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.

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.

How to Choose the Right Hammock Online

Choose From Rope, Quilted, Portable, Camping and Chair-Style

Either hanging between two perfectly placed trees or from a stand or pole, the classic rope or quilted hammock is the perfect addition to a shady spot in the backyard. Campers also use lightweight, easily portable hammocks to take on camping and backpacking trips. For an armchair-like feel, an avid outdoor reader may prefer to sit up and swing in a hammock chair. And, finally, portable folding hammocks with a self-contained stand make a restful swaying snooze available anywhere.

The following hammocks will fit most needs and budgets; and each one is available online.

Quilted Beach Hammock for Extra Cushioning

With its deep azure and subtle tan colors, the Quilted Beach Hammock by Pawley’s Island creates a cool, beach-like ambiance in even the most land-locked backyard. Manufactured with two layers of a mildew-resistant, synthetic fabric made to feel like cotton, the hammock has a cushioned fiberfill insert. The hammock is 13 feet long and 55 inches wide, has oak spreader bars, and includes hardware rated to hold up to 450 pounds.

Lightweight Mosquito-Free Camping Hammock

From a compact 17-ounce, 9-inch-by-10-inch stuff sack, the Mosquito-Free Hammock Bliss unfolds to become bug-barring nylon hammock with a built-in zippered screen, perfect for camping, backpacking, or the backyard. The hammock’s large bed measures 118 by 57 inches and hangs from nylon rope attached to its four corners. Weight limit: 350 pounds. Flip the hammock over when you don’t need the screen for bug protection.

Classic Rope Hammock with a Colorful Twist

The jazzy Family Sized Rainbow Rope Hammock takes a break from white and delivers red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet colored rope. The vibrant rope is made of mildew resistant synthetic fibers and is threaded through solid oak spreader bars. All hanging hardware is included. Size: 60 by 84 inches.

A Portable Hammock that Goes Anywhere

L.L. Bean’s Folding Camp Hammock includes both a nylon/polyester hammock and a steel-tube stand that fold together into a carrying bag. Weighing just over 30 pounds, the green-and-white striped camp hammock measures 25 inches high by 40 inches wide by 95 inches long. For extra sturdiness, the hammock bed attaches to four points on the frame, which includes a mesh shelf to keep belongings off the ground. Pillow included.

Hanging Hammock Chair Lets Users Sit Upright

Sit up and swing in the Ultimate Hanging Air Chair. Available in burgundy, forest green, or natural off white, the chair fits anyone up to 250 pounds in an ergonomically designed chair with four spreader bars and a footrest. Use the included main hanging rope to dangle the chair from a sturdy tree or purchase a chair stand.

To swing safely in a hammock, follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully, paying special consideration to weight limits and hanging requirements. Classic hammocks require sturdy trees or specially made hammock stands or poles to provide adequate support.

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

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

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.

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.

Different Types of Camping Hammocks

Camping hammocks are divided into classifications that include:

Parachute Nylon Hammocks

Parachute nylon hammocks are among the most typical kinds of hammocks that are in the market today. The material is identifiable by its crinkly look. It is among the greatest materials used in making hammocks that can accommodate approximately 181 kg load capability. It has a relatively soft texture. The parachute nylon likewise has a moderate stretch which is chosen by most campers for the very best convenience.

Ultra-light Hammocks

These are outstanding for backpackers who are trying to find the lightest options that are available to lower the weight of their bag pack. These models are less comfy and resilient that a regular single.

Exploration Hammocks

When extended stay in a more comfy unbalanced design, these are models that are big and are developed to stand up to many conditions and. They include functions such as rain flies and bug internet. The bug-net is dark green in color that makes it simple to translucent. They are much heavier and more costly than other open design.

When Buying a Best Outdoor camping Hammock, things to think about

Outdoor camping is a custom that is time honored and is delighted in by lots of people even today. You know all about what to bring and how to pick the best outdoor camping fundamentals if you are a regular camper. Since hammock outdoor camping has ended up being the way to go, it is necessary to know which hammock serves best. When selecting a hammock, there are a number of aspects to think about.

Deciding to go trekking into the hills with a hammock and not a camping tent is challenging. A camper who decides to enter into a winter storm has a totally different set of issues as compared with a camper who opts to trek in the desert. These 2 kinds of hikers will need to think about a lot prior to selecting an outdoor camping hammock.

Think about in what type of setting you will be utilizing the hammock. Will you require a bug net or rain fly? Or is oversleeping the open model type simply fine? Figure out whether you will be utilizing yours for sleeping methods or primarily relaxing around the camp. If you are simply beginning, it is a good idea to bring along an ultra-light model for a short backpacking trip as well as bring along a light-weight camping tent or shelter as a back-up plan.

When opting for longer journeys, where the weather condition is unforeseeable or it alters from time to time, fully-rigged hammock variations can be brought along as a replacement for camping tents. This assists in lowering the pack weight and includes adaptability and convenience to the camp established. An outdoor camping hammock is fun and is significantly a more comfy way of taking pleasure in the wilderness.

How to Pick The Best Portable Hammock

You desire to attempt outdoor camping in a hammock rather of a camping tent? You’ve heard that with one you can lighten your load and have a unique outdoors experience, however you aren’t sure if you will like it. Listed below we have put together handy info for assisting you pick the best portable hammock to attempt outdoor camping in.

 

Hammock vs. Camping tent?

While the majority of people will be content utilizing a hammock as a terrific way to relax throughout the day. Obviously, a hammock isn’t really as sturdy as a full-blown camping tent. For outdoor camping in moderate weather condition, they are plenty long lasting and more than enough to keep the cold and bugs at bay. Using a sleeping pad for insulation against drafts listed below, a bug net, and a rain tarp, a one can end up being a viable option to a 3-season camping tent.

Different Types for Outdoor camping

These hanging cocoons have been around for centuries and can be found in various designs, consisting of the type that you may see in a friends yard hanging from a stand with a spreader bar. While those are all well and good, we focused our evaluation on light-weight travel and outdoor camping models, developed with strong products and with a single collect point at each end. Falling out of these styles takes substantial effort, and not once throughout the 20+ nights of testing did we manage to wind up on the flooring, making them much safer and much less large.

Picking the Right Model

When selecting a hammock is to choose where you will most likely use it, the first decision you ought to make. As a basic guideline, larger and more highlighted models are going to be perfect on outdoor camping journeys. On the other hand, models that are best for relaxing at a campground will not be requiring a bug net and can be smaller sized, making them much easier to suit a small day pack. At almost a portion of the weight of a typical backpacking chair, hammocks are excellent to contribute to any outdoor experience!

Second, think about the best ways to fit one most easily to you. Your height and weight are the very best criteria to deal with, as larger, much heavier people will desire larger, more resilient models and smaller sized users and campers who wish to minimize bulk in their pack might desire a light-weight option. For those planning to camp or backpack, there are other factors to consider to bear in mind. Search for models that feature bug internet and/or rain tarp, or examine updating your open hammock with a bug net or rain tarp accessory if you intend on utilizing yours for a prolonged trip where the conditions might differ.

WEIGHT

Initially, glimpse you may believe that the hammock is going to win this one by far. An outdoor camping hammock with an integrated bug bag just weighs about 30 ounces. A backpacking camping tent will be available in between 80 and 100 ounces.
Once you believe about including in the hanging straps and a tarp to keep you dry. When you include whatever you require for the hammock you wind up in the variety of the backpacking camping tent. Naturally, you can most likely find other options that will weigh basically.

SIZE

The next function that we will wish to take a look at is the size of each. Let’s think about a hammock. With the hammock out and strapped to a tree it has to do with huge enough for someone to lay in. If you are especially high you will desire to validate the hammock you are looking at will provide you enough space to extend out.

The tarp that you may establish over will wind up covering more space, however, that does not actually include any extra space for you to extend in. When you take it all down and things it in a things bag it will not be huge at all. They have the tendency to have to do with the size of a Nalgene bottle.
The other option is our camping tent. This one has more of a variation in sizes. While a small backpacking camping tent will use simply a bit more space than your sleeping bag uses up, other camping tents might indicate more space to extend or put some other equipment in.

OTHER CAMPERS

As a note associated to size, take a moment to consider who you will be going on a trek with. If you desire to sleep by yourself, a hammock is excellent. If you are taking a romantic partner with you, you may feel a bit lonesome in your hammock. When a camping tent may be a much better option, this is a circumstance. Consider your four-footed buddies.

CONVENIENCE

This area possibly more than other that we go over will refer personal viewpoint. Let’s begin thinking about the camping tent. Some will find that it is more comfy to sleep in, totally from routine. If you have invested one of the most of your outdoor camping nights oversleeping a camping tent, it ends up being natural for your mind to go the idea of oversleeping one for your next trip too.

And in reality your camping tent does provide a sleeping experience closer to that of your bed, you have a rather steady surface that you are sleeping on. On cold nights you’ll find that the ground can be quite the heat sink, cooling off anybody who sleeps on it without a couple of extra layers. There is many a night that the great spot that you selected to put your camping tent appears to amazingly grow some roots and sharp rocks in the middle of the night.