Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking to elevate your camping experience? Going camping with a tent as the only option can be boring sometimes. Finding the best location for pitching and setting up a tent can be a nightmare. So, what can save you a headache and elevate your camping experience? Switch to hammocks. Here is a beginner’s guide to Hammock camping and the benefits it has.
What is a hammock?
A hammock is a form of sleeping material which you can hang between two trees and poles for comfortable relaxation. Their ability to allow you to sway slightly or swing make them a popular option for relaxing, especially for those who want to elevate their camping experience. If you love to fall asleep beneath the moon and a blanket of twinkling stars, there is no better way to do so than using a camping hammock.
Things to know before buying a hammock
Before you buy a hammock, there are some things you must know. They include:
Type of hammocks
Hammock types include:
• Bridge hammocks: each end of this camping hammock has a spreader bar which makes it more comfortable and flatters to lay in.
• Gathered end hammocks: they are usually customizable, inexpensive and lightweight. The most suitable for camping.
• Fully integrated camping hammocks: they are designed with the sole purpose of camping. They have integrated bug net and inbuilt suspension system.
Size
The size of the hammock you buy is essential. The length and the width should fit 1 or 2 people.
Ridgeline
The Ridgeline is a cord that runs between the ends of the hammock. Some have pre-installed Ridgeline while others don’t. You can choose the one that suits you best.
Rainfly
For a rainfly, you can use a tarp or purchase a specialty hammock rainfly. Choose a rainfly that you can easily customize to suit your needs.
Cost
The cost of the hammock depends on the type and size you choose. Different types come with different prices. So, if you want a good one, you should have a clear budget for it.
Tips for setting up a hammock
Here are some tips for setting up your camping hammock. To make sure you set up your hammock right, follow these tips.
Find a good location
Before setting up, do a site check or investigate your area to find the best trees to set it up. Consider the shade, a clear ground beneath, the sunlight and find sturdy trees that can hold your weight. Set it up to 10 or 16 feet between trees.
Set up early
Don’t wait until it’s dark to set up your hammock. Try and find a location, have all the equipment and tie the knots before it’s too dark. This way it’s more enjoyable and you can relax as the sun goes down.
Practice
If you are doing it for the first time, try setting up at home before you go camping. Make sure you use the guidelines. You can also find a step to step videos of setting up a hammock. They make setting up a hammock fun and easier.
Don’t tie it too tight
Loosen up your camping hammock. If it is too tight, you risk damaging it. It will also squeeze your shoulders making you sleep uncomfortable. Loosen it up a bit to give it some slack.
Sleep diagonally
You should always sleep diagonally to avoid exacting pressure points and to spread out your whole body. Your neck and head should be slightly elevated with your body weight right at the center where the hammock is tighter. This will provide proper support while sleeping without worrying about tipping.
Why you should choose a camping hammock
Besides being the most advantageous and convenient ways of camping, carrying and setting up a camping hammock is also easier than pitching up a tent. You can set up your camping hammock anywhere in the wild and have an excellent night’s sleep without worrying about creeping insects, wetness or sleeping on the ground. Chances are after you start using a camping hammock, you won’t use a tent again. If you are still wondering about the advantages of hammock camping, here are some of them:
Easy to set up
When it comes to hammocks, it is easier to setup and pack-up. You don’t need poles in the ground to set it up. All you need are trees, which are plenty in the wild. Just wrap the straps around the trees you choose and enjoy your night.
Lightweight
The main advantage of using a hammock for camping is its weight. It is much lighter than a tent. Hikers, backpackers, and trekkers are some of the people that can enjoy using it without the extra weight that comes with carrying a tent. You also don’t need an air mattress which makes your luggage lighter.
Better camping experience and more comfortable sleep
In a study done back in 2011 shows that hammocks gentle rocking motion helps people fall and stay asleep faster and much longer than when you use an air mattress and regular bed. Also, when sleeping on a regular bed, laying on the ground or using a sleeping pad applies pressure to your body, which makes sleeping uncomfortable.
More versatile
A hammock is not only for sleeping. They can be used as a chair, shelter form, rain and as a tent when need be.
More places to camp and stay dry
During the rainy or wet season, it’s not easy to find a better place to camp and stay dry. Hammock keeps you several feet off the ground and gives you a lot of possibilities when it comes to choosing a place to camp.
Sleeping in a hammock is more fun than using a tent. There are also many advantages like sleeping faster and longer when compared to sleeping on an air mattress or inside a tent. It takes a couple of tries to get the hang of camping using a hammock, but the experience is worth the effort.
Author: Michael is an adventure junkie. He loves solo adventures as he believes this time to reflect on oneself is valuable. You can find more of his expert camping tips at campingrail.com