I have 2 alpha hang ons and use the hooks when setting them in the tree. It allows you to essentially rest the treestand on the tree, keep your hands free to make the necessary adjustments to get the treestand properly set and safely. Just consider the hook and third hand. The hooks are useful and I would highly recommend using them.
The treestands themselves are designed to be used in a straight or somewhat crooked tree. Of course straight would be optimal but I have used them in a stand that normally wouldn't work with a climber style stand.
I pack my stand with the "V" up. If you fall backwards or slip packing it in and the "V" is down, you are more likely hurt yourself if you jab it against your leg. Your preference though. I pack my climbing sticks on the stand as designed and I have a motorcycle net that I use to help secure the sticks. The net is handing when packing additional clothing and other items in. I bought the nets at Wal-Mart. They have 6 hooks and are inexpensive.
Good luck with the stand. You will enjoy it.