Camping has long been an adventure that almost always includes a tent and heavy materials. But for the adventurers that like to backpack, carrying a tent simply isn’t ideal. One great way people have learned to combat heavy loads and backpacks is by using a simple hammock to camp with instead.
If you’ve ever considered hammock camping, there are some basic tips that you can use to be sure you enjoy the experience. Check out these ideas!
Why Try Hammock Camping?
If you’re one of those people that simply can’t imagine camping without a tent, we get it. But using a hammock can sometimes be so much easier and it’s actually a truly great experience. You will need to head out prepared for the adventure but it’s well worth it!
What is it that makes people want to sleep in a hammock, rather than the protection of a tent? Well, you’re closer to nature, your gear is lighter, and you might actually be more comfortable once you get the hang of it.
Think about it like this. Inside of a tent, you can get hot and stuffy. You also can’t see anything around you. A hammock will still protect you from most of nature but it allows the air to move around you. You get a natural breeze and you won’t regret sleeping under the stars.
As long as there are trees around you to connect your hammock too, you can sleep off the ground. No worries about rocks or hard dirt that are going to leave you with an achy back in the morning. You can even add a mosquito net or rainfly to help keep pests and moisture out.
Tips for Successful Hammock Camping
Before you head out with your hammock and your backpack, these tips will help you not only be prepared but also enjoy the adventure.
Don’t Forget the Sleeping Bag
First things first. It can sometimes get chilly when you’re outside at night so come prepared with a warm hammock sleeping bag. They do make bags that are designed for hammock but anything light weight and flexible will do as well.
You won’t have to worry so much about comfort but you certainly need to be able to keep yourself warm if the temperatures dip low at nighttime. You can be sure your sleeping bag is appropriate by checking the temperature mediations of the bag. We put together a list of our top sleeping bags for camping
In addition, you might also want to consider a camping pad or mattress. If the temps will be getting quite cold, these can help add some warmth, and maybe some comfort, to your hammock for the night. This is how to hammock camp in cold weather and still stay warm and cozy.
Set it Up Right
Next, you need to know how to set up your hammock for a pleasant experience. There are certain ways to prepare it for the coziest sleeping experience. First of all, be familiar with the details. Will you be using a 2 person camping hammock and do you know how much weight can hammocks hold?
Be sure that you are traveling with an appropriate hammock for your needs on this trip. Understand the limitations. For the best setup, here are some simple ideas.
- Try laying diagonally in the hammock for the best comfort, it actually was the original intention of a hammock. This works exceptionally well in a parachute hammock.
- When you hang the hammock, let it sag a bit, rather than making it stiff and tight. You need some give to be able to get cozy.
- Try making the foot end of your hammock slightly higher so you don’t just roll to the middle. About 8-10 inches higher will be sufficient.
- Hang your camping hammock safely and avoid extreme heights, stacking hammocks, or over water setups.
- Keep sharp objects and any food well away from your hammock for added security and safety
As you set up the hammock, these minor adjustments will make a big difference. Check this detailed article by REI on how to set up and hang your hammock.
Protect Yourself with Hammock Camping Accessories
There are some basic things that you can bring along to add some protection and comfort to your sleep. For example, if there is rain or moisture, you don’t want to end up wet. You also don’t want to have to worry about mosquitoes or other pests joining you in the hammock.
We use a bug net or mosquito net. You can even find hammocks that come with these nets. This is a great way to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other bugs that might pester you or even bit or sting while you’re sleeping. We have used the The Gymolo Camping Hammock with a Net Tent and Rain Fly and the more popular Fininer Camping Hammock. You can also, purchase these accessories separately for a hammock and they work well.
To keep dry, there are tarps and rain covers that you can purchase. We love the heavy duty water proof tarp by Green Lifestyle. In addition, the tarp comes with reinforced grommets and has a UV proof feature that provides protection from the heat and sun. To keep dry from mist, fog, or dew, you can simply use a drip line to help stop the water before it gets to your hammock.
How to Hammock Camp Without Trees
In most cases, our hammocks will be attached to trees using rope and carabiners. However, there may be times you don’t have trees around you that will work. Try to plan ahead or always be prepared with a portable hammock stand for camping. We pack the PNAEUT Double Hammock when we are headed to a campsite that does not have trees a good example would be beach camping
These stands are designed to pack up small so that when you get to your campsite, you can attach the hammock to the stand instead of the trees. Trees really do wo rk best and they offer some order of shade and protection. However, having a portable stand can be a huge help in some scenarios.
Conclusion
Hammock camping can be exciting and enjoyable if you know how to make the most of it. Following these basic tips will go a long way to ensure you enjoy your experience. Let the adventurer in you simply soak it in.
You will have the best view of the stars and be able to plug into the natural world around you. Where do you plan to go camping first?
