How to Tie a Pack on a Horse

Riding a horse for extended periods of time can be difficult without a pack or saddle bag. These packs let you carry items, such as water, phones and snacks. By adding a saddle bag to your horse you can avoid carrying a heavy bag on your back or awkwardly carrying it in your hands as you ride. Tying it to your horse is a relatively simple process that most riders should be able to pull off easily. Make sure you pack a load light enough so that it doesn't burden your horse excessively.

Things You'll Need

  • Pack
  • Supplies
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pack your saddle bag with what you want to carry on the trip. Limit it to a few water bottles, an ice pack, a few snacks like granola bars and a cell phone or two. Zip close your bags to keep your supplies in place while you tie your pack.

    • 2

      Throw your saddle bag on top of your saddle so both sides of the pack hang down along the horse's body. Adjust it until it sits on the horse with the bags level to the top of the saddle.

    • 3

      Find the D rins on the sides of your saddle. These are small metal rings used to attach accessories to the saddle, such as a pack. Some saddles have one on the left side while others have one on each side.

    • 4

      Run your pack attachment string through the D rings and pull it underneath your horse's belly. Attach the ends of the string in whatever way your pack was designed to be attached. For example, some are simply tied while others have a plastic snap.

    • 5

      Get on your horse to see how comfortable the saddle is with the bag. You shouldn't feel the straps of the bag if it is attached properly. Adjust it if you can feel the straps or if it is uncomfortable. Remove it by untying it at the bottom and pulling it off the saddle.