Browsing all articles in Hammock Tree Straps
Mar
13

Early Spring Hammock Preparation

Winter is still going strong across the US, but we are closing in quickly on spring. With the longer, sunnier days we can plan more opportunities for hammock camping. With a little planning now, you can get your gear in order to maximize your spring potential.

Today I am going to go over some maintenance you can do in winter to prepare you for the fast approaching spring days.

Early Spring Hammock Preparation

Hammocks take wear and tear throughout their use. Wind, our weight, weather, and poor packing can all attribute to a damaged hammock. So the first thing on our list is to check for any damage in our hammock.

Mold and Mildew

Your hammock has been sitting in the attic for several months. Even the best of us often forget to air out our gear after a wet camping trip, or simply don’t have forgiving weather to properly allow our hammocks to air out.

So first things first, unfold the hammock. If you notice any foul odors, or discoloration that can be wiped off you likely have a mold or mildew problem. As long as it hasn’t eaten through the fabric you should be able to apply a spray to help with the situation.

I personally recommend Dr. Burkenstock’s Mold Mildew and Odor Prevention Spray . It is purpose built for outdoor gear and leaves a pleasant sent behind. Simply spray it on, wipe it down, and allow to air dry this time.

Now that hammock mildew is taken care of lets move on to hammock tears.

Tears

Tears can happen for various reasons. No matter how careful you are. From the wind slapping the hammock around when it improperly hung, folded creases becoming more severe, and simple storage or transportation mistakes (sliding).

Repairing tears is pretty simple. Grab some Tear-Aid
(which should be in your bag to begin with for field repairs) clean the area, place the epoxy, slap on the patch, and clean it up. Let everything dry and you are done.

Now we need to move on to seam damage

Seams

Sometimes seams begin to give out. The fabric may be thin near the seam, the threads my be torn, or a cut may have occurred. You could use Tear-Aid in order to repair the damage, but that would leave a stiff seam. Instead go with Seam Grip

This is another item you should have in your gear bag already for field repairs.
Seam grip is waterproof, and flexible. You simply brush it on and let it cure. It wont peel or crack over time, so you have a nice solution.

Next we need to check the riggings of the hammock

Rigging

Hammock rigging includes all parts of the hammock use to suspend it. From the straps built in to hook up to your hammock tree straps to the simple carabiners to hold everything together. Most of this stuff is pretty robust, so if it is broken you likely need to purchase new rigging.

Carabiners are usually made of a rust resistant material, but through wear or simply ordering the wrong ones rust can be an issue. Check your carabiners for any rust or damage. If you find any simply replace them. If replacing your hammock carabiners you should take a look at the Carapeak 30kn heavy duty Screwgate Carabiners . They lock shut and are heavy duty. No more snags, and no more carabiner gates opening on you.

Your hammock tree straps should last years, but if you leave them out in the sun or store them wet they may fray or break. Since all of your weight is place on these guys discard them if you find any damage. Look for frays, creases, cuts, or thin spots in the material. If you don’t find any of these, you are good to go.

If you do find yourself replacing your hammock tree straps take a gander at the Pro Venture hammock tree straps . They support up to 400 lb, and are made of a strong stretch resistant material. We have been using these lately due to the low cost and high value.

If you wind up happening to replace or repair a ton of gear you may want to consider some better maintenance while packing your gear up. While it is not the end of the world cost wise, most of this equipment should last you for years with proper maintenance.

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Nov
11

Camping and Hiking at Kopachuck State Park in Gig Harbor, WA

The Pacific Northwest, particularly the Puget Sound, is surrounded by water. Living in Tacoma, Washington, I can pick and choose from an abundance of outdoor venues in any direction. I like camping and hiking. One of my favorite campgrounds around Puget Sound is Kopachuck State Park in Gig Harbor.

Kopachuck State Park

Just across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, heading West on Highway 16, is home to Kopachuck State Park. The Park has campsites that are fairly private, and nicely shaded, a large playfield for the kids and an open area for playing tag, volleyball, touch football, or a game of baseball. The paved roads that whine through the park are great for bicycling and riding scooters. Amenities include a shower.

There are trails and a gravel path where you can hike down, down, and further down to the water’s edge—Henderson Bay. You get quite a different perspective of the Tacoma Narrows from down below—it’s a marvelous structure. Enjoy expansive views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. The hike back up is a fitness challenge. Never fear, the park system has placed benches along the way so you can take a rest break. It is a great place to just stop, close your ears and get lost in thought. Cocooned amongst the trees, with the squirrels and chipmunks scurrying about, and birds singing you a melody, life doesn’t get much better. Early morning hikes are the best if you prefer solitude.

If you are not a camper, but want to picnic and/or hike, there’s a large parking area below the campgrounds, with picnic table nearby.

The City of Gig Harbor

Kopachuck State Park is located in Gig Harbor, a scenic coastal city. If you are in the area, you will enjoy shopping near the marina and great waterfront restaurants. You can rent bikes and kayaks. The Olympic Village has some wonderful shops. I was camping one weekend, and camp to the shopping village for some supplies. I have always enjoyed shopping at Ace Hardware stores, but I’d never experience a store such as the one in Olympic Village-Point Fosdick. I walked inside this store and I was hooked: kitchen accessories, gifts and glassware, not to mention garden accessories. And of course, they had everything on my list for camping and more. Just across the freeway from the Olympic Village is the local Farmer’s Market, is open on weekends.

Rosedale Gardens

The best route to the park is by following Rosedale Street. About two miles down the road, you’ll come upon Rosedale Gardens (7311 Rosedale St. NW, 253-851-7333). Stop. Regardless whether you like flowers and shrubs, the gardens are a whimsical and beautiful place to spend an afternoon. This nursery truly is “the art of nature”. Throughout the years, I’ve watched this nursery grow into a spectacular outdoor art gallery. There’s yard art, one-of-a kind yard furniture, ponds nestled along trails that whine through over 15 acres. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds with waterfalls. Shopping is plentiful. The gardens have a large selection of bird houses and feeders, and a gift shop full of specialty items for your home and garden.

Save Our Park

Kopachuck State Park is in danger of closure due to budget cutbacks. A group called Preserve Our Park is gaining support to help save Kopachuck. It would be a tragedy if this park is closed down. Kopachuck will be 105 years old in 2017.

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Sep
9

Camping in Mexico for Beginners

Mexico is a huge country and offers camping in locations ranging from tropical beaches to pine mountain forests. Camping in Mexico is convenient for campers traveling by car since most sites are easily accessible by good roads. Road conditions are excellent though out the country especially since the government started work on the toll roads that traverse most of the country’s states now. Here are some of the best campgrounds in Mexico to consider when planning a Mexico vacation.

Camping Rancho San Nicolás in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas

Located in a highland valley at 2,160 meters, San Cristobal has been a favorite destination for travelers to Chiapas for many years. Its quaint Spanish colonial architecture and large indigenous population makes it attractive for those seeking an authentic Mexico experience. San Cristobal has received modern day fame for being at the center of the Zapatista Revolution in the 1990’s. Although the streets are quiet today, the Zapatista culture is still proud and strong here, with shops and Mayan vendors selling Zapatista memorabilia.

Rancho San Nicolas is located on the outside of town but within walking distance from the historic center of town. Its natural setting among the forest pines is quiet and secluded despite its central location. It has a number of accommodation styles, from campsites to modern-style apartments. RV camping is available as well since they do offer some sites with electrical hook-ups. A communal kitchen is available for campers to use for a small additional daily fee.
http://www.campingsannicolas.com/

Camping at Laguna Bacalar in the state of Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo is famous for being the home of tourist destinations such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Laguna Bacalar is a site off the beaten path located near the Belize border, about 5 hours south of Cancun. It is easily accessible by an exit off the Highway 307, outside of Chetumal.

Laguna Bacalar is a freshwater lake that has an amazing turquoise hue accented by a soft, white sand bottom. It is a low key destination where travelers can enjoy the Caribbean breezes while relaxing in a cool, fresh water lake. In addition, there is an old Spanish fortress located here, Fuerte San Felipe Bacalar, after which the lake was named. Just south of Laguna Bacalar is Cenote Azul, a 90 meter deep centoe that is excellent for swimming and snorkeling.

Camping at Laguna Bacalar is possible at the Los Quitos campsite right on the lake shore. RV camping is possible here but there are no dump sites or electrical hook-ups. There are a number of tourist services located in the small town of Bacalar, including hotels, restaurants and convenient stores. Chetumal is a short drive away and offers a wide range of tourist services and amenities.

Camping at the Bosque Village in the state of Michoacán

Located high in the mountains of Michoacán is the magical village of Patzcuaro. Here is a stronghold for the indigenous Purépecha culture of Mexico. Pine forests and the enchanting Lake Patzcuaro make it a wonderful destination for the traveler who wants to escape the tourist traps of Mexico.

The Bosque Village is a permaculture project on 82 acres of pine, oak and madrone forest 30 minutes outside of Patzcuaro. It is a fully off-the-grid site, with power coming from solar panels and water coming from a rain water collection system. Over 100 permaculture garden plots supply some of the food for the residents and visitors of the Bosque Village – the rest of the fruits and vegetables are bought from local suppliers.

The Bosque offers many activities and services. Classes are available in local crafts, tortilla making, and wood carving. There is a telescope to enjoy astronomy and a wood-fired sauna. Studio art classes are available, along with massages and classes, medicinal plant studies, a telescope for star gazing, and a traditional Maya sauna. Volunteers can study permaculture techniques while working in the gardens and attending to the grounds.

Visitors are welcome here, either as campers, guests in one of the cabins, or as volunteers. Campers can choose to camp near other campers or escape deep into the magical forest for a secluded retreat. Due to the nature of the site, the Bosque is only available for low impact camping and does not offer services for RV’s.

The Bosque Village asks that you contact them prior to visiting to ensure that they can accommodate you.

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Aug
30

Best Budget Hammocks

Many people have a hard time affording the expensive hammocks out there. They begin searching for cheap hammocks online and are overwhelmed with the offerings. Not every hammock is made the same, and it is difficult to tell if they are looking into trash, or hidden gems. I have taken the time to compile a list of budget hammocks for both camping and hiking so you can easily find the best hammock for your budget right here. Whether you are interested in camping hammock reviews or backpacking hammock reviews, these should help you.

As with most of my other larger review articles, I start with the list first. If you want to see the actual reviews scroll past these links:

The Best Budget Hammocks

1. Farland Lightweight Nylon Parachute Hammock

2. Farland Outdoor Camping Hammock

3. Hukoer Hammock

4. Augymer Double Portable Camping Hammock

5. Mersuii Double Camping Hammock

6. Trofong Double Hammock

7. Richka Double Camping Hammock

8. MalloMe XL Double Parachute Camping Hammock

9. Gold Armour Camping Hammock – XL Double Parachute Hammock

10. Rusee Camping Hammock

There we go, quick list of what we have reviewed below. Looking for the reviews? Read below to find out how I came up with this list.

hammock for camping

Camping Hammock

PictureHammockWeightBuy Now!Rating
Farland Lightweight HammockUnder 2 pounds4.7
Farland Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.9
Hukoer Double Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.2
Augymer Double Portable Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.5
Mersuii Double Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.8
Trofong Double HammockUnder 2 pounds4.5
Richka Double Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.6
Mallome XL Double Parachute Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.4
Gold Armour Double Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.2
Rusee Camping HammockUnder 2 pounds4.4

Budget hammocks are a daunting thing to get into. You do not want to get a hammock that is subpar, will not protect you, or keep you comfortable while camping. Where can you save on some money, and increase in other places? It is hard to figure out. The most important things to look for is durability of material during extreme conditions, safety and durability, ease of set up, and proper size. If the hammock checks those boxes it will be a decent hammock on a budget.

Farland Hammocks

Farland hammocks are a quality designed hammock for a fraction of the cost. They are not a cheap hammock by anymeans, rather an inexpensive hammock. These hammocks are perfect for begginers to the hammock world who are concerned about the prices of name brand hammocks, and have a place in the loadout of an experienced hammock camping as a backup or loaner hammock. Farland offers 2 options. A lightweight nylon parachute hammock, which is ideal for backpacking, and day trips. They also have an outdoor camping hammockwhich is more suited for more rugged adventures. As a bonus you can check out their Lightweight Waterproof Mummy Sleeping Bag to keep you warm on those cold nights.


The Farland lightweight nylon parachute hammock is a perfect hammock to get into hammock camping. It is inexpensive, easy to set up, and can hold up to 250 pounds. It is a spacious hammock, and can work as a double hammock for smaller individuals. It fits well into its compressing bag, and is easy to carry around on backpacking trips and as a spare or backup on more rugged trips.


The Farland outdoor camping hammock is more rugged than the previous one in the list. It comes in several different colors, and has size options for a single hammock or a double hammock. The hammock tree straps are rated at 500-800 pounds, so they are more than sturdy for the largest of campers. All of this in a compact 1.8 pound package! The inexpensive price makes it the perfect entry point hammock for those looking for a cheap hammock.

Hukoer Hammocks

Hukoer Hammocks are a premium product at a budget price. These hammocks are inexpensive and well made. They offer a Double Camping Hammock with 3 color and gear variations. These hammocks are lightweight, but suprisingly resilient. Hukoer also offers a set of Hammock Tree Straps to supplement their hammocks with a higher quality tree strap solution.


The Hukoer Hammock is a doulbe camping hammock with a 550 pound capacity. It was designed for backpacking and camping. it is lightweight, and comes with Hukoer’s guarantee. The hammock weight 2.84 pounds, and is easy to carry. If you are looking for an entry level hammock take a look at the Hukoer.

Augymer Hammocks

Augymer has one hammock offering available in the budget hammock category. The Augymer Double Portable Camping Hammock. This hammock is a lightweight hammock designed for for hiking and backpacking. It is made of parachute nylone, and with sturdy, strong construction. It is inexpensive, and an easy lightwiehgt hammock to throw in the back of your pack for a nice hammock camping trip.


The Augymer Hammock is a double camping hammock with a capacity of 600 pounds. It is designed for 2 people, has plenty of extra room, and is easy to transport. It weighs just under 2 pounds, and folds up to under 6.5 inches long. For a budget hammock or a backup hammock, the Augymer Hammock is an excelent choice.

Mersuii Hammocks

Mersuii hammocks are on the upper end of the affordable hammocks available online. They have one offering, the Mersuii Double Camping Hammock. It is a lightweight parachute hammock designed for two people while backpacking or camping. It is lightweight, and easy to pack.


The Mersuii Hammock features a parachute nylone fabric for strength and durability. It can support 500 pounds, and offers a staggering 20 attachment points. It weighs in at a staggeringly low 1.1 pounds, and should be almost unnoticeable in anyone backpacking gear. Bring as your primary, and order a second one as a backup backpacking hammock.

Trofong Hammocks

The Trofong Hammock is an ideal hammock when an enclosed hamping hammock is needed. The Trofong Double Hammock comes equiped with a built in mosquito net. Designed for more adventurous hiking locations the this hammock is bound to keep you safe and warm throughout the night.


The Trofong Hammock is an all in one solution. It comes with everything, including a mosquito net, that you would need to start hammock camping. It is a double hammock, supporting two people, and up to 450 pounds total. It is lightweight, a total weight of 1.43 pounds. So it could very easily be packed into a backpackers pack without much additional weight concerns. This hammock is worth a look if you are interested in areas where a mosquito net is a must.

Richka Hammock

The Richka Hammock is truly in a class of it’s own in the inexpensive hammock category. It’s main claim to fame is the 70d nylon which it uses. This nylon far outclasses the standard parachute nylon most other hammocks use in durability, and comfort. Richka only has one hammock on offer, the Richka Double Camping Hammock, which has a large weight limit, and supports 3 people.


The Richka Hammock is strong and durable. It is a double hammock, but is large enough to support 3 people, and has a staggering 800 pound weight capacity. This hammock is one of the unsung gems of the hammock world. It is ideal for more rugged camping, and comes with everything you need to start hammock camping at a budget price. It weighs in at under 2 pounds, so it is still easy to transport. Make this one of your main hammocks for comfort and durability alone.

MalloMe Hammocks

The MalloMe Hammock is a perfect budget hammock for larger people, or those wanting more room. They offer the MalloMe XL Double Parachute Camping Hammock which can support a whopping 1000 pounds. There is no real concievable way to overload this hammock.


The MalloMe Hammock is a doubvle camping hammock that when packed down only weighs 1 pound. It is well designed, and can support up to 1000 pounds. That is enough for 2 people, and plenty of gear. This hammock is perfect if you like room, and like to have your gear handy with you inside the hammock.

Gold Armour Hammocks

The Gold Armour Hammock is a great budget friendly hammock. They offer a single hammock, Gold Armour Camping Hammock – XL Double Parachute Hammock. This hammock is an extra large size, and comfortable fits 2 people. It is light weight, and simple to set up.


The Gold Armour Hammock is an amazing inexpensive camping hammock. It is a double hammock, large enough for two, and supports up to 500 pounds. It is 1.5 pounds when packed, so it is great for backpacking, hiking, or rugged hammock camping. Many people would benefit from a hammock like this as their first budget hammock.

Rusee Hammock

The Rusee Hammock is another premium rugged camping hammock, featuring a built in mosquito net. The Rusee Camping Hammock is lightweight, easy to put together, and keeps you safe in mosquito laden areas.


TheRusee Hammock is a great durable budget hammock made for rugged camping. It weighs in at just under 1.5 pounds, and is large enough for 2 people. This is an excelent choice for the budget minded begginer.

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May
2

Best Camping Hammock in 2017

Are you planning a camping trip and want to try using a hammock instead of a tent? Tired of the endless information available on the web? Then you have come to the right place. Hammock camping has changed my life, and after this guide I hope it changes yours.

Hammock camping is an amazing experience, but novice and expert alike have trouble finding the right products, and all the information available for them. I have gone over the best camping hammocks out there, and put together this list for you.

I have already gone over the specifics of the hammocks, and can show you which hammock would be ideal for the type of camping you plan on doing. Size, material, and cost are all considerations.

Alright well let’s get to it. For those of you who just want the list I am going to link the products first with my highest recommended hammock at the top of the list:

The Best Hammocks for Camping

1. Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Classic

2. Clark NX-270 Four-Season Hammock Tent

3. Grand Trunk Double Parachute Nylon Hammock with Carabiners

4. Eno Eagles Nest Outfitters – DoubleNest Hammock

5. Kammok Roo Hammock

6. Hammock Bliss Double – XL Portable Hammock

7. Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge

8. Grand Trunk Nano Hammock

9. Lost Valley Premium Camping Hammock

10. Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock

There you have it, a quick and dirty list of the best hammocks for camping. Read below for the reviews of these hammocks, and how I came up with this list!

hammock for camping

Camping Hammock with rainfly

PictureHammockWeightBuy Now!Rating
Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Classic41 OZ4.8
Clark NX-270 Four-Season Hammock Tent60 OZ5.0
Grand Trunk Double Parachute Nylon Hammock with Carabiners20 OZ4.8
Eno Eagles Nest Outfitters – DoubleNest Hammock20 OZ4.9
Kammok Roo Hammock24 OZ4.8
Hammock Bliss Double – XL Portable Hammock22 OZ4.5
Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge68 OZ4.6
Grand Trunk Nano Hammock7 OZ4.4
Lost Valley Premium Camping Hammock57.6 OZ4.2
Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock12 OZ4.4

How to choose the best hammock for camping

There are multiple things I take into consideration when I pick a hammock for any activity. The type of hammock, Material, Size, Maximum Weight, Hammock Tree Straps, Insulation, Accessories, and ease of use. So, let’s get right into it.

Hammock Type

Hammocks come in 3 main varieties, the one you choose depends on its intended use.

Ultralight Hammocks are the lightest hammocks, and are made to be super compact. These are best for hiking trips, or hard to reach camping spots. Ultralight hammocks sacrifice comfort for weight reduction.

Parachute Hammocks are usually made of durable and weather resistant nylon. These are ideal for extended outings where moisture is a concern. They breathe easily, and are still semi compact. These would be ideal for several nights in a row, and are a bit more comfortable than Ultralight Hammocks.

Expedition Hammocks are made with the heaviest and most high end products. They are usually heavy weight, and made to withstand the worst that mother nature can throw at you. These hammocks are ideal for extended camping trips, and hammock camping in more extreme locations.

Material

Most hammocks are made of cotton or nylon composites. They both have different benefits.

Nylon hammocks are your ultralight and parachute hammocks. They are much lighter and have decent wear protection, but don’t offer much in protection other than keeping you dry and keeping the wind off you.

Cotton hammocks are bulkier, and look better, but they are more difficult to transport. Properly seasoned cotton will not leak, but will need to be air dried after the camping trip or mildew may become an issue.

Hammock Size

Hammocks come in many different sizes. The length and width affects load, and carrying capacity. A single hammock is thinner than a double hammock because it is meant for one person. A double hammock can accommodate two people, or be roomy for one person. Taller people should look for hammocks that are 8 feet in length or greater.

Maximum Weight

The maximum weight of a hammock is important. A hammock can only support its maximum weight load. So, before hammock camping it is important to recognize your weight, your partners weight, and any gear you plan on taking into your hammock’s weight. Do not overload a hammock as even if it works the straps may give, or you may wake up smacking into the ground through a torn hammock.

Hammock Tree Straps

It is important that you understand the type of hammock tree straps your hammock has, and how to use them. Make sure at home you test the hammock suspension system, and all parts are included.

More versatile suspension systems include more spots for anchoring attachments, and will provide better options for where to place your hammock.

It may be worthwhile to purchase aftermarket hammock tree straps to provide the most versatility in your camping site. Planning is everything, so consider your site carefully before leaving unprepared.

Insulation

Insulation is an important factor when considering a hammock. Most nylon hammocks are great for warm months, but provide little protection during winter months. There are aftermarket blankets available that drape inside and outside your hammock to provide better insulation and warmth during winter months.

Cotton hammocks on the other hand are often warmer by default. So it is worth checking out your hammock and planning your camping trip so you can have the proper level of insulation.

Accessories

Hammocks can come with several different accessories. A rainfly is probably what comes to mind right away. These go over your hammock, and attach to the ground and your anchor points. Keeping dry is important while hammock camping.

If you plan on camping in a more humid area it may be worthwhile to look for or purchase a mosquito net. This will save you from being devoured by the annoying insects throughout the night, and in some more remote areas save you from serious disease.

Ease of Use

I include ease of use because some hammocks appear to have been made by evil mad scientist/engineers. Hammocks must be easy enough to set up that you will actually take them out with you when you go camping.

Always test set up before you leave for your trip, and take notes of any difficulties you have. It is important to have a safe trip, but a frustration free trip is just as important.

Camping Hammock Reviews

Our top 10!

Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asum Classic

My favorite pick is the Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Classic. It features an integrated mosquito net and rainfly. It is an expedition hammock, so it is heavy. But it comes with premium materials, so it will last even the harshest mother nature has! This is a must buy.

Clark NX-270 Four-Season Hammock Tent

One of the best all-season hammocks for camping, the Clark NX-270 Four-Season Hammock Tent outperforms many other models. It is made to support wet and cold environments. This model is quiet expensive, but it is also the best hammock available out there. This is a one purchase and your done product!

Grand Trunk Double Parachute Nylon Hammock with Carabiners

The Grand Trunk Double Parachute Nylon Hammock with Carabiners is an affordable hammock that is light, and built for 2 people. It is extra roomy if used alone. It comes with all the accessories you need, so purchase this and set it up all in one go!

Eno Eagles Nest Outfitters – DoubleNest Hammock

ENO hammocks are one of the iconic hammock brands. These are name brand hammocks, and you can expect the best from ENO. The Eno Eagles Nest Outfitters – DoubleNest Hammock is our favorite lightweight double hammock on the market. It is perfect for hiking to a remote campsite, and large enough for two.

Kammok Roo Hammock

The Kammok Roo Hammock is a great choice for beginners. It is a lightweight hammock, and is easy to carry. It does not come with any additional accessories, but they can be added with ease.

Hammock Bliss Double – XL Portable Hammock

The Hammock Bliss Double – XL Portable Hammock is on our list because it is the easiest to use. It is super wide, and comes with 100 inches of cord to set it up. It’s ease of use comes with a smaller price tag, but you also lose additional features. Purchase rainfly’s separately for this one.

Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge

The versatile Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge is a hybrid hammock design. It can be used as a tent or a hammock for camping. It includes a pair of arch poles which raise the attached mosquito net to appear more tent like. This also comes with a detachable rainfly, and is a perfect option for multiple applications.

Grand Trunk Nano Hammock

The Grand Trunk Nano Hammock weighs and impressive 7 ounces, and is one of the best ultralight hammocks on the market. If your camping site is difficult to get to, or requires hiking in, then this is the hammock for you!

Lost Valley Premium Camping Hammock

The Lost Valley Premium Camping Hammock is great for beginners as it is a bundle that includes everything you need. Rainfly, Mosquito net, and hammock tree straps are included. It is easy to set up, and takes less than 3 minutes.

Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock

The Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock is another example of a perfect camping hammock for a beginner. It is lightweight and inexpensive, but not very durable. This would be a great hammock for established camping sites.

There are many options, but the hammocks I have listed here are my best hammocks for camping. Don’t take my word for it, check out the other reviews for these hammocks. They are all great for their own uses, so be sure to read around, but you should be confident you purchased a great hammock if you choose one of these.

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May
1

At Home Standalone Hammock

Many people like to use hammocks, but are unsure of how to use them at home. Hammock stands are great if you want something to use your camping hammock on, but there are much more comfortable products out there specifically made for your home. Standalone hammock are usually heavy cotton hammocks with a stand. All in one units if you will. You do not need hammock tree straps to go with a stand alone hammock, in fact one purchase gets everything you need.

But where to start? Simply searching

Tree Hammock

Outdoor Hammock

hammocks will get wildly differing results. So I have gone through standalone hammocks and found my favorites. My decision is based solely on a seasonal at home hammock that you can leave up for hours on end.

Portable Standalone Hammock This hammock is more portable than others, but it makes up for it with one of the most comfortable and versatile cotton hammocks made. This is a double hammock, so it is great for two people. Set up the stand inside or outside, and have a comfortable place to sleep for two. The hammock can be taken down and stored inside easily for stormy nights, or during the off season.

Vivere Standalone Hammock Made of heavy duty cotton, and a sturdy steel stand, this double hammock is great for more permanent solutions, but is easy to take apart and store in the included carrying bag. The hammock features a 9 foot long foot print, and it is plenty wide enough for 2 adults. It’s 450 pound capacity is sure to keep the material intact, even during the crazies of uses. Storage, durability, and all in one. You cant go wrong here.

Algoma Rope Stand Alone Hammock If you live in a warmer client this hammock is for you! Featuring a rope hammock that can breathe, a hammock pad, a pillow, and the stand! This hammock is sure to impress. It is a single hammock, but it will make up for that with it’s breeze rope lower, and comfortable, breathable padded top. Relaxing in the sun is what this hammock was made for.

Standalone Hammock Chair No hammock list would be complete without at least one hammock chair. This Stand Alone Hammock Chair features a nest design. It will hold 265 pouds, and is perfect for snuggling up with your favorite book. It is easy take down with a steel frame, and has a smaller footprint than the standard stand-alone hammock.

It does not matter what type of hammock you prefer. If you like hammocks getting one for your house is an amazing idea. It is simple to set up a stand alone hammock, and simple to take one down during the offseason. Gain the benefits of a hammock at home today

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Apr
30

Hammock Tree Straps Social Media Sites

Today We set up social media sites on twitter and facebook for our website, lets get them shared, and spread our community!
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Apr
28

How to view the Solar Eclipse while camping

On August 21st 2017 the first solar eclipse will be occurring, and be viewable throughout the United States. Many hotels are already booked in the path of totality as people scramble to see this once in a lifetime phenomenon. So, what is the best way to see the eclipse in the path of totality now? Camping of course!

Most campgrounds that allow reservations are booked completely up, but there are plenty of first come first server, and rural camping spots that you can get to. I am not going to go over everyone in this article since the path of totality goes over many states, counties, and cities. The best way to find these rural sites is to look up Bureau of Land Management land along the path of totality. You can also look up state and county parks along the path as well.

Once you find a spot it is time to plan your trip. Make sure you bring all your camping essentials, including your hammock. I feel a hammock is ideal for viewing the Solar Eclipse specifically. It will get you off the ground, looking up, and cradle you in a comfortable position.

Solar Eclipse

Solar Eclipse

The alternative is looking straight up for several minutes, crooking your neck at an odd angle, and likely giving up on watching the whole thing.

I do have a couple of specialty recommendations for your hammock though. It is difficult to see through trees and shrubbery if you are looking at the solar eclipse. So, make sure you have long and sturdy hammock straps that will pull you away from the canopy above. I recommend the Eno Atlas Straps since they are 9 feet long each, and can support up to 400 pounds.

The atlas straps also have 30 different anchor points. So, while you are trying to figure out a custom configuration to give yourself the best view of the solar eclipse you have many options available to suspend your hammock. These straps will also last for years to come, and would be a perfect addition to your standard hammock gear.

For the hammock itself I would recommend the ENO DoubleNest Hammock This hammock is large enough for 2 people, but made to be extra comfortable for just one. It is easy to set up, and carries in a compression bag. Attaching it with the ENO Atlas Straps is a breeze as the products are developed for each other. The weight limit on this hammock is 400 pounds, and it comes with plenty of accessories to make sure you have the best hammock experience out there.

Now that you have your hammock and accessories taken care of it is important that you consider viewing safety. It is still dangerous to look directly into the sun and you will need to take care to either make a punch card, or purchase some commemorative Eclipse Viewing Glasses.

I have searched around and managed to find a set of glasses that comes with a commemorative poster. It comes in a 5 pack so get with your friends, and view in style! Eclipse Glasses. Here is the product. They are lightweight, inexpensive, collectible, and properly protective. These will protect your eyesight while allowing you to witness history!

The next problem you need to overcome is your camera. I am sure you are going to be taking photos and possible video. But the sun will wash out your photos even during the Eclipse. So you need a filter that can allow your device to take a good photo.

I found a Solar Filter Sheet available for cameras, telescopes, and binoculars. This is a custom solution. Using tape you attach this to your device. It will allow the camera to take photos without washing out. You need to make sure to tape all edges though. If you are using a phone or smaller device it is fine to cut the filter to size.
This filter also allows you to view the sun safely through a telescope. Remember that any unfiltered viewing of the sun is dangerous to your eyes and can cause severe and permanent damage. You can attack this filter directly over the front of your telescope and it will work the same as the camera, it will filter out some of the light, allowing for safe viewing. The filter can be taped on, but again all edges must have tape to prevent light from entering from around the outside of the filter.

Anyways those are the specialty items I could think of for experiencing the Solar Eclipse this coming August. Remember safety must come first when viewing the sun, but you can easily enjoy this rare phenomenon first hand if you follow the proper safety steps.

So start planning now, and check out our other guides on hammocks, straps, and set ups so you are prepared prior to your trip.

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Apr
22

How to setup an Eno Hammock

I wanted to get you guys more videos and information on the setup and take down of hammocks. Since ENO hammocks are some of the most popular hammocks on the market right now, I figured I would include a video specifically for them.

This youtube video by GearTestTv shows how to use the Eno Atlas Suspension System to hang a hammock between two trees. It shows how to install the Eno hammock straps, and how to adjust them properly.

The video then goes on to explain how to attach the Eno Hammock to the Eno Straps, and how to properly adjust and use the hammock. It then goes through how to properly take down, roll up, and store your Eno hammock.

And there you have it folks, simple, straight forward, and easy to remember. Always make sure you know how to use your equipment before taking a trip by practicing at home. Learning how to install a hammock properly in the field is waiting for disaster. Murphy’s law exists for a reason! Stay safe guys, and get out into nature!

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Apr
22

How To Install Hammock Tree Straps

Hammocks are a great addition to any camping or hiking trip. They get you off the ground, provide you a more comfortable environment, and have a smaller footprint than traditional tent camping. Hammocks seem pretty straight forward, you strap it to two trees and enjoy! Unfortunately, there is more to it.

Hammocks must bear the weight of the user, stand up to high winds, and stay in place while attached to the trees. So it is important that you install the hammock tree straps properly. The guys over at DFOHome have made a simple youtube guide on how to install hammock tree straps. I recommend you give the video a quick view before starting your hammock adventure.

And there you have it. Now you can properly install your tree straps, and have confidence that your hammock will work properly while on your outdoor adventure. Stay safe, and Get Outdoors!

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