Is Hammock Camping Worth Trying?

Some campers swear by a hammock, others would not touch them with a barge pole. So, what is the real deal with hammocks and are they a good idea for camping holidays in the UK? Here are a few things to think about when trying to decide whether or not camping with a hammock rather than a tent is for you:

Hammocks are very specific in application and it is important to consider when and where they can be used. Of course, you will need two good trees or other suitable places to fasten your hammock. So you should consider where you will be camping most often and if you are often to be found camping on the shore or above the treeline then hammock camping is unlikely to be for you.

Another question you should ask yourself is whether you plan to camp with others or will mostly be a solo adventurer or will be travelling with friends who have their own hammocks too. Hammocks are really only worthwhile for individuals or groups who camp alone in remote areas. While there are 'double' hammocks on the market, even they do not realistically allow a couple to sleep comfortably together and no hammocks afford much privacy for camp site camping.

Hammocks can give solo adventurers more flexibility for camping in forest and woodland, in places where it can sometimes be difficult to find a place to pitch a tent. They can be used over rocks or boggy and/or uneven ground. So if you find yourself on a hike through large, densely forested areas then this is the sort of camping trip for which a hammock might come in handy.

Light to carry, hammocks can be a viable option for those on expeditions who need or want to keep down the weight of their pack. Hammock fabrics for ultralight camping can weight as little as 7 or so ounces – with the weight of the suspension system this can still be kept to well under a pound. Ultralight hammocks include the Grand Trunk Nano 7 which is considered by many to be one of the best ultralight hammocks on the market.

Hammocks can be extremely affordable and while no one could say that they are a viable alternative to a tent – they simply are not as versatile – they could be a fun and fairly low-cost way to sleep outdoors. While some hammocks are more usable than others, if you make the right choice, comfort is one of the main reasons to switch to using a hammock.

Hammocks can be comfortable but it is a good idea to do your research to make sure you get the right design for your needs and ideally, you should try before you buy. Bear in mind that most hammocks are used with a sleeping mat and sleeping bag or quilt and that you will probably have to et used to sleeping in a different position – that suits some and never works for others. Eagles Nest Outfitters have created a hammock with integral LEDs and an inflatable mattress designed for use in a hammock – the ultimate in glamorous hammocking or perhaps that should be glammocking? Though perhaps those who have never used a hammock before should stick to cheaper options.

Hammock camping is great for some but my advice would be that if it is at all possible you should try it out before heading off the beaten track with one and until you know it is definitely for you, to have a tent as back up.