How to Carry Snowshoes on Backpack for Easy Winter Hiking

Carrying snowshoes on your backpack is essential for comfortable and safe winter hiking. This guide shows you easy ways to attach snowshoes securely, keeping your hands free and gear balanced. Get ready to hike confidently in snowy conditions!

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right backpack: Select a backpack with snowshoe attachment points or loops for easy carrying.
• Secure attachment: Use straps or bungee cords to firmly fasten snowshoes to your pack to avoid shifting.
• Position matters: Attach snowshoes vertically or horizontally depending on your pack design and comfort.
• Protect your gear: Use padding or covers to prevent snowshoes from damaging your backpack or other equipment.
• Balance your load: Keep weight centered to maintain stability during your hike.
• Practice before the trail: Try attaching your snowshoes at home to ensure quick, easy adjustments on the go.
• Know when to carry: Carry snowshoes on your backpack when trail conditions don’t require walking in snowshoes but may change later.

How to Carry Snowshoes on Backpack for Easy Winter Hiking

Winter hiking can be a thrilling adventure, but carrying bulky snowshoes can be tricky if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re hiking to a snowy trailhead or switching between snowshoeing and hiking, knowing how to carry your snowshoes on your backpack easily makes your trip more comfortable and efficient. In this guide, you’ll learn simple, practical steps to attach your snowshoes securely and maintain balance and comfort throughout your hike.

Step 1: Choose the Right Backpack for Snowshoe Carrying

Not all backpacks are created equal when it comes to carrying snowshoes. Look for features that make attachment easy:

Look for Attachment Points

Many backpacks designed for winter sports have built-in straps, loops, or daisy chains. These are perfect for securing snowshoes without needing extra gear.

Select the Right Size

Make sure your backpack is large enough to hold your other gear while still having room or attachment systems for your snowshoes. A 20-40 liter pack usually works well for day hikes.

Consider Weight Distribution

Choose a pack with adjustable straps and a sturdy frame to help balance the load, especially when adding bulky snowshoes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Snowshoes for Attachment

Before attaching your snowshoes, it’s important to make sure they are clean and ready to carry.

Remove Excess Snow and Ice

Brush off any snow or ice clumps to avoid adding moisture to your backpack and to prevent slipping during attachment.

Use Protective Covers if Available

If your snowshoes came with protective covers or bags, use them. They help protect your pack fabric and other gear from sharp crampons.

Place Snowshoes Together

Stack your snowshoes neatly, aligning the tails and bindings so they form a compact shape that’s easier to secure.

Step 3: Attach Snowshoes to Your Backpack

There are different ways to carry snowshoes on your backpack, depending on your pack design and personal preference.

Vertical Attachment

• Slide the snowshoes vertically along the back of your pack with the tails near the bottom.
• Use the side compression straps or dedicated loops to secure them tightly.
• This method keeps your hands free and the load balanced close to your back.

Horizontal Attachment

• Place snowshoes horizontally across the top or bottom of your pack.
• Use bungee cords or straps to fasten them securely.
• Good if your pack doesn’t have tall attachment points but has strong side straps.

Diagonal or Crisscross Attachment

• Attach one snowshoe diagonally on each side of the pack.
• This can help distribute weight evenly and prevent bulkiness on one side.
• Requires careful adjustment for comfort.

Step 4: Secure Loose Straps and Adjust for Comfort

After attaching, check all straps and tighten to prevent shifting during your hike.

Tuck Away Excess Strap Ends

Loose straps can snag on branches or trail obstacles. Use elastic bands or Velcro to hold them close to your pack.

Test Movement

Put your backpack on and walk around to feel how the snowshoes move. Adjust straps if you feel any uncomfortable sway or rubbing.

Add Padding if Needed

If crampons or bindings dig into your pack or back, add a small foam pad or cloth between the snowshoes and the pack for protection.

Step 5: Practice Carrying Before Your Hike

Don’t wait until you are on a trail to figure out how to carry your snowshoes. Practice at home or on a short walk.

Quick Attachment and Removal

Familiarize yourself with how to quickly attach and detach snowshoes. This helps when trail conditions change and you need to switch gear fast.

Adjust for Different Loads

Practice carrying snowshoes with a full pack versus a lighter load to understand how balance and comfort change.

Tips and Tricks for Carrying Snowshoes on Backpack

• Use Carabiners: Lightweight carabiners can help clip snowshoes securely without complicated knots.
• Keep Bindings Accessible: Attach snowshoes so you can easily access bindings if you need to put them on quickly.
• Watch Trail Conditions: Carry snowshoes on your pack when trails are icy or firm but may become snowy later.
• Protect Your Back: Avoid rough crampons pressing against your back by adding padding.
• Balance Weight: If you carry other bulky gear, arrange it to balance the snowshoe load.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Snowshoes Shifting or Slipping

If your snowshoes move while hiking, tighten straps and consider adding extra cords or bungee ties. Strapping them closer to the pack frame helps.

Uncomfortable Pressure Points

Use padding between sharp crampons and your back or pack. Adjust attachment position to avoid rubbing on your shoulders or hips.

Difficulty Attaching Snowshoes Quickly

Practice at home and streamline your method. Using quick-release straps or carabiners saves time.

Backpack Too Small to Carry Snowshoes

Consider upgrading to a pack designed for winter sports with dedicated gear loops and larger capacity.

Conclusion

Carrying snowshoes on your backpack doesn’t have to be complicated or uncomfortable. By choosing the right backpack, preparing your snowshoes, and using secure attachment methods, you can enjoy hands-free winter hiking with confidence. Practice your setup before heading out and adjust based on your pack and snowshoe design. With these tips, your winter adventures will be easier and more enjoyable, keeping you ready for whatever snowy trails throw your way.