When starting to backpack, I hadn’t even thought camping and using a hammock as shelter was a viable option. \u00a0My knowledge of hammocks stopped at traditional heavy and thick backyard loungers with wood and rope. \u00a0Little did I know things went far beyond that in terms of design and utility in the backcountry. \u00a0After learning about this amazing shelter, I have a difficult time switching to anything else. \u00a0As great as hammocks are, they have drawbacks like anything else. \u00a0For the right situation and trip, you can be hard pressed to find another option that is more useful. \u00a0However, you do not want to be caught in a situation where it is your only option but not usable.<\/p>\n
First off, when using a hammock you will need somewhere to hang it from. \u00a0Two points are needed that will be strong enough to support your weight for a sustained period of time while you rest. \u00a0Straps are necessary to connect your hammock with the anchor points. \u00a0Generally speaking, you shouldn’t hang a hammock more than a few feet from the ground in case something fails and you fall. \u00a0Restricting the hanging height will help to limit any physical damage you may sustain in said fall. \u00a0Hammocks are very versatile and can be used in many different places creatively.<\/p>\n
Next is the hammock itself. \u00a0There are many quality hammock companies producing great hammocks today. \u00a0From lightweight to purpose built, there is hammock for every environment. \u00a0Pickup a hammock with a bug net if you plan on being in an insect rich area. \u00a0Lightweight models are great for minimalists and weight weenies. \u00a0Choose which is right for you based on your purpose and environment.<\/p>\n
The last point here is optional but you probably want some type of covering above you. \u00a0Tarps are a popular option as shelter from rain, snow, hail and sunlight. \u00a0Using a tarp that will cover more than the space your hammock takes up with give you room to move around and get out under cover. \u00a0These tarps are made of many materials and strengths to suit any need. \u00a0When using a tarp it is advisable to also use stakes to anchor your covering in a tight configuration for the best results.<\/p>\n
When hammock camping, you will probably want a sleeping pad or some kind of insulator from your body and the hammock itself. \u00a0If you are in a sleeping bag, the insulation will be useless with all of your body pressing on top. \u00a0You will feel cold spots on the lowest points and the material is not comfortable when your entire body weight is on it. \u00a0There are special sleeping pads designed for hammocks and inflatable ones work great as well.<\/p>\n
Pillows or extra clothing packed into stuff sacks are also advisable for head support. \u00a0Your neck will be able to rest in a better spot with some support compared to all night without any. \u00a0This also will give you something to orient your body with as you will likely be sleeping on your back.<\/p>\n
A light or hanging headlamp above you in the hammock is great for seeing what you are doing when getting in and finding a good spot. \u00a0This is also very useful anytime you need to get up in the middle of the night.<\/p>\n
You can store your gear inside the hammock if it is big enough and keep your pack dry. \u00a0If your tarp is large enough you can hang your pack from one of the support trees you are having from as well to keep it dry during rain or free from morning dew.<\/p>\n
You obviously don’t want to bring a hammock on a trip where there are no trees or rocks to hang from. \u00a0Knowing this in advance requires research and doing some homework to understand the environment you are going into. \u00a0Doing research is a due diligence requirement for any trip.<\/p>\n
If you sleep on your stomach or side you probably won’t prefer using a hammock. \u00a0It is difficult and not very comfortable to sleep having in positions other than on your back. \u00a0If you don’t believe me then go out and try laying in a hammock on your belly or side and find out for yourself.<\/p>\n
Do you get up a lot to use the restroom? \u00a0If so, the hammock may not be for you. \u00a0Getting in and out is not as easy as doing so in a tent and finding a good spot again can be hard. \u00a0Every time you enter or exit and hammock, you are taking some risk. \u00a0Practicing at home before leaving will reduce this but there is always a chance for injury.<\/p>\n
When you are using a hammock to camp with, do not store food in it with you. \u00a0Hammocks already put you at a slight disadvantage if you need to make a quick move away from camp. \u00a0Besides this, your food should be stored in another location anyway, about 100′ minimum from where you are sleeping. \u00a0Do not setup a hammock where you cooked your food or close to an open fire. \u00a0These seem like obvious things but people have done it before not understanding what exactly they are doing.<\/p>\n
When properly using a hammock, it can change your entire experience. \u00a0Lighting up your load, protecting you from ground water, insects or rain are just some of the many benefits. \u00a0Choosing the right hammock for your use, knowing how to hang and cover the hammock are key factors to success. \u00a0Be smart, do research and make informed decisions you can reduce risk with to enjoy hammock camping!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"