However, when you’re not using your hiking poles, it can be a hassle to carry them around. That’s why attaching your hiking poles to your backpack is a great solution.

In this article, we’ll explore why you need to attach your hiking poles to your backpack and list some methods and tricks to do so.

Some important notes to keep in mind:

  • Check the weight capacity of your backpack and make sure it can safely hold the weight of your hiking poles.
  • Make sure your hiking poles are secured tightly to your backpack to prevent them from falling off or getting lost.
  • Keep your hiking poles tips facing down and away from your body to avoid injury or damage to your gear.
  • When attaching your hiking poles to your backpack, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid damaging the environment or disturbing wildlife.
  • Regularly check the security of your hiking poles while on the trails to ensure they remain in place and don’t pose a hazard to yourself or others.
  • When storing your hiking poles on your backpack, make sure they are easily accessible in case you need them quickly.

Methods and Tricks to Attach Your Hiking Pole to Your Backpack

Now that you know why you should attach your hiking poles to your backpack, let’s explore some methods and tricks to do so:

Method 1: Use Dedicated Loops or Straps on Your Backpack

loops on hiking backpack

Locate the dedicated loops or straps on your backpack. These are usually located on the sides or back of the backpack and are designed to hold hiking poles.

Slide your hiking poles into the loops or straps. Make sure the poles are facing in the right direction (usually tips down) and that the straps or loops are secure around the poles.

Adjust the straps or loops as necessary to ensure the poles are snug and won’t fall out during your hike.

Method 2: Use Carabiners or Bungee Cords

Choose a sturdy carabiner or bungee cord that will fit securely around your hiking poles and backpack.

Slide the carabiner or bungee cord around your hiking poles, making sure it is snug and won’t slip off.

Attach the carabiner or bungee cord to a secure point on your backpack, such as a loop or strap.

carabiner and bungee cords

Use a carabiner:

  1. Attach the carabiner to a loop or strap on your backpack.
  2. Hold your hiking poles with the handles facing down.
  3. Slide the handles of your hiking poles through the carabiner.
  4. Adjust the position of your hiking poles as needed to keep them firmly on your backpack.
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Use a bungee cord:

  1. Hold your hiking poles with the handles facing down and close together.
  2. Wrap the bungee cord around the handles of your hiking poles.
  3. Pull the ends of the bungee cord toward your backpack.
  4. Hook the ends of the bungee cord onto a loop or strap on your backpack.
  5. Adjust the tension of the bungee cord as needed so that your hiking poles are securely attached to your backpack.
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Method 3: Use a Hiking Pole Holder

Purchase a hiking pole holder that is compatible with your backpack and hiking poles. These holders typically attach to the sides or back of your backpack and are designed to hold hiking poles securely in place.

Attach the hiking pole holder to your backpack according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Foxelli Trekking Poles Carrying Buckle
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Last update on 2023-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Slide your hiking poles into the holder, making sure they are facing in the right direction (usually tips down) and that they are secure in the holder.

Lock the hiking poles into place using the locking mechanism on the holder.

Method 4: Use the Backpack’s Compression Straps

man with red backpacking and hiking poles on rocky terrain

Locate the compression straps on your backpack. These are usually located on the sides or back of the backpack and are designed to compress the contents of your backpack.

Slide your hiking poles under the compression straps, making sure they are facing in the right direction (usually tips down) and that they are secure under the straps.

Tighten the compression straps to secure the hiking poles in place.

Method 5: Use a strap or harness

You can also use a strap or harness to attach your hiking poles to your backpack.

Simply wrap the strap or harness around your hiking poles and then fasten it on your backpack using a clip or hook.

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Last update on 2023-11-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Wrap the strap or harness around your hiking poles.
  • Adjust the position of your hiking poles so that they are in the center of the strap or harness.
  • Attach the strap or harness to your backpack using a clip or hook.
  • Adjust the tension of the strap or harness as needed so that your hiking poles are safely fixed on your backpack.

Method 6: Use a DIY Solution

Choose a sturdy piece of elastic cord or paracord that will fit securely around your hiking poles and backpack.

  • Tie one end of the cord to a secure point on your backpack, such as a loop or strap.
  • Tie a loop in the other end of the cord, making sure it is large enough to fit your hiking poles.
  • Slide your hiking poles into the loop and tighten the cord to secure them in place.
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Method 7: Use Natural Materials

Look for long, thin branches or vines that are strong and flexible.

thin branches with green leaves

Wrap one end of the branch or vine around your hiking pole and the other end around your backpack

Tie the branch or vine securely in a knot or wrap it around itself to secure it in place.

Note: Be sure to only use natural materials that are strong and flexible enough to securely hold your hiking poles in place. Avoid using materials that may break or damage your gear, or harm the environment.

Method 8: Use shoelaces

While shoelaces may not be the most reliable method for attaching hiking poles to your backpack, they can be used in some situations where other methods are not available.

hiking boot shoe laces

If you decide to use shoe laces, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Make sure your shoelaces are long enough to wrap around your hiking poles and backpack securely.
  • Tie a double knot in the laces to create a loop.
  • Slide your hiking poles through the loop and tighten the laces to secure them in place.

Note: Shoe laces are not designed to hold heavy objects like hiking poles, so use caution when using this method.

Make sure your laces are securely tied and keep an eye on your hiking poles while on the trails to ensure they remain in place.

It’s also important to note that using shoe laces to attach your hiking poles to your backpack could cause damage to your gear, so use this method only as a last resort.

After applying the methods above, don’t forget to check the security of your hiking poles by gently tugging them. If they feel loose or wobbly, adjust your straps/laces until they feel stable and secure. This will ensure you have a safe trip!

Some last words

hiking poles are attached to a backpack with a mat

In conclusion, attaching your hiking poles to your backpack is a great solution when you’re not using them.

It is important to ensure that your hiking poles are attached securely to your backpack and won’t pose a hazard to yourself or others while on the trails.

There are different methods to fasten your hiking poles on your backpack, including using dedicated loops or straps, carabiners or bungee cords, hiking pole holders, compression straps, DIY solutions, or straps or harnesses.

Whichever method you choose, make sure to test the security of your hiking poles before hitting the trails.

By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a hassle-free hiking experience and make the most out of your hiking poles.

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