Camping Hammocks
Camping hammocks are a great alternative or supplement to tents on a backpacking trip. In previous generations, they were made of very thick and durable canvas like tent material was. Today, they are lightweight, ultra-strong and thin. Often made of nylon, many can support up to a thousand pounds.
Camping hammocks almost always attach to a tree or rocks, since taking along a stand is usually more weight and trouble than anyone wants. The low weight and the need not to erect poles are among their chief virtues. It's easy to set one up by tying off to two nearby trees and there's little likelihood of damaging the bark, which would open the tree to insects and parasites.
They're equally healthy for humans since they keep you off the ground. No need to worry about ground snakes, insects and other potentially dangerous creatures. Of course, those sometimes exist in trees or the air, too, but one thing at a time.
For those airborne pests, many camping hammocks offer netting or small, lightweight tent additions that fit over the top of the hammock. That provides a complete sleeping environment that's safe and comfortable. Mosquitoes, no-see-ums and other biting insects can't get inside the mesh to feed.
Camping hammocks often have extra features not found in more traditional styles such as Brazilian or Mayan hammocks. Beyond the netting or tent already mentioned, they often have pockets for storing small objects. Those can be great when you want to empty your pockets of a compass, GPS or other small items in order to sleep more comfortably. Some also provide a pocket that makes storing the netting or the covering tent very convenient when packing up.
Fabric choices other than nylon are available, but take care. You don't want to have to carry around or use a soggy hammock. Fording through streams or being caught in a downpour can easily wet your hammock. You may not have the option of drying it out before use. That makes it unusable for sleeping and heavy to carry. And every backpacker knows how annoying it is to carry gear you can't use. It's possible to get an enclosing sack for a cloth hammock, but that will add weight. Choose accordingly.
There are some potential downsides to camping hammocks that potential users should keep in mind.
Modern camping hammocks are designed to be very thin in order to keep them lightweight and easy to fold. Many weigh less than 2lbs and can be folded up into a rectangle a few inches on a side and an inch thick.
But that very thinness can sometimes make them poor as insulators. On a hot summer trip that isn't usually a problem. But in the mountains at night, or on trips at other times of the year, that can make sleeping in one a bit cool. Dress accordingly.
Camping hammocks are available in a wide variety of styles and sizes to suit all body types and intended uses. Be prepared to spend a little more to get one that's quality made and has strong hanging ropes. The last thing you want is to have your hammock fail on a trip. If it does, you'll once again be carrying gear you don't use. Not fun.
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