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Hammock Camping

Hammock for Heavy Person – Our Top Choices!

I thought I had experienced all the fun camping had to offer until I learned how to hammock camping. It’s the most freeing experience ever, especially when done right!

However, my first experience was not the most pleasant one: Besides me trying to keep my hammock warm, I also used a hammock that was the wrong size for me!

Hammocks also come in their own sizes and specs, meaning not every hammock camper can have a comfortable sleep in any given hammock. I found that out the hard way as my hammock wasn’t designed for my weight, which caused me a bit of discomfort.

So, I got back home, and started researching the best hammock for a heavy person. After a fair bit of browsing around and comparing my findings, I narrowed down my selection to the best three picks on the market. And in this article, I’ll share them all with you.

hammock for heavy person

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Hammock for Heavy Person – Summary Review

Don’t have time to read the full review? Here’s a brief summary.


If you’re like me and like the get your hands on the best deal going, I’d highly recommend you go for the MoMo camping hammock as it offers the best value for money and is very averagely priced.

If you’re on a budget and want to spend as little amount of money as possible while still making sure you have a comfortable night’s rest, go for the Nevis outdoor camping hammock.

And if you have a bit of money to spend and want to invest in a high-quality hammock that will last you for the years to come, go for the Kammok Double Hammock.
Best Value for Money
MoMo Camping Hammock
MoMo Camping Hammock
9.5
  • Maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs
  • Can be set up in under 2 minutes
  • Can easily accommodate two full-grown adults
  • Portable, lightweight, and very compact
Budget Pick
Nevis Outdoor Camping Hammock
Nevis Outdoor Camping Hammock
9.3
  • 500lbs maximum weight capacity
  • Plenty of room for up to two people
  • Can be set up in just 2 minutes
  • The hammock comes with all necessary accessories
Premium Pick
Kammok Double Hammock
Kammok Double Hammock
9.7
  • 500 lbs maximum weight capacity
  • Designed with comfort in mind
  • Super compact and made for travel
  • Fully customizable to your needs

MoMo Camping Hammock – Best Value for Money

If you’re someone like me who always likes to get the best deal possible – then this camping hammock by MoMo is a great choice. In fact, this was the model I actually chose to bring with me on my hammock camping trips.

And the reason for this is that even if it can easily support my weight, it isn’t heavy. This gives me a lot of room for my other gear like a camping stove, a sleeping pad, and some other essentials.

On top of that, this model is very durable. I am definitely on the heavier side of the spectrum, and since I stand pretty tall, a regular hammock won’t be able to hold me. But this MoMo Outdoors model doesn’t just support me, but it comfortably supports my girlfriend as well.

Camping in a hammock is very different from camping in an RV. While you don’t have as many luxuries in a hammock, it’s a much simpler process. This hammock can be set up in just a few minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy nature and hang out.

In terms of supported weight, this hammock can handle up to 450 lbs of weight with ease. And if I were to point out one flaw with it, it’s the fact that this comes in a bright green color elements, which might not be ideal for some campers.

Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to pack
  • Can be set up in just 2 minutes
  • Suitable for up to two people
  • Can accommodate weight of up to 450 lbs
  • Strong and durable materials
Cons
  • The design (in terms of color) might not be for everyone
MoMo Camping Hammock
  • Maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs
  • Can be set up in under 2 minutes
  • Can easily accommodate two full-grown adults
  • Portable, lightweight, and very compact

Nevis Outdoor Camping Hammock – Best Budget Pick

When I first went looking for hammocks designed for heavier people, most of the options I found were pretty expensive. I was ready to invest in a high-quality hammock to last me a long time, but I know there are tons of campers out there shopping on a budget.

And if you’re looking for a hammock you can trust at a lower price, this is the model by Nevis for you. This Nevis Hammock supports up to 500 pounds. It also offers a lot of space so you won’t feel confined when sleeping in the hammock.

You won’t be able to find higher-quality hammocks at this price, especially if you’re looking for one that can support heavier campers. That said, the hammock itself is on the heavier side too, so it might be slightly harder and more awkward to bring around than the other options on this list.

Even if it’s on the heavier side, this is still a great hammock to bring with you on a camping trip. Aside from the fact that it supports heavy weights, the hammock can be set up in just two minutes. I don’t like spending too much time setting up camp, so for me personally, this is a huge advantage.

When you camp, you can’t really control the weather. So, there might be times when the hammock will get wet on your trip. But even that isn’t too much of a concern because this is a very quick-drying hammock, making it a great option to bring along with you on your lightweight camping trips.

Pros
  • One of the most affordable picks on the market
  • Supports up to 500 pounds
  • Enough space for two people inside
  • Easy to setup
  • Folds into a very compact form for easier transportation
Cons
  • Feels cheap
Nevis Outdoor Camping Hammock
  • 500lbs maximum weight capacity
  • Plenty of room for up to two people
  • Can be set up in just 2 minutes
  • The hammock comes with all necessary accessories

Kammok Double Hammock – Best Premium Option

One of the places I went to when looking for hammock recommendations was Reddit. And when trying to find hammocks that are made for heavier people, this was one of the most-recommended picks. This Kammok: Roo model is very lightweight, comes in a very neutral green color, and is incredibly strong.

I had the pleasure of trying one of these hammocks myself and let me tell you: it’s very comfortable and easily gives me just the right support for my needs. You might have heard that sleeping in a hammock can be bad for your back, but with this model – you won’t have any such troubles at all.

Hammock camping is very different from tent or RV camping, so finding a hammock that will help you get comfortable is a huge plus.

Another advantage of this brand is that they also offer tons of cool accessories made specifically for this hammock. This includes a pillow, insulation, underquilt, and everything you need to keep you warm and comfortable on your camping trip.

This is one of the best-made hammocks on the market. The construction allows it to carry up to 500 pounds of weight without ripping. And despite its strength, it’s still really easy to set up, which is another big plus to using this hammock.

There is one downside though, and it was the reason I didn’t buy it for myself. This is one of the more expensive hammocks on the market. Granted, you definitely get what you pay for, but I wasn’t too keen on spending that much on my first hammock for heavier people.

But if you want to invest in a top-tier model that will last you a long time while making you feel really comfortable, this is the right pick for you.

Pros
  • Premium feel and design
  • Very strong (holds up to 500lbs)
  • Lightweight (0.49kg)
  • Customizable
  • Comes in various colors
Cons
  • One of the more expensive models on the market
Kammok Double Hammock
  • Hammock's total weight is around 1lbs
  • The maximum weight capacity is 500 lbs
  • Designer for optimal comfort in mind
  • Lifetime guarantee

What to Consider When Buying a Hammock

I have to admit, good and high-quality hammocks are one of the hardest pieces of camping gear to find. Unlike camping ice makers, RV air conditioners, and other modern pieces of camping gear, hammocks are very subjective. Everyone has their own needs and preferences when it comes to their hammock, which you need to consider before buying one.

But if you’re buying a hammock for a heavier person, you first need to consider its capacity. At the very least, the hammock needs to support 400 pounds. Even if the person isn’t that heavy, it’s always best to get hammocks designed for weights heavier than the person sleeping in it. That way, you can rest assured that the camper will be safe during the night.

Additionally, you have to ensure that the hammock is rip-resistant. This means paying attention to models that are made of high-quality materials with premium stitching. Having a ripped hammock in the middle of a camping trip can be really uncomfortable, which you want to avoid at all costs.

Lastly, think of the design and color. Try to figure out whether you want your hammock to blend in or stand out when it’s set up. This is one of the hammock features that you need to decide for yourself.

Tips for Camping with a Hammock

Hammocks can be tough things to camp with. They are a bit more unpredictable and are prone to swinging and tipping over if not installed correctly. Here are some tips to make hammock camping easier for you:

  • Find good anchor points
  • Take your time to ensure that the hammock is secure
  • Buy the right hammock for your weight
  • Buy the right hammock for your height
  • Use fasteners to stabilize the hammock
  • Choose the right conditions for hammock camping
  • Bring things to keep you warm during the evening

Conclusion

If you’re a heavier person, you don’t have to skip out on the joys of hammock camping. Simply just make sure that the hammock you plan on sleeping in is strong enough and comfortable enough to support your weight and meet your needs.

As a heavy person myself, I already did the research for you above, so all you need to decide is what your budget and needs are, and get the camping hammock that best suits your preferences.

Hammock for Tall Person – Our Top Choices!

Hammock camping is a whole lot of fun. Unfortunately, some people claim that hammock sleeping is bad for your back, which isn’t the case at all – they just haven’t found the right size for their body type and needs.

When you set up a hammock properly, even if you’re camping in windy conditions, it won’t swing in the wind and will offer you a comfortable space for you to rest when camping. And while I always have fun when hammock camping, I found that a lot of my tall friends don’t share the same experience.

This is because many hammocks on the market are mostly catered for smaller or average height individuals and don’t offer enough space for taller campers get comfortable at night. And while standard hammocks won’t be large enough for tall people, there are many hammocks on the market made for taller individuals that allow you to feel incredibly comfortable, despite your size.

So, if you happen to be tall and uncomfortable when using hammocks, in this article, I will show you my three favorite hammocks for tall people. On top of that, I’ll also tell you what to consider before buying a hammock and some tips for camping with a hammock.

hammock for tall person

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Hammock for Tall People – Summary Review

In a rush? Here are the three best hammocks for tall people currently available on the market.

If you’re on the lookout for the best overall hammock for tall people, I would recommend you the 1-person hammock by Leadvenst. If you’re in need for a hammock that can accommodate 2 people or are on a budget, then you should go for my budget pick, the Nevis hammock.
 
And finally, if you want a premium 2-person hammock that can hold a weight of up to 660 lbs, I couldn’t recommend you the Commouds hammock enough. Yes, it’s more expensive than the rest but the quality is unmatched.
Best Overall
Leadvenst 1-Person Camping Hammock
Leadvenst 1-Person Camping Hammock
9.5
  • Can hold a weight of up to 500 lbs
  • PU2000 waterproof rainfly
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Comes with a mosquito and bug net
Best Budget Pick
Nevis 2-Person Camping Hammock
Nevis 2-Person Camping Hammock
9.3
  • It can hold a maximum weight of 500 lbs
  • The hammock can easily accommodate two people
  • Takes just 2 minutes to set up
  • Easy to clean and quick to dry
Premium Pick
COMMOUDS 2-Person Hammock
COMMOUDS 2-Person Hammock
9.7
  • Holds up to 660 lbs
  • Comes with a mosquito net
  • Water and sunproof rainfly
  • Item weighs just 2.8 lbs

3 Best Hammocks for Tall People – Detailed Review

During my research, I came across a large number of great hammocks for tall people. I narrowed down my list to the final 3, which you can read more about below.

Leadvenst Portable Single-Person Camping Hammock – Best Overall

We’ll start out the list with the best option on the market. When I went looking for a camping hammock, this hammock by Leadvenst definitely my favorite. This hammock perfectly balances price and quality while sporting a design that’s ideal for taller folks looking to feel comfortable on their camping trip.

To start, it’s a large hammock that can handle up to 500 pounds. This means that just about anyone can feel comfortable on this hammock, regardless of height and weight. And even if it’s a strong hammock, it’s really lightweight, making it an ideal choice for a lot of campers.

This hammock also comes with a great rainfly. The advantage of having a rainfly is you aren’t directly exposed to poor weather such as extreme rain, which is one of the main caveats of hammock camping. So, with this model, you get about everything you need to keep you safe and comfortable on your trip.

With that said, this hammock provides a pretty snug fit for tall people. So, you won’t feel confined, but it definitely won’t have space for another person. But if you’re only looking for a hammock to keep you comfortable while sleeping, this is a good pick.

Pros
  • Weight capacity of 500 lbs
  • Sun and waterproof rainfly
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Comes with a mosquito and bug net
Cons
  • Can only accommodate one person
Leadvenst 1-Person Camping Hammock
  • Can hold a weight of up to 500 lbs
  • PU2000 waterproof rainfly
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Comes with a mosquito and bug net

Nevis Outdoor Camping Hammock for Two People – Best Budget Pick

If you’re a tall person that wants to camp in a hammock, you don’t need to bust the bank. When it comes to camping hammocks on a budget, this model by Nevis probably one of the best picks on the market. This is a two-person hammock, so you can have a partner with you or enjoy all the extra space by yourself.

Despite the affordable price, this hammock can hold up to 500 pounds, which means you won’t have to worry about the hammock giving in if you’re on the heavier side. This is also a complete kit, so you have about everything you need to set up the hammock, making things much easier when on a camping trip.

Additionally, this hammock packs really light. So, if you plan on going on a hike as well, rather than getting a hiking tent, this hammock is a great pick for your backpack. And since it’s made of high-quality nylon, rips and tears on the hammock won’t be a worry at all.

Pros
  • Very lightweight and durable
  • Ideal for two people
  • 500 lbs weight capacity
  • 2-minute set up
Cons
  • Not the highest quality
Nevis 2-Person Camping Hammock
  • Can hold a maximum weight of 500 lbs
  • The hammock can easily accommodate two people
  • Takes just 2 minutes to set up
  • Easy to clean and quick to dry

COMMOUDS Camping Hammock with Rain Fly – Best Premium Option

If you’re ready to invest some money in a top-quality hammock for your camping trips, this model by Commouds is my best recommendation. While this is one of the more expensive hammocks on the market, it comes with a great design and tons of features that justify the price.

To start, this hammock offers a bunch of space. So, if you don’t feel comfortable in standard hammocks because they feel tight, you won’t have this problem with this hammock. Additionally, this hammock comes with a mosquito net to protect you from bugs and mosquitoes.

It also has a great rainfly to protect you from the weather when outdoors. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s large and strong enough (can hold up to 660lbs) fot two full grown adults.

Pros
  • Holds up to 660 lbs
  • Comes with a mosquito net
  • Water and sunproof rainfly
  • Item weighs just 2.8 lbs
Cons
  • More expensive than other models
COMMOUDS Camping Hammock
  • It can hold up a maximum weight of 660 lbs
  • Weighs just 2.8 lbs
  • Hammock dimensions are 118" (L) x 79" (W)
  • Sunproof and waterproof rainfly

What to Consider When Buying a Hammock

Buying a hammock for camping is pretty hard. However, keep in mind that hammocks are far from your most complicated piece of camping gear. Other gear like camping stoves, dehumidifiers, propane coffee makers, and others have much more moving parts and components that you need to consider.

Hammocks, on the other hand, are fairly simple. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay close attention to the hammock and its features when picking one for your next camping trip.

To start, you need to consider the space you’ll need. If you’re taller than most people, then you won’t be able to use a standard hammock. But don’t worry; there are tons of larger camping hammocks on the market designed for larger people – such as the examples above.

So, when buying a hammock, make sure that you find models that give you enough space to feel comfortable and rested.

Additionally, you also need to ensure you buy a strong and durable hammock. You want to avoid options that rip easily, as a rip or tear in your hammock will instantly result in your camping trip being ruined.

At the end of the day, we all have different needs when camping. So, what’s most important is that you choose a camping hammock that works for your needs so you will feel comfortable and safe when sleeping in a hammock.

Tips for Camping with a Hammock

Camping with a hammock isn’t as simple as most people would like it to be. While it might sound easier than tent camping because you won’t have to set up a tent and find out how to insulate the tent floor, there are some issues that people run into when camping in a hammock. To start, a hammock can swing back and forth and tip over if you don’t set it up properly.

So, when on your trip, make sure you take the time to properly set up your hammock. If you don’t, you might not feel comfortable and you won’t be as secure in your hammock.

On top of that, you need to have the right hammock. The reason I enjoyed my first hammock camping trip is because I had the right hammock for my size and needs. So, I felt very comfortable in the hammock, but I knew that if I had the wrong type, I would have had a very different experience.

Conclusion

If you’re a taller person, you won’t be able to use just any hammock when camping. Most standard hammocks are too small for tall people, which can get in the way of having a good time. So, if you’re in doubt when it comes to which hammock is the right one for your height, make sure to check out the models I recommended above.

And trust me, once you find the right hammock for your size, you will feel much safer and more comfortable on your next hammock camping trip.

How to Keep Your Hammock From Flipping in the Wind? (EXPLAINED)

Conveniently, the first time I tried to camp using a hammock, the weather conditions were pretty extreme. While it wasn’t raining or cold, the wind was really starting to pick up to the point where I felt like my hammock might flip during the night.

So it got me wondering: How do you keep your hammock from flipping in the wind?

After some research, I learned that the best way to prevent your hammock from flipping in the wind is to buy a heavy duty hammock, tie-down straps, and pick a more covered and wind-protected spot, where the wind isn’t going to be as strong.

Still, sleeping in a hammock while it’s windy can be dangerous, and for that reason, in this article, I will personally share with you some of the best ideas and tips that I have come up with both through personal experience and a lot of research on the topic.

How to Keep Your Hammock From Flipping in the Wind

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Can You Use a Hammock in Windy Conditions?

Camping in windy conditions can be challenging, and, for your safety, you should put some measures in place to avoid unexpected incidents (by the way, you can read this article with tips on how to camp in windy conditions). 

And you might want to think twice about sleeping in a hammock when the wind is blowing strongly! While there are definitely ways to set up the hammock so it won’t swing or flip, there are also some concerns about how comfortable you will be out in the open during a windy night. 

For example, apart from harsh movements, these conditions can also lead to a freezing feeling (caused by the windchill effect). Of course, there are ways to stay warm in a hammock, even in cold conditions, but staying warm in a tent will be much easier.

But after I felt the freedom of hammock camping for the first time, I knew it was something I wanted to feel every camping trip. I still bring my nylon and compact hammock, even when tent camping! 

So, if you’re like me and enjoy that kind of adventure, it might be fun to go hammock camping on a windy day, as long as you use some tricks detailed below.

However, keep in mind that there is a higher level of risk, and you will have to take some extra measures to ensure your safety and comfort on the trip. With that in mind, I also recommend bringing a tent insulator liner for hammocks so you can stay extra warm when it gets windy. Here’s the one that I always use.

Hammock Insulation Liner
  • Lightweight and easy to carry around
  • Durable and usable in any weather condition
  • Features 10 reinforced tie-down grommets
  • It can be used for hammocks, tents, sleeping bags, and more

Tips to Keep Your Hammock Stable While Camping

The right approach to stabilizing the hammock largely depends on the hammock you have, the current conditions of the campsite, and the campsite itself. 

So, there will always be some trial and error when hammock camping. But here are some tips to smoothen out the process and make it easier for you to go hammock camping.

Choose the Right Trees

One of the reasons I found my hammock swinging so much on my second camping trip was because I didn’t secure it to the right trees. While the trees could definitely hold my weight, I noticed that they were facing in the direction the wind was blowing. 

So, if I just positioned my hammock between different trees that weren’t as exposed to the wind, it would have made a huge difference.

So, before you start typing up your hammock and laying down, take a good look at the trees you’re tying them to. And if you notice a lot of wind blowing between them, it might be best to avoid those areas.

Avoid Hammocks with Spreader Bars

Feeling comfortable in a hammock while camping is as much about having the right hammock as it is about setting it up properly. While it might be tempting to use hammocks with spreader bars for more comfort, I don’t recommend bringing these models on your camping trip.

This is because spreader bars make the hammock more susceptible to wind. These hammocks can flip over with less movement than non-spreader bar hammocks. So, if you want to reduce the chances of flipping over in your hammock, staying away from spreader bars might be best.

We recommend using Wise Owl, which is lightweight, easy to carry, INCREDIBLY resistant to winds (and extremely affordable)

Find Good Cover and Protected Area

I might be tempting to set up your hammock in the spot with the best view or the spot that is the most convenient, however, that’s not how you should approach things when deciding where to set up your base for the duration of your camping trip.
 
If you know it’s going to be windy when you’re out camping, make sure that you find a place with good cover and a natural windshield (such as a set of tree that block or decrease wind speed) . 
 
This way, even if the wind is super strong, under good cover or behind the windshield, the wind itself won’t be as strong. And of course, that means you’ll have a more stable hammock during the night when you’re trying to sleep.

how windy is too windy for a hammockl?

Use Tie-Down Straps

One of the best tips I can give you when it comes to hammock camping is using tie-down straps. These straps help secure your hammock to the ground when camping. That way, you don’t solely depend on the trees to keep you stable.

These straps work by securing your hammock to the hammock stand – you don’t end up flipping when the wind comes blowing! This not only keeps you safe but also ensures that you remain comfortable in your hammock.

Here is a very good and versatile option for hammock straps.

Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Straps
  • These hammock straps work with all types of hammocks
  • Equipped with carabiners and a carry bag for easy transport
  • Highly adjustable
  • Built to last a lifetime

How Windy is Too Windy for Sleeping on a Hammock?

From my personal experience, when the wind reaches speeds of around +40 miles per hour, it is unsafe to use a hammock even if you have used tie-down straps and have a heavy-duty hammock.

At that point, the risk is just not worth the reward of sleeping out in the wild, so you should avoid it at all costs.

That being said, if you don’t have a heavy-duty hammock, such as Wise Owl Models, and don’t plan on using tie-down straps, even at 20 or 30 miles per hour, things can get pretty dangerous. So, my best advice to you is to practice common sense and stay safe.

If you plan on camping in the summer like me and it’s windy, go for one of the best tents for hot weather. They’re safer than a hammock (when windy), and you can make them very comfortable to sleep in.

Conclusion

Hammock camping is a very fun experience that every camper should try at least once. But if you go camping in windy conditions, it can be hard to find the right balance between comfort and stability. 

That’s why before you go on your next trip, make sure that you understand the tips in this guide to ensure that you feel safe and sturdy in your hammock, even when the wind starts to blow.

And once you do that, you’ll find yourself feeling more comfortable than ever. Make sure to note all of the tips from above as well as purchase the necessary gear that will allow you to have an enjoyable, and more importantly, safe camping trip.

Is Sleeping in a Hammock Bad for Your Back? (Avoid Back Pain!)

Sleeping in a hammock is very comfortable. I vividly remember the first time I brought a hammock for a camping trip. I originally brought it to take a nap during the day, but I was so comfortable that I ended up using it for the entire duration of the camping trip.

So, when my friends called me for another 5-day camping retreat, I figured that I might want to bring my hammock instead of a tent. That way, I can pack lighter and still feel very comfortable on the trip. 

After all, it was a summer camping trip, so I was pretty sure that it wouldn’t be too cold to camp in a hammock, but I still brought a liner for my hammock to keep the hammock warm.

However, this time around, the trip was longer, so it got me wondering: Is sleeping in a hammock bad for your back?

After some research (and personal experienced from camping trips), I learned that no, sleeping on a hammock isn’t bad for your back. That being said, you still need to take your individual circumstances into account as if you have a bad back, it’s probably not a good idea to use a hammock. 

To help you decide whether or not hammock camping is a good idea for you, in this article, we’ll go over the benefits and the downsides of sleeping in a hammock, as well as suggest a few products that can make your sleep in a hammock more comfortable.

is sleeping in a hammock bad for you back

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Are Hammocks Good for Your Back?

Sleeping on a hammock is becoming increasingly more popular. And to be honest, I’m not surprised. Packing up and carrying a hammock is often much easier and more convenient than a tent or even a bulky sleeping bag. 

However, hammock sleeping is still an uncharted territory for many campers, and for that reason, many campers looking to sleep on a hammock ask if hammocks are good for your back.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a definitive answer to this question. And I’m speaking both from experienced and having done a ton of research on the topic.

If you have back pains or other conditions that require you to sleep as comfortably as possible, then it’s probably best to avoid hammocks. As someone who doesn’t suffer from any back-related issues, I find sleeping on a hammock particularly relaxing.

Here are a few suggestions to make your hammock sleep more comfortable.

  • Get a hammock suitable for the weight and size of your body
  • If camping in the cold, bring along a blanket
  • If camping in a humid area, get a mosquito net

Below, I’ll share a few of the benefits and drawbacks of sleeping on a hammock.

The Benefits of Sleeping in a Hammock

Hammock sleeping is more comfortable than you could imagine (provided you do it right). Below, I’ll go over some of the benefits that I’ve personally experienced while out camping.

Deeper Sleep

Whenever I go camping in a tent, I find that I don’t sleep as well. I’m not entirely sure why this is, but I guess I’m just not as comfortable in a tent as I’d want to be. But when I laid down in my hammock, the subtle and gentle swaying motion was able to knock me out right away. And to be honest, it was some of the deepest sleep I ever had on a camping trip.

I’d wake up and feel so refreshed that I ask myself why I brought the propane coffee maker in the first place since I didn’t really need coffee to wake up from my sleep.

Spinal Alignment

The reason most people feel back pain when they wake up is the wrong sleeping position. If your spine is misaligned while sleeping, you’ll have some pain in the morning. But since a hammock cradles you, you are less likely to move to a position that misaligns your spine and causes trouble.

That said, this also depends on the type of hammock and the person’s weight. Generally, heavier people would need to get heavy-duty hammocks as standard hammocks may not be able to support their back enough which could end up misaligning their spine.

If you’re on the heavier side or want more stability while sleeping, here’s a great hammock that you should consider.

Sunnydaze Mayan Hammock
  • Made from 80% cotton and 20% nylon
  • Extremely soft and durable
  • 880 pounds weight capacity
  • Backed up with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty

Zero Pressure Points

If you use a yoga mat as a sleeping pad as an example, you will have a lot of pressure points, which can cause you discomfort.  These pressure points can cause you pain when you wake up and is something you want to avoid.
 
Because of the way a hammock is designed, your weight is spread out evenly, which means you don’t have pressure points, which is why hammocks are a great option for camping.

The Downside to Sleeping with a Hammock

That said, hammock camping isn’t for everyone. For one, you are more exposed to everything nature has to bring. So, if you’re camping on a beach in the winter, using a hammock might not be the best idea.

Additionally, hammocks aren’t the best option for people with bad backs. If you have back troubles and issues, sleeping in a hammock can worsen the symptoms. On top of that, you need to ensure that you have the right hammock for your weight, build, and body type to ensure that your spine remains aligned and supported.

Lastly, you also have to make sure you set up the hammock properly. Incorrect setup can result in uneven weight distribution, and it could even cause the hammock to fall. This can be dangerous, which is why it’s important to understand how to set up a hammock before laying it down in one.

Conclusion: Is It a Good Idea to Sleep in a Hammock?

If you don’t have any pre-existing back conditions, I highly recommend sleeping in a hammock. For short camping trips, hammocks could be a great way to get comfortable and feel free. However, keep in mind that they aren’t for everyone or all camping trips.

Hammocks can make the symptoms of back pain and other back issues worse for some people. So, keep that in mind before packing one up for a camping trip.

Additionally, make sure you have the right hammock for your weight and build so that you have the best experience possible. If you consider all of this, then you have a much higher chance of enjoying your camping trip!

How Do You Keep a Hammock Warm Without an Underquilt?

Hammock camping is incredibly fun. And for many people, sleeping and camping in a hammock beat out any other form of camping. However, when the temperatures start to go down, sleeping in a hammock becomes uncomfortable due to the dropping temperatures.

That’s why under quilts are a camping necessity for many hammock campers. With that said, under quilts can be expensive and hard to find, or you might not have one available but are desperate to heat up without one. 

So, in this article, I’ll go over a few ways you can keep a hammock warm without an under quilt. In summary, you can use the following to help you keep cozy in your hammock:

  • Use a sleeping pad
  • Use a sun shade from your car
  • Bring a flexible sleeping bag 
  • Use reflective blankets
  • Wear multiple layers of warm clothes 

Read on to learn the details of each approach.

Ways to Keep a Hammock Warm Without an Underquilt

There are several different ways I’d recommend you to keep your hammock warm if you don’t have an underquilt with you and plan on camping in high winds and cold weather. Here are some of my favorite options.

Sleeping Pads

If there’s one benefit to hammock camping during a cold night, it’s the fact that you won’t need a bug net. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t need insulation. In fact, you’re probably going to need more insulation when sleeping during a cold night since you want to keep your body temperature up.

This is where the good old sleeping pads come in very handy. I personally recommend getting a foam sleeping pad if you plan on using them in a hammock. These options are much more affordable and would fit better in a hammock. While inflatable ones work, you might find it hard to fit them into the hammock as they are less flexible.

Insulation when hammock camping is very different from insulating a tentThat’s why one of the best things you can do when hammock camping is to have a good sleeping pad that offers both cushioning and insulation (Our preferred option is show below, and it offers great thermal insulation with high levels of comfort).

Ecotec Sleeping Pad - Keep Your Hammock Warm
  • 4 Season pad with optimal insulation
  • Fast inflation and deflation
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Great for keeping your hammock warm

If you want to avoid the sleeping pad shifting while in your hammock, put the hammock through the sleeping pad. This will make things much more stable and comfortable when trying to get some rest during your camping trip.

Sun Shades

Another option you can use to keep a hammock warm is an old sun shade from your car. This is only recommended if you don’t have a sleeping pad. A sun shade won’t offer the same insulation and warmth as a proper sleeping pad, but while it lacks insulation, it does have a reflective material that can work similarly to mylar.

With an old reflective sun shade, you can reflect any heat from the sun back to your body. This can keep you very warm even when the temperature drops during a camping trip.

The one downside to using a sunshade is the noise, since the reflective material can be very noisy and annoying. So, you will have to get used to the crunchy sound of the sun shade whenever you move around the hammock, which could be a dealbreaker for some campers.

Sleeping Bags

You may not think that using a sleeping bag with your hammock is possible. However, this is a common trick that many experienced campers do if they want to stay warm without an underquilt. On top of that, doing so is very easy and something you can do in a matter of minutes.

Sleeping bags typically have two zippers. All you have to do to run a hammock through it is open both zippers, put the hammock through the top, and pull it through the bottom. From there, you create a sleeping bag and hammock hybrid that can give you the best of both worlds.

There are many people that find this one of the most comfortable ways to stay warm on a hammock. With that said, it may seem fairly complicated at first, but once you get the hang of it, it will be much easier for you.

Coolzon Sleeping Bag
  • Waterproof and breathable material 
  • Easy to store when not in use
  • Great Insulation - Ideal for sleeping in a hammock
  • CHEAP!

Reflective Blankets

Reflective blankets are great for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Normally, these are used by marathon runners and emergency personnel to keep body temperature when it is needed. 

You can also place it underneath you in the hammock so it will reflect heat back into your body and trap warm air inside your sleeping area. This method works similarly to using a sun shade. 

However, these blankets are designed to be used on humans, so they will work much better than a sunshade. You can even wrap the entire blanket around you and your hammock to give yourself even more heat retention, keeping you as warm as possible in the hammock.

The downside to using a reflective blanket is that there’s a high chance you don’t have one just lying around your house.

But don’t worry; there are multiple options at a very affordable cost these days (less than $30 bucks), such as ArcTurus Reflective Blanket (below).

It is nylon-made, ensuring optimal insulation performance, and can also be used as a tarp, emergency blanket, or even as a temporary shelter with its ten reinforced grommets.

Clothes

If you don’t have any of the above with you, then using the clothes you brought with you on your camping trip is another good idea. Both a jumper and a jacket will do the job and all you really need to do is decide what works best for you and how warm you want to keep during the night.

Whatever you do, make sure you bring clothing with long sleeves as those will both keep you warm and protect your skin from bugs and insects that may be flying and crawling around the camp site.

Additional ideas to take into consideration to make sure you’re warm:

  • Stay near but not too close to the campfire if you have one
  • Check the forecast using sites like Accuweather and go camping when the weather is warmer

Conclusion

Staying warm and comfortable during your camping trip is very important. At the end of the day, when you rest, you want to make sure you rest properly so you can enjoy all of the activities you’ll get to do during the day.

And while camping using a hammock isn’t as common as using a tent, which you can heat up using a tent heater, plenty of people do it and fortunately, there are a number of ways to keep yourself warm during the night, even if you don’t have access to an underquilt.