View Full Version : Attaching Sleeping Pads to Packs?
Hmm... So this is my first post, and I was wondering how everyone attaches their foam pads to the outside of their packs? Any good techniques? This is an annual dilemma around my house, involving complicated rope setups and fancy knots :) Much too overthought, and it never seems to work. Specifically, I have a REI Flash 45 named Parrot and a Z-lite pad. I would prefer if I could attach the z-lite to the bottom of the pack or on top, what do you think? Thanks, Amelia
4eyedbuzzard
05-21-2015, 21:38
If there are ice ax loops or other attachment points use straps. You might need to sew on some strap attachment points to carry the pad exactly where you want. http://www.ems.com/liberty-mountain-side-release-strap-36-in./210304675.html?emssrcid=PPC%3AgooPLAs%3ASporting_G oodsCamping_Hiking_Backpacking&adpos=1o1&creative=60863695125&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CLjRo5GX1MUCFQ8waQod5pwAhg
Old Hiker
05-21-2015, 21:40
Howdy and welcome to WhiteBlaze !!
My pack (Osprey Volt 75 ) has dedicated straps outside the bottom sleeping bag compartment. I have a piece of shock cord around the pad, a 'biner attached to the cord and the pad under the straps. The 'biner is connected to a strap, as I am always worried about losing gear.
I've put it UNDER the lid on other packs, still with a strap and 'biner to hold it in place.
I have an Osprey Atmos 65. I carry my Z-lite Sol vertically (I’m already wide enough) against the back of the pack. I use the two straps across the bottom and have added a strap across the top. It does get wet in the rain and may drive me to either a pack cover or inflatable pad.
Just Bill
05-21-2015, 21:54
:welcome
If you have the volume inside is a great place for a zrest. Several ways to fold it if you get creative.
Carrying your pad vertically stops it from bouncing on your butt or snagging on branches as you walk.
Looking at the pic- use the ice ax loops on the bottom and the compression straps towards the top.
Pick up some 1/8" tent pole shock cord and make an x shape.
To make sure it doesn't fall off you can open the zrest a little and wrap once around the pad before securing it.
http://www.rei.com/product/857935/tapecraft-shockcord-18-in
http://i350.photobucket.com/albums/q429/ninjaelbow/Memaloose%20Lake%202009/riverishigh042-Copy.jpg
MuddyWaters
05-21-2015, 22:26
On my packs i just cinc it under top strap.
I used to either cinch it under the top when I folded it down and snapped it in place, or I would put it under the straps on the bottom of the pack and then tighten them up.
I LOVE my new pad, which is the folds/rolls down to the size of a nalgeene bottle. It is really quiet when I sleep too! (Be careful of pads that make A LOT OF NOISE!!!)
daddytwosticks
05-22-2015, 06:28
Can't add to these suggestions. This was one of the many reasons I went with an inflatable pad which is stored safely inside my pack. :)
rocketsocks
05-22-2015, 07:40
Hmm... So this is my first post, and I was wondering how everyone attaches their foam pads to the outside of their packs? Any good techniques? This is an annual dilemma around my house, involving complicated rope setups and fancy knots :) Much too overthought, and it never seems to work. Specifically, I have a REI Flash 45 named Parrot and a Z-lite pad. I would prefer if I could attach the z-lite to the bottom of the pack or on top, what do you think? Thanks, Ameliathats all I use, rope and fancy knots, works fine.
Thanks! :) It's good to know that there isn't any magical technique that I just don't know about. I'll definitely experiment some more. Off to the desert! -Amelia
punchcard
05-31-2015, 20:19
@stefb what pad did you get?
punchcard
05-31-2015, 20:21
Oops @shelb What kind of pad did you get?
shakey_snake
05-31-2015, 21:10
A Z-rest makes a great vertical support inside a frameless pack, especially with desert water-hauls.
BARKEATER
06-04-2015, 12:26
I always strap it vertical on the side of my pack, you can run the strap thur the compassion starts on the pack ( if your pack has them) you can buy strap in most any hiking store.
greentick
06-12-2015, 18:35
http://whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=56061&catid=member&imageuser=6848
3 external options in one pic!
I found it advantageous to have my old pad at the bottom so that my pack would stand UP!
Nice add on feature.
Now I carry a foam roller (which is great for sore muscles, IT band, legs etc) - better end result, pack stands up like its on Viagra
I put the pad underneath the packs compression straps and then just tighten them. It allows the pack to stand up when you set it on the ground and you can lean back on rocks or trees without worrying about damaging the pack bag also.