Can I attach trekking poles to the outside of my backpack for a train journey?

Yes—you can attach trekking poles to the outside of your backpack for a train journey, provided they are securely fastened and do not obstruct aisles, doors, or endanger other passengers. Most UK train operators (including LNER, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, and Great Western Railway) allow this practice, as long as the poles are packed safely and stowed in a way that does not inconvenience fellow travellers. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to attach your poles, what to avoid, and the etiquette of train travel with outdoor gear.

Why attach poles to the outside?

Trekking poles are long and often bulky, even when collapsed. Inside a rucksack, they can take up valuable space, poke through delicate items, or get tangled with other gear. Attaching them to the outside of your pack keeps the interior free for clothes, food, and other essentials, and allows you to access them quickly if needed.

Choosing the right backpack

Before you attach anything, ensure your backpack is suitable for external carry. Most hiking rucksacks have:

• Side compression straps: These are the most common attachment points. They run vertically or horizontally along the side of the pack and can be used to cinch the poles against the pack.
• Daisy chains: Webbing loops sewn onto the front or sides of the pack, allowing you to thread straps or carabiners through them.
• Shovel pockets: A stretchy front pocket often has a drawstring that can help secure poles.
• Ice axe loops: Some packs have a dedicated loop at the bottom for ice axes, which can also be used for poles.

If your pack does not have these features, you can use aftermarket straps or carabiners.

Step-by-step attachment guide

1. Collapse the poles

Reduce your poles to their shortest length. For telescopic poles, collapse all sections. For folding Z‑poles, fold them into their compact form.

2. Protect the tips

Cover the carbide tips with rubber ferrules or tape. This prevents scratching other passengers, the train interior, and your own gear.

3. Choose the attachment point

• Side of the pack: Place the poles vertically along the side of your pack, with one end near the bottom of the pack and the other near the top. The poles should be centred to avoid sticking out excessively to the front or back.
• Front of the pack: If your pack has a large front pocket, you can lay the poles horizontally across it, using compression straps to secure them.

4. Secure the poles

• Use compression straps: Pass the straps through the pole baskets (if attached) or around the shafts. Tighten them snugly so the poles don't shift.
• Use bungee cords or external straps: If your pack lacks compression straps, use a bungee cord or a webbing strap to lash the poles to the side.
• Double-check stability: Gently shake the pack. The poles should not move. If they do, adjust the straps.

5. Check the balance

Ensure the poles are not causing the pack to lean to one side. Distribute the weight as evenly as possible. If you have two poles, consider attaching one to each side of the pack for balance.

Etiquette and safety on the train

While attaching poles to the outside of your pack is usually fine, you must consider the train environment:

1. Remove the poles before entering the carriage

It is often easier to carry the poles separately—collapsed and held in one hand—as you move through the train. This prevents them from catching on doors or other passengers.

2. Store them in the luggage rack

Once you're on the train, place your backpack (with poles attached) in the overhead luggage rack, or on the luggage shelves at the ends of the carriage. If the overhead rack is not available, place the pack on the floor between your legs or against the seat, with the poles facing the wall to avoid tripping others.

3. Keep them out of the aisle

Never leave your pack with poles attached in the aisle, even for a moment. It is a tripping hazard.

4. Avoid blocking doors

If you have to stand, position yourself and your pack so that you are not blocking the doors or the exit routes.

5. Be considerate of others

When the train is busy, try to keep your pack close to you and avoid swinging it around. The poles are long and can be a hazard in cramped spaces.

What to avoid

• Do not attach poles to the outside if they are likely to catch on doors: If the poles stick out beyond the width of your pack, they can catch on door frames, luggage racks, or other passengers.
• Do not leave sharp carbide tips exposed: Always cover them with rubber ferrules or tape.
• Do not block the aisle: Never leave your pack unattended in the aisle. It is a safety hazard.
• Do not overpack: If your pack is already heavy, adding poles to the outside can make it unwieldy. Consider using a dedicated pole bag or storing them inside if space allows.

Alternative: storing poles inside the train

If you prefer to keep your pack compact, you can store the poles inside the train's luggage area instead of attaching them to your pack. Most long‑distance trains have dedicated racks for larger bags and sports equipment. This is a good option if you are concerned about damaging the poles or the train.

What about other transport options?

If you are using a combination of transport (e.g., a bus or a taxi), the same principles apply—secure the poles safely, keep them out of the way, and protect the tips. In a taxi, place the poles carefully in the boot, away from heavy items.

The verdict

Attaching trekking poles to the outside of your backpack for a train journey is a practical and safe solution, provided you follow a few simple rules:

1. Collapse the poles to their shortest length.
2. Cover the tips with rubber ferrules or tape.
3. Use compression straps or bungee cords to secure them.
4. Check the balance to avoid an uneven load.
5. Store the pack in the luggage rack or on the floor, out of the aisle.
6. Be considerate of other passengers.

Most UK train operators are walker‑friendly and will not object to this practice as long as you are careful. With a little preparation, your poles will travel safely and securely alongside you, ready for your walking adventure. Happy travels!