The Best Camping Hammocks of 2021
No matter how you like to get your swing on, there’s bound to be a hammock made for you. Here we review a variety of styles to satisfy a wide range of budgets and needs.
Hammocks targeted at camping and backpacking have recently become some of the most popular outdoor accessories. It’s easy to understand why; hammocks are blissfully relaxing.
In recent years, lighter, more packable, diagonal-laying hammock styles have supplanted the heavy, old-school canvas or rope hammocks that used to hang in almost every suburban backyard.
Now you can choose from hardcore hammock shelters that can fully replace your regular tent or ultralight wisps of nylon that pack up smaller than a can of beer.
And even the old spreader bar style (also called a bridge or lay flat) has come back into style as companies have created new lighter and more packable versions.
We’ve tested and reviewed lots of options and have chosen the camp hammocks we think are the best choices in 2022. There’s bound to be one (or three) that will fit your backcountry and backyard needs.
In choosing a hammock, you’ll need to ask yourself whether you’re looking for a casual hang, or something that’ll find use in your backcountry shelter lineup. Dig into our buyer’s guide, where we’ve gone down to brass tacks in order to explain all things hammock, check out our distilled-down comparison chart, or consult our frequently asked questions section to get straight to the point.
Scroll through below to see all of our recommended buys or jump to the category you’re looking for:
- Best Overall
- Best Budget
- Best for Everyday Use
- Best Four-Season
- Best Ultralight
- Best Modular Tent Hammock
- Most Versatile
- Best of the Rest
The Best Camping Hammocks of 2022
Best Overall Hammock: Kammok Mantis
Conceived when the founder tried to use a few of the popular parachute hammocks on a backpacking trip instead of a tent — they ripped and failed during the night — Kammok has hewn to a mandate from the beginning to produce hammocks with high-quality materials and innovative designs that won’t let you down.
The Mantis ($250) is the pinnacle of Kammock’s line for dedicated hammock tents, and easily landed at the top of the list in our testing. It offers a pricier ultralight version for $270 and an interesting tent/hammock hybrid, the Sunda 2.0 at $420. And it offers a lot of features in a well-thought-out, comprehensive package for those who need a do-it-all camp hammock.
Hammocks all serve the same basic function, with a few variations, so the attention to detail put in by the manufacturer can make a brand stand out. There are few, if any, off-the-shelf components with the Mantis.
The mini carabiners are a patented 13 kN design, and the hammock hanging cords are light, high-strength polyethylene with a slick “continuous loop” sliding adjustment format. And it comes with a no-stretch, low-bulk Python 10 tree strap suspension.
That said, we did find that some had a little trouble with the rigging on the Mantis. Because the hammock uses a fixed-length ridgeline (a cord that adjusts the angle of your dangle) some testers on the smaller side found they couldn’t quite get the hammock to lay how they wanted it to.
Other nice features include the hammock body made out of a durable ripstop diamond-weave 40-denier nylon. It also features a removable bug net crafted from a special mesh that allows for better stargazing. And the 15-denier nylon rainfly is built with Hypalon-reinforced guy-out points for extra strength in scary storms.
Offered as an all-in-one system, you’d be hard-pressed to find another hammock set-up that is as easy to jump right into hammock camping as the Mantis.
For more details, check out our full review of the Kammok Mantis.
Specs:
- Total weight: 2 lbs., 14.5 oz.
- Max capacity: 500 lbs.
- Dimensions: 10 ft. long x 56 in. wide. 115-inch ridgeline
- Materials: 40-denier diamond ripstop nylon hammock body
- Best for: All-around camping, long backpacking trips
Pros:
- Light
- Sturdy with well-thought-out details
Cons:
- Fixed-length ridgeline doesn’t work for everyone
- Daisy chain straps aren’t the most packable for hammock camping
Check Price at evoCheck Price at Kammok
Best Budget Hammock: Klymit Traverse
Though the most affordable in the roundup, the Traverse ($65) is a well-made hammock constructed from a high-quality 75-denier polyester that’s durable, light, and extra comfortable. And while looking exactly like every other parachute/diagonal hammock on the market, the Traverse is made from a single panel instead of the usual three used in most designs.
This gives you a relaxing sleeping/chilling position that puts your body more easily on a flatter plane, avoiding the dreaded banana bend other hammocks can give you. Set up is a breeze using the included daisy chain straps and carabiners, which is the easiest suspension style we found for casual hanging.
Upon sliding into the Traverse, our testers remarked at how soft the fabric is — a far cry from the technical sheen of parachute materials that most other hammocks make use of. And when we were ready to go, it all packed away into the integrated stuff sack.
It isn’t the fanciest hammock on the block, and at 9 feet long it is on the smaller side for larger hammockers, which were our only quibbles with this budget sling.
Perfect for chucking in a trunk or daypack, the Traverse is the perfect hammock for impromptu hanging sessions, all without weighing down your wallet.
Specs:
- Total weight: 1 lb., 12.8 oz.
- Max capacity: 400 lbs.
- Dimensions: 9.1 ft. long, 55 in. wide
- Materials: 75-denier polyester hammock body
- Best for: Those who need a solid, no-frills camp hammock
Pros:
- Price
- Light and durable
- Includes suspension straps and carabiners
Cons:
- Minimal features
- 9 foot length won’t fit everyone
Check Price at REICheck Price at Amazon
Best for Everyday Use: Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest
Perfect for tossing between any two solid points you can find, the ENO DoubleNest ($75) hammock has been a staple for many years. ENO has been at it since 1999, when the Pinholster brothers hawked their travel-ready hammocks across the southeast. The DoubleNest is the pinnacle of their chill-oriented gathered-end hammock evolution.
Sitting at a middle of the road 9.5 feet long, the DoubleNest bumps the width out to 76 inches wide to accommodate a hammock co-pilot to your next hang. We’ve found that by adjusting the hanging angle we can make this a comfortable affair for both parties.
ENO used a common design in construction — a three-panel layout that cradles the occupants — and setting it up couldn’t be easier. Find two sturdy trees 10 to 15 feet apart, sling them with your suspension system, and attach the included carabiners in order to hit the ideal 30-degree hanging angle.
The company recently updated all of the hardware used in the DoubleNest, including a hammock-specific carabiner that incorporates a groove that captures the hammock-end cord and limits cross-loading. We loved seeing these small pieces of kit optimized for hammock use.
You’ll need to bring your own straps to the party, as the DoubleNest is sold as just the hammock. For that, any daisy chain style suspension system will do, and ENO suggests their uber-popular Atlas Hammock Straps ($30). We also found that using the DoubleNest solo can feel like you’re being swaddled in the extra fabric.
Our constant daypack companion, the DoubleNest is made to go anywhere and be ready for any hang.
Specs:
- Total weight: 1 lb., 3 oz.
- Max capacity: 400 lbs.
- Dimensions: 9.5 ft long, 76 in. wide
- Materials: FreeWave 70-denier Nylon taffeta
- Best for: Casual hanging at the beach or park, or going anywhere really
Pros:
- Ease of set up
- Large ecosystem of ENO accessories
- Many color and print options
Cons:
- No included suspension system
- The extra fabric can be a bit much when used solo
Best Four-Season Hammock: Hennessy 4Season Expedition Zip
One of the advantages of a camping hammock is the ability to be pitched in a wider variety of terrain than a tent. Though swinging free in the air keeps you away from rough and uneven terrain, it also means you lose some of the insulating properties of sleeping on the ground.
The Hennessy 4Season Expedition Zip ($290) gets around that by giving you a double layer of nylon in the bottom panel. This allows you to slip in the included open-cell foam pad to increase the temperature rating to about 40 degrees F. And then, you can add the included reflective space blanket above or below it to withstand freezing temps.
In practice, we found these custom pads to be much more ideal than the regular sleeping pads we’ve tried to press into hammock service in the past. Where these camping pads folded at odd angles and caused creases that were awkward to sleep on, Hennessy’s foam pad is cut in an asymmetric shape to fit the hammock perfectly.
Across Hennessy’s collection, its marquee feature is an asymmetrical design. Similar to the diagonal construction of popular parachute hammocks, Hennessy hammocks differentiate themselves by allowing users to lie completely flat within the diagonal hanging position, offering solid support to the lower back.
Included in the 4Season Expedition Zip setup is the integrated mosquito net, as well as a Hex rainfly made from 70-denier polyester ripstop. Our tester found the fly to be a generous size and cut, protecting the ends of the hammock from rain and able to be pitched to avoid drafts from beneath.
As with many four season shelters, weight is the obvious trade-off for protection from the elements. This hammock shelter weighs 5 lbs., 3 oz all told, and packs into an included 7 in. x 16 in. compression stuff sack. You’ll also have to give some thought to set up, as there are a number of lines to tension correctly.
While we haven’t used the 4Season Expedition Zip hammock in snow yet, we’ve used it in plenty of other gnarly environs, and wouldn’t hesitate to. It’s the ideal setup for year-round use for those who want to sleep off the ground.
Specs:
- Total weight: 5 lbs., 3 oz. (including straps)
- Max capacity: 250 lbs.
- Dimensions: 10 ft. long, 59 in. wide
- Materials: One layer of 70-denier nylon, and one layer of 40-denier
- Best for: Those who like to camp in a hammock all year long
Pros:
- Can easily adjust to battle a wide range of temperatures
- Asymmetric design allows for a comfortable sleeping position
Cons:
- Heavy
- Can be a bit complicated to set up
Check Price at Hennessy Hammock
Best Ultralight Hammock: Hummingbird Hammocks Single Hammock
At an astonishing 5.2 ounces and packing down to the size of a fist, the Hummingbird Hammocks Single Hammock ($70) is easily the welterweight champion of our review.
Effortlessly disappearing into a pack, this hammock makes use of all the cutting-edge tech in its quest to be the lightest hammock on the market. The 1.1 ounce ripstop nylon used is certified reserve parachute fabric, and while it’s quite thin, it maintains a tensile strength of 50 pounds per square inch.
Rounding out the hammock is a Spectra continuous loop and button link system that is far lighter than a carabiner. It doesn’t come with a suspension system, but Hummingbird’s Tree Straps are equally high-tech, using Dyneema webbing and Spectra cord.
Created by a Certified Parachute Rigger, even the stitching is up to spec — using a mil-spec bonded nylon thread and an FAA-approved double lock stitch.
Most hammocks are cut with enough fabric to ensure that surprise departures aren’t a thing, but we found ourselves needing to be a bit more aware of our movements in the Hummingbird. At 8.6 feet long it’s the shortest hammock we’ve tested, but will fit most adults with some care given to the lying position.
At such a light weight, we found it difficult to justify not bringing this hammock along on trips.
Specs:
- Total weight: 5.2 oz.
- Max capacity: 300 lbs.
- Dimensions: 8.6 ft. long, 47 in. wide
- Materials: 1.1 oz. calendered ripstop nylon, certified reserve parachute material
- Best for: Long treks where a luxury item like a hammock is desired
Pros:
- Ultralight weight
- Created up to military parachute specifications
Cons:
- Small overall size might not fit everyone
- Doesn’t include a suspension system
Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Hennessy
Best Modular Tent Hammock: Warbonnet Outdoors Blackbird XLC
This excellent tent hammock ($200) is great for those looking for a wide range of customization options in a high-quality hang and don’t need an all-in-one solution. Warbonnet also constructs its hammocks to accept any new bits you spring for down the line. So, if you can’t quite afford your ultimate setup right away, you’ll be able to add on in the future.
Other highlights include a fully removable bug net, as well as Warbonnnet’s unique storage shelf — a flap of fabric that hangs from the side of the hammock and provides two square feet of storage space. We greatly appreciated having this at our fingertips for overnight excursions in the Blackbird, when keeping a headlamp or phone close by was handy.
The Blackbird XLC is available in a number of suspension options, including a simple buckle and webbing strap set up to classic whoopie slings. Both of these options make the hammock poised to be ready for long-haul hammock camping and limit bulk and weight.
One of the things we liked most about the Blackbird was its use of Warbonnet’s Dream-Tex fabric, a specialty weave that was made uniquely for hammocks. As per Warbonnet: “[Dream-Tex] combines a traditional ripstop weave with a bias-directional diamond grid to create a fabric that has an incredibly comfortable cotton-like texture.”
Sliding into the Blackbird, it’s obvious that this isn’t your run-of-the-mill ripstop parachute material. You can even order the hammock in single or double-layer configurations, adding support for larger hammockers and ensuring you get the correct amount of sag in your hang.
The downside to all this customization is that, since Warbonnet is a small-batch producer, sometimes a number of the fabric or add-on options won’t be available for some time. Also, any custom orders will take some time to be cooked up, so you should anticipate some wait time involved.
It also features the ability to reverse how it hangs so you can lie with your head to the left or to the right, as well as a strip of fabric in the top that keeps it up and off your head and feet. If you’re looking for a hammock to fine-tune to your optimal hanging specifications, the Blackbird XLC is ready to be molded.
Specs:
- Total weight: From 1 lb., 5.75 oz. (single-layer version without straps)
- Max capacity: 350 lbs. configured as single-layer, 400 lbs. as heavyweight double
- Dimensions: 11 ft. long, 62 in. wide. 112 in. ridgeline
- Materials: 40-denier Dream-Tex ripstop nylon
- Best for: Tent campers who want a lot of options
Pros:
- Easy to build to your specs
- Can be set up on the ground
- Comes standard with zip-in mosquito netting
Cons:
- Maybe too many options for most people
- Ordering from a smaller hammock company can mean out-of-stock options
Check Price at Warbonnet Outdoors
Most Versatile Hammock: Dutchware Chameleon
When you aren’t sure what to expect on your next outing, the Dutchware Chameleon hammock ($135) is just as adaptable as its namesake.
Bugs can ruin an otherwise great hammock camping experience, so being able to zip into a bug net greatly increases the number of nights you can enjoy off the ground. The Chameleon boasts a series of different bug nets and something called a top cover; a semi-solid cover that creates a microclimate and pushes the hammock to cold weather extremes.
Using a toothed zipper, as opposed to a coil zipper, allows you the ability to lie in any direction in the Chameleon and still zip on your bug net or top cover. Our testers really appreciated this feature, and not being tied down to any specific way to use the hammock.
The Chameleon is available with two different suspension styles, either a buckle or whoopie sling setup. The former is a bit more user-friendly, but heavier, and the latter will need a little practice to master.
We did find that in lounge mode — that is, sans bug netting or cover — the exposed zipper on the edge of the hammock needed to be avoided upon entry and exit. A small price to pay for overall versatility.
Life comes at you fast, and when you aren’t sure what’s coming next the Chameleon hammock is up to the task.
Specs:
- Total weight: 1 lb., 3 oz. in Hexon 1.6 fabric
- Max capacity: 200 – 350 lbs. depending on fabric choice
- Dimensions: 11 ft. long, 57 in. width. 100 in. ridgeline length
- Materials: Available in Hexon 1.0, 1.2, 1.6, and Cloud 1.4 fabrics
- Best for: When conditions are unknown, and adaptability is king
Pros:
- Available in many different fabric weights and prints
- Different bug nets and top covers increase adaptability
Cons:
- Will require a little work to fine-tune
- Zipper on the edge can catch on things
Check Price at Warbonnet Outdoors
Best of the Rest
Grand Trunk TrunkTech
It’s all about the weave with the Grand Trunk TrunkTech hammock ($70), which makes use of Grand Trunk’s new proprietary 40-denier Micro Grid ripstop nylon to cut the weight and bulk, but maintain an impressive 500-pound max capacity.
What’s even more impressive, is that for all the high-tech woven in, the TrunkTech hammock sports a soft and supple hand and is supremely comfortable to lie in. Our tester says, “What won me over? Its silky softness. Seriously: it’s proven durable enough after weeks of use, and it’s so soft.”
The fact that this is an 11-foot hammock, with a 500-pound capacity, and all for 70 bucks really impressed us. The hammock doesn’t come with any suspension, but will pair well with any daisy chain webbing on the market.
Read our full review of the TrunkTech hammock.
Specs:
- Total weight: 11.7 oz. (without straps)
- Max capacity: 500 lbs.
- Dimensions: 11 ft. long, 58 in. wide
- Materials: TRUNKTECH 40-denier 1.1 oz. diamond ripstop nylon
- Best for: Those looking for a single hammock with an edge over the ENO DoubleNest or Kammock Roo
Pros:
- Very lightweight and strong for the money
- Full 11 ft. long hammock
Cons:
- Suspension system not included
Eagles Nest Outfitters Sub6
The lightest offering from ENO, the Sub6 Ultralight Hammock ($70) tips the scales at a mere 5.8 ounces and is small enough to fit into some pants pockets.
Made of a gossamer 30-denier ripstop nylon, you can practically read newsprint through this hammock. But even still, it boasts a respectable 300-pound maximum capacity.
While the Hummingbird Hammocks Single Hammock weighs in under the Sub6, it is also a bit smaller, which is something we appreciated about the Sub6. The reason we chose the Hummingbird over the Sub6 for Best Ultralight boiled down to mere ounces, and once you add in the suspension systems for both hammocks, the Hummingbird has the edge by a handful.
Something we liked about the Sub6 was its versatility in suspension options. Where other ultralight hammocks allow for only one style, this hammock can connect to either whoopie sling or daisy chain style suspension systems.
Need a little bit more room? The ENO SuperSub Ultralight hammock is what you would get if the Sub6 and DoubleNest had a baby.
Specs:
- Total weight: 5.8 oz.
- Max capacity: 300 lbs.
- Dimensions: 9 ft. long, 48 in. wide
- Materials: 30-denier ripstop nylon
- Best for: Those wanting an ultralight hammock, but a smidge more space than the Hummingbird option
Pros:
- Ultralight weight
- Very compact stuff sack
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a suspension system
Check Price at REICheck Price at Amazon
Nakie Recycled
The glut of parachute hammocks on the market means you can find any number of generic choices that are usually more affordable. But the Nakie version ($85) is unique in that it’s made from 100% recycled material.
So if being eco-conscious matters to you, this is the right option for a casual hang in the woods. The hammocks are built with material equivalent to 37 post-consumer plastic bottles, and the company plants four trees for every hammock purchased.
The Nakie Recycled follows a popular recipe for casual hammocks: a gathered-end style ends in two polyester straps, then connected to daisy chain straps with the included steel carabiners. We will note that the included daisy chain suspension is a bit short at 7.5 feet per strap.
Not flashy, but also not aiming to be, the Nakie Recycled hammock knows that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, and those who are looking to limit their footprint would be well served by hanging in this hammock.
Specs:
- Total weight: 2 lbs., 17 oz.
- Max capacity: 500 lbs.
- Dimensions: 9.8 ft. long, 70 in. wide
- Materials: 100% recycled nylon
- Best for: Taking with you everywhere in the outdoors
Pros:
- Made from 100% recycled material
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Few features
- Short daisy chain straps
Lawson Blue Ridge Camping
This stellar hammock tent ($229 hammock only) is chock full of features but a fair bit heftier and bulkier than the Mantis, making it not quite as convenient for taking on extended trips.
But one of the best things about this camp hammock is it’s set up in a lay-flat configuration. So, those who can’t stand the claustrophobic feeling of a diagonal hammock, but want a full-featured experience, should look at the Lawson.
Beyond the comfort of sleeping in a lay-flat configuration, kudos go to this hammock tent for features like the spacious loft of the upper mesh via shock-corded arch poles at either end (which is a fine no-see-um mesh) and the ability to pitch this hammock on the ground like a regular tent. Though on the ground, it feels more like you’re sleeping in a tight bivy sack.
The Blue Ridge is a solid, well-made hammock, but it does suffer from a more complicated design. The spreader bars are attached and supported with a bunch of cordage that converges for the hanging point, which introduces a lot of potential fail points.
The materials are overall solid and durable, but not quite up to the advanced fabrics and textiles found in more expensive options like the Kammok.
Want more information about this hammock’s performance? Check out our head-to-head testing of the Blue Ridge vs Draumr.
Specs:
- Total weight: 4 lbs., 15 oz. (including straps)
- Max capacity: 275 lbs.
- Dimensions: 7.5 ft. long, 90 in. wide
- Materials: Ripstop nylon and poly mix
- Best for: Shorter backpacking excursions or trips where weight and size aren’t as much of a concern
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Lots of room and can be set up on the ground
Cons:
- Fairly bulky and heavy
- Complicated design
Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Lawson Hammock
BE Outfitter Campo
If you’re into getting the most out of your gear and want the ability to use your outdoor stuff in multiple ways, the BE ($84) is the hammock for you. Along with being a nice hammock for lounging, it can also transform into a waterproof poncho, tarp shelter, or groundsheet.
In hammock mode, the durable 70-denier nylon sheet gathers at each end for clipping into tree straps. Plus, a hidden waterproof zipper and hood can deploy when untethered to ward off rain showers. Snaps on the sides allow you to make short sleeves on the poncho for better mobility and protection.
Obviously, some assembly is required, with a rudimentary knowledge of knots needed to turn the Campo into a hammock. We’ll also note that while the Campo is both a poncho and a hammock, it likely isn’t the best version of either.
Hiking in with showers by morning and a dry afternoon promised? Cut down on your pack weight by chucking this hammock into the mix.
Specs:
- Total weight: 1 lb., 0.8 oz. (no straps or carabiners)
- Max capacity: Suggested one adult
- Dimensions: 7.5 ft. long, 55 in. wide
- Materials: 70-denier ripstop nylon, waterproofed with DWR
- Best for: Those who like versatility in their camp hammock
Pros:
- Turns into a poncho!
Cons:
- You can’t wear it while lounging in it
- Doesn’t come with suspension straps
Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at BE Outfitter
ENO SkyLite
If you want a hammock that provides both functional shelter and ultimate chilling, consider the ENO SkyLite ($170).
The simple bridge design takes cues from tent construction by utilizing eco-consciously anodized DAC aluminum shock-corded poles as spreader bars that slip into fabric sleeves. And the suspended bug mesh canopy has a wide double-zipper opening that spans the hammock’s 7-foot length, making for graceful ingress and exiting.
While the Skylite’s toggle ends were built with the ENO Helios Hammock Straps in mind, it will also accommodate any daisy chain style suspension system by clipping the loop the toggle is attached to.
At 7 feet long and 3 feet wide, the SkyLite feels quite roomy considering it weighs just 2 pounds. The flat-bottomed shape provides comfort in a variety of sleeping positions. Some users report durability issues with the bug net zipper.
Want the hammock style but don’t need the integrated bugnet? The ENO SkyLoft ($130) is for you.
Specs:
- Total weight: 2 lbs.
- Max capacity: 250 lbs.
- Dimensions: 7 ft. long, 36 in. wide
- Materials: 40-denier NewWave nylon
- Best for: Campers who want a lay-flat hammock
Pros:
- Lay-flat comfort in a small, portable package
Cons:
- Can’t remove the bug net
- Lower max capacity
Tentsile Trillium 3-Person
Tentsile is known for its massive tree tents. The brand uses heavy-duty ratchets and burly webbing to create suspended surfaces that users often combine into multilevel structures in the forest sky.
The triangular Trillium “hammock” ($369) is perfect for car camping and casual afternoon hangouts. To set up the Trillium properly, you’ll need three strong and well-spaced trees.
Rated up to 880 pounds, the Trillium can hold three adults, six kids, or two adults and two kids on the taut but cushiony surface that makes for great sleeping or picnicking.
The Trillium is available with either a mesh or fabric floor and has storage pockets under each corner to stash clothes or supplies. It also features a central hatch in the middle for easy entry.
Check out our in-depth review of the Tentsile Stingray Tree Tent, a souped-up version of the Trillium that incorporates full coverage bug netting and fly.
Specs:
- Total weight: 17 lbs., 1 oz.
- Max capacity: 880 lbs.
- Dimensions: 13.5 ft. x 13.5 ft. x 13.5 ft.
- Materials: 240-denier nylon/polyester composite, PU-coated
- Best for: Setting up for extended car camping or overlanding stays
Pros:
- Spacious
- Can sleep three adults comfortably
Cons:
- Very heavy
- Takes some time to set up and take down
Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Tentsile
Comparison Chart
| Camping Hammock | Price | Total Weight | Max Capacity | Dimensions | Materials |
| Kammok Mantis | $250 | 2 lbs., 14.5 oz. | 500 lbs. | 10 ft. long x 56 in. wide. 115-inch ridgeline | 40-denier diamond ripstop nylon hammock body |
| Klymit Traverse | $65 | 1 lb., 12.8 oz. | 400 lbs. | 9.1 ft. long, 55 in. wide | 75-denier polyester hammock body |
| Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest | $75 | 1 lb., 3 oz. | 400 lbs. | 9.5 ft long, 76 in. wide | FreeWave 70-denier nylon taffeta |
| Hennessy 4Season Expedition Zip | $290 | 5 lbs., 3 oz. (including straps) | 250 lbs. | 10 ft. long, 59 in. wide | One layer of 70-denier nylon, and one layer of 40-denier |
| Hummingbird Hammocks Single | $70 | 5.2 oz | 300 lbs. | 8.6 ft. long, 47 in. wide | 1.1 oz calendered ripstop nylon, certified reserve parachute material |
| Warbonnet Outdoors Blackbird XLC | $200 | From 1 lb., 5.75 oz. (single-layer version without straps) | 350 lbs. configured as single-layer, 400 lbs. as heavyweight double | 11 ft. long, 62 in. wide. 112 in. ridgeline. | 40-denier Dream-Tex ripstop nylon |
| Dutchware Chameleon | $135 | 1 lb., 3 oz. in Hexon 1.6 fabric | 200 – 350 lbs. depending on fabric choice | 11 ft. long, 57 in. width. 100 in. ridgeline length | Available in Hexon 1.0, 1.2, 1.6, and Cloud 1.4 fabrics |
| Grand Trunk TrunkTech | $70 | 11.7 oz. (without straps) | 500 lbs. | 11 ft. long, 58 in. wide | TRUNKTECH 40-denier 1.1 oz diamond ripstop nylon |
| Eagles Nest Outfitters Sub6 Ultralight | $70 | 5.8 oz | 300 lbs. | 9 ft. long, 48 in. wide. | 30-denier ripstop nylon |
| Nakie Recycled | $85 | 2 lbs., 17 oz. | 500 lbs. | 9.8 ft. long, 70 in. wide | 100% recycled nylon |
| Lawson Blue Ridge Camping | $229 | 4 lbs., 15 oz. (including straps) | 275 lbs. | 7.5 ft. long, 90 in. wide | Ripstop nylon and poly mix |
| BE Outfitter Campo | $84 | 1 lb., 0.8 oz. (no straps or carabiners) | Suggested one adult | 7.5 ft long, 55 in. wide | 70-denier ripstop nylon, waterproofed with DWR |
| Eagles Nest Outfitters SkyLite | $170 | 2 lbs. | 250 lbs. | 7 ft. long, 36 in. wide | 40-denier NewWave nylon |
| Tentsile Trillium 3-Person | $369 | 17 lbs., 1 oz. | 880 lbs. | 13.5 ft. x 13.5 ft. x 13.5 ft. | 240-denier nylon/polyester composite, PU-coated |
Why You Should Trust Us
The GearJunkie team is chock full of avid hammock campers. To compile this list, we put our heads together and shared our passionate opinions on hammock camping.
Over the years, we’ve tested all kinds of hammocks in just about every setting you can imagine. From roadside car camping to thousand-mile thru-hikes, our hammock testing cycle never ends.
For this particular list, we’ve included hammocks that can be used for car camping and casual hangouts as well as a few backpacking models. Testing hammocks is a lot of fun, but we still made sure to pay extra attention to durability, ease of setup, and overall comfort.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Camping Hammock
Camping hammocks are versatile pieces of gear that can reliably replace a tent and provide the joy of daytime lounging.
There’s a certain bliss that comes with being suspended in a hammock, rocking gently as the breeze reminds you of your weightlessness. In the past few decades, hammocks have become increasingly popular with outdoor recreationists rediscovering the beauty of tent-free camping.
To those experienced outdoor sleepers who swear by the tent, hammock camping may at first seem like a novelty activity reserved for backyard fun. However, thanks to innovative product design and the development of handy accessories, hammocks have become a completely legitimate and viable alternative to tents.
We recommend all the hammocks on this list. They’re all potentially good choices, but we want to help you choose the best one for your specific camping needs.
Before you buy a hammock, consider exactly how and where you’ll be using it. Will it be mostly for daytime use? Will you frequently use the hammock in cold or wet weather? Are the areas where you plan to use your hammock buzzing with mosquitos?
Hone in on which features you can and can’t live without. Read on for more details regarding weight, value, ease of setup, accessories, durability, protection, and versatility.
Fabrics
Fabric is often denoted by its denier rating, which is a measure of the thickness of the fibers used to make it. A higher denier will mean a more durable fabric, while a lower will be more fragile, but also more lightweight.
In our testing, we found that the most common denier for a hammock was around 75-denier, with the range spanning from the ultralight 30-denier ripstop of the Eagles Nest Outfitters Sub6, to the burly 240-denier of the Tentsile Trillium 3-Person hammock.
Fabrics also will be referred to by their weights, often given as ounces per yard squared. In terms of hammocks, something like a 1.9 ounce ripstop nylon will be on the heavier end of fabrics, while a 1.0 ounce is on the ultralight side of the scale.
Nylon
Nylon is by far the most popular fabric for camping hammock construction, harkening back to the Vietnam-era Jungle hammock produced for the U.S. army. Today, many hammocks will be made with something similar to 1.1 ounce nylon.
The term ripstop refers to the calendared weave that can be sewn into a fabric as it is produced. This raised pattern resists allowing a tear to continue throughout a fabric once it’s begun. Some fabrics use a different denier yarn for the ripstop grid versus the base fabric, creating a strong but still lightweight fabric.
Proprietary
Many manufacturers will work with textile mills to produce their own nylon fabrics to their specifications, allowing them to fine-tune the weight, strength, and feel of the fabric. Notable in this category are efforts like TrunkTech used in the Grand Trunk TrunkTech hammock, which is an ultra-strong fabric that manages to maintain its low weight and bulk.
Weight
Weight is an especially important factor for those who plan to carry a hammock from campsite to campsite. Though backpacking hammocks aren’t the focus of this list, we included both lightweight hammocks and heavier options.
First, it’s important to consider that the total weight of a hammock alone isn’t all that telling. To set up a hammock to sleep in, you’ll also need at least a suspension system.
This means ropes or straps that attach to the anchor points of your hammock, wrap around trees or other fixed objects, and keep the entire rig suspended.
A lightweight hammock and a heavy suspension system can easily cancel each other out. This same principle applies to rainflies and other accessories you may need.
Remember that lightweight materials are often thinner and more fragile than other options. Still, for those looking to shave grams off their total weight, it’s possible to put together a hammocking setup that’s significantly lighter than almost any one-person tent.
Suspension Systems
Setting up a hammock is a simple process that basically entails attaching your suspension system between two trees or other fixed points and hanging both ends of your hammock from the system.
Though the basic process is simple, some hammocks are quicker and easier to set up than others. In general, we recommend that you practice setting up your hammock at a park or in your backyard a few times before going hammock camping.
While many hammocks are set up according to a standard hammock design with two symmetrical anchor points and a cocoon-like shape, other hammocks on the market have slightly different designs that can add some tricky subtlety to the setup process.
Asymmetrical hammocks require the user to lay somewhat diagonally inside the hammock to create a flatter sleeping surface.
Depending on your accessories, setup can become convoluted and somewhat arduous. If you need a bug net, we recommend purchasing one that’s built into the hammock’s construction. This will save you a step and shorten your overall setup time.
Daisy Chain Straps
Often accompanying entry-level or casual hammocks, daisy chain straps borrow from the world of climbing and are about as easy as it gets when you want to sling up for a quick snooze. Often made from nylon webbing, these straps sport multiple sewn pockets that are used to shift the distance between the hammock and tree. When we’re hammocking for fun or don’t mind the extra weight and bulk, daisy chain straps are what we reach for first.
Many hammock users will be familiar with the ENO Atlas straps ($30), which we find to be easy to use, and appreciate the reflective accent stitching to limit awkward nighttime stumbles. An easy upgrade (at no extra cost, even) is to go with the Kammock Python 10 straps, which add an extra 12 inches to each strap, and are a smidge lighter.
Whoopie Slings
Using the same tech as the paper finger traps we all played with as kids, whoopie slings are adjustable and lightweight suspension systems that are often made from a polyethylene rope called Amsteel. Highly packable, these are the strap style of choice for serious hammock campers.
Whoopie slings will need to connect to a thick tree strap in order to protect the trees you’re hanging from if they aren’t integrated into them. The Whoopie Hook Complete Suspension ($34) from Dutchware is the whole shebang and our favorite of the bunch.
Buckle Suspension
Similar to whoopie slings, buckle suspensions are popular among hammock campers for their adjustability and packability. These straps wrap the tree like a daisy chain, but utilize a cinch buckle on the hammock ends to hold tension.
The Titanium Cinch Buckle Complete Suspension from Dutchware ($32) is the creme de la creme, utilizing space-age materials, but we also like the Complete Polyester Webbing/Buckles Suspension from Warbonnet Outdoors ($23).
Accessories
These days, there are a whole lot of interesting and potentially useful accessories available on the hammock market. Accessories can be essential in customizing your hammock to best suit your camping needs. Among some of the most useful and common accessories are hammock tarps, insulative underquilts, and bug nets.
Structural Ridgelines
Since hammocks are only suspended at two ends, that leaves plenty of room for things to get out of whack when you’re hanging. In order to get an optimal hanging angle — which is roughly 30 degrees from your hammock strap to the ground — many will use a piece of cordage to connect the ends of the hammock.
Since many hammocks are between 10 to 11 feet long, corresponding ridgelines are available to give you the perfect hang, every time. These will often be between 100 to 110 inches long. The price of the Hammock Gear Structural Ridgeline ($8) is hard to beat, but if you want to play around with your angles, adjustable ridgelines are available from companies like Dutchware.
Ridgelines are also an excellent place to hang things you might need during the night, such as a lantern, or you can use a ridgeline organizer for added versatility.
Hammock Tarps
Hammock tarps are waterproof nylon covers that protect your hammock from the elements — most notably, rain and snow. They function exactly like the rainflies that are found on tents and are made from the same DWR-treated nylon.
A rainfly should cover your entire hammock. We recommend purchasing one designed specifically for the make and model of your hammock. This will ensure proper coverage. Some hammock systems, like the Kammok Mantis or Hennessy 4Season Expedition Zip, come with a tarp included in the bundle.
Many hammock owners like to use oversized rainflies that create an additional covered area outside the hammock that can be used for cooking during a rainstorm. Just remember: Extra material means extra weight. A tarp like the Kammok Kuhli ($170) is a luxuriously large space to find yourself hanging under.
Tarps are often measured as a ridgeline length, as well as a diagonal length, depending on how you like to deploy your hammock tarp. Adding a few feet of length over the overall length of your hammock is a good way to ensure proper coverage. We’ve had good success with the ENO ProFly tarp ($85), which is 10 feet, 6 inches across the ridgeline.
Even hammock tarps have a number of accessories to get them up and running. Namely, you’ll need some cordage to suspend and anchor them, as well as ground stakes to keep them there. Some will even utilize something known as a ‘snake skin’ stuff sack in order to quickly store the tarp when not in use.
Underquilts and Sleeping Pads
Insulative underquilts keep you from losing body heat through your exposed underside while lying in a hammock. On warm summer nights, an underquilt may not be necessary, but when it’s frigid out, they’re a must-have.
Basically, an underquilt is a blanket that hangs under your hammock and conforms to the shape of your body. The underquilt prevents heat from seeping out through your underside. Some high-end cold-weather underquilts are rated all the way down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit and are filled with either down or synthetic insulation.
They come in different lengths including full-body, half-length, or three-quarter length. Of course, a full-length underquilt will be the warmest option, but for those concerned with the weight of their kit, shorter quilts can be a great solution.
Ohio-based Hammock Gear has long been a leader in making fine underquilts, and their Economy Phoenix underquilt ($170) can be an excellent way to jump into a warm system for less dough. The Enlightened Equipment Revolt ($245) also gets high marks from our testers, and is available in many different temperature ratings. Want built-in overstuffing? The Jacks R Better Greylock 3 ($200) comes with 25% extra as standard!
For hammock campers that prefer not to use an underquilt, a good sleeping pad can be a reasonable alternative.
Bug Nets
If you’re heading to notoriously buggy regions like the Pacific Northwest or the Colorado alpine, a bug net is essential. In a tent, bugs aren’t too much of a concern because tents typically come with fully enclosed mesh bodies. However, without a net in an open hammock, you’ll likely become dinner for hordes of mosquitoes.
For hammocks without integrated nets, separate ones are sold that fully enclose the hammock and usually open and close with a zipper. These have been available for some time, and we’ve had great luck (no bites yet) with the ENO Guardian Bug Net ($65). Hammock camping together? The Birds Nest Bug Net ($109) from Dutchware is designed to hang over two adjacent hammocks.
Many hammock manufacturers now are offering integrated bug net solutions as add-ons to their hammocks, using a zipper system for quick on-and-off deployment. The Warbonnet Outdoors Blackbird XLC and Kammok Mantis are in this group.
Durability
Because most hammocks are made from thin nylon, the denier rating of the material will tell you a lot about the overall durability of the hammock. The denier rating describes the thickness of the fibers, and the higher the denier rating, the more abrasion-resistant the hammock. Ripstop nylon is also a trusty choice for hammock construction.
In general, treat your hammock like the fragile piece of gear it is. Because hammock material is thin, it’s vulnerable to ripping, melting, and fraying. If you handle your hammock with gentle care, it should last for many years — especially if it’s high-quality like the options on this list.
Weather Protection
Some hammocks are made from material that is treated with a DWR coating. While this can be helpful, ideally your hammock will never actually get wet.
Be sure to set up your hammock so that it is as protected from the elements as possible. This usually means a good-quality rainfly, but the positioning of your hammock is also important. Avoid super-windy areas.
As a source of shelter, a hammock really can be as effective as a tent in most scenarios. With proper setup and the right accessories, a night in a hammock should be warm, cozy, and dry — even when it’s pouring rain or dumping snow.
Versatility
The primary job of a camping hammock is to provide a comfortable and reliable shelter for sleeping or lounging outside. That said, a little bonus versatility is always a good thing.
Though we don’t generally recommend sharing a hammock overnight with another person for comfort’s sake, two-person hammocks tend to be more versatile than one-person hammocks. On our list, the ENO DoubleNest is over 6 feet wide, meaning it can easily be used as a two-person lounging zone, or as a nice couch to sit in sideways during restful days in camp.
While some users may shy away from extra material because it means extra weight, it really is a nice luxury to be able to use your hammock for more than just hunkering down at night.
FAQ
Is Hammock Camping Safe?
Yes. When set up properly for the given conditions, hammocks are a safe alternative to tents when camping. Make sure you know how to set up your hammock before you go, and don’t forget to check the weather.
Accessories like bug nets and rainflies help ensure that you’ll be prepared for sleeping outside in a hammock.
Is a Hammock Better Than a Tent?
Tents and hammocks are different, but they both provide adequate and reliable shelter for sleeping outside. Personal preference will determine whether you decide to use a hammock or a tent.
That said, there’s nothing better than a hammock for that sweet sensation of being gently rocked to sleep.
Is a Hammock Warmer Than a Tent?
The short answer is no. Generally, a hammock is colder than sleeping in a tent, as the ground offers a surprising amount of insulation. That said, a hammock that’s geared out with proper insulation and shelter can be comfortable and warm — even in subzero temperatures. Be sure to find the right sleeping pad or underquilt for maximum warmth.
For the most severe winter conditions, four-season tents are still the gold standard.
Is a Double Hammock Too Big for One Person?
A double hammock is made to support two people and is usually rated to safely hold at least 400 pounds. Two people can share a double hammock, but it’s usually pretty uncomfortable to actually sleep together with another person in a hammock.
Many single users prefer double hammocks. The extra material offers additional space to spread out, and some sleepers like to wrap the hammock’s material around them like a cocoon. Double hammocks are generally heavier, but they offer some nice comfort that you may find is worth the weight.
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