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Hammocks, a backyard staple for many people, are also a great option for campers and backpackers. They’re lighter, more packable, and often more comfortable than tents.
Alyssa Whoaa, an outdoor adventurer and backpacking guide who hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with a camping hammock, knows how important it is to get good quality sleep while backpacking. “Honestly, I sleep better in a hammock than on the ground,” she tells us. She also likes how easy hammocks are to set up, often in places where tents can’t fit, and she believes they make her a better backpacker. “Sleeping in a hammock encourages me to keep better camp habits—like not unpacking my entire backpack into my tent or around camp.”
We evaluated camping hammocks for durability, packability, and comfort, and our choice for the best overall is the Warbonnet Ridgerunner Hammock. It’s light enough for backpacking while having the features and comfort of far heavier camp hammocks. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can create the best camping hammock for your own needs.
(See our picks for the best camping gear, the best backpacking stoves, the best camping cookware sets, and the best camping chairs.)
Our picks for the best camping hammock
The best hammocks for camping
Best overall: Warbonnet Ridgerunner Hammock
Buy it now at Warbonnet Outdoors
Why we like it: The Warbonnet Ridgerunner Hammock is our overall pick and a favorite among campers and backpackers because it balances comfort, ample features, and packability. Spreader bars on either end provide a flat platform to sleep on, and thanks to the large saddlebags on either side of the hammock, you’ll have plenty of room for your gear. Despite these features, the Ridgerunner is light enough for backpacking. There are also various customizable options, including different suspension systems, fabric weights, and single or double-layered fabric.
Keep in mind: The Warbonnet Ridgerunner has a light maximum capacity, particularly if you plan on storing gear in it while sleeping. The spreader bars make it less packable than other hammocks, and ultralight backpackers may prefer a gathered-end hammock.
Product details: Total weight: 2.2 pounds| Dimensions: 10.1 feet x 3 feet | Max capacity: 200 pounds; 250 pounds for double-layer | Materials: 30D or 40D ripstop nylon
Best budget camping hammock: Eagles Nest Outfitters Doublenest
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Alyssa recommends the ENO Doublenest for its comfort and durability. With a price tag half that of many other camp hammocks, the Doublenest is also our overall budget pick. While technically a two-person camp hammock, the Doublenest is more comfortable for only one sleeper. The extra fabric gives you plenty of room to stretch out and store gear. ENO also offers bug nets and underquilts, so you can build out your camp hammock as you gain more experience.
Keep in mind: At only 9.5 feet long, the gathered-end ENO Doublenest may be too short for taller people. The suspension system is sold separately.
Product details: Total weight: 1.2 pounds | Dimensions: 9.5 feet x 6.3 feet | Max capacity: 400 pounds| Materials: 70D nylon
Best camping hammock with mosquito net: Kammok Mantis
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: Mosquito nets are a must for many hammock campers, but unfortunately, most bug-netting blurs your view of the outside world. The Kammok Mantis camp hammock mitigates this with a black mesh Stargazer™ panel that turns almost transparent in the dark, giving astronomy lovers a clear view of the night sky. The bug net also has built-in storage pockets for your phone and headlamp and is tightly woven enough to keep out no-see-ums and gnats.
The Kammok Mantis’s body is made from 100 percent recycled, bluesign® approved fabric and has an impressive 500-pound maximum capacity.
Keep in mind: The Kammok Mantis is the most expensive single-person hammock we’ve included, mostly because it includes bug netting and a rainfly. If you’re new to hammock camping, you may want a less expensive setup.
Product details: Total weight: 3.6 pounds| Dimensions: 10 feet x 4.7 feet | Max capacity: 500 pounds | Materials: 100 percent recycled 40D ripstop nylon
Best two-person camping hammock: Dutchware Clark Vertex
Buy it now at Dutchware
Why we like it: The Dutchware Clark Vertex bridge hammock is a great option for couples or parents with children who want to share a hammock. The two hammock beds have a divider to keep you from rolling into each other, and each bed is independently stable, so you won’t tip over when your partner gets in and out. The Clark Vertex has plenty of storage compartments, a weather shield, and a bug net. It can also be freestanding, like a tent, so you can set up on the ground if there are no trees nearby.
Keep in mind: Third-party reviews mention that two-person hammocks are not very comfortable. Dutchware also offers a 2-Person Chameleon Package that lets you hang two hammocks next to each other on one suspension system, which may be more comfortable.
Product details: Total weight: 5.3 pounds| Dimensions: 9.1 feet x 4.1 feet | Max capacity: 700 pounds| Materials: 70D ripstop nylon
Best camping hammock for kids: Onewind Kids Camping Hammock
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY AMAZON
Buy it now on Amazon
Why we like it: The Onewind Kids Camping Hammock is built to hang over an adult’s hammock, giving your kids the independence of their own bed while still being within reach. This kid-sized camping hammock is inexpensive and lightweight, packing down small enough to fit inside a child’s backpack. Onewind also has hammock quilts and bug nets for their kids hammock.
Keep in mind: The Onewind Kids Hammock hangs off another hammock’s ridgeline, so you’ll need a second hammock with a ridgeline. If you want to hang it on its own, you’ll need a separate suspension system.
Product details: Total weight: 5 ounces | Dimensions: 7.2 feet x 4.6 feet | Max capacity: 200 pounds| Materials: 70D ripstop nylon
Best backpacking hammock: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC
Buy it now at Warbonnet Outdoors
Why we like it: The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC combines lightweight packability with the comfort needed to sleep out multiple nights in a row, making it our choice for the best backpacking hammock. It’s one of the lightest hammocks on our list, but still full of features, including an accessible storage shelf and a removable, no-see-um bug net with guylines that pull the netting away from your face.
The Blackbird XLC can be set up as a ground bivy, and it’s also a modular design. You can mix and match weather socks, underquilts, and suspension systems from Warbonnet’s Eldorado hammock to create the best backpacking setup for you.
Keep in mind: The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is asymmetrical and only comfortable on your back. It’s also one of the most expensive hammocks on this list.
Product details: Total weight: 1.4 pounds | Dimensions: 11 feet x 5.2 feet | Max capacity: 350 pounds; heavyweight option, 400 pounds | Materials: 40D nylon
Most versatile camping hammock: Dutchware Chameleon
Buy it now at Dutchware
Why we like it: The Dutchware Chameleon is a customizable, modular hammock you can design from the ground up. Starting with a hammock base, you can add spreader bars for a flatter lay, saddlebags for increased storage, and bug nets or vented covers for protection. There’s also a wide version, and you can add a second layer of fabric, increasing the maximum capacity and creating a pocket for you to slide a sleeping pad into.
Keep in mind: The Dutchware Chameleon base doesn’t come with a bug net, but you can buy one separately. Each add-on can significantly increase the price of your hammock.
Product details: Total weight: 8 ounces | Dimensions: 11 feet x 4.8 feet | Max capacity: 350 pounds | Materials: 70D ripstop nylon
Most comfortable camping hammock: Eagles Nest Outfitters Skylite
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY REI
Buy it now at REI
Why we like it: The ENO Skylite is a bridge hammock that looks more like a floating cot than a hammock. Spreader bars hold the hammock open, and a dropped foot box lets you lay flat without hyperextending your knees. At 7 feet long, there’s plenty of room lengthwise to stretch out or store gear. The comfort doesn’t come at a weight cost, and the Skylite is light enough to use backpacking. Alyssa recommends the Skylite for beginner hammock sleepers who are heading into the backcountry.
Keep in mind: If you have broad shoulders, the Skylite may be too narrow. Suspension isn’t included, and the bug net isn’t removable.
Product details: Total weight: 2 pounds | Dimensions: 7 feet x 3 feet | Max capacity: 250 pounds | Materials: 40D ripstop nylon
Best ultralight hammock: Hennessy Hammock Ultralite Backpacker Asym Zip Hammock
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY REI
Buy it now at REI
Why we like it: The Hennessy Hammock Ultralite Backpacker Asym Zip Hammock comes ready for backpacking, with a no-see-um bug net, a rainfly, and suspending ropes—all for just 2 pounds. It also packs down to about twice the size of a 32-ounce Nalgene, making this sleep system a great choice for long backpacking trips. An asymmetrical shape helps you get a flatter, more comfortable lay so you can sleep comfortably on the trail.
Keep in mind: The Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker Hammock has a maximum capacity of only 200 pounds. Third-party reviews mention a more complicated setup due to the suspension straps.
Product details: Total weight: 2 pounds | Dimensions: 8.3 feet x 3.9 feet | Max capacity: 200 pounds | Materials: 70D nylon
Best value camping hammock: Eagle’s Nest Outfitters JungleNest Hammock
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY REI
Buy it now at REI
Why we like it: The ENO JungleNest Hammock is a sturdy, lightweight camping hammock with an integrated, bug net—and costs just over $100. The bug net is stowable, with a spreader bar that makes a tent-like canopy over your hammock. The JungleNest is 10 feet long and has a max capacity of 300 pounds, making it a great value hammock for most people.
Keep in mind: The suspension system is sold separately. Some third-party reviews mention mosquitoes can bite through the hammock fabric.
Product details: Total weight: 1.3 pounds | Dimensions: 10 feet x 4.8 feet | Max capacity: 300 pounds | Materials: 40D ripstop nylon
How we chose the best camping hammocks
Third-party reviews: We considered third-party reviews from sources other than company websites for unbiased opinions.
Brand reputation: We picked trusted brands with high-quality, durable camping hammocks that will last you many seasons.
Weight and packability: Camping hammocks need to be lighter and more packable than backyard hammocks, and we chose hammocks that fit easily in backpacks.
Features: We looked for hammocks with additional features like bug nets and rain tarps so you can customize your hammock for your camping needs.
Tips for buying a camping hammock
Here’s what to consider when picking your camping hammock:
Price
If you aren’t sure you’ll like hammock camping, look for a basic, less expensive one. If you are a seasoned hammock sleeper or are planning on using your hammock for long backpacking trips, consider a more expensive hammock that is lighter and has more features, like a bug net and rain tarp.
Material
Most camping hammocks are made of nylon, a lightweight, durable fabric. Nylon comes in different denier counts. Higher counts, like 70D, mean thicker threads and, potentially, stronger fabrics. If your hammock is going to get a lot of use, look for ripstop nylon, which has additional fibers that prevent small rips from growing.
Weight
If you’re taking your hammock backpacking, you’ll want the lightest hammock possible without sacrificing quality. Two pounds and under is a good place to start; your suspension system, bug net, and tarp will increase this weight. If you’re car camping, look for robust, heavier hammocks with more features.
Type
Camp hammocks come in two types. Gathered-end hammocks are what most people envision when they think of a hammock, with the fabric gathered to a point on each end. Bridge hammocks have spreader bars that keep the corners from collapsing. Bridge hammocks are more comfortable but heavier and less packable.
Size
Gathered-end hammocks should be 2 feet longer than your own height— this accounts for the fabric that is bunched together when it’s hung. If you’re 6 feet tall, look for a gathered-end hammock that is at least 8 feet long. Bridge hammocks only need to be slightly longer than your height. Hammocks have maximum weight capacities; make sure your hammock can handle you and any sleeping gear. Double hammocks have larger widths and higher weight capacities, and are a great option for larger people or campers looking for more space.
Accessories
Alyssa Whoaa recommends accessories like bug nets and rain tarps for hammock camping. Before buying, check to see what accessories come with the hammock and which ones are sold separately.
(First-time camper? Here’s our essential checklist for beginners.)
Frequently asked questions
How much does a camping hammock cost?
Camping hammocks typically cost between $75 and $300. Double hammocks cost significantly more, and add-ons like bug nets and underquilts can increase the cost.
What is the best material for a camping hammock?
Camping hammocks are typically made of nylon. Ripstop nylon has additional synthetic threads that help stop tears from growing.
What is a good weight for a camping hammock?
Look for a hammock with a base weight of under 2 pounds if you backpack. Bug nets and other add-ons will increase this weight. If you’re car camping, go for a heavier hammock with more features.
What size camping hammock do I need?
A gathered-end hammock should be at least 10 feet long, as some length will be unusable when you hang it. Bridge hammocks should be 6 feet or longer, depending on your height.
What type of hammock is best for sleeping?
Bridge hammocks are the best for sleeping since you can lay comfortably on your back, stomach, or side.
What is the most comfortable type of hammock?
Bridge hammocks are the most comfortable hammocks for sleeping. Spreader bars hold the hammock open width-wise, creating a flat lay that is more like a floating cot than a hammock.
Chelsey Cook is an Alaska-based writer and mountain guide. When she’s not traipsing through the mountains of the world, she writes about the outdoors, travel, and conservation. She has a master’s in creative writing from the University of Cambridge, where she specialized in nonfiction that rewrites the adventure narrative for those who have been historically excluded. Her work can currently be found in Wide Open Spaces, Matador Network, and National Geographic.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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