Quick answer: Split the tent. REI suggests packing the tent body, footprint and rainfly inside the core as soft filler, or at the top for fast access if a storm may arrive before camp. Tent poles go under the side compression straps or in a side pocket, and stakes stay inside the tent bag. Strapping the whole tent outside is the last resort.
A tent is three parts with three shapes: a soft body, stiff poles and sharp stakes. Pack them separately and they fit almost anywhere.
This guide follows the REI packing zones.
Related: tent camping gear checklist, packing a backpack and attaching a sleeping bag.
Where Each Part Goes
| Part | Place | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tent body, fly, footprint | Core, as filler around bulky items | REI: soft fillers buffer the water reservoir and heavy gear |
| Same, when rain is likely | Top zone | REI: fast access if a storm arrives before camp |
| Poles | Under side compression straps or in a side pocket | REI lists tent poles among items for straps and lash points |
| Stakes | Inside, in their bag | Sharp; protect other gear |
Steps
- Take the poles and stakes out of the tent bag.
- Stuff the body and fly into the core, or leave them in the bag at the top.
- Slide the poles vertically under the side compression straps and tighten.
- Put the stakes in their bag inside the pack.
Strapping the Whole Tent Outside
If the pack is full, lash the tent under the bottom straps, tight and centered. REI advises limiting outside gear because it snags on branches and scrapes on rocks, and a tent bag is not waterproof.
Honest Limits
Pack designs vary and some have no side straps. We have not tested specific packs or tents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does a tent go in a backpack?
Body and fly in the core or top; poles under side straps.
Should the tent be at the bottom?
REI puts sleep gear at the bottom and the tent in the core or top.
Can I strap the tent outside?
As a last resort, tight and centered.
Where do the poles go?
Under side compression straps or in a side pocket.
Where do the stakes go?
Inside, in their bag.
Does the tent need to stay in its bag?
No. Loose, it fills gaps better.
What if it rains before camp?
Pack the tent at the top for fast access.
How do two hikers split a tent?
One takes body and fly, the other poles and footprint.
Will the tent get wet outside?
Tent bags are not waterproof. Use a dry sack if it must ride outside.
Why limit outside gear?
It snags and scrapes, per REI.
Bottom Line
Split the tent: soft parts inside, poles under the side straps.
Keep the whole thing outside only when there is no room.
Source: REI, How to Pack a Backpack.