If you use a hammock for camping you need to understand some of the ways to keep warm and dry. Many people dismiss the idea of using a hammock for camping other than in very warm, dry conditions. In truth they are great for all but the most extreme conditions.
For mountain adventures and camping in extreme cold I would still recommend a four season tent. That said there are techniques for staying warm in a hammock which are very effective. If conditions really turn bad you can go to ground and use a hammock set up in other ways.
One of the obvious ways to stay warm in a hammock is to pitch it in a sheltered area. Wind chill is a major factor affecting temperature and this can often be avoided. If you are experienced in outdoor life you will understand how temperature changes in different landscapes such as areas close to rivers and lakes.
As with bedding down in a sleeping bag, insulation under the body is a basic principle. If you've ever made the mistake of sleeping with your bag on the ground you'll understand this! When sleeping outdoors in a hammock a slightly different approach is needed. A hard foam base which works well in a tent isn't ideal for hammocking as it won't flex to your body. It may keep you warm but you will pay a price in comfort.
A tarp is what's needed to stay dry in a hammock. There are many different options and the conditions will determine the type of tarp that's best. I prefer a rectangle shaped tarp but there are also diamond and square types. So long as it covers your hammock and can be secured adequately there is no right or wrong as such.
For extreme conditions such as heavy snow a more specialist approach to hammocking is required and I'll explore this later.
For mountain adventures and camping in extreme cold I would still recommend a four season tent. That said there are techniques for staying warm in a hammock which are very effective. If conditions really turn bad you can go to ground and use a hammock set up in other ways.
One of the obvious ways to stay warm in a hammock is to pitch it in a sheltered area. Wind chill is a major factor affecting temperature and this can often be avoided. If you are experienced in outdoor life you will understand how temperature changes in different landscapes such as areas close to rivers and lakes.
As with bedding down in a sleeping bag, insulation under the body is a basic principle. If you've ever made the mistake of sleeping with your bag on the ground you'll understand this! When sleeping outdoors in a hammock a slightly different approach is needed. A hard foam base which works well in a tent isn't ideal for hammocking as it won't flex to your body. It may keep you warm but you will pay a price in comfort.
A tarp is what's needed to stay dry in a hammock. There are many different options and the conditions will determine the type of tarp that's best. I prefer a rectangle shaped tarp but there are also diamond and square types. So long as it covers your hammock and can be secured adequately there is no right or wrong as such.
For extreme conditions such as heavy snow a more specialist approach to hammocking is required and I'll explore this later.
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