Are you considering getting into Hammock Camping but don’t know if it’s for you or not?

That’s why I’m here today.

Today, I am going to give you the Pros and Cons to Hammock Camping.

If you haven’t camped in a hammock before and are new to the concept, let me share the pros and cons of camping in a hammock. Hopefully this list will help you determine if hammock camping is right for you.

I actually didn’t know if I was going to like it until I tried it myself.

 

 

 

Without further ado, Let’s jump into the article.

 

 

 

 

For more information on hammock camping, KOA has some great information. Here is their website for you to check out https://www.koa.com

 

 

 

The Pros and Cons to Hammock Camping

 

 

The Pros to Hammock Camping

 

#1. It’s Easy to Put Up.

When you compare hammocks to the average tent, you’ll find it easier to set up your hammock.

The main effort is finding the right spot for your hammock, but once you have it, it’s a simple case of connecting the ropes to a tree.

That means no more messing around with tent poles or hammering down tent stakes into the ground.

 

 

You have Flexibility

 

#2. You Can Use Them in Almost Any Terrain.

One of the beautiful things about using a hammock is you can use it in any terrain without any issues. All you need is two trees with a reasonable distance between them to which you can tie your hammock.

You don’t have to worry about clearing stones, twigs, or other debris either. To make it better, you don’t have to worry about sleeping on tree roots or loud rustling leaves.

Not preparing a campsite can save time and allow you more time to relax at your camp.

 

 

Backpackers Love Them

 

#3. They are Super Lightweight

Hammocks tend to be much lighter than traditional tents, and it’s easy to see why. You don’t have to carry around any heavy tent poles or stakes.

All your hammock requires the hammock itself and some suspension straps. And this is one of the reasons hammock camping has become so popular among backpackers.

The lightweight nature means it doesn’t make your backpack heavy and doesn’t take up too much space.

 

 

#4. Extremely Comfortable

When you first lie down in your hammock, you’ll understand why enthusiasts say they have a better night’s sleep in their hammock.

That being said, it does take a bit of work to get used to getting inside your hammock, so you’ll need to practice beforehand.

 

#5. Keeps You Cool

During the summer, your tent can get pretty warm due to the lack of breathability. And that’s the good thing about using a hammock.

They are built with breathable materials that help you stay cooler during the hot summer.

 

#6. Keeps You Dry

Some people think that sleeping in a hammock means you will be exposed to the elements. The thing is:

This isn’t the case; many hammock tents provide a rainfly that allows the rain to roll off the tent and onto the ground.

To make things better:

Because you’re suspended off the ground, you don’t have to worry about puddles forming underneath your tent.

 

 

The Cons to Hammock Camping

Okay, you know a little bit about the benefits of hammock camping, but what about the cons?

Well, in this I’m going to run you through some of the downsides of hammock camping:

 

#1. You have Limited Space

One of the most significant disadvantages of hammock camping is its limited space. Most of them come as a one or two-person hammock.

Consequently, this can make camping in large groups difficult. Even with two people, you need to ensure you’re comfortable with the person you share with.

 

 

Hammocks Lack the Space and Storage.

 

#2. No Room for Your Pets.

A hammock isn’t the best option if you love camping with your pets. Getting your dog into the hammock can be tricky.

Above all, this means you need to try and sort out an alternative option for your dog, which often means bringing extra equipment.

 

#3. You Have Less Privacy

When camping in a tent, you usually have space where you can get changed in relative privacy. But with a hammock, you don’t have this luxury. In fact, getting unchanged inside your hammock can be pretty tricky.

 

#4. It Can Be Cold.

A hammock might not be the best option if you’re planning to go camping in cold weather. Many people complain about cold nights spent in their hammocks compared to a traditional tent.

Being suspended off the ground may mean you’re off the floor, but you’ll be surrounded by cold air on all fronts.

 

Final Thoughts & Takeaways

And there you have it. I hope this article has helped explain the pros and cons of camping in a hammock. For me, it depends on when you’re going camping and what you want to achieve.

If you’re looking to reduce weight and camping in hot weather, you should have no issues with hammock camping.

If you’re planning on being in cold weather with a large group, you will be better suited in a traditional tent.

 

 

-CT