Introduction
Commuting to a studio or traveling for a retreat often involves a delicate balancing act. We have all experienced the frustration of juggling a water bottle, a change of clothes, and a rolled yoga mat that seems determined to unroll or slip from under our arm. At Hugger Mugger, we have spent nearly forty years helping practitioners find better ways to carry their practice into the world. Finding a secure, hands-free way to transport your mat is not just about convenience; it is about protecting your gear and maintaining your mental focus before you even step onto the floor. This guide will walk you through the most effective ways to attach your mat to any backpack, whether you are using built-in features or simple DIY solutions.
Quick Answer: The most secure way to strap a yoga mat to a backpack is by using the bag’s side compression straps to hold the mat vertically. If your bag lacks straps, you can use a cotton yoga strap to create a "lasso" around the mat and loop it through the top handle or "daisy chain" loops on the pack.
Understanding Your Backpack Capacity
Before you start attaching gear, it is important to assess what your specific backpack can handle. Most everyday backpacks are not designed specifically for yoga, but they often have features that can be repurposed. For instance, a standard school or work backpack usually has a top carry handle and perhaps a side mesh pocket. A hiking backpack, on the other hand, is likely to have compression straps, bungee cords, and "daisy chains"—the series of sewn loops on the exterior that allow you to clip extra gear.
The weight of your mat dictates which attachment method is safest for your back. A lightweight mat like our Tapas® Original is easy to secure because it adds very little bulk. A heavier, denser mat, such as a 6mm professional mat or a natural rubber mat, requires a more robust attachment to prevent the bag from sagging or pulling on your shoulders.
Using Built-in Compression Straps
Many commuter and hiking backpacks feature compression straps on the sides. These are usually intended to cinch the bag tight when it is not full, but they are the most reliable tool for carrying a yoga mat.
The Vertical Side Mount
This is the most popular method because it keeps the mat’s weight close to your center of gravity. Vertical mounting prevents the mat from bumping into doorways or people on crowded public transit.
- Roll your mat as tightly and evenly as possible.
- Open the side compression straps on one side of your backpack.
- Slide the mat through the loops of the straps.
- If your bag has a side mesh pocket, place the bottom end of the rolled mat into the pocket for extra stability.
- Tighten the compression straps until the mat does not move when you wiggle the bag.
The Horizontal Top Mount
If your backpack has a "brain" or a lid (common in hiking packs), you can secure the mat horizontally across the top. Horizontal carrying provides a balanced feel but makes your profile wider, which can be tricky in tight spaces.
- Lay the rolled mat across the top of the main compartment opening.
- Pull the lid over the mat.
- Buckle the lid straps and tighten them until the mat is pinched between the lid and the main body of the bag.
Creating a DIY Carrier with Yoga Straps
If your favorite backpack is a simple design without exterior straps, you can use a prop you likely already own: a yoga strap. A 6-foot or 8-foot cotton strap with a D-ring or cinch buckle is an incredibly versatile tool for transport. We have been making these since 1986, and they remain one of the most practical accessories in a practitioner's kit. Explore the yoga straps collection to compare available lengths and buckle styles.
The Double Lasso Method
This method creates two loops that hold the mat ends while the middle of the strap acts as an attachment point to your bag.
- Create a loop at each end of your yoga strap using the D-rings.
- Slide each end of the rolled mat into these loops.
- Tighten the loops so the mat is held securely.
- Take the remaining length of the strap (the part between the two loops) and thread it through the top carry handle of your backpack.
- The mat will hang horizontally against the back of the bag.
Note: To prevent the mat from swinging while you walk, you can use a small carabiner to clip the middle of the strap to a lower point on the backpack.
Comparison of Attachment Methods
| Method | Orientation | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compression Straps | Vertical | Heavier mats | Very stable; keeps weight close to body. | Can make the bag feel lopsided if only using one side. |
| Top Lid Mount | Horizontal | Large hiking packs | Excellent balance; easy access. | Increases width; can hit doorframes. |
| Yoga Strap Lasso | Horizontal | Simple backpacks | Uses existing gear; very adjustable. | Mat may swing if not anchored at the bottom. |
| Bungee Cords | Variable | Lightweight mats | Quick to attach and remove. | Less secure for heavy or slippery mats. |
Utilizing Daisy Chains and Carabiners
Many modern backpacks feature "daisy chains," which are strips of webbing sewn in intervals to create small loops. These are perfect for custom mounting. Using carabiners in conjunction with these loops allows you to create a secure cradle for your mat.
- Clip two large carabiners to the daisy chain at the same height, spaced about 6–8 inches apart.
- Slide your rolled mat through the carabiners.
- If the mat is loose, wrap a small bungee cord around the mat and clip it to the loops to pull it tight against the bag.
Ergonomics and Weight Distribution
How you strap your mat to your backpack significantly affects your posture and comfort. Poor weight distribution can lead to shoulder strain or lower back pain over time. When a mat is hanging too far away from your back, it creates a lever effect, pulling your shoulders backward and forcing your core to overcompensate.
The goal is to keep the mat as close to the frame of the backpack as possible. If you are mounting it vertically on the side, try to balance the weight by placing a heavy water bottle in the opposite side pocket. If you are mounting it horizontally, ensure it is centered so the bag does not tilt to one side.
Key Takeaway: Always prioritize vertical mounting when possible to keep your center of gravity stable and your profile narrow for easier movement through crowds.
Protecting Your Mat During Transport
Strapping a mat to the outside of a bag exposes it to the elements. Dust, rain, and UV rays can degrade the materials over time. Natural rubber mats, like our Para Rubber Yoga Mat, are particularly sensitive to direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Using a Simple Wrap
If you are worried about the mat getting dirty but do not want to carry a full mat bag, consider a "mat wrap." This is a simple sleeve of fabric that covers the rolled mat before you strap it to your backpack. You can also use a large, thin towel or a specific mat cover to provide a barrier against the sun and grime.
Tightness and Creasing
Be careful not to over-tighten your straps. While the mat needs to be secure, excessive pressure from thin compression straps can leave permanent indentations or "grooves" in softer foam mats. If you find your straps are digging in, you can place a small piece of cardboard or a folded hand towel between the strap and the mat to distribute the pressure.
Choosing the Right Mat for Commuting
If you find that your current mat is simply too bulky or heavy to strap to your bag comfortably, you might consider a travel-specific option. At Hugger Mugger, we offer several mats designed with portability in mind. Our Yoga Mat Guide can also help you compare thickness, weight, and materials.
- Tapas® Original: This is our flagship mat. It is lightweight and rolls up very tightly, making it the perfect candidate for side compression straps on a standard backpack.
- Tapas® ECO: If you are looking for an environmentally conscious choice, this mat is OEKO-TEX® certified and made from 50% recycled materials. It provides a great balance of grip and portability.
- Nature Collection Ultra: For those who prefer a more natural feel but still need durability, this collection offers a slightly more cushioned experience that still fits well on the exterior of a bag.
Myth: You need a dedicated yoga backpack to carry a mat comfortably. Fact: Most standard backpacks can be adapted with a $15 yoga strap or a set of compression straps, saving you the expense of a specialized bag.
Step-by-Step: The "Shoulder Strap" Hack
If your backpack is completely smooth with no loops or straps, you can use the shoulder straps themselves. This works best with mats that have a slightly "sticky" or high-traction surface.
- Step 1: Loosen the backpack straps. Pull the adjustment webbing so the shoulder straps are quite loose.
- Step 2: Place the mat. Slide the rolled mat horizontally between your back and the backpack, resting it right above where the shoulder straps meet the bottom of the bag.
- Step 3: Tighten. Pull the backpack straps tight. This will pinch the mat between the bag and your lower back.
- Step 4: Check for comfort. Ensure the mat is not pressing into your spine uncomfortably. This method is best for short walks from a parking lot to the studio.
Caring for Your Gear on the Go
Traveling with your mat means it will pick up more debris than it would in a home practice. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the grip and hygiene of your mat. For more detailed maintenance advice, see our Care & Cleaning Tips for Yoga Mats.
- Wipe it down after every trip: Even if you didn't practice, the exterior of the mat has been exposed to the environment. Use a gentle mat wash or a damp cloth.
- Dry before storage: If you strapped your mat to your bag in the rain, unroll it as soon as you get home. Never leave a damp mat rolled up, as this can lead to odors or material breakdown.
- Rotate your roll: Occasionally roll your mat from the opposite end. This helps prevent the ends from curling permanently and ensures even wear if you are consistently strapping it to a bag in the same orientation.
The Role of Sandbags and Other Props
While this guide focuses on mats, many practitioners also carry props like blocks or sandbags. Carrying these inside the backpack while the mat is on the outside is the most efficient setup. Place heavy items like sandbags at the bottom of the main compartment, close to your back. This lowers the center of gravity and makes the external mat feel less cumbersome.
If you are using foam blocks, they are light enough to be clipped to the outside of the bag using the same daisy chains you might use for your mat. Cork blocks, however, should always stay inside the bag due to their weight and the risk of chipping if they hit a hard surface. For help choosing and organizing props, explore the Yoga Prop Guide.
Practical Scenarios for Mat Attachment
The Urban Commuter
If you are taking the subway or a bus, your primary concern is width. You do not want to be "the person with the giant horizontal pole" hitting other passengers. Vertical side-mounting is the only recommended method for public transit. If your bag is small, try to find a mat that is 3mm thick rather than 6mm to keep the roll diameter small.
The Bike Rider
Cyclists need to ensure that the mat does not interfere with the rear wheel or their ability to look over their shoulder. A horizontal mount on the lower back (using the "Shoulder Strap Hack" mentioned earlier) or a vertical mount that doesn't stick up too high above the head is best. Avoid any dangling straps that could get caught in the chain or spokes.
The Hiker or Traveler
For those taking their practice into nature, the top lid mount is often best. This leaves the side pockets free for water bottles and ensures the mat is high enough that it won't snag on brush or rocks as you walk. Using a durable mat like our Nature Collection helps because it can handle the occasional scrape against the outdoors better than a very soft, open-cell foam mat.
Bottom line: The best way to carry your mat depends on your environment—vertical for crowds, horizontal for balance, and always secured tightly to avoid strain.
Conclusion
Carrying your mat should never be a barrier to getting to class. Whether you use the compression straps already on your pack or repurpose a cotton yoga strap to create a custom carrying system, the key is stability and balance. We have seen yoga evolve over the decades, and while the gear has become more sophisticated, the most effective solutions are often the simplest ones. By keeping your mat secure and close to your body, you protect your investment and arrive at your practice feeling grounded rather than frazzled.
Our goal at Hugger Mugger has always been to provide the tools that support your journey, from the first time you unroll a mat to your thousandth Sun Salutation. If you are still unsure which mat or prop is right for your commute, we encourage you to explore our Yoga Mat Guide or our detailed Prop Guide to find your perfect match.
FAQ
Will strapping my mat to my backpack ruin the material?
If you use thin straps and pull them very tight, they can leave temporary or permanent indentations, especially on soft foam mats. To prevent this, use wider straps or place a small piece of cloth between the strap and the mat to distribute the pressure.
How do I stop my yoga mat from sliding out of the straps?
The best way to prevent sliding is to ensure the mat is rolled tightly and that the straps are cinched down firmly. If the mat is particularly "slick," you can wrap a rubber band or a small piece of non-slip shelf liner around the mat where the straps meet it to create extra friction.
Can I carry a heavy rubber mat on a standard school backpack?
It is possible, but you must be careful about weight distribution. Heavy natural rubber mats can pull the backpack away from your body; ensure you use both shoulder straps and, if available, a chest strap (sternum strap) to help distribute the weight across your torso.
Is it better to carry a yoga mat vertically or horizontally?
Vertical carrying is generally better for ergonomics and moving through narrow spaces like doors or public transit. Horizontal carrying is usually more comfortable on large hiking packs where the mat can be centered across the top or bottom to maintain perfect balance.
