5 Ridiculously Handy Knots for Camping

Last Updated: 10 September, 2022

The Knots for Camping that Every Backpacker Should Know

Travelling New Zealand on a budget often means learning a few practical skills along the way. One of those essential skills that will particularly help you when camping or doing multi-day hikes is knowing how to tie a few different knots! Tying knots for camping is especially useful for securing tents, hanging up clotheslines, hanging tarps and may even come in handy during rescue situations.

Whether you are travelling New Zealand by campervan, saving on the cents by sleeping in a tent, or going on multi-day hikes, these are the camping knots that every backpacker should know. What’s more, they are relatively easy to learn and easy to figure out from the images provided. You’re welcome!

Learn more about camping in New Zealand in the 11 Golden Rules of Camping in New Zealand and What is the Difference Between a Campsite and a Holiday Park?

1. The Bowline Knot

It’s strong, it’s simple and it works for most situations, so why not start with learning the bowline knot? It’s particularly handy if you want to put up a hammock or solar shower, for instance. Otherwise, it’s a great one to know for rescue situations as it can be done with one hand.

2. Taut Line Hitch Knot

If you’re camping a lot, this is an essential knot to know! You can adjust the line tension with a taut line knot which is ideal for guy lines on tents or tarps, for instance. We also like to use it to string up a temporary washing line between two objects.

3. The Girth Hitch / The Cow Hitch

Don’t know this knot already? Where have you been?! The cow hitch is probably the easiest knot out there. Not only that, but it’s one of the strongest as you would have to break the rope to break this knot. The uses for the cow knot are endless, as you can hang it from just about anything.

4. Sheet Bend Knot

Need to make a longer rope? Tie two ropes together using the sheet bend knot, even if they are different sizes.

5. Square Knot / Reef Knot

Another knot for binding things or joining two ropes together, the square knot is perhaps a less reliable knot than the sheet bend knot. Nevertheless, it’s an easy one to learn and makes a tidy knot for tying objects down. However, it should not be used during emergency situations.

More About Backpacking and Camping in New Zealand

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Don Benny V. & DOC

This article was supplied by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and reviewed and published by Don Benny.

The DOC is the government agency charged with conserving New Zealand’s natural and historic heritage.

Don is a seasoned travel editor with a deep passion for exploring New Zealand, Asia and the Pacific. Having explored much of New Zealand’s North Island first-hand, from the cultural heart of Rotorua to the wine country of Wairarapa and the capital charm of Wellington, he brings local insight and a traveller’s eye to every piece he writes. Don Benny’s travel advice is shaped by real experiences, and he loves helping visitors uncover both iconic highlights and hidden gems throughout Aotearoa.

About Don About Our Team