Buying guide for Best camping hammocks
Have you ever camped in a hammock? Some people find it even more exhilarating than camping in a tent. A camping hammock isn’t like the hammocks many people have hanging in their backyards. Typically made of a solid nylon material rather than rope, camping hammocks are lightweight and highly portable. So if you’re hiking to your campsite, you’ll have an easy time transporting your sleeping quarters for the night.
What’s more, many camping hammocks don’t have spreader bars like traditional hammocks do. As such, they’re less prone to flipping over … and easier to tuck into your backpack or sack. There are many hammock options, and it is important to consider several factors before you suspend use of your tent in favor of a hammock.
If you’re ready to buy a camping hammock, check out our top recommendations in the product list above. For general tips on shopping for a camping hammock, keep reading this shopping guide.
Benefits of a camping hammock
There are several reasons why you might want to bring a camping hammock along on your next camping excursion.
Comfort
In cooler temperatures, a hammock can feel more comfortable than a tent because you’re not lying on the cold ground. And in hot weather, the hammock allows cool air to circulate around you, so you can sleep more comfortably.
Versatility
Do you want to camp in a rocky or stone-covered area? You can do so with a camping hammock because you’ll be elevated above the ground. This increases your campsite possibilities.
Economy
Camping hammocks cost less than most tents. If you’re vacationing on a budget, they’re an ideal option.
Ease of use
Once you get the hang of it, a camping hammock is usually quicker and easier to set up than a tent. It’s also easier to carry when you’re hiking.
Did you know?
A camping hammock is a particularly good sleeping option in hot weather, because it allows air to circulate around you and keep you cool and comfortable.
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Types of camping hammocks
Gathered-end camping hammocks
Gathered-end camping hammocks are lightweight and roomy. As the name suggests, the ends are gathered in a bunch, creating a “banana-like” look. They’re usually fairly wide with an asymmetric shape. Many people find these hammocks comfortable for diagonal sleeping.
Bridge camping hammocks
Much like traditional backyard hammocks, bridge camping hammocks typically have a spreader bar that creates a somewhat flatter sleeping surface and a more supported platform, so you don’t usually have to adjust yourself during the night. Mosquito netting or a shelter-top may be built in. Bridge hammocks tend to be fairly heavy due to the spreader bars, and they have a tube-like shape that some people find constrictive.
For your safety
Never attach a camping hammock to dead or very thin trees that sway. It’s best to hang your hammock from trees with at least an eight-inch diameter.
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Questions to ask before buying a camping hammock
Because some camping hammocks will suit you better than others, it’s wise to find out the answers to some product-specific questions before settling on a purchase.
What are the dimensions of the camping hammock you’re considering?
The dimensions of your camping hammock directly impact your comfort level.
For a single user, a width of 72 inches is usually sufficient. For a couple, a width of 84 inches is usually best. However, hammocks vary in width from 48 to 102 inches.
When it comes to length, a good rule of thumb is to choose a hammock that’s four feet longer than your height. So a person who is six feet tall would appreciate a hammock that’s at least 10 feet long.
What is the weight capacity of the hammock?
Hammocks typically have weight limits that range from 150 to 500 pounds. Check the specifications carefully to ensure that the model you’re considering can handle the weight of the person, or people, who will be using it.
It’s important to remember that weight capacities refer to static weight. Even a person who is within the prescribed weight limit could jump, shift, or bounce in such a way that the material would still be strained.
How much does the hammock itself weigh?
If you plan to hike with your camping hammock in tow for any length of time, you’ll want to pay attention to the hammock’s weight. It should be lightweight and compact enough to make it easy to pack and carry.
Camping hammocks vary in weight from seven ounces to three pounds. While lighter is usually better, lightweight hammocks are often short and narrow. Therefore, it’s important to look at all of the hammock specs before making your purchase.
Remember, too, that other hammock-related items – suspension system, insect protection, and weather protection – can add to your load, too.
"Never use plastic zip cords or attempt to hammer or screw anything into the trees as you mount your camping hammock. Instead, protect the trees by using tree-saver straps."
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Is the camping hammock sufficiently insulated?
Camping hammocks are usually made of lightweight nylon materials that can keep you cool in the warmer months. If you’ll be camping in colder weather, however, you’ll need additional insulation to keep you warm. That typically means using a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, or quilt with the hammock. It helps to choose a hammock with a double layer or pocket on the underside, where you can tuck the pad or quilt to keep it in place.
Does the camping hammock come with its own suspension system?
To hang a camping hammock, you need a suspension system and two carabiners. In some cases, the system comes with the hammock. In others, a suspension system is not included and must be purchased separately.
Suspension materials that work well include webbing straps, nylon ropes, and synthetic tree slings. Keep in mind that you’ll have an easier time hanging the hammock if you choose a model with plenty of attachment points.
What kind of bug protection does the camping hammock offer?
Bugs can be a problem when you’re sleeping in the open air, so insect protection is a must. Some camping hammocks come with 360-degree insect screens. Others are treated with Permethrin to ward off bugs. The Permethrin treatment is limited to areas immediately around the hammock, and the treatment can wear off. A screen is more effective, but it’s not the best option if you’re claustrophobic.
If you purchase a hammock that doesn’t come with built-in insect protection, you could buy an add-on insect screen and attach it to the hammock. You you could use bug spray on your hammock, sleeping gear, or yourself to ward off nighttime intruders.
Are there features that provide protection against the weather?
There’s no guarantee you’ll get clear weather for your camping trip. A little forethought provides some type of protection in case it rains. Many bridge hammocks have a tent-like design that zips up to provide cover against the elements. Some hammocks come with a weatherproof tarp that you can hang above you when it rains. This type is more adaptable, so you can spend the night under the stars when the weather permits. You can also buy a tarp separately if your hammock doesn’t come with one. Make sure you have gear to secure the tarp, such as webbing straps and carabiners.
Did you know?
The best way to get into a hammock is to sit down in the middle. Slowly swing your legs inside, then carefully move yourself so you’re lying slightly diagonally inside the hammock.
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Camping hammock prices
Camping hammocks vary in price based on their capacity, dimensions, and included accessories. You can typically expect to spend between $15 and $200 on one.
For a basic one-person camping hammock, you’ll usually pay between $15 and $30.
For a basic two-person camping hammock, you’ll usually pay between $30 and $70.
For a one-person camping hammock with insect protection and other accessories, you’ll usually pay between $30 and $50.
For a two-person camping hammock with bug protection and other accessories, you’ll usually pay between $70 and $200.
Tips
Don’t hang your camping hammock more than three feet above the ground. For safety reasons, you should never hang it above water features or chasms, either.
Avoid hanging your camping hammock too tightly between anchor points. Instead, aim for a bit of “sag” in the middle to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Opt for a diagonal sleeping position in the hammock rather than a straight, end-to-end position. Most people are more comfortable this way.
The foot-end of a camping hammock should be approximately eight to 10 inches higher than the other end to prevent sliding to the middle, which can be uncomfortable.
Despite being elevated from the ground, it helps to use a sleeping pad with a camping hammock to provide insulation. You can place it inside your sleeping bag to keep it in place.
FAQ
Q. Are camping hammocks safe?
A. As long as you secure your hammock properly and don’t have it more than a few feet off the ground, a camping hammock is very safe. Follow the hanging instructions provided by the manufacturer to make sure it’s secure. Rolling out of a hammock while you’re asleep is unlikely because the edges “cocoon” you in place.
Q. Can you use a camping hammock in cold weather?
A. Even though your hammock would be suspended above the cold ground, you probably wouldn’t be as warm in the hammock as you would be in a tent. As such, it’s better to save hammock camping trips for warmer weather. That said, you could always pair a sleeping pad with your hammock to increase warmth.
Q. Can you use a camping hammock if you have motion sickness?
A. Some swaying is inevitable in a hammock, but most people find that the gentle swaying actually helps encourage sleep. However, if you’re prone to severe motion sickness, consider a hammock with side tie-outs that minimize swaying.
