When you think about camping, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a tent. However, in recent years, a number of campers have stopped pitching tents and started hanging hammocks under the stars instead. Hammock camping is a growing phenomenon among lightweight hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with the global hammock market projected to grow from 291.6 million in 2016 to 651.7 million in 2021 — a nearly 45% increase.
What is hammock camping, though, and why is it so popular? Hammock camping is a style of camping that involves sleeping in a hammock suspended above the ground instead of in a tent, or another type of campsite lodging. Hammocks tend to be much lighter than tents and are also easier and faster to set-up. Hammock camping lets you sleep close to nature and is suitable for many different environments. The ease and versatility of hammock camping have made it a favorite for backpackers, day hikers and even campground campers.
If you are considering giving hammock camping a shot, this article will help you decide if it is right for you. We will weigh the pros and cons and offer a few hammock camping hacks for choosing the right hammock and sleeping more comfortably.
THE BENEFITS 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 folding camping bed for sale at home. Here are a few reasons why hammock camping is so popular:
1. LIGHTWEIGHT
Most hammocks are significantly lighter than traditional tents. Instead of using heavy tent poles and stakes, hammocks only require suspension straps and the hammock itself. Hammocks are a great option for backpackers seeking 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 both space and weight in your luggage.
Because hammocks are so light, you can even toss one in your bag for a day hike. When you get to the top of the mountain, you can enjoy the view from your cozy hammock.
2. EASY TO SET-UP
Compared to most tents, hammocks can be set up much more quickly. Once you find a good spot, it can take just a few minutes to get your hammock where you want, and you will not have to worry about tent poles and pounding stakes into the ground.
3. VERSATILE FOR ANY TERRAIN
Because hammocks are suspended above the ground, they can be used in virtually any terrain that offers trees. As opposed to a tent, when backpacking you do not need to find a level spot on the ground to pitch a hammock. Hammocks can be hung above uneven ground and still provide a suitable and comfortable sleeping space.
Hammocks can also be set up without clearing away any stones, twigs or other debris. You do not have to worry about sleeping on tree roots or loud crinkly leaves. When you don’t have to prepare your campsite before pitching your hammock, this also allows faster set-up and more time to relax beside your campfire.
4. COMFORTABLE
When you lay in a hammock the right way — which we will describe later on — you will be laying perfectly level with your body supported by the hammock. This is one of the reason these have become so popular with backpackers – Instead of searching for a perfectly flat spot to pitch your tent, you only have to hang your hammock straight. Hammock camping also allows you to lie on your back or on your side comfortably.
When you aren’t snoozing, your hammock can also double 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. During the day, your hammock is the perfect spot for reading and relaxing.
5. KEEPS YOU DRY
Hammock camping also keeps you dry, even when the ground is soaking wet. When you are suspended in the air and protected by your rainfly, you can sleep comfortably in your hammock during a rainstorm without any risk of getting wet. Water will roll off of your rainfly, and you will be free to enter and exit your hammock without worrying about rain getting inside.
6. KEEPS YOU COOL
The inside of a tent can get pretty toasty in the warm weather, but when you camp in a breathable hammock, you’ll stay cooler all night long. Hammocks can be used without any covering on top to let in the breeze — and to let you stargaze on clear nights.
THE DRAWBACKS OF HAMMOCK CAMPING
Despite these benefits of hammock camping, it also poses a few challenges. Hammock camping may not be feasible in all environments or for all campers. Consider these drawbacks to decide if it is right for you:
1. LIMITED CAPACITY
Hammocks are available in single or double sizes, meaning they are only suitable for one or two people at a time. Double hammocks can also be pretty snug and may not be comfortable for two people unless they are a couple or they are very close friends. This can make hammock camping difficult for large groups. Also, if an area does not have a lot of trees, it can be challenging for everyone to find a sturdy, suitable spot to pitch their hammock.
2. NO ROOM FOR PETS
If you want to go camping with your dog, there may not be space for your four-legged friend in your hammock. Although some campers can share a double hammock with their dog, not all dogs or their owners will be comfortable with that arrangement. This means you will need to bring extra bedding for your pet or else they will be left out in the cold.
Bringing extra bedding or a small pop-up tent for your dog may not be an issue for those camping with their car nearby. But for backpackers and lightweight campers, this negates the benefits of hammocks being so lightweight and easy to travel with.
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