Have you ever considered giving hammock camping a try? This article will help you determine if it is right for you. We will weigh the advantages and disadvantages and offer a few hammock camping hacks to ensure you get the most out of your hammock.
The first thing that comes to mind when you think about camping is probably a tent. However, in recent years, a number of campers have stopped using tents and started using hammocks instead. Hammock camping is a growing trend among lightweight hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with the global hammock market project to grow from 291.6 million in 2016 to 651.7 million in 201, a nearly 45% increase.
What is hammock camping, and why is it so popular? Hammock camping is a style in which you sleep in a hammock suspended above the ground instead of in a tent or another type of shelter. Hammocks are much lighter than tents and are much easier to set up. Hammock camping offers you the convenience and speed of setup in addition to providing you with the comfort of sleeping near nature. Hammock camping has gained a following result of its appeal to backpackers, day hikers, and even campground campers.
Have you ever considered giving hammock camping a try? In this article, we will discuss whether or not it is suitable for you. We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hammock camping and offer some tips for choosing the right hammock and sleeping better.
The Advantages of Hammock Camping
Hammock camping enthusiasts swear by their hammocks as the best way to camp and sleep - some even prefer their hammock to their bed at home. Here are some of the reasons why hammock camping is so popular:
1. It's Very Lightweight
Rather than using heavy tent poles and stakes, hammocks use only suspension straps and the hammock itself to produce a hammock. A hammock is a great alternative for backpackers who want to save weight in their packs or campers who want to travel light. If you are flying to your camping destination, a hammock will save a lot of space and weight in your luggage.
You can even take a hammock on a day hike because it is so lightweight. Enjoy the mountain views from your cozy hammock when you get to the top.
2. It's Very Easy to Set Up
It is possible to set up hammocks much more rapidly than with most tents. Once you locate your ideal camping spot, you only have to concern yourself with getting your hammock where you want it, and there are no tent poles or pounding stakes in the ground.
3. Hammock is Versatile
The versatility of hammocks made of nets above the ground is pretty incredible. You will not be forced to find a level spot on the ground to secure a hammock when backpacking. Hammocks can be hung over any type of ground and still provide a comfortable and enjoyable sleeping experience.
Hammocks can also be set up without clearing away any stones, twigs, or other debris. You don't have to prepare your camping site before pitching your hammock; this also allows faster setup and more time to relax by your campfire.
4. Comfortable
It is possible to properly sleep while lying in a hammock - simply by ensuring you are upright - This is one of the reasons these have become so popular with backpackers. Hammock camping allows you to lie comfortably on your back or your side, whereas tent camping requires you to erect your tent straight.
When the hammock isn't snoozing, it can also serve as a comfortable camping chair. Simply fold the front end of the hammock over itself, and you can sit on it like a regular chair. At night, your hammock is the perfect spot for reading and relaxing.
5. Can Keep You Stay Dry
Being suspended in the air and protected by your rainfly allows you to sleep comfortably in your hammock during a rainstorm without getting wet. When the ground is saturated, you can still hang in your hammock. Your rainfly will flow water away, and you will be free to come and go without it getting on your hammock.
6. Can Keep You Stay Cool
You will stay cool all night long when you camp in a breathable hammock in the warm weather, but make sure you cover your hammock when it is not used to let in the breeze and to allow for star gazing on clear nights.
There are Some Disadvantages to Hammock Camping
Despite the benefits of hammock camping, it also has some constraints. Here are some of the disadvantages of hammock camping:
1. Limited Space
Double hammocks are also available in single or twin sizes, meaning that they are only suitable for one or two persons at a time. They may also be pretty tight and uncomfortable for two persons unless they are close friends or a couple. There may be a lack of trees in an area, which may be difficult to secure a hammock spot for everyone.
There are some limitations to hammock camping in areas with trees, rocks, or other sturdy structures. To properly set up a hammock, you must have healthy trees that are not too close together or too far apart. One possibility is hammock camping in sparse forests, and virtually impossible in deserts, alpine zones, and other barren climates. On the other hand, hammock camping at traditional campsites may not be permitted if your campsite does not have sufficient trees. Hammock camping is also prohibited at some privately owned campgrounds.
2. No Pets Allowed
Although a hammock for camping with your dog may not accommodate your four-legged friend, some hammock owners share a double hammock with their dogs, regardless of whether or not the hammock accommodates both of them. This means that you will need to bring extra bedding for your pet, or else they will be left out in the cold.
If you camp with your vehicle nearby, hammocks are lightweight campers; this is not an issue.
3. Might Have Difficulty in Sleeping
While many people find hammock camping more convenient than tent camping, others are unable to adapt to sleeping suspended in the air. If you toss and turn a lot in your sleep or switch positions throughout the night, hammock camping might appear to be too restrictive and uncomfortable.
5. You Have Less Privacy
When you hammock camp, you are not privy to private space to change clothes or unwind. You must continue wearing your rainfly when in the campground's bathroom facilities.
6. It Can Be Cold
It can be pretty cold sleeping in a hammock in the fall or winter, especially if you are camping in a tent. However, if you sleep in a hammock in a tent, you are completely insulated on all sides by the ground and other sleeping gear. Because of this, you will lose more heat faster and need to warp up more to stay warm. Luckily, you can use a few strategies to stay warm, like using an underquilt and topquilt.
Do You Consider Hammock Camping to Be a Good Fit for You?
Hammock camping is a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but it may not be the right choice for you and your group. To determine whether hammock camping is a good fit for your next camping trip, you should consider these factors:
Before considering hammock camping at a particular campground, make sure it permits the practice. Some campgrounds prohibit hammock camping completely, while others may be open to it only in specific areas. Having the information ahead of time will save you from having to make a substitution when you get to the campground.
Have You Ever Thought About Trying Hammock Camping? How To Choose The Right Hammock For You
Before you decide to try hammock camping, you must first determine if it is a good fit for you. Take these tips to assist you in finding the right hammock and other hammock camping necessities for your next visit:
1. Purchasing a Camping Hammock
Look for a high-quality hammock that is specifically designed for camping when shopping for a hammock. Cheap string hammocks that are suitable for backyard use are not suitable for sleeping out in the woods. Design your camping hammock from sturdy and durable material rather than an inexpensive hammock that will wear out more quickly.
2. It's Important To Choose THE RIGHT SIZE
You can choose a hammock with a weight rating that is higher than your actual weight if you are of a different height and weight and want to enjoy a hammock. If you are looking for a double hammock, multiply your weight by your partner's weight, or add your weight to theirs. Most nylon camping hammocks are rated for 400 pounds, but some ultralight versions may be much lower.
For optimum functionality, make sure your hammock is at least two feet longer than your height. A hammock that is too short will cause your knees to hyper-extend while lying down flat, resulting in an uncomfortable experience.
The length of the hammock does not affect your comfort as much as its width. Single hammocks are usually four to five feet wide, and double hammocks are usually five to six feet wide. Some campers prefer to sleep in a double hammock for a little extra space, even if they are alone.
3. How Much Weight Does it Carry?
Be sure to take into consideration the weight of your hammock when planning for any backcountry excursions. If you are not planning to take your hammock on any trips, the weight of the hammock itself may not be critical. Opt for a hammock made of lightweight yet durable material if you want it to be light and ultra-portable. Hammock that can be packed into a small case for easy traveling and that doesn't have too much extra hardware or features is ideal.
4. You Can Also Buy a Rainfly or Tarp
A rain fly is a hammock camping essential if you want to keep out the weather. Some hammocks may come with a rain fly that is the correct size for that model. If you aren't looking for a rainfly, you can buy one or a tarp separately.
Cover your hammock with a rain fly that is large enough to protect it from rain, snow, and wind. The rain fly should extend past your head and toes and wrap loosely around your body to prevent rain from blowing into your hammock.
5. Get a Bug Net
A bug net is a hammock camping necessity in the spring and summer. Your hammock may include a bug net that connects to the top edges of the hammock. If your hammock doesn't already have a bug net, you can make one 360 degrees around your hammock to prevent bug bites in the morning.
6. Select Tree Straps that Are Wide Enough
Tree straps are made of one-inch wide webbing and are strong enough to support your hammock. A suspension system with many attachment points makes it simple to adjust how far apart the trees are at your campsite.
7. You Should Think About Additional Features
Hammock camping is easier and more comfortable with added hammock camping is easier and more comfortable with added gear pockets. You can keep your wallet, phone, and keys safe inside a small pocket integrated into the hammock. To keep yourself company while sleeping, you can place your wallet, phone, and keys in a safe location inside the hammock.
Setting up and packing your camping site is much simpler with a snakeskin cover. It secures at each end of a hammock around the suspension ropes using snakeskin sleeves. When you're packing up, simply unroll the snakeskin sleeves over your hammock and tie them together at the center. You won't have to roll or fold your hammock or worry about the straps getting tangled. To set up your hammock, simply affix it to your suspension system and slide the snakeskin covers back.
8. Try it Out First
Should you decide to go hammock camping for the first time, make sure you test out your hammock. Set it up in your backyard or at a nearby park. It should be the right size and feel comfortable to sleep in. If you are squeezed or smothered, exchange it for a different size model.
It is smart to check your hammock before heading out into the woods in order to ensure you know how to set it up once you arrive. You will be confident choosing the right trees to tie your suspension straps and even climb into the hammock with ease since you will know how to set it up from the beginning. If you can't sleep or aren't able to find adequate trees, you might want to bring along a tent. You can also use a backup option if you can't get enough trees.