Best Camping Hammock Guide – Are you in the market for a hammock for your next camping trip? If yes, then surely you’ve noticed that there is more than one type to choose from.
And suddenly, you realize that choosing the best one can be a little bit difficult as there are plenty of things to consider when buying one. Obviously, you’d want the one that best suits your needs and requirements.
You’d also want it to be comfortable and sturdy enough to withstand the elements. But there’s more to consider than comfort and safety when it comes to buying the best camping hammock.
Best Camping Hammock Guide
What to Consider When Choosing a Hammock for Camping
When buying a hammock, it’s essential to consider these following factors:
Hammock Size for Camping
Hammocks usually come in sizes based on its capacity, whether that’s single or double. Here are some tips for choosing the right hammock size:
Single Hammocks
This type usually has a width of 4 to 5 feet, and a weight limit of up to 400 lbs. Also, some ultralight models have a 250-lb limit, which is perfect for those looking for something lightweight.
If you don’t need the extra space and if you’re looking for a lightweight option, then a single capacity backpacking hammock will be your best choice. However, the trade-off here will be a less comfortable sleeping experience and less space for extra gear.
Double Hammocks
This type usually has a width of 5 to 6 feet, and a weight limit of up to 500 pounds. Double capacity hammocks are best for those looking for a spacious lounging and a more comfortable sleeping experience.
If you want to have more legroom, extra space for camping gear, and an option to share your hammock with another person, you should definitely consider getting a larger double capacity one.
Hammock Length
A single or double hammock typically ranges from 6 to 7 feet in length. Unless you’re an extraordinarily tall person, there will be no need to worry about this measurement.
Nonetheless, a good rule of thumb when it comes to sizing a hammock is to make sure that it’s at least 2 feet longer than your height. This ensures that you’ll have ample leg space for added comfort.
Hammock Fabric
Different hammocks use different fabric materials. However, when it comes to the best ones, they usually use heavy-duty fabrics that have high denier numbers—the unit of measurement that expresses fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments in fabric materials—such as nylon quilted fabric.
Generally, the high-denier fabric will wear out longer than a low-denier fabric, especially when used in rough conditions.
Hammock Accessories
Various hammock camping accessories can be used to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some you should consider:
Suspension System or Support Straps
This accessory is utilized to tie and secure your hammock between two anchor points. Some hammocks have built-in suspension systems, while others need to be attached and secured with each use. You should also be aware of whether or not the one you’re buying comes with support straps.
If it doesn’t have one, make sure to buy a strap that’s at least 0.75 inches wide to avoid it from digging and damaging trees.
Rainfly
This is somewhat a necessity when it comes to camping accessories. Rainfly or rain tarps hang above your hammock and utilizes guylines to maintain a taut pitch. It will keep the rain outside your hammock, keeping you dry and warm all day and night.
Under Quilt
An under quilt accessory is designed to fit comfortably in your hammock to improve insulation, especially at night. For example, if you’re sleeping with cold air wrapping around the bottom of your hammock without an under quilt, even a slight gust of wind would feel icy cold.
Bug Net
A mosquito netting is another accessory that you should always have in your camping trips. It is specifically designed to keep annoying critters such as mosquitoes from sneaking inside your hammock. Be sure to get one that has no-see-um netting to keep those tiny insects and pests from away from you.
Additionally, you can also get a bug net that offers 360 protection for added safety.
Top Quilt
This camping accessory is an extremely portable and lightweight quilt that can be used for additional comfort and warmth. Most campers prefer using top quilts rather than mummy bags because it’s more comfortable and easier to use in confined spaces.
Bivvy Sac
Something to consider for camping with a hammock is a tactical bivvy. This is an emergency lightweight reusable sleeping bag that is critical in a survival situation. It works to keep the internal body temperature stable at 98.6 degrees.
Tact Bivvy 2.0 by Frog & Co. is a nice one that measures 84″ x 36″ — fitting someone up to 7 feet tall. You can use this lightweight sleeping bag on its own or as a sleeping bag liner (also called a sleeping sack liner) in your regular sleeping bag.
This bivvy is windproof and also waterproof to keep you warm and dry. In addition, it uses a technology which prevents the body from losing heat to a cold surface.
It packs small so it’s easy to keep with your hiking, camping, and backpacking gear. It is essential for survival situations and also for cold temperatures. Many people keep tact bivvys with their emergency preparedness kits and their bug out bags.
Sleeping Pad
This accessory is for those car campers who are not concerned about additional weight and are more interested in providing themselves with additional comfort and better insulation. Sleeping pads are specifically designed to fit securely inside a hammock without sliding or slipping around.
Useful Items for a Great Sleep in a Hammock
These items are not necessary, but they can be beneficial in most circumstances. Here are some essential things to have:
Extra Carabiners for Hammock
Although most hammock suspension systems have Carabiners, it’s always a good idea to have a few extra ones in case of emergencies. Extra Carabiners can also be used to attach additional gear to your hammock or your backpack.
Extra Guylines
Guylines are often an overlooked item in camping hammocks. However, keep in mind that they are essential in pitching tarps and other shelters.
Stakes
Having a set of camping stakes will allow you to quickly set up a rainfly, tarp, or other shelters. You can also use them to prevent your hammock from swaying too much when running into strong winds.
Paracord
There can be many ways to use a paracord in a camping setting. You can use it to safely and efficiently suspend your hammock in a pinch.
Getting the Best Hammock for Camping
When it comes to buying camping hammocks, quality is essential. Getting yourself a high-quality hammock is not only important for durability, value, and comfort, but also for safety. When looking for your next camping hammock, make sure to consider the things listed above and do your research before buying one.
Keep in mind that finding the right hammock is essential in ensuring a fun and exciting camping experience.
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