How to Carry Trekking Poles on a Pack

How to Carry Trekking Poles on a Pack: The Ultimate Guide for Hikers

Trekking poles are an invaluable piece of gear for hikers of all levels. They offer support, reduce strain on your joints, improve balance, and can even help with propulsion on ascents. But once you've reached a point where you no longer need them – perhaps during a steep scramble or when you've reached your destination – the question arises: how do you best carry them on your backpack?

The way you attach your trekking poles can significantly impact your comfort and the overall balance of your pack. A poorly secured pole can swing wildly, hit you in the head, or even fall off entirely. This guide will walk you through the most effective and common methods for attaching your trekking poles to your pack, ensuring a secure and comfortable carry.

Understanding Your Pack's Features

Before we dive into specific methods, it's crucial to understand that most modern hiking and backpacking packs are designed with trekking pole carrying in mind. You'll typically find dedicated features to facilitate this. Familiarize yourself with your pack's design; it's the first step to mastering pole transport.

Common Attachment Points

External Straps and Buckles: Many packs have adjustable straps, often with quick-release buckles, located on the sides or front. These are specifically designed to cinch down around your poles.
Elasticated Loops or Sleeves: Some packs feature elasticated loops or small mesh sleeves, often near the bottom or sides, where you can slide the tip of your pole.
Dedicated Pole Holders/Carriers: Higher-end or specialized packs might have more elaborate systems, like dedicated clips or rigid housings, to secure your poles.
Compression Straps: While not always the primary method, compression straps on the sides of your pack can sometimes be used to secure poles, especially if combined with other methods.

The Top Methods for Carrying Trekking Poles

Here are the most effective and widely used methods for securing your trekking poles to your backpack:

Method 1: The Standard External Strap and Buckle System

This is the most common and often the easiest method. It relies on the dedicated straps and buckles found on most packs.

Position the Poles: Lay your folded or collapsed trekking poles against the side of your backpack. Typically, the top of the poles will be near the top of the pack, and the bottom will be near the base.
Utilize the Loops: Most packs have loops at the top and bottom of where you'd carry the poles. If your poles have a wrist strap, you can often loop the top of the pole through the upper loop.
Secure with Straps: Take the lower strap and wrap it around the shaft of the poles near the bottom. If your pack has a dedicated strap for this, use it. If not, you might be able to use a general compression strap.
Cinch Them Down: Tighten the straps firmly. The goal is to make the poles snug against the pack so they don't bounce or shift. Ensure the buckles are easily accessible but not so loose that they could snag on branches.
Check for Stability: Give the poles a gentle shake. They should feel secure and not wobble excessively. If they do, adjust the straps for a tighter fit.

Method 2: Using Tip Holders and Top Straps

This method is particularly effective for keeping the poles from swinging at the bottom and can be used in conjunction with strap systems.

Insert Pole Tips: Many packs have small elasticated loops or dedicated pockets at the bottom designed to hold the tips of your trekking poles. Slide the tips of your poles into these holders.
Secure the Shafts: Once the tips are secured, bring the shafts of the poles up along the side of your pack.
Use Top Loops or Straps: Use the loops or straps located at the top of your pack to secure the poles. Some packs have a simple loop that you can tuck the upper section of the pole into. Others have adjustable straps that you can cinch around the pole shafts.
Ensure a Snug Fit: Just like with Method 1, tighten all straps and loops to prevent movement. The combination of a secured tip and a secured shaft provides excellent stability.

Method 3: The "X" Wrap Method (for Extra Security or Packs Without Dedicated Holders)

If your pack lacks dedicated pole holders or you want an extra secure carry, you can improvise using compression straps or even your own straps.

Position the Poles: Place your collapsed poles against the side of your pack.
Utilize Compression Straps: If your pack has side compression straps, you can use these.
Create an "X": Wrap one compression strap around the poles, then cross it over the poles and around the pack body, and then secure it on the other side. Repeat with a second strap if possible, creating an "X" pattern.
Tuck and Tighten: Ensure the poles are held firmly against the pack. If the straps are long, you can tuck any excess webbing to prevent it from snagging.
Alternative: Using Your Own Straps: If pack straps aren't sufficient, you can use separate velcro straps or bungee cords to secure the poles. Wrap them around the poles and the pack body.

Method 4: Storing Poles Inside Your Pack

While not ideal for frequently used poles, there are times when storing them inside your pack is the best option, such as during airline travel or when navigating tight spaces.

Disassemble (if possible): If your poles are multi-section and can be further broken down, this will make them easier to fit inside.
Use a Pack Liner: Place the poles inside a waterproof pack liner to prevent them from poking through your pack fabric.
Find a Suitable Compartment: Look for a hydration sleeve or a dedicated compartment that might accommodate the length of your poles.
Secure them Internally: You can use internal compression straps or even just ensure they are packed snugly amongst your other gear so they don't shift and cause discomfort.

Tips for a Better Pole Carrying Experience

Practice at Home: Before you hit the trail, practice attaching and detaching your poles to your pack multiple times. This will make the process much faster and smoother when you're actually hiking.
Consider Pole Length: Ensure your poles are fully collapsed before attaching them. Longer poles are more likely to swing and snag.
Balance is Key: Try to distribute the weight of your poles evenly. If you have a very light pack, heavy poles attached to one side can throw off your balance.
Mind the Tips: Keep the sharp tips of your poles pointed away from your body and your pack fabric.
Listen for Rattling: If you hear your poles rattling or banging against your pack, they are likely not secured tightly enough. Stop and adjust.
Check Regularly: Periodically check the security of your poles, especially after significant changes in terrain or if you've had to navigate dense brush.

A well-secured trekking pole is a silent partner on the trail. It stays out of your way when you don't need it, and is ready when you do. Taking a few extra moments to attach them properly can save you a lot of hassle and potential frustration on your hike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I prevent my trekking poles from swinging and hitting me?

The key is to ensure they are cinched down tightly against your pack using the available straps and loops. Properly utilizing both top and bottom attachment points, if available, provides the most stability. If poles are still swinging, consider using additional velcro straps or bungee cords for a more secure fit.

Why do some packs have more pole attachment options than others?

Pack manufacturers design these features based on the intended use of the pack. Backpacking packs, which are designed for longer trips where poles might be used intermittently, tend to have more robust and varied attachment systems. Daypacks, on the other hand, might have simpler solutions as poles are often used for the entire duration of the hike.

What's the best way to attach my poles if my pack doesn't have dedicated holders?

In the absence of dedicated holders, you'll rely on compression straps and potentially your own accessories. Position the poles along the side of your pack and use the side compression straps to secure them by wrapping them tightly around the poles and the pack body. You can also use velcro straps or bungee cords for a custom, secure fit.

When should I consider storing my poles inside my pack instead of on the outside?

You should store your poles inside your pack during activities where they might be a hazard or get damaged, such as during air travel, when navigating very tight, bushy trails where they could snag, or during situations requiring both hands to be completely free and unencumbered for extended periods.