How to Carry Hiking Poles on a Backpack: Your Complete Guide

So, you've decided to invest in a pair of hiking poles. Excellent choice! These trusty companions can significantly reduce fatigue, improve balance, and even save your knees on challenging descents. But once you've finished using them, or if you need to free up your hands for a bit, the question arises: How do I effectively carry hiking poles on my backpack? This article will walk you through the most common and practical methods, ensuring your poles are secure, accessible, and out of the way.

Understanding Your Backpack's Features

Before diving into specific techniques, it's crucial to understand what your backpack offers. Most modern hiking and backpacking packs come equipped with dedicated features for carrying poles.

External Attachment Points:

Trekking Pole Loops/Sleeves: These are typically located on the lower front or sides of the backpack. They are often elasticated or have a buckle to secure the pole tips.
Compression Straps: Many backpacks have horizontal or vertical straps designed to cinch down gear. These can be repurposed to hold poles firmly against the pack.
Tool Loops/Ice Axe Loops: While designed for ice axes, these robust loops can also serve as excellent anchor points for trekking poles.
Side Pockets: Some larger backpacks feature deep side pockets that can accommodate the lower section of your poles, especially if they are collapsible.

The Most Common and Effective Methods

Here are the tried-and-true methods for attaching your hiking poles to your backpack:

Method 1: Using Dedicated Trekking Pole Loops

This is the easiest and most straightforward method if your pack has them.

Locate the Loops: Find the designated pole loops, usually at the bottom of the pack.
Insert Pole Tips: Place the pointy end (tip) of your poles into the loops.
Secure the Shaft: Bring the shafts of the poles up along the sides or front of your backpack.
Fasten with Straps: Use the elasticated straps or buckles provided to cinch the poles securely against the pack. Some packs have top loops or bungee cords to further stabilize them.

Pro Tip: Ensure the poles are snug. Loose poles can swing around and be annoying or even snag on branches.

Method 2: Utilizing Compression Straps

This method is versatile and works even if your pack lacks specific pole loops.

Position the Poles: Lay your collapsed poles vertically against the back or side of your backpack.
Thread the Straps: Weave the compression straps of your backpack around the pole shafts. You might need to use one or two straps for adequate security.
Cinch Them Down: Tighten the compression straps firmly to hold the poles against the pack.

Important Consideration: Be mindful of how the straps are positioned. You don't want them to interfere with accessing other pockets or features of your pack.

Method 3: Stowing in Side Pockets (for Collapsible Poles)

This method is best suited for highly collapsible poles.

Place Pole in Pocket: Slide the collapsed poles into the side pockets of your backpack, with the tips pointing downwards.
Secure if Necessary: If the pocket is deep enough, the poles will be held securely. If they stick out, you might use a small bungee cord or a top compression strap to keep them from wobbling.

Note: This method might not be ideal for longer, non-collapsible poles as they can extend quite far out of the pocket.

Method 4: The "Reverse Stow" (for Quick Access or When Not in Use)

This is a popular technique for accessing poles quickly or when you're not actively using them but want them readily available.

Insert Tips Upwards: Insert the tips of your poles into the dedicated top loops (if available) or the upper part of the side pockets, with the tips pointing upwards.
Secure the Shafts: Bring the shafts of the poles down along the sides of the pack and secure them using the lower trekking pole loops or compression straps.

Benefit: This method often keeps the sharp tips away from your body and makes it easier to grab and deploy your poles without removing your pack.

Method 5: Carrying Inside the Backpack (Less Common)

While not ideal for frequent use, there are times when stowing poles inside might be necessary.

Disassemble (if possible): If your poles can be fully disassembled, this makes them easier to pack.
Place in Main Compartment: Lay them flat along the back panel of your backpack or in an empty pocket within the main compartment.

Drawback: This makes them inaccessible without removing your pack, so it's generally not recommended for trails where you anticipate needing them regularly.

Tips for Secure and Comfortable Carrying

Balance is Key: Try to attach poles symmetrically on both sides of your pack to maintain an even weight distribution.
Check for Rattles: Give your pack a gentle shake to ensure the poles aren't loose and won't be creating an annoying rattle on your hike.
Avoid Obstructions: Make sure your attached poles don't impede your ability to access water bottles, snacks, or other essential items.
Consider Your Pack Size: Smaller daypacks might have fewer attachment options. Adapt your strategy based on your pack's capacity and design.
Practice at Home: Before hitting the trail, practice attaching and detaching your poles a few times. This will save you time and frustration when you're out in the wilderness.

When to Carry and When to Stow

You'll want to have your poles readily accessible when:

You're on uneven terrain.
You're descending steep slopes.
You have a heavy pack.
You want to improve your rhythm and reduce fatigue.

You might choose to stow them more securely (or even inside) when:

You're on a very flat, smooth section of trail.
You need to navigate a section requiring both hands for scrambling.
You're in a crowded area where poles could be a hazard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I prevent my hiking poles from swinging around?

Ensure you use all available attachment points – loops, straps, and even bungee cords – to cinch the poles snugly against your backpack. If your pack has dedicated trekking pole loops, utilize both the bottom loop for the tip and the upper strap or compression strap to secure the shaft. Avoid over-tightening to the point of deforming your pack, but aim for a firm hold.

Why do my hiking poles poke me when I wear my backpack?

This usually happens when the pole shafts are not secured properly against the pack or if the tips are pointing upwards and the shafts are angled inward. When using external attachment methods, try to keep the poles as close to the pack's profile as possible. The "reverse stow" method, where tips point upwards and shafts are secured lower down, can also help keep tips away from your body.

Can I carry my hiking poles on a smaller daypack?

Yes, though options might be more limited. Many daypacks still have at least one set of trekking pole loops, or you can often get creative with existing compression straps. If your daypack has no attachment points, you might consider a small bungee cord to lash them securely to the outside, or if they are collapsible, carefully place them in a water bottle pocket or along the side.

What's the best way to carry non-collapsible hiking poles?

For non-collapsible poles, the most common method is to attach them vertically using dedicated trekking pole loops or compression straps. The "reverse stow" method can be particularly effective, as it allows the longer shafts to rest against your pack while the tips are secured upwards, minimizing their protrusion and potential to snag on overhead branches.

How do I attach my hiking poles if they have different types of grips?

The attachment method generally doesn't depend on the grip type, but rather the pole's shaft and tip. Most external attachment points secure the pole shaft with straps or loops, and the tip is held in a dedicated loop or pocket. Ensure any straps don't interfere with the comfort of the grip when you eventually deploy the poles.

By following these methods and tips, you'll be able to carry your hiking poles with confidence and ease, allowing you to focus on enjoying the trail ahead.