How to Attach Hiking Poles to Backpack: 5 ways to carry

So you’ve decided to give hiking poles a shot, but have some questions like: “What if I’m on the trail and don’t want to use them?” and “How do I store these long and awkward things when the time comes?” Friend, you’re in the right place — I wrote this post to show you how to attach hiking poles to a backpack!

I prefer to attach my hiking poles to my backpack with the handles down, and tips up. To me, that feels “safer” as the tips tend to be made of metal and can damage gear and skin (trust me, I’ve seen it and you don’t want to). However, many hikers prefer to store their tips down and feel better with them that way. In the end, it’s totally up to you!

Also, this post assumes your trekking poles are collapsible and will be stored in the smallest setting. If not, you may find some of these suggestions tricky and might be able to discover a better way to make it work for you.

Use the built-in elastic loops and cord lock

Many modern packs have loops, elastics, and locks to help you easily attach your hiking poles to your backpack. In addition to an attachment point near the top, many packs have a bottom loop for easy access. The reason I went with my Nathan trail running pack is because it has TWO pairs of adjustable shock cord loops already built in! These features might take a minute to figure out, but once you do, you’ll never buy a pack without them.

The only con to this setup I’ve found is sometimes the elastic gets “tired,” and the poles may bounce around. It’s not a huge deal, but something worth noting if you know that will drive you crazy.

Utilize the water bottle side pocket

If you have a way to attach the bottom of your poles to the top but need something to keep them secure down below (i.e., the “bouncy” setup mentioned above is not your thing), consider popping the handles into a side pocket. These pockets are usually designed for water bottles and can often fit a spare pole or two inside for an extra secure stow. It’s a reliable and simple way to keep your poles out of the way and on the side of the backpack.

​Carry hiking poles inside your pack

I would say this setup is designed for longer stretches where you won’t need access to your trekking poles. Think backpacking trip on non-technical terrain with your hands-free for lots of photos and snacks! Or, if you only use your sticks as a tent pole. When keeping them inside a backpack, just keep in mind the rules mentioned above: you don’t want those pointy tips to damage any precious gear. Consider covering them with the rubber tips they came with or a piece of duct tape.

Stash them in between your back and pack

Now in contrast to the method above, this is a great way for a quick-and-easy, temporary stash. If you find yourself unable to prop those poles against a tree without them falling down the trail (been there, done that, got the tee shirt times 12…), just slip your poles in between your pack and back and you are set! Two things to note: 1., this trick will only work if your backpack has a hip belt. 2., PLEASE be careful to lead with the handles, as you don’t want to stab yourself in the process!

Attach hiking poles to backpack with specific products

If all else fails and the above methods don’t work for attaching your trekking poles, there are some products out there that may help. Now I have never personally used these, but it’s worth giving them a look to see if they will work for your specific setup. I’ll link them in the list below:

• Trekking Pole Holsters
• Stick Stashers
• Mini bungee setup like this or this
• Gear Ties

Conclusion

We are all going to have our particular preferences when attaching trekking poles to our packs. There’s no right or wrong way. I’ve also heard you can attach them to the top of your backpack or use compression straps. I’ve never personally done this, but everyone is different and needs their own system. The beauty of outdoor adventure is the ability to do things in the ways that work for us and to grow into what that looks like. Gearing up is a process and you won’t get it right every single time, so have grace with yourself and embrace the awkwardness that comes with attaching these sticks to your pack!

Tell me: what are YOUR favorite ways to attach hiking poles to a backpack?

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