Going tentless -- Hammock Camping

[RabbyTat]

I used to live in an old wall tent when I was working as oil field trash and liked it well enough, but got a bit bored with it. I also camped out of a Suburban for hunting. We even camped with only period correct blanket and ground cloth at times for RevWar reenactments, so I am open to many ideas.

Years ago, I got a cheap handmade hammock in Guatemala which I decided to try in camping. With a makeshift rain cover, this worked well -- where there were no mosquitoes. I was hoping that some members might have experience with one of the jungle hammocks that they might share.
Suggestions as to make and model would be especially appreciated.

 

[Frederico]

I've never heard of "hammock camping" before but I have to say that it appeals to me. It has to be more lightweight than regular tent camping. Ideal for a one-night trip. I'd also be interested in advice re: gear.

 

[ultimatesurvivor]

Why not use a sleeping bag? I understand that a hammock will raise you off the ground thus not loosing heat, but with a good sleeping bag you should get the same insulating effect.

 

[Philly]

Sleeping bag is good but you need to have a fire going on through the night to scare away any wild animals in the area where you are camping. For hammock, the problem is with mosquitoes. I guess it is still better to use tents when camping out.

 

[gear-report]

Howdy.
I got into hammock camping a few months ago myself.
For me, it was something new to try after being a ground sleeper for decades.
What I found is that I sleep WAY better in a hammock than on the ground.
Seriously, there is no comparison.
Sleeping in a good camping hammock (not to be confused with a non-camping hammock) has a bit of a learning curve, and good bottom insulation in sub 65F weather, but is a much better experience for me than suffering on the ground.
A bad hammock, or a hammock poorly set up can be a pretty poor experience though.

 

[Refrigerator]

I've never heard of "hammock camping" before but I have to say that it appeals to me. It has to be more lightweight than regular tent camping. Ideal for a one-night trip. I'd also be interested in advice re: gear.

Hammock Forums

 

[Benny]

A hammock in the backyard is about it for me. Too many mosquitoes! You can't really enjoy it for too long. But a nice cool drink after cutting the grass, laying in the hammock - that's alright!

 

[le Metis]

As a merit badge counselor for the Climbing MB an ideal that I've been working on is a week long climbing class at summer camp for older scouts. It would include a multi pitch climb requiring a night on a porta ledge (high tech hammock) as a cap stone experience...

 

[gear-report]

As a merit badge counselor for the Climbing MB an ideal that I've been working on is a week long climbing class at summer camp for older scouts. It would include a multi pitch climb requiring a night on a porta ledge (high tech hammock) as a cap stone experience...

I expect that you'll find a prohibition on porta ledge in the Guide to Safe Scouting.
Too easy for the kids to get hurt.
I think porta ledges are cool... just not for me.

 

[gear-report]

Hammock Forums

Amen, brother!

 

[Refrigerator]

Most of my true wilderness trips are above tree line but I do have several different Hammock set ups I use...have you seen the Bridge Hammocks!

 

[le Metis]

I expect that you'll find a prohibition on porta ledge in the Guide to Safe Scouting.
Too easy for the kids to get hurt.
I think porta ledges are cool... just not for me.

As of yet, there are no regulations in the GTSS concerning porta ledges, and I would limit the height to a max of 10 feet. The program envisioned would set the age limit at 14 being geared for Venture crews...as for safety, I don't believe in safety as it's a false premise that can get one in trouble quickly. Instead, my focus is always on risk management, a carry over from my military, and NOLS training....

 

[gear-report]

As of yet, there are no regulations in the GTSS concerning porta ledges, and I would limit the height to a max of 10 feet. The program envisioned would set the age limit at 14 being geared for Venture crews...as for safety, I don't believe in safety as it's a false premise that can get one in trouble quickly. Instead, my focus is always on risk management, a carry over from my military, and NOLS training....

Sounds like you've got the right approach.
I'm sure the kids will enjoy the experience.

 

[EyeOfThePark]

I've also been hammock camping a few times. I prefer regular camping, but any new camping experience is welcomed... I have a Hennessy hammock tent; I purchased it online for $200. It has mosquito netting and underquilts.