Hanging out in nature. What more could you possibly ask for?
Well, you can literally hang out in nature – by camping or backpacking with a hammock.
Inexpensive, highly portable, and a great alternative to a tent, traveling with a hammock is loads of fun and it’s time everyone was doing it.
And it just so happens that this article covers the best camping hammocks of 2025 – with a full buyer’s guide and FAQ section even if you don’t know the first thing about these cool cots.
It’s your own little slice of heaven from tree to aligning tree.
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Contents
- The 19 Best Hammocks for Camping & Backpacking 2025
- MalloMe Portable Camping Hammock
- Gold Armour Camping Hammock
- Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
- Winner Outfitters Camping Hammock
- Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock
- Legit Camping Portable Hammock
- Mr. Mocks Camping Hammock
- Kammok Roo Camping Hammock
- Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro Mosquito Hammock
- Etrol Hammock with Mosquito Net
- ENO Sub7 Hammock
- Hummingbird Hammocks Ultralight Hammock
- ENO DoubleNest Camping Hammock
- Everest Double Hammock with Mosquito Net
- Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Hammock
- Eagles Nest Outfitters – ENO SuperSub Hammock
- Hennessy Hammock – Expedition Series
- Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge Tent Hammock
- Klymit Sky Bivy Hammock & Tent Shelter
- How to Choose the Right Camping Hammock for You
- FAQs
- Summary
The 19 Best Hammocks for Camping & Backpacking 2025
MalloMe Portable Camping Hammock
Review: This MalloMe portable camping hammock is truly outstanding value considering its popularity and the number of excellent reviews it receives around the web.
Included in the package you get the hammock, ropes and snag-free carabiners, so you can set up right out of the box.
The hammock is an extra-large size and it can easily fit two adults comfortably. The strap system has a breaking strength of 1000 lbs, so you have peace of mind that your weight isn’t going to cause it any problems.
Ultralight and compact, it comes with its own stuff sack for portability, while the hammock material is made from premium 210T nylon fabric. For the price, this is easily the best lightweight hammock available.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- XL sized parachute grade.
- Choice of colors available.
Cons
- If there is one I can’t find it.
Takeaway
An immensely popular, durable, and yet budget-friendly hammock that has a wealth of great reviews. Check out more awesome double hammocks if you’re looking for cots on the larger size.
Gold Armour Camping Hammock
Review: Comfortably supporting two people up to a maximum of 500 lbs in weight, this extra-large camping hammock is also very easy on the wallet.
Made from 210T nylon parachute fabric, the product is super-light and portable, with a stuff-sack sewn into the material so you never lose it.
The package includes the hammock, two heavy-duty carabiners, and two, ten feet long tree straps with a total of 32 attachment loops. You can set it up and take it down in seconds, it features triple, interlocking stitching for durability and it claims no sagging to the ground will occur.
It’s also available in a rainbow’s worth of colors so you’re sure to get exactly the style you or your family needs.
Pros
- Excellent price.
- Everything included to set up.
- XL parachute fabric.
- Stuff sack sewn in.
- Huge choice of colors.
Cons
- You’ll have difficulty choosing the design.
Takeaway
Another top-rated hammock that comes with such a mind-boggling choice of colors and designs it might take you weeks to settle on the right one.
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Review: Wise Owl is one of the best camping hammock brands around and here they offer both single and double hammock options. The weight capacity on the higher end sits at 400 pounds.
There are different color varieties in each size, and these hammocks are designed to rival those manufactured by ENO. Both the single and the double are very lightweight and easy to take with you on any hiking trip.
Constructed of 210T nylon, they’re exceptionally strong yet soft and are highly durable against the elements.
The kit comes with two, nine-foot straps, D-ring carabiners, storage bag (some with interchangeable logo patches) and the hammock in the color of your choice.
Pros
- Great value.
- Double and singles are available.
- Top hammock brand.
- Excellent reviews.
- Choice of cool colors.
Cons
- Again, the choice of colors might give you a headache.
Takeaway
Wise Owl Outfitters proves that it’s possible to get a deluxe style hammock on a budget without having to sacrifice your expectations.
Winner Outfitters Camping Hammock
Review: Winner Outfitters is a smaller brand, but their products are designed to be comparable to the bigger brand names. While the company doesn’t offer many separate bonus accessories, such as rain fly attachments or mosquito nets, you’ll get everything you need for a camping trip in nice weather.
This is a double model, making it ideal for a two-person hammock hiking trip. It’s available in different color combinations, holds a maximum weight of 500 lbs, and comes with rope straps and carabiners.
You don’t need to purchase any of the necessary hardware separately, as you get the whole package right out of the bag.
Pros
- Affordable price.
- Ready to set up.
- High weight capacity.
Cons
- This is a small brand, so they don’t yet offer accessories like insect nets or rain fly attachments.
- No choice of colors is available.
Takeaway
A solid, affordable alternative to the big brand names, it’s just a shame more colors weren’t on offer.
Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock
Review: Grand Trunk is another great hammock brand to purchase your camping hammock from. They offer several different styles and make their products out of good quality materials.
Designed to be tough and durable for rugged adventures, the hammocks are made from two different materials depending on the color, with two different grade carabiners included.
These hammocks come ready to hang and include everything you need to get lifted off the ground ASAP. They are also super-compact, lightweight, and repack easily to take to the road.
Highly versatile, this is a perfect alternative to some of the best hammock tents you can buy.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and portable.
- Spacious and roomy for sleeping.
- Tough and durable construction.
- Choice of colors.
Cons
- Depending on the color they’re made with different materials and carabiners which seems a little confusing and pointless.
Takeaway
Cheap and cheerful, consider this your starter-pack camping hammock. It’s incredibly light and easy to transport if you already have a backpack heaving with the kit.
Possibly the best portable hammock there is – just make sure you know exactly what you’re ordering when you choose a color.
Legit Camping Portable Hammock
Review: This double hammock from Legit Camping is another lightweight option that can take a maximum weight of 400 lbs. It’s super-easy to set up right out of the stuff sack, so you’re not going to struggle to get swinging in no time.
It offers loads of room for two people, while the military-grade nylon ensures it’s tough, durable, and able to stand up to whatever you or the world throws at it.
The hammock comes with everything you need to get off the ground and sleep comfortably in the great outdoors.
Available in a great range of colors, this top-rated hammock is another great choice as you make the switch to hammock camping. Follow this hammock hanging guide if you’re still having problems.
Pros
- Super-easy set up.
- Solid construction.
- Built to last.
- Choice of cool colors.
Cons
- Reports of rough edges on the carabiners being a problem.
Takeaway
A hammock that’s so simple to use that anyone could do it, this is a great portable bed for the night when you’re looking for a tent camping alternative.
Mr. Mocks Camping Hammock
Review: Mr. Mocks deserves some serious attention as a very small, one-man operation with a passion for hammocks. In spite of being the small fish in the big pond, this is a quality piece of kit that comes with everything you need to get sleeping under the stars in comfort.
Featuring lightweight aluminum carabiners, ten-foot straps that are apparently 50% smaller and more compact than the competition, and a very comfortable, 75D parachute nylon material with a 210 thread count that’s super soft yet just as durable.
I’m all for supporting the little guy, and this is a top-drawer effort from one dude and his sowing machine.
Pros
- Independent manufacturer.
- Quality design and construction.
- Fun, colorful branding.
- Lightweight and portable hardware.
Cons
- A larger choice of colors would be nice – perhaps that’s in the pipeline.
Takeaway
A hammock made by a person who clearly loves hammocks, this is a highly recommended cot kit for your next outdoor adventure. The branding is cool, and it gets my thumbs up as one of the best camping hammocks of 2025.
Kammok Roo Camping Hammock
Review: Once you’ve tried camping hammocks and decided that it is definitely the only way to travel, the Kammok Roo is an upgrade from Economy class to First.
Arguably one of the softest, most comfortable yet sturdiest nylon parachutes out there, you will certainly feel the difference with this solidly-constructed hammock. Good quality stitching and ripstop fabric make this hammock tougher than most.
It is large and comfortably sleeps one but will stretch to two and will hold a weight of up to 500 lbs. Once you’ve purchased the straps to go with it, this hammock is a breeze to set up and easy to transport.
Add one of these hammock sleeping pads and sleep the sleep of champions.
Pros
- Spacious and roomy.
- Very comfortable.
- Tough and durable construction.
- Choice of colors.
Cons
- Price can vary wildly depending on the design.
- More suitable for daytime use.
Takeaway
All this luxury comes at a price. Compared to other double parachutes, the Kammok Roo is far from cheap and you will need to splash even more cash on straps, mosquito netting, and a rainfly.
Take a look at these hammock tree straps if you need to upgrade your current kit – or it doesn’t come with any at all.
Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro Mosquito Hammock
Review: Another Grand Trunk hammock now which has the huge bonus of including a separate bug net to ensure you are safe and comfortable from mosquitoes and other biting insects.
The netting attaches to the hammock using a double-sided zipper and seals out the creatures of the night. The hammock and net combination are quite flexible as you can flip it with the netting-side down to enjoy as you would with a parachute nylon hammock.
They come ready-to-go with starter ropes, carabiners, and the net suspension kit. Made from 100% 70D parachute nylon that’s known for its durability and endurance to elements while you sleep tight inside.
Grand Trunk offers hammocks for the most adverse conditions, and some of the best hammocks for snow camping, thru-hiking and winter backpacking trips on the market today.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable.
- Bug net included.
- Spacious and roomy inside.
- Durable construction.
- Interior pockets.
Cons
- Be sure to check each model if it has the added accessories included in the price or you need to buy them separately.
Takeaway
The inclusion of a bug net makes this a great camping hammock for overnight stays without additional cost to you.
Etrol Hammock with Mosquito Net
Review: This is a practical, 3-in-1 multifunction hammock that can be upgraded to a full tent if required. It comes with a mosquito net built-in which is designed to filter UV rays and protect your eyes.
Flip the hammock over and you have a regular-style, classic hammock, and then you can adapt it further still with additional accessories to turn it into a ground tent.
It weighs just 2.5 lbs, can easily fit two, and has a maximum weight capacity of 440 lbs. A stuff sack is included for when you’re on the go, and it’s all made from 70D nylon for added durability.
Everything you need is included to get you swinging from the trees right out of the pack, and while this is a tent/hammock hybrid design, why not take a look at this tent versus hammock article to see which one really wins out.
Pros
- 3-in-1 design.
- Durable materials.
- Mosquito net included.
- Large sleeping area.
- Choice of colors.
Cons
- Tent hardware sold separately.
- Still open to the elements.
Takeaway
A pretty ingenious, hybrid design that offers great protection from bugs – it’s just a pity it didn’t come with everything included.
ENO Sub7 Hammock
Review: Claiming to be the lightest hammock on the market (weighing just 6.5 ounces) this is a highly portable hammock that’s ideal for backpacking.
Eagle Nest Outfitters manufacture market-leading hammocks for camping and hiking, and the Sub7 is a great example.
Made from a 70D high tenacity breathable, quick-drying nylon taffeta, it is designed to safely support a maximum capacity of 300 lbs.
Included in the kit you’ll find aluminum wire gate carabiners and a stronger-than-steel Dyneema line that allows you to quickly and safely secure the Sub7 to pretty much anything that can bear a load.
Probably the best backpacking hammock of 2025 – top quality stuff from ENO – but you’d expect nothing less.
Pros
- Market leader in hammocks.
- Quality design and construction.
- Ultra-lightweight.
- Very compact.
- Premium materials.
Cons
- Straps not included.
- Not suitable for larger or taller sleepers.
Takeaway
The perfect hammock for backpackers and hikers, the Sub7 is so compact and lightweight you’ll hardly even know it’s there.
Hummingbird Hammocks Ultralight Hammock
Review: Now here’s an interesting thing, Hummingbird Hammocks also claim that this ultra-light model weighs 30% less than anything on the market – so someone isn’t telling the truth!
And while this model is an excellent hammock, the Sub7 is just that little bit lighter.
Still, we won’t hold it against Hummingbird, as this handmade in Denver product has a lot going for it.
Available in a choice of colors, it features type IV certified webbing that’s lock-stitched and built to FAA parachute rigging standards. It’s made from 100% durable nylon, can hold up to 350 lbs with ease and has been designed by a parachute rigger.
It packs down into the palm of your hand, making it another of the best backpacking hammocks on the market.
Pros
- Ultralight.
- Highly portable and compact.
- Premium materials.
- Designed by a parachute rigger.
- Choice of colors.
Cons
- Straps sold separately.
Takeaway
Designed by a pro, this is clearly an excellent hammock that’s perfect for taking out on the trails. Again, it’s a pity that the tree straps aren’t included in the gear.
ENO DoubleNest Camping Hammock
Review: One of the leading hammocks on the market, this lightweight nylon parachute has the benefit of being big enough for two if required but makes for a luxurious night’s sleep when accommodating one.
The spaciousness belies how well it folds down for transport, as the ENO DoubleNest can be packed down to the size of a grapefruit. It’s a simple construction with very few extras, which, although you may need to buy a few accessories also means it can be a versatile piece of kit.
Easy to get in and out of, it’s great for day-lounging as well as a night sleeping, and it’s available in more colors than Bob Ross’ paint set – which will avoid confusion if you’re around other hammock-users.
Hugely popular and top-rated, this is a market-leading product from one of the best hammock brands there is.
Pros
- Name to trust.
- Top-quality construction.
- Highly portable.
- Premium hardware.
- Excellent reviews.
- Outrageous choice of colors.
Cons
- Extras not included.
- It’ll take you a while to choose the design for you.
Takeaway
Quite possibly one of the best hammocks ever, ENO has knocked it out of the park with this effort. And while the choice of colors is dazzling, it’s easily matched by the quality of this product.
Don’t take my word for it though – check out the specs and the feedback.
Everest Double Hammock with Mosquito Net
Review: Made from a ripstop diamond weave nylon, this is a tough and durable 100% 210T taffeta parachute hammock with quick-dry materials that are breathable, ultra-light, and tensile.
The Everest comes with a heavy-duty mosquito mesh that protects you from pesky biting insects, without ever feeling like it’s closing you in. It’s fully compatible with rainfly set-ups, and it’s fully reversible so you simply flip it over if you want to relax in the net-free hammock.
The YKK double tab zip and components and triple-stitched edge seams are able to hold up to 400 lbs, while the kit includes snag-free aluminum carabiners and nautical grade rope.
This hammock is packed with features, but it’s also compatible with many other Everest products in case you really want to pimp it out.
Pros
- Quality constructions throughout.
- Bug net included.
- Internal loop rope for a good camping flashlight.
- Compatible with other Everest products.
- Tough, durable, quick-dry material.
- Choice of colors.
Cons
- An internal storage pocket would have been a nice idea.
Takeaway
Overall a quality product from Everest that has a lot going for it. This might not be the best hammock for hiking but it’ll certainly do for most situations, and mosquito nets included is always a good idea.
Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer Hammock
Review: Easthills Outdoors offers this super-smart hammock that is a great package if you just want a one-stop shop for everything you need.
You can choose the rainfly version if required, and if you do it comes with all the bells and whistles that are essential for the ultimate hammock experience.
Two long tree straps with 16 adjustable loops, two aluminum wire gate carabiners, two net ropes, a built-in bug net, four guylines, four aluminum stakes, and a 2000 mm waterproof rainfly.
Oh, and a breathable, high tensile, 100% 210T Taffeta parachute with triple-stitch edge seams that can take 700 lbs maximum weight.
This just might be the best hammock for camping available – certainly at this price point.
Pros
- Great price for what you get.
- Quality materials.
- Everything you possibly need is included.
- It can be bought with or without the rainfly.
- Smart color schemes.
- Internal pockets and hanging loops.
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners – it might be a little challenging to set it all up.
Takeaway
A great hammock set that has everything you need and is real value for money. Maybe look elsewhere if you’re just starting out though – all this hardware might be on the daunting side for rookies.
Add one of the lightweight camping fans to the hanging loops as you’ll surely need to cool down in warmer weather.
Eagles Nest Outfitters – ENO SuperSub Hammock
Review: Another entry from ENO in their higher-end range, this SuperSub model weighs just 9.8 ounces and is made from a durable taffeta ripstop nylon.
It’s a double hammock the size of the DoubleNest and yet weighing considerably less for an ideal backpacking cot for the larger individual.
Supporting a maximum of 300 lbs in weight, it’s strong, breathable, and quick-drying while featuring a new aluminum toggle that integrates with its Helios suspension system.
It’s available in a choice of two colors and comes with an attached stuff sack for easy transportation.
Pros
- Name to trust with hammocks.
- Ultralight considering the size.
- Strong construction.
- Highly portable.
- Compatible with other ENO products.
Cons
- Hammock only – you’ll need to buy everything else separately to set it up.
Takeaway
A hammock right out of the top drawer, this is an excellent product from ENO that should last for years to come. It’s just a pity you’ll need to spend extra on the hardware – but such is the apparent price of quality.
Hennessy Hammock – Expedition Series
Review: Claiming to be the hammock that started the camping revolution, makers Hennessy is one of the best hammock brands out there – if not THE best.
A firm favorite with hikers and backpackers, this durable expedition hammock is pricier than the others but well worth it. It comes with almost everything you need: integrated mosquito netting, rainfly, support rope, and a stuff sack, and, with practice, can be set up in five minutes or less.
The straps are even thoughtfully designed with webbing so as not to damage the trees that you hang the hammock from.
The Hennessy Hammock Expedition Series is available with two closures – zipper or slightly cheaper velcro. Both work well and keep the hammock shut if you toss and turn in the night.
Sturdy and made with high-quality material, this hammock should last you for years to come.
Pros
- Decades worth of design and craftsmanship.
- Everything included.
- Top-quality construction.
- Name to trust.
- Lightweight.
- Unrivaled comfort.
Cons
- Not for taller/heavier people.
- On the more expensive side of the hammock market.
Takeaway
This Hennesy is simply one of the best camping hammocks for backpackers looking for a lot of protection from the elements.
If you need some extra insulation, pick yourself up one of these amazing hammocks under quilts and you’ll be ready for anything.
Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge Tent Hammock
Review: If you’re still wavering about making the transition from tent to hammock camping, this cross between a camping hammock and a tent could be the answer.
With pole arches that create a roof out of built-in mosquito netting, the Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge can be suspended like a hammock when needed but also happily sits on the ground like a tent giving you the best of both.
The arch poles are detachable and convert the Blue Ridge into an ordinary open-air camping hammock, but use them with the bars system to make the hammock flat and taut.
No more suffering from ‘banana back’ in the morning. The arch poles also make the hammock feel less claustrophobic than other bug-netted models.
Pros
- A good hammock/tent hybrid.
- Award-winning.
- Quality construction.
- But net and rainfly.
- Versatile for all types of camping.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Straps and other hardware are sold separately.
- Heavier than other models.
Takeaway
A great option if you’re not quite ready to make the full switch to hammock camping, this model is by another of the best hammock brands on the market – so you know you’re getting a quality product.
Klymit Sky Bivy Hammock & Tent Shelter
Review: Designed for all weather conditions, this Sky Bivy from award-winning outdoor company Klymit comes with both the Klymit lay flat hammock and the Klymit sky shelter.
It features a spreader pole to create open and even surfaces, providing you with plenty of room internally and an all-around superior comfort sleeping experience.
Adjustable dual foot straps and wings allow you to alter the position of the hammock vertically and horizontally, customizing its configuration, while aluminum stakes and tension lock guy ropes are included for blustery weather.
The sky shelter can be switched between storm protection and shade for added versatility. It’s very lightweight at 4.7 lbs and offers a maximum supported weight of 300 lbs.
Pros
- Excellent weather protection.
- Everything is included in the kit.
- Very lightweight for what you get.
- Durable, quality construction.
- Award-winning outdoor company.
Cons
- Exorbitantly expensive.
Takeaway
For serious hammock campers and backpackers, this is the model for you. Everyone else might balk at the price tag, but it really is a quality product that’s ideal for hammock camping in all conditions.
Remember – you’ll still need extra insulation in colder temps.
How to Choose the Right Camping Hammock for You
There’s a lot to consider when shopping for a good camping and backpacking hammock, so let’s take a look at what you should be bearing in mind before making a purchase.
Hammock Types
Most available camping hammocks can be divided into three main types but there are also others that don’t fit neatly into these categories, including a tent-hammock hybrid.
Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each and find the one that’s right for you.
Ultralight Backpacking Hammocks
Smaller, lighter (of course) and more compact, they take up very little space so are perfect for a quick trip, or for hanging out in during the day.
They are also pretty basic.
You won’t find any added extras like integrated mosquito netting or rainfly here. When considering an ultralight hammock, bear in mind that the smaller the hammock, the less comfortable it will be.
You might need to decide if you value weight over comfort.
Parachute Nylon Backpacking Hammocks
Durable with a little bit of extra give, these hammocks are the most commonly available on the market today.
They’re made from rugged and durable nylon, usually 210D ripstop, that is quick-drying and with high tensile strength.
If it’s good enough to jump out of an aircraft with, it should be able to hold you between a couple of trees.
They can be big enough for one person or two, but make sure you double-check the dimensions and weight limits as they can vary a huge amount depending on the manufacturer.
Again, there aren’t a lot of integrated extras with these so you may need to shell out a bit more to make your camping hammock fit for the terrain.
Expedition hammocks
For the Bear Grylls among you, these are tough, sturdy hammocks that are engineered to withstand the elements; made with top-quality materials to keep you protected and comfortable in the toughest conditions.
This is obviously reflected in the price tag, but they are truly the best hammocks for camping.
They often come with built-in extras like mosquito netting, rainfly, and guy-lines which gives the hammock a bit more room and added stability.
Most won’t come with any padding or insulation though so if you are traveling through cooler climates you’ll still need to bolster your kit.
If you’re still not convinced, then why not head over and take a look at the best waterproof tents instead?
Size
Some backpacking hammocks are compact, which makes them a little more convenient to carry. They’ll take up less space in a camping or hiking bag.
If space is more important to you than anything else, you may settle for a smaller hammock.
The only issue with doing that is that taller or larger people may not be able to sleep comfortably in such a compact hammock.
Hammocks have height limits. Most of them are included in the manufacturer’s specifications.
If a hammock specifies that it’s extra-large, this usually means it can comfortably accommodate someone taller than six feet.
If the width is a concern, a double hammock may be more comfortable for a single sleeper.
If you’re comfortable sharing a hammock with your traveling companion, you’re going to need to get a double hammock.
If not, any additional people on the trip will need to carry their own hammocks.
Some hammocks that are sized to share are still a little cramped, so be sure to check measurements, while solo campers might prefer double hammocks simply for the extra room.
Weight and Weight Capacity
As with everything in backpacking, you will want to consider the weight of a hammock before you buy it.
Every single ounce can make a difference between an exhausting trip and an enjoyable one. It might seem negligible at first, but it all adds up.
Most hammocks don’t weigh a lot by themselves. They don’t come with a lot of hardware like tents which require metal or fiberglass poles to set up.
Hammocks do usually require a few small metal accessories, such as carabiners or clips of some kind, but even they are designed to be as light as possible – or at least they should be.
Some hammocks can weigh as little as 7 ounces or less while others can go up more than 20 ounces. Lighter models are usually narrower and shorter, so make sure you can fit in as well as be able to support your own weight.
Most hammocks support anywhere between 300-600 lbs. Make sure you and your sharing partner fit into the weight capacity bracket of your chosen model.
The suspension system will add up to some 10 to 15 ounces to the total weight. Factor in other additional accessories such as rainfly, mosquito net, guylines, and straps.
Make sure you aren’t overloading your camping bag and you’ll thank me later.
Material
Hammocks can be made of a variety of materials. Outside of taffeta and nylon, there are also rope hammocks and canvas hammocks.
Rope hammocks offer no protection and easily get tangled up, making them very inconvenient for use on a hiking trip. Canvas hammocks are extraordinarily heavy – they’re designed to be erected in one place and left there for a long time.
Parachute hammocks are made of different varieties of taffeta and nylon. Cheap taffeta and nylon snag easily. Falling twigs and tree bark can damage these hammocks. They’re less expensive, but they’re also more likely to fall apart.
However, parachute hammocks make the best portable cots and are ideally suited to camping and backpacking.
Durable materials are still lightweight, though they’ll cost a little more.
It’s worth the investment to purchase a hammock you know will last for years, rather than settling for one that will only last a trip or two before coming apart.
Stitching
There’s no point in purchasing a single stitched hammock – it will fall apart on you the second it gets windy outside. You want your hammock to be at least double stitched, though triple-stitched is best.
The seams need to be strong and durable, as any weakness can lead to a torn fabric that can’t be repaired.
The seams are one of the most important parts of the construction of a hammock. Never settle for anything that’s been haphazardly sewn together.
Every seam should be reinforced. It’s the combination of these seams and the hammock material that make a hammock reliable.
Straps and Ropes
Hammocks come with different kinds of tree straps. Some of them come with ropes. Ropes are a little harder to use than straps, but you have more options when you’re using a rope.
The hammock can be manually tied any way you want to set it up. Some people prefer that option, but it’s a little less convenient for others.
The most important thing to consider about fixed loop straps is the length. Longer straps offer more possibilities.
If you’re going to an area where trees aren’t densely populated, longer straps may come in handy.
The longer the straps, the more wiggle room you have. Short straps work fine in heavily wooded areas – you’ll always be able to find a place to put up your hammock in a forest or on a nature trail.
Bug Nets
Bug nets for hammocks can be a real lifesaver against mosquitos and no-see-ums. These nets zip the camper completely into the hammock, and they’re easy to set up.
Most of them come with a thin rope that’s tied above the hammock, and the net is clipped to this line to hold it up while you’re sleeping inside.
If your hammock doesn’t come with one, many manufacturers sell them as an optional accessory – but they’re highly recommended if you’re going to be sleeping outside, particularly through the warmer months.
Weather Protection
You shouldn’t camp in wet weather without a rainfly. This is similar to a tarp, and it creates an enclosure above the hammock.
Some all-weather hammocks come with an attached rainfly or tarp for maximum waterproofing.
You can also purchase and install separate rainfly attachments for wet weather camping – so check with a manufacturer to see if they offer such accessories.
Whether they do or don’t might make or break your decision, but you can often mix and match products with a bit of common sense.
Insulation
Most hammock setups use lightweight, breathable nylon to keep you cool through the late spring months – substantially cooler than a tent.
However, for hammock camping in crisp and breezy conditions, you’ll need to warm up with optional accessories such as top quilts, under quilts, or sleeping pads.
The best way to use the under quilt is to attach it to the hammock and not inside. This is because your body weight compresses the insulation and decreases its viability.
Color
Your chosen hammock color can be more important than you might think.
If you’re using it for hunting purposes, it might be a good idea to blend in well with your surroundings.
But if you want extra safety and to be visible from distance, bright colors are always preferable.
And if you happen to be camping with lots of hammock users, being able to find and identify your home is a good idea.
Ultimately, since hammocks are available in a ridiculously wide variety of colors and designs, your chosen color should reflect you.
So, have a lot of fun figuring that out.
Cost
Buying all of the necessary supplies for camping can add up quickly, so you will probably want to set a budget and make sure you are getting the best quality hammock for your money.
Thankfully, most hammocks are very affordable and there’s little difference in the pricing.
You’ll only start paying the big bucks if you want all the bells and whistles.
And if you are really serious about this, a good investment will certainly pay you back in the long run.
FAQs
Who Makes the Best Camping Hammock?
I would say this comes down to a four-way tie between ENO, Wise Owl, Hennessy, and Klymit.
However, that’s just my opinion and there are plenty of excellent quality hammock brands out there for you to discover.
Trial and error – test them all out and then you’ll be able to make a solid decision.
Are Hammocks Comfortable to Sleep in?
This comes down to personal preference. Some people love sleeping in hammocks and say it’s the best night’s sleep they’ve ever had, while some people much prefer the old-fashioned mattress.
I think they are very comfortable to sleep in, but you kinda do need to know what you’re doing and a few tips and tricks won’t go amiss.
Check out the video below for some excellent advice on how to properly sleep in a hammock.
Do You Need a Sleeping Pad for Hammock Camping?
You don’t really need one, but if you’re looking for a bit of extra comfort they certainly can’t hurt.
Aside from that, they’ll also give you some extra protection against the elements and biting things.
Check out these great hammock sleeping pads and decide for yourself if you really need one.
How do You Stay Warm in a Camping Hammock?
There are a number of tricks you can use to keep yourself nice and toasty in your hammock if you’re camping in colder weather.
You can use a sleeping pad mentioned above with a good R-rating – which improves insulation and warm-air flow to keep the chill away.
A good hammock underquilt is essential if you really want to boost the heating.
Of course, wearing extra layers is useful – so long as you make sure they’re breathable and not wet to begin with.
But for more tips and advice on how to stay warm in your hammock – especially in winter – check out the video below.
Is Hammock Camping Better than Tent Camping?
Ahhh, the age-old debate. How long is a piece of string?
The answer here will come down to personal preference – each has its advantages and disadvantages over the other.
In a tent, you’ve got much more room, you feel more protected from the elements, and there’s plenty of space for you and your gear.
The downside is that tents can be difficult to carry and take time and patience to set up.
Hammocks, on the other hand, are super fast to get up and running, while barely registering anything weight-wise.
This makes them very attractive to backpackers and hikers on the go.
But where do you put your stuff? You haven’t got enough room to swing a cat!
Think about what kind of camping or backpacking you want to do and the choice should become easier.
Check out this article on hammocks versus tents for a more in-depth look at the debate.
Or, check out this hammock versus tent video in the rain and make your own mind up.
Isn’t Hammock Camping Dangerous in Bear Country?
No more so than tent camping. This means you still need to take extra precautions if you’re out in the backwoods.
Having a good quality bear spray should be an essential part of your kit for a start.
Watch the video below for some excellent all-around camping advice when you’re out there with the critters.
Summary
Hammock camping is really taking off and there’s a lot of good options out there if you want to join in the fun.
I hope this review and guide has helped you sort through the best camping hammocks of 2025 and found the one that’s right for you.
Let me know in the comments below what you’ve gone for.
Also, if you will be out in the wild for more than a day, you might be interested in getting yourself one of the best backpacking water filters we have reviewed.
Happy hammock camping!
