5 Reasons To Ditch Your Tent For A Camping Hammock
Say goodbye to the tossing and turning, and say hello to swaying and smiling.
It’s late. Your hike into the backcountry took longer than expected and you’re just ready to hit the sack. Unfortunately for you, you have to fumble in the dark, frantically trying to set up your tent. After your poles catch in their sleeves and you’ve finally found that lost tent stake, you’re all ready for a well-deserved nights rest. As you crawl into your sleeping bag and start to drift, you roll slightly to one side and realize you’ve setup shop right on top of a pesky rock you didn’t see when choosing your campsite.
“Isn’t there another way?!” you howl into the night. Only to hear an annoyed bird fly off into the night; uninterested in your dilemma.
Luckily for you, there is an easier way.
Hammocks have come along way in the recent years and are becoming popular among many campers. Not entirely convinced? Here are five reasons you should try out a night suspended in the sky.
1. Easier Setup & Breakdown
It couldn’t be easier to setup a hammock. Simply wrap your straps around two trees and clip your hammock in. Simple. Worried about bugs? Some hammocks have bug nets built right in, and with 30 seconds and some paracord you now have a mini, lofted bungalow.
2. You’ll Get A Better Night's Sleep
Say goodbye to the tossing and turning, and say hello to swaying and smiling. While sleeping on the ground can be a real pain, especially without the aid of a sleeping mat, snoozing suspended above the ground is not only more comfortable but will leave you feeling more refreshed and energized in the morning.
3. You Don’t Have To Search For Flat Ground
It can be a real pain to find a proper clearing for your tent. It’s even worse to realize that open clearing you find is littered with rocks and other debris. You’re also bound to find that perfect lookout but no place to camp. Hammocks allow you to get closer to the great views and have more options for where to stay!
4. They’re Lightweight & Packable
Unlike their tent counterpart, hammocks are extremely lightweight and easy to pack. There’s no need for tent poles or stakes; all you need is your hammock and straps! For long backpacking trips, hammocks' light weight frees up room in your pack for other camping necessities!
5. It’s A Hammock! Relax & Enjoy
When it comes down to it, hammocks are a wonderful camping addition whether you decide to spend the night in one or not. There’s nothing better than kicking back in your hammock after a long day of hiking and staring up at the stars above, as the breeze gently sways you back and forth. So whether you decide to leave the tent at home or not, be sure to pick up a hammock and enjoy!
Remember to always Leave No Trace on your adventures.
Cover photo: Christin Healey
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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