How to Tie Shoes to a Backpack: A Step-by-Step Guide for Travelers and Adventurers

Why Tie Shoes to a Backpack?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s address the “why.” Attaching shoes to the outside of your backpack serves several purposes. First, it frees up internal space for essentials like clothes, food, or gadgets. Second, it keeps dirty or wet footwear from soiling your clean items. Third, it provides quick access to a spare pair—think switching from hiking boots to sandals after a long trek. For travelers, it’s also a clever way to avoid airline baggage fees by keeping shoes off the scale while still within carry-on rules. This simple hack blends convenience with practicality, making it a must-know for anyone on the move.

Method 1: Using Shoelaces for a Simple Tie

The most straightforward way to secure shoes to a backpack is by using their own laces. This method works best with sneakers, hiking boots, or any footwear with long, sturdy laces.

Steps to Tie Shoes with Laces

1. Prep Your Shoes: Ensure the laces are tied snugly on the shoes themselves to prevent them from flapping loose.
2. Position the Shoes: Hold the pair together, toe-to-heel or side-by-side, depending on your backpack’s design.
3. Thread Through a Loop: Find a secure attachment point on your backpack, like the top handle or a side strap. Thread all four lace ends through this loop.
4. Create a Loop and Knot: Pull the laces through until the shoes sit close to the backpack (about 6 inches of slack is ideal). Loop the laces around the attachment point again, then tie a tight square knot. A square knot (right over left, then left over right) is more secure than a granny knot and less likely to unravel.
5. Test Stability: Give the shoes a gentle tug to ensure they’re snug and won’t swing excessively.

Pro Tip

For added security, double-knot the laces or tuck the loose ends into the shoes to avoid tripping hazards. This method is lightweight and requires no extra gear, making it perfect for minimalist travelers or casual outings.

Method 2: Carabiner Clips for Quick Attachment

If your shoes lack laces or you want a more versatile solution, carabiners are your best friend. These metal clips are durable, lightweight, and widely available, making them a favorite among hikers and climbers.

How to Use Carabiners

1. Choose the Right Carabiner: Opt for a small, lightweight model (not a heavy climbing-grade one unless you’re carrying boots).
2. Attach to Shoes: Clip the carabiner through a lace eyelet, heel loop, or even the tied laces of your shoes.
3. Hook to Backpack: Secure the carabiner to a strap, loop, or D-ring on your backpack. Side pockets or shoulder straps work well for balanced weight distribution.
4. Check Fit: Ensure the shoes hang close to the pack without dangling too low, which could throw off your balance.

Why It Works

Carabiners offer a fast, detachable option, ideal for frequent shoe swaps—like switching from trail runners to camp shoes. They’re also reusable across multiple trips, adding long-term value to your gear setup.

Method 3: Bungee Cords for Heavy Duty Loads

For bulkier footwear like hiking boots or snowshoes, bungee cords provide extra strength and flexibility. This method excels when you need a tight, adjustable hold.

Steps to Secure with Bungee Cords

1. Select a Bungee Cord: Use a cord with hooks on both ends, sized to fit your backpack’s width.
2. Wrap the Shoes: Position the shoes against the backpack (preferably at the base for stability). Wrap the bungee cord around them, hooking it to straps or loops on opposite sides.
3. Adjust Tension: Tighten the cord so the shoes are pressed firmly against the pack without shifting.
4. Secure Loose Ends: If the cord has excess length, wrap it around again or tuck it away to avoid snagging.

Best Use Case

This technique shines for outdoor enthusiasts carrying rugged gear. The elastic tension keeps even heavy boots in place, reducing sway on uneven terrain.

Method 4: Backpack Straps or Compression Bands

Many hiking backpacks come with built-in straps or compression bands designed to secure external items. These are perfect for tying shoes without extra tools.

How to Use Backpack Straps

1. Locate Straps: Identify side compression straps, bottom loops, or daisy chains on your pack.
2. Position Shoes: Place the shoes sole-out to protect the backpack from dirt, aligning them with the straps.
3. Thread and Tighten: Weave the straps through the shoe laces or around the footwear, then pull tight to cinch them down.
4. Fasten Securely: Buckle or knot the straps to lock the shoes in place.

Advantage

This method leverages your backpack’s existing features, maintaining a streamlined profile. It’s ideal for long hikes where weight distribution matters.

Choosing the Right Spot on Your Backpack

Where you tie your shoes affects comfort and balance. Here’s a quick guide:

• Top Handle: Best for lightweight shoes like flip-flops or sandals; keeps them accessible but may swing.
• Side Straps: Distributes weight evenly, great for medium-sized footwear.
• Bottom Loops: Perfect for heavy boots, keeping the load low and stable.
• Back Panel: Use with straps or cords to flatten shoes against the pack, minimizing bulk.

Avoid letting shoes dangle too low—they’ll bump your legs or catch on obstacles. Aim for a snug fit close to the pack’s frame.

Extra Tips for Success

• Clean Shoes First: Wipe off mud or debris to avoid dirtying your backpack.
• Consider Weight: Heavier shoes (e.g., hiking boots) should go lower on the pack to maintain balance; lighter ones (e.g., sneakers) can sit higher.
• Weatherproofing: If rain’s in the forecast, wrap shoes in a plastic bag before attaching to keep them dry.
• Cultural Note: In some regions (like Southeast Asia), hanging shoes high on a pack can be seen as disrespectful due to feet being considered “dirty.” Keep them low or inside in such cases.

When to Pack Shoes Inside Instead

Tying shoes outside isn’t always the answer. Pack them inside if:

• They’re valuable or fragile (e.g., dress shoes).
• You’re in a theft-prone area.
• Weather conditions could damage them (e.g., heavy rain or snow).
• Airline rules prohibit external attachments during boarding.

For internal packing, use a shoe bag or stuff shoes with socks to save space and keep dirt contained.

Tools to Enhance Your Setup

While the methods above use minimal gear, these optional tools can level up your game:

• Elastic Shoe Holsters: Silicone straps that grip shoes and clip to your pack—great for sports or travel.
• Paracord: A lightweight, strong rope for custom knots and durable holds.
• Velcro Straps: Adjustable and reusable, perfect for quick fixes.

Final Thoughts: Master Your Gear

Learning how to tie shoes to a backpack is more than a packing trick—it’s a skill that boosts efficiency and adaptability. Whether you’re trekking through the wilderness, navigating airports, or just heading to class, these techniques keep your footwear secure and your journey smooth. Experiment with each method to find what suits your backpack, shoes, and travel style best. Next time you hit the road, you’ll stride with confidence, knowing your gear is as ready as you are.