The Best Camping Hammock
There are few pleasures in life like that of rocking gently in the breeze between the trees in your very own hammock. Whether you're looking for a portable resting spot or an elevated alternative to traditional camping tents, these swinging beauties can bring serious comfort to any outdoor excursion. Thanks to the wonders of modern materials, today's camping hammocks are lightweight and portable, so you won't have to think twice about adding bulk or burden to your daily hike. We've rounded up this list of some of the best in class, so be sure to take a look below.
What to Look For
Making the right choice of hammock rests on a number of factors, and we focused on durability, capacity, and portability during our search. Our overwhelming favorite is from Wise Owl. This lightweight single is a great way to get started thanks to its simple fastenings and compact design. If you’re looking for an option to spend the night in, check out the integrated camping tent from Night Cat. Read on below to check out the rest of our top picks.
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Up and away
Taking its name from the eponymous tree-dwelling bird we all know and love, this handy hammock couldn’t be a better way to enjoy some downtime swinging between the branches. The durable nylon fabric will comfortably bear loads up to 500 pounds, so you won’t be in for any surprises during an afternoon snooze. Despite its impressive brawn, this compact design weighs in at a meager 28.5 ounces, meaning you’ll bearly notice the added burden as you hike off into the wilderness.
Pros:
- Two tree straps and durable carabiners are included, so you’ll be ready to set up camp right out of the box.
- The hammock comes in a handy drawstring bag that’s easy to attach to rucksacks and the like.
Cons:
- You’ll need to invest in a cover separately if you’re looking for protection from the elements.
Kootek Camping Hammock
Though it’s natural to prioritize practicality when choosing your camping gear, that doesn’t mean that your camping gear should necessarily be devoid of style. These handsome hammocks from Kootek immediately impressed us with a dazzling range of colors, so you can take your pick between bright neon shades or camouflaged hues to suit your tastes. With a maximum load of up to 400 pounds, these single hammocks are built to hold you securely as you cool off for the evening.
Pros:
- This premium 210T parachute fabric is immensely durable, giving this hammock superb resistance to frays and tears.
- The extended 10-foot attachment straps will give you a little more versatility when searching for a spot to pitch up.
Cons:
- These single hammocks are a little snug when compared with some competitors.
Pure Garden Double Brazilian Hammock
Anytime, anywhere
Hammocks have played a part in the traditional culture of South American nations for generations, so there are few places better to look for design inspiration. This modern take on a classic stays true to the traditional woven cotton material, bringing comfort and durability by the bucketload. You won’t have to search far and wide for the perfect bow or branch either, thanks to the sturdy 12-gauge steel frame included.
Pros:
- It includes a large carrying case that fits both the frame and hammock.
- The steel frame features a rust-resistant coating, so it can be left in the elements without risk of damage.
- Despite the impressive scale and durability of the frame, you won’t need any tools to assemble it.
Cons:
- The weighty cotton construction and sizable frame compromise on portability when compared with modern nylon alternatives.
Night Cat Camping Hammock Tent
Sleep tight
If you’re looking for a hammock that can serve as a bed for the night, this integrated tent design from Night Cat could be the one for you. This roomy single tent comes with a snug rainfly attachment, so you can seal yourself in for the night with no expectation of a rude awakening if the clouds open. There’s also a mosquito net included that can keep those pesky bloodsuckers at bay as you snooze.
Pros:
- Both the rainfly and mosquito net are detachable, leaving you with a standard hammock if you wish.
- The hammock can also be pitched to the ground like a regular tent, so you won’t be caught short if you end your day without a tree in sight.
- Weighing just 4 pounds, this portable design is easy to carry if hiking on foot.
Cons:
- You won’t be able to keep your bag in the hammock with you as you sleep, so come prepared with an alternative storage solution if this is your only tent.
Sunyear Camping Hammock
This snug sleeper for two lets you share the swinging fun with a friend or partner. The super-spacious double design is 20 feet long and safe for loads up to 400 pounds, giving you plenty of space and security as you cozy up together inside. With a large integrated insect net included, you can keep your new impromptu bedroom insect-free throughout the night.
Pros:
- The hammock ropes come pre-tied and the tree straps feature 16 rugged loops for easy fastening, so you don’t need to know how to tie knots to get this hammock set up.
- The high-quality 210T parachute fabric means that this hammock is lightweight and incredibly durable.
Cons:
- The large size of this hammock results in a deep dip in the center, which can make it slightly more difficult to get out of.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be sure that my hammock is attached securely?
The last thing you want when you drift into a gentle haze is to experience a rude awakening as you plummet to the ground. To ensure you’re held securely as you swing away, it’s important to take due care when checking your fastenings. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions included with your hammock, but we recommend having a little sit and bounce inside once you think it’s secure to test its strength.
Is it safe to use hammocks in all weather?
If your hammock is equipped with a rainfly or tent attachment, you might not mind braving a shower as you’re nestled up inside. Rainwater can slicken some treebark, so make sure that your fastenings are doubly secure if you expect precipitation. Hammocks can even be preferable to tents when your campsite is struggling with a buildup of groundwater, but be mindful that you might not be able to fit your rucksack and other camping gear inside the hammock as you sleep.
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