We bought these to hold up the awning flap of our tent. Although they aren’t attached to each other by wire or an elasticated cord like many tent poles are these days, we found the fact that they are separate worked out better for us. We were able to use them at a shorter height (one segment less) as extra side poles for our tarp. You wouldn’t take them hiking if you’re trying to do lightweight trekking and camping but if you’re packing out the car anyway, these are a good addition.