Originally Posted By: quick_joey_small
Mark F wrote: > QJS, that seems like it may be an option, but I have reservations about anything strapped to the outside of the pack

Obviously some common sense has to be used. I'm not advocating keeping the only item that will keep you alive on cold nights, in a paper bag, with a bank counter rubber band attaching it to your sac.
Use a strong waterproof stuff sac, with straps you can run the bunjees inside of, so they aren't relying on only friction. Though in reality bunjees grip like an alligator. Anything strong enough to pull the bag off my sac would pull me over first. Straps don't hold as tightly.
Tip for staying on the mat; have it inside the bag.

qjs


While on active duty I used the issue water proof bag to wrap my sleeping bag in and attach it on the outside of my rucksack. While a bit heavier, they are fairly durable and can resist a good amount of abrasion. In the field I repaired holes with 100 mph tape (green duck tape), and then DX'd them when I got back, though DX is not an option in civilian life.

There are many good straps out there for attaching things to the outside of the backpack. My externally carried sleeping bag never came off, even when exiting an aircraft while in flight from 25,000 feet. If it can stand up to a military free fall it can handle hiking, though there was another harness for the rucksack that went around the bag as well. I did not use bungee cords, but a nylon cinch strap. Bungees are more convenient on the ground, easier to attach and detach and are plenty strong enough for hiking.