Loading Tarptent Moment into Backpack

I encountered a similar challenge back when I had my TT Notch (16” length) and eventually lead me to explore other options.

I found two suggestions that worked acceptably:

1. Load the tent externally under the top strap of my pack. This worked well other than potentially snagging on brush. You could carry it below the pack as well.
2. Load the tent vertically down one side of the pack. I was less pleased with this option because it threw my center of gravity off to one side. It’s not horrible but was noticeable and I didn’t like that.

You can also remove the end struts and pack them along with the arch pole externally on the pack allowing you to stuff/roll/fold the tent into whatever shape you want but I find this approach too fiddly. YMMV

I was more or less thinking along the same lines but I wanted to know what others, like yourself, had tried. Thanks for the feedback matthew k.

I have a Tarptent Notch and have been carrying it under the backpack lid (Osprey Talon 44). Nice to have free space in the pack.

I have a big 60 liter pack so it (used to) usually fit inside, but when I’ve been loaded down with food or the tent was soaked I used a side water bottle pocket and tucked it under compression straps.

Otherwise I’d conscious to pack loosely and favoring one side, then I use my arm to clear the space for it. With a water bottle in the opposite pocket I never noticed a center of gravity issue.

Ditto.  I carry my Moment DW in the side pocket of my Exos 58, nearly perfectly balanced by a liter of water on the other side.  You just have to remember to not drink the water.  :)

Bob, I like your suggestion. That just might work.

XYZ, and Peter Treiber. your way is also workable but like Peter said, just don’t drink the water then your load shifts. Thanks for all the suggestions, they are really appreciated.

I’ve been carrying our Tarptents (Scarp1, Stratospire 2 and Notch) vertically on one side inside my pack (previously Exo58, the last 3 years a Gossamer Gear Gorrilla) . Since 2011, over 150 days backpacking.  It’s never really unbalanced – I don’t ever notice a problem.  It’s not as if the corresponding opposite side of the pack is empty is it? Other gear/food carried  can easily be arranged to compensate.

Mile J,  that had been my initial thought but I was unsure if that would even work, but you say that you have had no off balance problems, so I will check it out with my Kestrel. Thanks lots.

Carry my (non-DW) Moment in the side pocket of a modified HMG Windrider 2400, along with an umbrella if needed. The other pocket holds a 1.5 liter water bottle. Never noticed balance problems.

Works for me.

— Rex