Choosing the right hammock for camping or backpacking can significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment of the outdoors. This comprehensive review dives into twelve of the best options available in 2022, catering to various needs and budgets. From ultralight backpacking hammocks designed for minimalist adventures to spacious, comfortable models perfect for car camping or relaxing in the backyard, we've covered a wide range of styles and features. We'll explore hammock tents, standalone hammocks, and even tarp systems, considering factors like weight, durability, weather protection, and ease of setup.This detailed review analyzes each hammock's strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision. We consider the materials used, construction quality, innovative design features, and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker seeking ultralight gear or a casual camper looking for a comfortable lounging option, this guide will equip you with the information needed to choose the perfect hammock for your next outdoor adventure. Prepare to discover the ideal blend of comfort, portability, and durability for your unique camping style.
Pros And Cons
- Unique camping experience
- Great vantage point
- Nice airflow
- Easy ratchet strap system
- Hanging tablet pouch
- Divider with six pockets
- Requires a large area and three trees
- Can be difficult to use
- Roomy and fits two people
- Fun color combinations
- Easy setup
- Straps not included
- High-quality materials and innovative designs
- Patented mini carabiners
- Light high-strength polyethylene hanging cords with continuous loop sliding adjustment
- Durable ripstop diamond weave 40d nylon hammock body
- Removable bug net
- Special mesh for better stargazing
- 15d nylon rainfly with Hypalon reinforced guy out points
- Comfortable
- Ultralight design
- Multiple colors available
- Folds into small attached sack
- Easy to adjust height and comfort
Read more: Unwind in Style: 5 Red Camping Hammocks
Lawson Blue Ridge Camping Hammock
The Lawson Blue Ridge is a robust hammock tent boasting numerous features. However, its heft and bulkiness make it less suitable for extended backpacking trips. A key advantage is its lay-flat configuration, appealing to those who find diagonal hammocks claustrophobic.
Beyond its comfortable lay-flat design, the Blue Ridge offers a spacious upper mesh loft, shock-corded arch poles for support, and the unique ability to be pitched on the ground like a traditional tent. While ground setup feels more like a bivy sack, it remains a solid, well-constructed option.
Despite its strengths, the Blue Ridge's complicated design, with its intricate cordage supporting the spreader bars, introduces multiple potential points of failure. Although the materials are durable, they don't quite match the advanced fabrics of pricier competitors like the Kammok Mantis.
Kammok Mantis Hammock Tent
Born from a backpacking mishap, the Kammok Mantis prioritizes high-quality materials and innovative designs. It's the flagship of Kammok's hammock tents, offering an ultralight version and a unique tent-hammock hybrid called the Sunda 2.0.
The Mantis stands out with its well-thought-out design and comprehensive features. It employs patented components such as mini carabiners and high-strength polyethylene hanging cords with a smooth, continuous loop adjustment system. The durable ripstop nylon and removable bug net further enhance its appeal.
Additional features include a special mesh for better stargazing, and a 15D nylon rainfly reinforced with Hypalon for exceptional weather resistance. This hammock's attention to detail sets it apart, using few, if any, off-the-shelf components for superior performance and durability.
Tensile Connect 2P Hammock Tent
The Tensile Connect 2P offers a unique camping experience by hanging like a hammock but functioning as a tent. Its design provides excellent ventilation and stunning views. However, it requires a large area and three suitably spaced trees for setup, limiting its versatility.
Once set up, its ratchet strap system is user-friendly. Comfort features include a hanging tablet pouch for entertainment during rain and an organized divider with pockets. Although expensive, its unique design and thoughtful details justify the cost for a truly memorable camping experience.
The Tensile Connect 2P excels in providing exceptional views and airflow. The well-designed features like the tablet pouch and internal pockets enhance the overall user experience, but the setup requirements must be considered.
Wise All Outfitters Hammock Tarp
The Wise All Outfitters Hammock Tarp is a popular choice for reliable weather protection. Its heavy-duty design ensures campers stay dry, whether used with a hammock or tent. Made with ripstop, waterproof nylon, taped seams, and a high PU rating, it provides robust protection against the elements.
Available in various sizes for hammocks and tents, this tarp features reinforced stitching and leak-proof seams. The hammock tarp (11ft x 9ft) is ideal for hammock coverage, while the tent tarp options (large & medium) are suitable for various outdoor activities. This tarp is portable and durable, suitable for various environments from backpacking to boating.
The Wise All Outfitters Hammock Tarp stands out for its versatility and durability. The high PU rating, reinforced stitching, and available sizes make it adaptable to different needs and setups. It's a reliable weatherproof solution for diverse outdoor activities.
Dutchware Chameleon Hammock
The Dutchware Chameleon's adaptability makes it a standout. Its innovative design allows easy transformation from a bug-proof summer hammock to a cold-weather shell through the addition of accessories.
Offering extensive customization options, such as adding shelves or gear slings, the Chameleon caters to individual preferences. Although the customization process might be slightly complex, Dutchware provides helpful resources to guide users.
The Dutchware Chameleon is a highly versatile system. Its adaptability, customizability, and detailed instructions make it ideal for serious hammock backpackers who need a system that performs in various conditions.
Sea to Summit Pro Hammock
The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock offers excellent value. Its compact packing size, lightweight design, and included straps make it convenient for travel. Its impressive weight capacity of 400 pounds is noteworthy for such a lightweight hammock.
The included buckle suspension system, while initially requiring adjustment, proves durable and simple once mastered. The hammock is suitable for various uses—from park hangs and car camping to backpacking when paired with a tarp and bug net.
The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock is a strong contender for versatility and portability. Its high weight capacity and compact packability make it ideal for various uses, from casual relaxation to backpacking trips, making it a versatile choice.
ENO SkyLoft Hammock
The ENO SkyLoft is perfect for backyard relaxation or comfortable car camping. Its spreader bars at the head and foot provide ample space for lounging without feeling cramped. Its unique design allows for two modes: relax and sleep.
Sleep mode offers a flat surface ideal for napping, while the relax mode, achieved by pulling head cords, provides an upright position suitable for reading or socializing. The SkyLoft provides ultimate comfort for a relaxing camping experience.
The ENO SkyLoft is a premium choice for comfort-focused campers. Its unique dual-mode design and generous space make it ideal for both relaxation and sleep, setting a higher standard for comfortable hammock usage.
Grand Trunk Skeeter Beater Pro Hammock
The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beater Pro is a budget-friendly option for those new to hammock camping. It features a built-in no-see-um mesh canopy for insect protection, which is removable for bug-free environments. Its relatively lightweight design makes it a portable option.
While lightweight, additional components like a tarp and suspension system are necessary for backpacking trips. Its affordability and insect protection make it suitable for casual use or as a starter hammock.
The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beater Pro is a cost-effective choice. Its integrated bug net enhances comfort, and while needing additional gear for backpacking, it's perfect for beginners or for use in backyard or casual settings.
Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip Hammock
The Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip is a complete system ideal for both beginners and experienced users. It comes with everything needed for a backpacking trip; however, basic knot-tying knowledge is required for setup.
Its asymmetrical design allows for easy lay-flat sleeping, and the bug mesh can be conveniently secured for stargazing. Its comprehensive setup and features make it an excellent value.
The Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip is a strong contender. Its all-inclusive design, user-friendly (once setup is learned) features, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for hikers and casual backpackers alike.
Hummingbird Single Hammock
The Hummingbird Single is incredibly lightweight and compact, perfect for bringing along on backpacking trips as a comfortable seating option. It provides a convenient place to relax and enjoy views but is narrower than other hammocks.
It's less ideal for sleeping but is perfect for rest stops. For sleeping, consider the Hummingbird Single Plus or Hummingbird Double. This hammock provides exceptional portability and is perfect for taking a break on a trail.
The Hummingbird Single is an excellent choice for its portability and compactness. While best suited for resting and enjoying views, its lightweight nature makes it a valuable addition to any backpacking gear.
ENO DoubleNest Hammock
The ENO DoubleNest is spacious and durable enough for two people, making it ideal for lounging at camp. Its vibrant color combinations offer style, and its setup using included carabiners is simple. However, straps are sold separately.
Suitable for casual settings like parks and beaches or car camping, the DoubleNest's roomy design allows comfortable sharing. Its simple setup enhances its usability, while additional straps will be required for tree hanging.
The ENO DoubleNest is a great option for its comfort and ease of setup. Perfect for pairs or solo lounging, it's a versatile choice for casual or car camping situations, though additional straps may be needed.
Coghlan's Camping Hammock Double & Single
The Coghlan's Camping Hammock is known for its comfort, especially among through-hikers, due to its ultralight design. Its lightweight and compact design makes it incredibly portable. Multiple color options are available, appealing to diverse preferences.
It offers a comfortable solution for various activities, from resting to socializing. Its easy setup—avoiding knot-tying—and tree-friendly design make it highly convenient for use. This is a great alternative for tents, sleeping pads, or ground mats.
The Coghlan's Camping Hammock stands out for its combination of comfort, portability, and ease of use. Its ultralight design and multiple color options, combined with its versatile function and simple setup make it a top choice.