Hammock camping is a great lightweight alternative to carrying a tent while out backpacking or camping. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you invest the money in the gear or set out on your trip with only your hammock.
Photo: Lea Hart
What is "Hammock Camping"?
Hammock camping means that you have swapped out a standard tent for a hammock! Many hikers, backpackers, bikers, and outdoor connoisseurs use hammocks to lounge in, but with the right accessories, they can be used in place of a tent. This option can be a lightweight swap and give your back a break from the hard ground.
Tent VS Hammock
My Preference
I prefer camping in a tent. I feel more secure and protected from the elements. This is personal preference of course! I am on a tight gear budget and I decided to invest in the tent option. I typically adventure out in the wild with others, so I like the tent option because the weight of the gear can be split across two packs.
The Pros and Cons of Hammock Camping
Pros:
Hammocks can alleviate back pain.
Since you are off the ground, they can be much comfortable than lying on the ground.
With the right accessories, they can provide the same amount of protection as a tent.
They can be a lightweight option (however, with the widespread use of Dyneema Composite Fabric this has changed).
You're off the ground so no critters can enter your tent.
Cons:
Your gear will have to sit on the ground (as well, as any pet you may bring).
Lack of privacy (can you change your clothes in your hammock while suspended?).
You're reliant on trees and campsite that allow you to hang hammocks.
Only one person can sleep in the hammock.
You may spend more on gear if you already have a tent.
The essentials for hammock camping
Before you go camping overnight with a hammock you need to be sure to run through each of these points in your head! This is specific to camping and sleeping in a hammock, not to be confused with lounging in a hammock for funsies!
PSA: I am not an expert in hammock camping and don't hammock camp often anymore! Please go to the resources that I linked throughout this post.
No matter the season, you will need a hammock, hammock straps, a bug net, a tarp, an underbelly quilt, a sleeping bag/quilt/or liner, and a sleeping pad.
Summer
If you are hammock camping in the summer, the need for a sleeping bag is probably low, but you might want a down quilt or a sleeping bag liner to keep you warm in case of drops in temperature at night. However, you will want a bug net to keep those pesky out of your sleeping environment! You will also want to bring a tarp to hang over your hammock in case of rain.
In high school, when I used to sleep in my hammock (even in the summer), I would wake up freezing because the dew would soak into my clothes in the morning, making my core body temp drop below comfortable.
Spring/Fall
Depending on where you live, these seasons are typically the most comfortable for any type of outdoor adventuring, so you'll most likely need to pack the same type of gear!
For Spring and Fall, you will most likely want a 60 to 40 degree rated sleeping bag or quilt. This will make sure you are warm and toasty all night long (of that's what you prefer)!
Winter
Due to where I live, I tend to shy away from much outdoor adventuring in the winter months. However, if that's not you then make sure you are well prepared for the wintery conditions ahead for you. Check the weather and make sure you have a sleeping bag that is degree rated safely under the predicted low! You don't want to wake up freezing!
Top Product Recommendations
I would suggest Kammock Roo's over the popular ENO brand, but that's not to say that I oppose ENO. Kammock is committed to sustainability and I have personally interacted with the CEO and will endlessly recommend their brand! They have a ton of fun colored hammocks to choose from!
Price (Roo Single): $62.10
Weight: 10.2 oz
Photo: Kammock.com
If I were to purchase straps, I would suggest Kammock. Kammocks Python 10' straps are designed to be tree-friendly. Their statement is that "the variable width design offsets the pressure placed on trees by widening at the end of each strap. The hammock strap's secure suspension keeps them from slipping and rubbing the bark unnecessarily". Do right by the trees! :)
Price: $26.10
Weight: 8.2 oz
Photos: Kammock.com
For bug nets, make sure you buy a net that is compatible with your hammock. So, following my recent recommendations, I would recommend the Dragonfly bug net by Kammock.
Price: $79.00
Weight: 9.8 oz
Photos: Kammock.com
Hammock Tarps
Kammock and ENO have great versatile tarps that can be used for multiple purposes. The Kammock Kuhli is a great option if you can splurge. The budget option would be the ENO ProFly Hammock Rain Tarp.
Price (Kuhli tarp): $169.00
Weight: 20.5 oz
Photo: Kammock.com