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There’s nothing more relaxing in life than swinging gently in a hammock with a good book to read. Whether you’re enjoying your own backyard, sunbathing on a car camping adventure, or finding a beautiful place to sleep on a backpacking trip, hammocks are undeniably awesome.
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That’s right. Hammocks are easy, fun, cool, and best of all, they don’t break the bank. So, how do you choose the right one for you?
With its ability to suit most situations, we chose the Warbonnet Ridgerunner as our top pick. This hammock is designed for a good night’s sleep, it has several customizable elements to suit every need, and it’s good value for money.
In this guide, we’ve narrowed it down to the best camping hammocks available to buy now. We looked for highly rated products popular in the camping community, with a key focus on features such as durability, sleeping comfort, extra features, and stability.
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A much-loved hammock in the camping world, the Warbonnet Ridgerunner is known for providing a comfortable night’s sleep, which is the most important thing when you’re sleeping outdoors.
Made from good quality ripstop weave materials, it comes with two lightweight spreader bars. You can customize your hammock by choosing different suspension systems or by opting for a double or single layer bottom, depending on your preferences.
Many campers find that this hammock’s design is conducive to several sleeping styles, since it is essentially a floating cot, allowing many sleeping positions to be comfortable.
With an integrated bug net, it offers good protection from annoying insects, it has large storage pockets for gear, and the setup is quick and easy.
Please note there is currently a 3-4 week wait time for this item.
The Kammok Roo Single is a hammock made entirely from recycled materials, and it is one of the best ultralight backpacking hammocks around, weighing just 11 ounces.
At over 8 feet long, there’s plenty of room to lie flat and stretch out and enjoy a great night’s sleep under the stars.
Many campers complimented the sturdy construction and durability of the hammock, which is very resistant to abrasions even though it is made from a lightweight fabric. Comfortable and easy to put up, this hammock is a great choice for all kinds of situations.
The Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) JungleNest is a hammock that can protect you from every camper’s worst enemy: the mosquito.
It has an integrated bug net, which allows you to worry less about pesky insects and bugs. (It can be removed for net-free sleeping.) If it’s really buggy where you’re sleeping, it’s always wise to bring an extra liner for protection.
The hammock is made from 40-denier nylon with a ripstop pattern for extra durability. There’s a gear loft and a side pocket for all your important items.
The setup is quick and easy with a “no knots needed” design. The company, ENO, plants two trees for every hammock sold through a partnership with Trees for the Future.
For just $32, the Wise Owl hammock is great value for money.
It is available in a range of fun colors, and many reviewers were impressed with its durability, ease of setup, and clear instructions for hanging it. It’s also one of the lightest hammocks we came across in our research.
Perfect for backyard hangs, car camping, or backpacking, the entire hammock fits into a stuff sack the size of an eggplant, according to the manufacturer.
The single hammock has plenty of space and measures 9 feet long, or it can be purchased as a double hammock for two sleepers. It is made from soft but strong parachute nylon, with triple interlocking stitching and strong hammock straps.
The Hennessy Ultralight Asym Hammock is the perfect shelter for many tree-sleeping situations. It takes about two minutes to set up, and its patented asymmetric design and rainfly create great coverage in all kinds of weather conditions.
As a company, Hennessy endeavors to eliminate any impact on trees with its use of webbing straps. By purchasing one of the company’s hammocks, you are supporting a company with strong environmental values.
One of the reasons we chose this hammock as the best versatile option is because of its separate rainfly, which means you can use it with or without, depending on the weather. Perfect for backpacking, it is a reliable and strong piece of gear and well worth the $240 price tag.
Designed with space for two sleepers, the highly regarded DoubleNest by ENO is a wonderful hammock for those looking for a little bit of extra space for chilling, or if you reckon you can sleep comfortably with a buddy by your side.
Founded by two brothers, Peter and Paul Pinholster, the company is based in Asheville, North Carolina. The pair started out selling hammocks at festivals and today, their hammocks are considered one of the best camping hammocks on the market.
Made from soft nylon taffeta, the DoubleNest has triple-stitched seams for extra support and durability. The two-person hammock is light to carry and has a stuff sack for easy and convenient transportation.
Please note the suspension system is not included, so it needs to be purchased separately. All of the ENO accessories, such as straps and carabiners, are compatible with this hammock.
There is an ongoing debate in the outdoors community around the subject of hammock vs. tent camping. While there is a time and place for both sleep systems, a hammock can be a lightweight and versatile option for a number of situations.
From hardcore hammock shelters to ultralight backpacking hammocks, there is a lot of variety out there to choose from. Here, we will focus on what to look out for when you are searching for the best camping hammock.
Material and Durability
As with any sleep system, it’s important to check the materials and construction of the product to make sure you are purchasing a quality hammock that is built to last.
It will usually be made from a lightweight, durable material such as parachute nylon, polyester, or ripstop nylon. These materials are known for their strength and resistance to abrasion, and they also can provide water resistance and sun protection.
Size and Weight Capacity
Check the size and length of the hammock, as well as the weight capacity to ensure it can hold your body weight comfortably.
For extra space, you might consider a two-person or double hammock, which offers more room.
Weather Protection and Insulation
If you plan to camp in colder weather, consider purchasing additional insulation items, such as quilts, sleeping bags, or sleeping pads, to provide warmth and comfort.
In addition to a warm sleeping bag or top quilt, you’ll need insulation underneath you to prevent heat loss. This can be achieved with an underquilt, which hangs beneath the hammock and provides insulation.
It’s also important to block wind and drafts with a tarp or hammock sock and to dress in layers to trap body heat.
Additionally, consider hammocks with weather-resistant coatings or a separate rainfly attachment to protect you from rain and moisture.
Suspension System
The hammock’s suspension system is the mechanism used to hang the hammock between two anchor points. This can include tree straps or webbing made from strong nylon or polyester, both of which are designed to reduce damage to the tree.
There might also be attachment points, carabiners, or metal clips used to attach the hammock’s suspension system to the hammock itself.
The suspension system is used to adjust the height and tension of the hammock so you can set it up exactly the way you would like and make it as comfortable a shelter as possible.
Ease of Setup
Opt for a hammock with a simple and straightforward setup process, especially if you’re new to hammock camping. Look for hammocks that come with detailed instructions or integrated suspension systems that make setup quick and easy.
Some hammocks can utilize trekking poles as part of the support system in the absence of a proper suspension system.
Additional Features
Many campers believe sleeping in a hammock can be more comfortable than a tent, thanks to the fact that you can sleep above the ground rather than on an uneven surface.
Consider additional comfort features such as built-in bug nets, hammock tarps, storage pockets, or gear loops for hanging essentials like a water bottle or flashlight. For most hammock models, you can order overquilts and underquilts to provide warmth and protection from wind.
Portability and Packability
Hammock design has come a long way since the days of the old-school rope hammocks. Now, they are light, packable, and made from durable materials.
If you are planning to use the hammock for backpacking, choose a hammock that is lightweight and easy to pack for travel. Many ultralight hammocks can be packed into compact stuff sacks, which will not weigh down your pack too much.
Check the folded or packed dimensions of the hammock, as well as the packed weight, if you are planning to carry the hammock with you for long periods of time.
User Reviews and Brand Reputation
User reviews are great for gaining insight into how a hammock performs in the real world. Look for feedback from campers who have used the hammock in similar weather conditions.
Consider the reputation of the hammock manufacturer. Established brands, such as Eagle Nest Outfitters or Hennessy, have a history of producing reliable and well-designed hammocks.
Budget
The hammocks on this list cost between $30 and $300. Your choice will depend on several factors, including how often you plan to use the hammock and what you intend to use it for.
Remember, investing in a higher-quality hammock is a long-term investment. Think about your budget carefully and find one that offers the best combination of features within that price range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hammock camp in any location?
First, you can hang hammocks almost anywhere. All you need to do is find two sturdy posts or trees, then you’re in business.
You can always find new and interesting places to sling a hammock, even in scenic beauty spots that may be inaccessible to tent campers. Is the ground too uneven to pitch a tent? Not a problem if you have a hammock.
Some areas may have regulations or restrictions on hammock camping, though, so it’s essential to check local regulations and campsite rules before setting up your hammock.
What is the best way to hang a hammock?
One of the main benefits of a hammock is how quick and easy it is to hang up, which makes it a convenient piece of camping gear to take along for any trip, even if you only plan to use it for sunbathing or relaxing in the afternoons.
The best way to hang a hammock is to use a suspension system with tree-friendly straps or webbing. Choose two sturdy trees spaced apart at an appropriate distance (usually around 10 to 15 feet).
Wrap the tree straps around each tree until they are secure. Be careful not to damage the tree’s bark. Next, attach the hammock to the straps using carabiners or knots, making sure the hammock is level and the suspension is taut.
Once hung up, you can adjust the tension and height to suit your preferences.
How do I know if a hammock is strong enough to support my weight?
Most camping hammocks support the weight of an average adult, typically ranging from 250 to 500 pounds or more. When choosing a hammock, first check the weight capacity specified by the manufacturer and ensure it can support your body weight.
It’s also a good idea to consider the material and construction of the hammock, opting for high-quality materials known for their strength and durability, like parachute nylon or ripstop nylon.
If in doubt, it’s always better to choose a hammock with a higher weight capacity to make sure it is safe and stable.
Can two people really sleep comfortably in a hammock?
While some hammocks are “two-person” or double hammocks, sleeping two people in a hammock is quite a challenge. That said, you might still want to opt for a hammock that has some extra length and space for your own comfort.
Although it’s technically possible, since some hammocks can support the weight of two adults, you will likely find that the constant movement of the other person interferes with a peaceful night’s sleep, so you might be better off in a two-person tent.
Final Thoughts: The Best Camping Hammock
Hammock camping is a beautifully simple way to enjoy sleeping outdoors.
Whether you are looking for a hammock to enhance your car camping setup, to swing in the backyard, or to take on a backpacking trip, there are many great quality options to choose from. In most cases, you will also likely find that hammocks are cheaper than tents.
Our top pick for the best camping hammock is the Warbonnet Ridgerunner, a very popular hammock in the camping community for its durability, sleeping comfort, and excellent design.
I’m a little shocked that not one Sierra Madre Research product made your list. Ultra durable, super high quality and soft to the touch, these are some of the best hammocks around. I have 2 of the Ninox Flat Lay hammocks and I would choose them over any hammock on this list. Hands down.
Lawson hammock is exceptional with a little practice. I sleep in mine 25-30 times a year from Airondacks to the Everglades. I use a different rain tarp than comes with it. I used to use Hennessey –Lawson is best.
I’m a little shocked that not one Sierra Madre Research product made your list. Ultra durable, super high quality and soft to the touch, these are some of the best hammocks around. I have 2 of the Ninox Flat Lay hammocks and I would choose them over any hammock on this list. Hands down.
Lawson hammock is exceptional with a little practice. I sleep in mine 25-30 times a year from Airondacks to the Everglades. I use a different rain tarp than comes with it. I used to use Hennessey –Lawson is best.