Kelty Noah's Tarp & ENO DoubleNest Hammock Review: Lightweight Backpacking Setup

This review explores a lightweight backpacking setup combining the Kelty Noah's Tarp and the ENO DoubleNest Hammock. Designed for comfort and versatility, this system offers a surprisingly spacious and protected sleeping experience, even in challenging weather conditions. We'll delve into the individual merits of each piece of gear, examining their ease of setup, durability, and overall performance in the field. From the tarp's lightweight design and multiple configuration options to the hammock's surprising capacity and comfortable fit, we'll assess whether this combination truly delivers on its promise of a comfortable and efficient backpacking sleep system.This detailed review covers the practical aspects of using the Kelty Noah's Tarp and ENO DoubleNest Hammock together, highlighting both their strengths and any potential limitations. We'll discuss the setup process, the level of protection offered, and the overall comfort experienced during backpacking trips. Ultimately, we aim to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of this setup's capabilities and help them decide if it's the right choice for their own lightweight backpacking adventures.

Pros And Cons

Kelty Noah's Tarp 12 Lightweight Tarp and Rain Fly
  • Lightweight (2 pounds 10 ounces with stakes)
  • Easily covers hammock
  • Easy setup
  • Durable material and stitching
Eagle's Nest Outfitters Double Nest Hammock
  • Wider and longer than single hammocks
  • Can act as a tent
  • Fits a 6'5" person
  • Rated for two people (but has held more)

Read more: 5 Best PVC Camping Tarps for Your Next Adventure

Kelty Noah's Tarp: A Lightweight Backpacking Shelter

The Kelty Noah's Tarp is a surprisingly lightweight and versatile tarp, weighing only 2 pounds 10 ounces with stakes. Its compact size makes it ideal for backpacking, and it provides ample coverage for my hammock.

Close-up of the Kelty Noah's Tarp specifications and weight
Close-up of the Kelty Noah's Tarp specifications and weight

I appreciate its ease of setup. The lightweight stakes make pitching a breeze, and the durable material and stitching inspire confidence in its longevity, even in challenging weather conditions.

The tarp set up for wind protection
The tarp set up for wind protection

I use it in two ways. I can set it up for wind protection, as shown in parts of this video. Alternatively, I can set it up between four trees for a more shaded and sheltered area, though without sidewalls. The versatility is a big plus for me.

Speaker demonstrating ease of setup
Speaker demonstrating ease of setup

ENO DoubleNest Hammock: Comfort and Spaciousness

The Eagle's Nest Outfitters (ENO) DoubleNest hammock is surprisingly spacious. Advertised to fit two people, I find it exceptionally comfortable for solo use.

The ENO DoubleNest Hammock being shown
The ENO DoubleNest Hammock being shown

At 6'5", I easily fit inside, and its width and length allow me to curl up comfortably. The size of the hammock makes it feel more like a tent.

Speaker demonstrating his size in the hammock
Speaker demonstrating his size in the hammock

While rated for two people, I've even seen reports of it holding up to six! It's a surprisingly robust and versatile piece of gear.

The ENO Hammock being shown.
The ENO Hammock being shown.

Suspension and Overall Setup

For suspension, I use inexpensive ratchet straps that I keep in my truck. The working load limit is adequate for my needs.

The ratchet straps used for hammock suspension
The ratchet straps used for hammock suspension

This setup provides a simple and effective solution for comfortable and protected sleeping while backpacking. The combination of tarp and hammock creates a versatile and comfortable sleeping system.

Close up of the ratchet straps
Close up of the ratchet straps

I find this combination to be very effective for different camping situations.

Overall backpacking sleeping setup shown
Overall backpacking sleeping setup shown

Final Verdict: A Solid Backpacking Combo

Both the Kelty Noah's Tarp and the ENO DoubleNest Hammock are excellent pieces of gear. The tarp is lightweight, durable, and easy to set up, offering versatile protection. The hammock provides surprisingly spacious and comfortable sleeping, even for taller individuals.

Price point of the Kelty tarp
Price point of the Kelty tarp

I purchased the tarp for around $63 and the hammock for approximately $70 (though both were on sale). While the prices can vary, this combination is a great value for the durability and lightweight features.

The entire setup being shown
The entire setup being shown

The setup is easily transportable for my backpacking adventures. If you're looking for a lightweight and comfortable backpacking sleeping system, this duo is a strong contender. I highly recommend them.

Speaker concluding the video
Speaker concluding the video