Where to stash a tent

I have a Gregory Z55 pack and a Tarptent Double Rainbow tent. I was wondering do you stash the tent inside the pack for the hike or you strap it on at the bottom?

drake

Most folks stash it inside the pack but it all depends on too many factors to say definitely one way or another.

Look on this forum at some of WanderingDaisy's posts and there is one where she shows how she packs her pack. It's a really good thread.

Tango

I havne't packed my bag for awhile and couldn't remember. Last weekend i packed both ways and didn't really noticed difference in ease of movement with pack on. with the tent outside the pack, it did free up alot of room inside.

I will be going over my list of gear to try to "upgrade" my items, especially there is a REI sale going this weekend and they may have some things I want.

drake

I go by the answers to these two questions:

What's the first thing I want when I get to camp, especially if it's raining? Tent

If it's raining, do I want to open up my pack and pull half the stuff inside out to get at it? No

I keep my tent (Tarptent Squall 2) in one of the mesh side pockets of my pack. That way I can get at it without having to open my pack or even pull the pack cover all the way off. I also don't have to put a wet tent inside the pack when I pack up in the morning. If I didn't have the full-length mesh side pockets on my pack, I'd put the tent at the top of the pack.

Your Mileage May Vary.

If you expect bad weather, tie the tent onto the outside of your pack, that way you can get it and set it up without opening the pack and risking getting something wet. Otherwise you might pack it along one side due to the poles length and rigidity, then push your sleeping bag into the bottom of your pack next to it. It will probably be easy enough to grab an end and pull it out. Its more secure inside the pack.
Jim

I generally carry my tent on the outside of my pack. It's easier and quicker to get to if it is raining and besides, it's usually what I put up first anyway whenever I start setting up camp. I prefer to carry my sleeping pad on the inside of my pack, as it is a self-inflating one and is safer there from thorns and branches.