There are so many creative uses for bungee cords around the home, outdoors, and in other personal projects. However, for hobbies such as sailing, kayaking, and various other outdoor activities, you may need to learn how to tie knots in your bungee cords. 

However,it’s important to know that typical knots that are often used for ropes and other cords may not work in bungee cords, due to both their elasticity and resistance. That said though, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still use a variety of knots and techniques with your bungee cords. 

Keep reading as we share our expert advice on the best knots to use with bungee cords, and provide detailed steps on how to tie them.

Zeppelin bend

A zeppelin bend, also known as the Rosendahl bend, is used to join two ropes or cords together end-to-end. It consists of two symmetrical overhand knots that join together, used to create a loop of bungee cord (like a large rubber band) or to tie together a rope and a bungee cord. The zeppelin bend is very stable and resistant to the risk of jamming, which is a common concern in bungee cord tying. This is often the preferred bungee cord knot, if you plan on untying the knot.

How to tie a zeppelin bend:

1. Start with two overhand loops next to each other. The left side should look like a 6 and the right side should look like a 9.
2. Slide the loop with the end of the cord facing down (the one that looks like a 9) underneath the other loop (the one that looks like a 6). You should then have one working end of rope on the top and one on the bottom.
3. Take the top working end of the bungee cord and pull it through both loops from underneath.
4. Now, take the other bungee cord and bring its working end through both loops from the top.
5. You should now be left with two interwoven half-hitches.
6. Finally, pull the knot tight. If done correctly, both working ends will be sticking straight out from the knot and both bungee cords will be securely connected.

Angler’s loop

The angler’s loop, also known as the perfection loop, –  is a knot that creates a fixed loop in a single bungee cord. It holds incredibly well in bungee cords, however it can be prone to jamming badly. This knot is best avoided if it will need to be untied later, but is the ideal choice for making a permanent, strong loop in your bungee cord that will limit the risk of the knot becoming undone.

How to tie an angler’s loop:

1. Start with an underhand loop, with the working end pointing down underneath the bungee cord.

2. Take the working end and cross it up, over the standing part of the bungee cord, then down again to make an underhand loop underneath the standing part.

3. Bring the working end up over the intersection of the two loops and hold it there securely. 

4. Pull the left loop over the top of the working end of the bungee cord, and then under and through the right hand loop.

5. As you pull the left loop through the right one, the knot will begin to tighten. Pull tightly until your loop is secure, and does not risk coming undone.

Double fisherman’s bend 

The double fisherman’s bend, also known as the double fisherman’s knot, is a secure and reliable knot often used in climbing and fishing, to join two bungee cords, two ropes, or a bungee cord and rope together. It’s most effective for joining cords of equal or similar diameter, and is known for its strength and reliability – making it the ideal choice for use when safety and security are paramount. However, the fisherman’s bend can risk jamming, so do not use it if you plan to undo the knot. 

How to tie a double fisherman’s bend:

1. Place the ends of the two bungee cords next to each other, running in opposite directions.
2. Take the working end of the first bungee cords and wrap it twice around the standing part of the second. Pass the working end back through the loops created, and pull tightly to form the first half of the knot.
3. Then, take the working end of the second bungee cord and wrap it twice around the standing part of the first. Pass the working end back through the loops created, and pull tightly to form the second half of the knot.
4. Finally, pull both standing parts from each of the bungee cords in opposite directions to tighten the knots against each other. Pull until the cords feel securely connected, and do not risk separating. 

Square knot 

The square knot, also known as the reef knot, is a simple and commonly used knot for joining two ends of bungee cords, or two separate bungee cords, together. This knot is found most useful for situations where a secure but easy-to-untie knot is needed – resisting the risk of jamming – but can be found to slip under tension, and so may not be suitable for heavy loads.

How to tie a square knot:

1. Hold one end of your bungee cord (or bungee cords) within each hand.
2. Cross the right end of the bungee cord over the left end, and securely tuck it under.
3. Now, cross the left end of the bungee cord over the right end, and securely tuck the end under.
4. Finally, pull both ends of the bungee cord to tighten the knot. Pull tightly until you are happy with the tension in the knot, and both ends are securely tied together. 

Bungee cord accessories

You may only need to use bungee cord knots in very specific circumstances – most of the time, they can be used as they are. If you’re looking to use bungee cords for securing loads or tying things down, then there are a variety of bungee accessories that can be used alongside or in place of knots. 

With bungee accessories, you can DIY a bungee cord to fit any of your needs. For example, if you don’t have any bungee straps to hand but need a strong hook to secure your cord, these can be purchased separately and attached to a bungee cord. You can then use hog rings and hog ring pliers to crimp the bungee cord, which secures the hook onto the end. 

Take a look at some of the exciting ideas and useful helpful guides on our blog, to learn everything there is to know about bungee cords and their uses. For custom bungee cord orders or to gain real-time expert advice, contact our team today!