Do you like camping but hate the idea of sleeping on wet ground in a tent or sleeping bag? Are you tired of the complicated setting-up process associated with tents and wish to have a simpler alternative? If your answer to any of these questions is in the affirmative, you should consider using a camping hammock.
Hammocks are extremely convenient and lightweight slings that you can set up just about anywhere. All you need are two trying posts which are found in plenty at camping sites. A hammock is essentially a sleeping pad that might include a stuff sack, bug net, comfortable padding, and much more.
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What to Consider While Buying the Best Camping Hammock – Buyer’s Guide
If you’re tired of the traditional sleeping options while you’re camping, you should try a camping hammock. They are convenient, clean, practical, easy to store, and easy to carry. However, when you’re new to the concept of camping hammocks, you will need some help through the purchasing process.
To make buying a hammock easy for you, we have formed this buyer’s guide. It would be best if you read through the guide carefully and consider all the suggesting things before investing in a good camping hammock.
1. Type of Camping Hammock
Much like any other product, every type of hammock serves a different purpose. Therefore, you need to consider your own requirements and choose the product that can serve the maximum utility pertaining to your needs.
- Hanging Hammock
Hanging hammocks are the most common types of hammocks. They are the ones that look like a piece of cloth tied on two ends. Both these ends can be tied to trees or anchors. When you want to sleep in a hammock, you will have to utilize some tips and tricks to not allow it to fall flat.
- Hammock Tent
Hammock tents are relatively new because for years hammocks were considered to be suspended beds bending in a banana shape. However, with the recent development, campers have figured out how to create flat hammock tents.
A hammock tent has a flat surface and has an integrated bug net along with many other features. It is essentially a tent that is suspended in the air. They are perfect for side sleeper or back sleeper people.
- Free-Standing Hammock
Even though free-standing hammocks come under the category of camping hammocks, we cannot recommend them for most campers. These hammocks include a stand along on which the hammock can be tied. Therefore, they can be placed just about anywhere you want, regardless of the presence of trees or anchors.
Free-standing hammocks’ materials can be made of either wood or metal. These hammocks are perfect to be installed in a backyard or in nearby camping spaces that do not require a lot of travelling ease.
- Backpacking Hammock
These hammocks are those that so so foldable and storable that they can fit in a backpack. Unlike tents, they are easy to take with you anywhere. You can use a backpacking hammock as a sleeping pad just about anywhere because it is to easy to transport and set up.
- Ultralight Hammock
The latest addition to camping hammocks is ultralight hammocks. These are the hammocks that are so small and lightweight that you might just forget their existence in your backpack.
Due to their ease of carrying around, they are slowly becoming the most popular. Moreover, the lighter the hammock, the easier it is to set up as well.
2. Size
You can find hammocks in just about any size and shape. The only qualifying factor for a hammock is its ability to hold sleepers in an elevated position while camping. However, there are two specific sizes of hammocks you can choose from.
- Single Hammocks
Single hammocks are not more than five feet wide. Only one person can sleep in a hammock made for single usage. Due to their small size, they are generally easier to carry because of their right construction. Therefore they are ideal for everyone to carry personally while tracking. They provide for a comfortable and spacial sleep for one person.
- Double Hammocks
Doule hammocks are the ones that can range up to the width if five to six feet. They arecapable of taking about 400 to 500 pounds weight and areperfect if you want either a large space for one person or decentspacefor two people. if you like to carry your camping equipment in ne bag, you will appreciate a double hammock since it will take less space than two single hammocks.
3. Weight
It is imperative for you to choose a hammock according to its weight. Choosing a hammock according to the weight might not seem to be too big a deal. However, when you travel for long periods and have to carry extensive treks, you will have to consider the weight. After all, the entire burden will be on your shoulder all the time.
Considering the weight is also important because the more the weight of the hammock, the more sturdy trees or spreader bars it will require to be hung. However, finding such sturdy mediums might not always be possible.
The only case in which using heavy hammocks could be possible is when you require a hammock that can easily accommodate very heavy weights or can be attached to multiple accessories such as a rain net and bug net for comfort.
4. Material
Looking at the materials a hammock is made of is very important. With the help of the right materials, a hammock can become more comfortable, sturdy, lightweight, or flexible according to your requirement.
Hammocks made of rope feature bars to separate the two sides and are perfect for easy support and access. They are great for warm and dry climates. However, they are prone to absorbing moisture and developing mildew.
Cotton hammocks are the softest camping hammocks you can buy. They are perfect for just about any weather. Meanwhile, polyester hammocks are incredibly durable and versatile. They are great for all weathers and allow you to sleep dry and warm.
5. Insulation
Everyone likes to camp in summer. However, you will be surprised at how many people attest to the convenience and beauty of winter camping. When you camp in the winter, you will require some warm sleeping mediums, and sleep pad insulation is one of those solutions.
You can check if a hammock comes with an integrated sleep pad insulating system. Otherwise, check if the hammock has an insulation pad addition possibility to help you get the warmest and most comfortable sleep possible on a hammock.
6. Suspension System
Most hammocks come with suspension straps to allow for an easy suspension system. They are perfect to allow you to suspend the hammock in just about any place. It is best to invest in a hammock that comes with additional tree straps so that you do not have to invest in a suspension system separately.
It is important for the suspension straps to be at least 0.75 inches wide. Otherwise, the straps might damage the tree’s bark.
7. Price
Camping hammocks are generally cost-efficient and allow you to enjoy a camping trip without spending a fortune. Most reputable brands come up with budget-friendly products. Therefore, even if you might not use a hammock many times, the cost will pay for itself in utility by only a few times’ usage.
Even if you want to invest in durable options, you can get them for less than $90, which seems to be a decent bargain for people who camp frequently.
8. Brands
When you buy something you’re trusting your sleep with, you need to invest in reputable brands. Most good brands produce hammocks with a great bug net, rain net, suspension straps, and many such features and are made of the highest grade materials.
Some of the most reputable brands you can buy a camping hammock from are Wise Owl, Kootek, ENO, Legacy, and Roman Ventures. Buying sleeping pads, bug nets, suspension systems, or entire camping hammocks from these brands can allow you to have peace of mind regarding product quality and safety.
9. Reviews
There is no better way to determine a product’s quality than by seeing what current users have to say about the product. Therefore, before investing in a hammock, we suggest you go through user reviews on Amazon or other online shopping websites. It is also through these reviews that you can figure out the right usage associated with these products.
The Best Camping Hammock – Product Reviews
As we mentioned in the buyer’s guide, before you invest in a hammock, it is best to know what others have to say about the product. In this section, let us have a look at the top products available in the market. So, without further ado, let’s get to the reviews!
1. Go Hammock 2.0
If you’re looking for a feature-packed comfortable and relaxing camping hammock, you will like the Go Hammock 2.0. This 11-inch hammock is built specifically for convenience and durability. The hammock is made from an exclusive fabric tension system, allowing it to hang for a long time at ease.
We like how lightweight and portable this camping hammock is. Its versatility too knows no foundations. You could both sleep and sit on this hammock without any issues.
The hammock comes with underquilt hooks, structural ridgeline, and premium carabiners. Setting up this hammock is also incredibly easy with its quick parachute-like fastening system.
Specifications
- Weight: 15oz
- Capacity: 400lbs with proper 30o suspension from the ground.
- Dimensions: 11 ft x 70 inches
Pros
- Versatile usage
- Durable option
- Comes at a decent price point
- Sturdy and premium suspension system.
- Comes with underquilt hooks.
Cons
- All required accessories are sold separately.
Customer Review
Go Hammock 2.0 users swear by the product’s quality. Even though the product is not the cheapest in the market, it is an affordable option for everyone who wishes to camp at any time of the year.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!2. Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock
The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock is one of the best backpacking hammocks you can invest in for yourself. It is affordable, versatile, and can be easily set up just about anywhere. Therefore, you do not have to use it just on camping trips but can also use it at home for your pets or dogs.
Even though the product comes at a low- to midrange-price, the quality offered is par with some of the premium camping hammocks.
One of the nicest things about this product is that it comes in many colours and sizes. You can choose compatibility with any of the accessories sold separately for an ultralight backpacking experience.
Specifications
- Weight: 24oz
- Capacity: 500lbs
- Dimensions: 9ft x 54 inches
Pros
- Made of heavy-duty materials for perfect durability
- Manufacturer offers 100% customer satisfaction gaurantee
- Compact and lightweight.
- Ideal for both kids and adults.
Cons
- Might not be wide enough for some heavyweight users.
Customer Review
Users of this hammock are perfectly happy with the comfort offered by the hammock. They like how easy the product is to set up, and how much it can enhance camping trips by saving users from moisture and dirt.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!3. Firiner Camping Hammock
If you’re looking for an affordable yet premium-quality net for your camping trips, you should consider the Firiner Camping Hammock. This product is perfect for heavyweight users who tend to handle their camping equipment roughly.
Made of thicker and tough materials, this hammock can take just about any weather condition at ease. The material is such that you can use the product as a mat, a chair, or sleeping accommodation.
The hammock is easy to carry because of its lightweight design. Therefore, you can carry it to the most difficult of hikes without issues.
Specifications
- Weight: 44oz
- Capacity: 440lbs
- Dimensions: 9.5ft x 55 inches
Pros
- Comes with a polyester rainfly and small bug net.
- Sturdy tress straps for easy suspension
- Made of comfortable and premium 210T taffeta nylon material.
- Easy to store and set up.
Cons
- The rain fly and bug net could be a bit bigger.
Customer Review
Customers specifically like how the Firiner Camping Hammock is packed with several accessories for maximum comfort. The product is durable and can take weather beating for long periods of time.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!4. Kootek Camping Hammock
If you’re looking for an affordable product without compromising on quality, you can choose the Kootek Camping Hammock. The product comes at such an affordable price that you will be pleasantly surprised by the quality.
The package includes tree-friendly straps for sturdy and environmentally-conscious hanging. Since the product doesn’t weigh too much, you can easily take it for frequent camping trips. This is one of the best backpacking hammocks out there.
Specifications
- Weight: 40 oz
- Capacity: 500 pounds
- Dimensions: 9ft x 78 inches
Pros
- Lare size
- available in single and double sizes
- Environment-friendly and adjustable tree straps
- Durable construction
- Extremely affordable price
Cons
- The strap might need replacing after a few months’ use.
Customer Review
Customers are exceedingly satisfied with the product quality along with the product’s affordability. Users say that the product can be used for months without issues with the exception of reinforcing the tree straps.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!5. Convacure Camping Hammock
The Convacure camping hammock is one fo the nicest yet most affordable products on this list. Made of high-quality tear-resisatnce, breathable, and water-resistant Nylon, this is one of the best products available in the market.
The product is an ultralight hammock perfect for complete shelter system provision. it comes with an in-built bug net that is permanently included on the product. Therefore, you will never have to worry about mosquitoes and other pests which on hammock camping trips.
Specifications
- Weight: 28 oz
- Capacity: 400lbs
- Dimensions: 8ft x 5inches
Pros
- Great size for versatile usage
- Ultralight backpacking camping hammock
- Comes with a bug net
- Made of sturdy Nylon
- Easy to set up with an excellent suspension system
Cons
- Better for kids than for adults
- Straps are small
Customer Review
Most users like how the works as a perfect shelter system because of advanced suspension systems and bug nets. Every professional hiker will undoubtedly suggest using this ultralight hammock for its extreme convenience.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!6. Etrol Hammock
The best hammock camping trips are the ones that do not require you carrying too much stuff. The Etrol hammoc is the perfect product for such trips since it comes with a 3-in-1 functionality feature. Not only can this product be used as a hammock tent, but also comes with a bug net and specialized color design to protect your head from extra sunlight.
Much like other hammock tents, the Etrol hammock is not too lightweight either. however, considering the safety and utility served by the product, it is a bust buy option. The Etrol hammock is also one of the easiest to assemble product in the market due to its exemplary suspension system.
You do not have to worry about the product’s reliability. The manufacturer offers a 6-month quality promise. Therefore, if you’re not satisfied wth the product, you can get it replaced.
Specifications
- Weight: 40 oz
- Capacity: 440 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.5ft x 4.7 inches
Pros
- Eye protection color grading
- Easy to install
- Comes with a bug net
- 6-month satisfaction promise
Cons
- Might not be ideal to carry on some hammock camping adventures.
Customer Review
One reviewer says thatthis is the best productthey could have bought as a fan of car camping. Since this product is designed in a 3-in-1 multifunctional manner, it is one of the best to carry while camping in a car.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!7. Kootek Camping Backpacking Hammock
If you’re looking for an anti-mosquito hammock thatis also breathable, we would highly recommend that you use this product for your next hammock camping trip.
This hammock is made of anti-tearing, anti-fraying, and dust resistant parachute material. Therefore, it is meant to last you for a long time at ease.
We like how the sturdy suspension system with its D-hooks can take the weight of even two adults at ease. however, the straps might not be perfect for trees to handle.
Specifications
- Weight: 45oz
- Capacity: 500 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 ft x 5.5-inches
Pros
- Available at an affordable price
- Extrenely sturdy
- Built to last
- Dust-resistant and anti-tear cloth
Cons
- The net is at a low height, which might be a problem for side sleepers.
Customer Review
Most customers like how the product includes an integrated mosquito net. The materials used to create this product areextremely high-quality, allowing for a comfortable overnight sleep even without a sleeping pad in place.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!8. ENO Sublink Eagles Nest Camping Hammock
Do you like the idea of using a camping shetlet system that’s huge yet extremely lightweight. If that’s the case, you cannot get an option better than the ENO Sublink Eagles Nest Camping Hammock This product is the best at its price for its huge size yet low weight.
If you are a fan of choosing the preferred design, you will love this product. This hammock is available in such a huge variety of colors and patterns that it is next to impossible to find one for your taste.
The reason why this product is this ultralight in weight is because it is made of thin yet sturdy materials. Moreover, the webbing straps as well are not very heavy. This allows the hammock to be environmentally concious and collect less waste.
Specifications
- Weight: 19oz
- Capacity: 400 lbs
- Dimensions: 9.4 ft x 70 inches
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Easy to use and carry
- Hammock setup is very straightforward
- Comes with webbing straps
Cons
- The total weight limit is significantly low.
Customer Review
This ENO Sublink has so many praises to its credit that the only downside can be negated. Unlike other products with heavy suspension systems and materials, this product is made of lightyetsturdy materials. Therefore, if you plan to use this hammock for day use, you’ll not be disappointed.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!9. Gastonia Camping Hammock
If you are a heavyweightuser but do to want to invest in two person product, you should consider the Gastonina Camping hammock. The 4-point suspension systems and the heavy-duty materials used to build the hammock aregreat for complete support.
This hammock act as a complete shelter system perfect for day use as well as hammock camping trips. The material is built in a manner that it is inclusive of a waterproof trap for mosquitoes and rain. Therefore, you will sleep comfortably throughout the night, if you plan to use it that way.
We like how the product features a compression sack along with a storage sack for perfect comfort. The materials used to make this product are very sturdy and damage-resistant. Therefore, you will get the most out of your investment with only a drawback or two.
Specifications
- Weight: 60oz
- Capacity: 600lbs
- Dimensions: 9 x 4 ft
Pros
- Complete shelter system for comfortable sleep.
- Sturdy suspension and safety system.
- High capacity of user weight
- Huge dimensions
Cons
- The hammock is so heavy thatit might not be easy to travel with.
Customer Review
Clients recommend thatis you area fan of car camping, you will like this product. However, if you have to carry with it accessories such as a sleeping pad, you will be in a lot of trouble. However, this is the best onelink hammock shelter system for heavyweight users.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!10. BriSunshine Camping Hammock
If you’re looking for a hammock that comes with the best accessories,the BriSunshine Camping Hammock might just be your answer. This hammock comes with a bug net, an rain fly, three tree steps for the whoopie sling, aluminum pole. tent nails, and a storage bag.
We like how you can get th perfect hammock shelter experience with this product as long as you do not have motion sickness or do not weight over 440 lbs. The product is perfect for car camping due to its heavy and sturdy built.
This is an extremely versatile product since it can be used as a hammock tent, a swing hammock, a sleeping bag, or even for sitting while practicing outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Weight: 52.8oz
- Capacity: 440 lbs
- Dimensions: 9ft x 42inches
Pros
- The attached rain fly works perfectly and keeps the rain out.
- Comes with roomy poles.
- The bug net too is efficient enough to keep the mosquitoes at bay.
- Comes with one handy storage foot box for gear storage.
- Asym zip for perfect grip.
Cons
- The rainfly can make the hammock uncomfortable for someone with claustrophobia.
- The whoopie sling system causes rocking which might not be the best for people with motion sickness.
Customer Review
Nothing can beat the hammock shelter while camping. However, if you want to invest in a two person product, you will not be able to use this product with low weight holding capacity. Clients like how the product features an asym zip, allowing it to be easy to use.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!11. Legacy Premium Camping Hammock Tent
The only downside to most hammocks is their lack of space. Very few hammocks have a grand trunk or enough two person space as the Legacy premium Camping Hammock Tent.
This hammock is perfect for both night and day use. Whenever you choose to use it, you will like the product’s grand trunk storage space, its complete sheltering possibilities, along with comfort. We like how te hammock is able to carry an entire tent-like structure with a whoopie sling to keep its downside from touching the ground.
The product is made to make sure that it stays with you for a long time, since it has very less possibilities of giving out without excessive beating.
Specifications
- Weight: 60oz
- Capacity: 400lbs
- Dimensions: 9 x 7ft
Pros
- Good strage space.
- Compelete shelter system.
- Can hang from trees or anchors without issues maintaining the flat lay design.
- Comes at a reasonable price keeping in ming the product’s size and capacity.
Cons
- Low weight capacity
- Single layer construction.
Customer Review
Userrs of this hammock are specially delighted with the product’s sturdity even with its single layer design. The only problem is that the product is so bent on creating a shelter system that its capacity becomes weight savings. Therefore, it is not good for most heavyweight isers.
CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON!The Best Hammock Camping Accessories
Accessories are the best way to enhance a specific product’s utility. Therefore, in this section, let us look at some of the best hammock accessories you can add to your camping hammock to enhance your sleep.
1. Roman Ventures Rain Fly
If you’re going to places such as appalachian trail for your camping trip, you will require a rain fly to protect you from getting wet. With the help of this 13 foot long rain fly, this is the perfect product for backpacking.
The camping accessory is made of ripstop polyester, allowing it to be used for an extremely long duration. This is a great addition to any one or two person hammock without built-in rain flies.
Pros
- Long rain fly perfect for both one and two person usage.
- Made of 2000 PU water repellant and UV resistant polyester.
- Extremely durable.
Cons
- The rain fly does not have a double layer design as marketed.
2. Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Bug Net
If your hammock doesn’t feature an in-built bug net, you should surely have a look at this accessory. The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Bug Net will help you get comfortable sleep in your hammock saving you from many bugs and mosquitoes.
The net is super breathable and will not make you feel suffocated inside. Moreoverm it coes with the best of zips to allow for complete inaccess for the insects.
Pros
- Breathable material to prevent in-hammock suffocation.
- Guaranteed performance.
- Covers hammocks of all shapes and sizes.
Cons
- The product is notvery durable and mighttearwith little carelessness.
3. One Tigris Twilight Trekker Hammock Underquit
If you’re looking for some extra warmth and comfort while sleeping in a hammock, you might want to consider the One Tigris Twilight Trekker Hammock Underquilt.
This product can either act as an outdoor blanket or an under-hammock quilt, allowing you the most toasty and comfortable hammock experience possible. The underquit comes with compression pockets to allow it to get extremely small and portable as well.
Pros
- It is a 3-season underquilt
- Compact for easy portability
- Versatile usage
- Made of premium SEE polyester filling
Cons
- The shock cord included in the package is extremely weak.
4. Klymit Hammock V Sleeping Pad
If you want to getthe most comfortable sleep in a hammock, you will have to invest in a sleeping pad. Sleeping pads act as cushioning to support your back, neck, and the rest of your body for perfect sleep.
The Klymit Hammock V Sleeping Pad is deigned in a manner that is designed in a manner that it can be used by side, back or stomach sleepers without any issues.
The sleeping pad is extremely rugged. Therefore, it is made to last you for a long time. Moreover, the non-slip barrier design keeps the outside cold away from your back as the pad will not budge from its place.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- V-shape non-slip design for overall comfort and in any sleeping position.
- Rugged for long durability.
Cons
- The surface might not be the softest.
How to Hang a Hammock
By now, you know everything you need to consider before purchasing a hammock and all the best hammocks available for you to buy. However, you cannot benefit from this guide unless you know how to hang a hammock. Therefore, ensure following all the given steps recommended by Rei co op to hang your hammock perfectly.
- Measure the Distance: before you start setting up your hammock, you must measure the distance between the two trees or spreader bars. You will need at least 10-15 feet distance between the two to hang your hammock perfectly.
- Tether the Ropes: Insert te non-lop sides of the ropes on the opposite ends of the tress to get a snug fit. Tighten the ropes until all they stop slipping and are sturdy enough to take enough weight of the user.
- Hook the Hammock: Now that the hammock is fixed properly, use the hooks to tie it to the trees. Repeatthe process on both ends to secure the hammock from the tree or spreader bars.
- Check: Now that your hammock is completely secure, you must climb and exit the hammock to see if it secure and comfortable. Make adjustments to the rope’s strength or the hook’s placement if you feel discomfort while sitting or sleeping in the hammock.
Tips of Taking Care of a Hammock
Hammocks are inexpensive and most people believe them to be extremely low-maintenance and low-durability products. However, with proper care, you can make your hammocks last for a long time. Below are some hammock care tips that will allow your hammock to take care of you for a longer duration.
- Inspection: It is important for you to keep an eye on a hammock’s material, suspension system, and other such things to ensure that it is not damaged before it is ready to hang. Adding extra pressure to already-worn out materials will ruin a hammock.
- Clean Regularly: Hammocks require regular cleaning to avoid setting any dust or dirt on them. If you shape off the dust and keep it dry, you can prevent mildrew, bugs, and first from settling.
- Adhere to the Limits: Every hammock has its own weight limits and it is best to not exceed them. There is no use putting extra weight on the hammock only to depleat ts quality for further use.
Final Words
With the right hammocks, you can allow yourself some comfortable sleep at a height while camping. Hammocks prevent you from encountering wet and dirty ground with bugs, They also save you the time required to set up a tent.
Finding the best hammocks is not the easiest job. However, using it and camping with it is. This article should provide you with everything you need to know in your search for making your next camping trip more affordable and comfortable.
James Fields is the founder of Gardener to Farmer. His passion for gardening goes back to his childhood days when he would visit his grandfather during the holidays and help him with the plants in the backyard. This has now translated to creating a dependable resource for gardening.