5 Best Uses of Duct Tape When Backpacking

By any reckoning the three greatest inventions of mankind are fire, the wheel and duct tape – not necessarily in that order. Duct tape when backpacking will certainly be the most versatile tool you drop into your backpack. Let’s explore some of its uses.

1. First-Aid

A piece of duct tape can do duty as a bandage on its own or as a protective guard over a medical bandage protecting a sensitive spot. Use duct tape for blisters or apply duct tape on boots to avoid friction. Experienced hikers sometimes use duct tape for feet to prevent hotspots. And it is unrivaled in removing thorns or a passel of cactus spines after an unfortunate brush against one of these heavily armed desert dwellers. Just press a piece of duct tape sticky side down and lift gingerly away. This is especially useful on Four Season Guides hikes where terrain can be challenging.

2. Repairs

Duct tape is the quick fix for a gash in a tent, a tear in your backpacking gear or a puncture in your hydration bladder. For heavy duty work, a few strips of tape can restore your trekking pole to action. Duct tape shoe repair is invaluable for quick fixes on the trail. Duct tape can also be used as a temporary fix for battered hiking boots but be aware that if you wrap the tape around the sole it will likely only last an hour or so of hiking before being worn away. Duct tape is the answer for holding pieces of your boot together while gluing the sole back together. Duct tape on shoes or duct tape strips also come in handy for minor gear failures, and duct tape strap can replace a broken pack strap in a pinch. Always carry duct tape wrapping for emergencies.

3. Architectural Building Blocks

Only a lack of imagination tethers your duct tape to the inside of your backpack. It can be wadded and fashioned into nearly anything. A makeshift spoon or cup? Check. An extender for eyewear to keep sunglasses from bounding off your head on the trail? Check. An entire pair of sunglasses or reflective hat? Check. A zipper pull for a recalcitrant fastener? Check. Using duct tape creatively can solve unexpected trail challenges. Consider duct electrical packing idea for securing fragile items during your hikes.

4. Organizer

Tape small size items together for storage inside your backpack. Use duct tape on luggage to secure compartments. Backpack strap loop can be reinforced with a strip of duct tape to keep gear from shifting. The versatile adhesive can even serve as luggage tape for emergency repairs or identification.

5. Edging

Any item you carry on a backpacking trip that can fray or tear can be toughened up by protecting the edges with strips of duct tape.

The familiar large rolls of duct tape are unnecessarily bulky and most likely an excess of tape. Smaller rolls designed for backpacking trips can be purchased from outfitters but most experienced trail users prefer to carry strips of duct tape wrapped around torches, trekking poles, water bottles and the like. But if you are using borrowed gear always ask before loading up with the sticky wonder.

Experience the Best Backpacking Adventures with FS Guides

With Four Season Guides hikes, your backpacking trips are safer, smoother, and far more enjoyable. From expert tips on duct tape on boots, duct tape for feet, and gear fixes to tackling challenging terrain, we ensure every adventure is memorable. Join us and explore trails with confidence, knowing our guides have the knowledge, experience, and solutions to handle any trail scenario. Make your next outdoor adventure easier, safer, and more fun with FS Guides.

Curious why outdoor lovers keep coming back to FS Guides? Check out our Google Business Profile Reviews and discover what guests are saying about their unforgettable hiking and backpacking experiences.