Camping hammock

The camping hammock has become an essential piece of equipment for hiking and camping enthusiasts looking to lighten their backpacks while maximizing comfort during nights under the stars. Designed to provide a suspended sleep between two anchoring points, the hammock is an interesting alternative to the traditional tent, especially in regions where the ground is damp or uneven. This guide will detail the technical aspects to consider when choosing the right bivouac hammock for your mountain or wilderness expedition needs. Find our best bivouac hammocks and other camping sleeping equipment.

Types of bivouac hammocks

Bivouac hammocks are distinguished primarily by their design and intended use:

• Simple hammock: Lightweight and compact, ideal for solo hikers looking to minimize their load. Generally made from nylon parachute or polyester, materials renowned for their strength and durability.
• Double hammock: Larger, allowing two people to sleep together or providing extra space for a single person. It also offers greater stability, but is slightly heavier than the single model.
• Hammock with mosquito net: Equipped with an integrated mosquito net to protect against insects, this type of hammock is indispensable in areas infested with mosquitoes or other pests.
• Insulated hammock: Equipped with an extra layer or a system for inserting an insulating mattress for cold nights. Some models also feature a reflective lining to help retain body heat.

Hammock materials and construction

The choice of materials is crucial to the hammock's durability and comfort:

• Nylon and polyester: These are the most common materials for bivouac hammocks. Parachute nylon, in particular, is appreciated for its lightness and sturdiness. It's important to check the density of the fabric, expressed in denier, which has a direct influence on resistance to wear and tear.
• Water-repellent treatment: For humid environments, water-repellent treatment is essential to prevent the hammock from absorbing water, which could increase its weight and reduce comfort.
• Suspension systems: Straps must be strong yet gentle on tree bark. They must be able to support your weight without breaking; some straps have multiple buckles for easy adjustment.

Essential hammock camping accessories

Various accessories can enhance your hammock camping experience:

• Roof (tarp): Essential against rain and wind; it should completely cover the hammock while providing good ventilation to prevent condensation.
• Quick set-up system: An easy-to-install system that adapts to different types of tree will give you flexibility when setting up camp.
• Integrated hammock pockets:. Convenient for keeping personal items such as flashlights and phones within easy reach.
• Lightweight & portable:. For those counting every gram in their bags; some ultra-light models weigh less than 500g all-in!

To make the best choice for your future Ticket To The Moon, QAOU, or COCOON, you should of course also take into account the anticipated weather conditions, as well as your personal preferences in terms of comfort! Whether you're planning a quick mountain getaway or an extended expedition in the forest: choose wisely! Also explore our related categories such as Camping Sheets, Sleeping Bags and, last but not least, Camping Mattresses!