Hammock Camping!

I got into hammock camping around a year ago and was instantly hooked on the idea. Here are some reasons why I prefer it to camping in a tent.

(1) Better sleep

Although I have to admit that not everyone would agree, I have found that sleeping outdoors in a hammock far more comfortable than in a tent. That is provided the hammock is correctly tensioned. In the Hennessy Expedition hammock you sleep asymmetrically which means you aren't banana shaped but instead lay in an almost straight line diagonally across the hammock.

(2) Elevated off the ground

The second advantage of a hammock is that you are elevated off the ground. This means that all you have to worry about is finding two trees with the correct distance apart (3.5 - 7.5 metres/ 12-25 feet). When elevated you don't have to worry about uneven, hard ground. This means you can reach wilder spots that nobody with a tent would dream of sleeping in.

(3) Closer to nature

When sleeping in a hammock you still get a sense that you are in the outdoors because you are not completely enclosed. It feels more like a cacoon in which you still have a window to the outside world. If the weather is good you don't need to use the tarpaulin, this adds to the sense of being in a natural environment.

(4) Versatile

Although the primary purpose of the hammock is to sleep in, it can also be used as a seat. and additionally as a bivi tent. So if you found yourself in an area without trees you can still use the hammock on the ground suspended by walking poles or strong wooden sticks!

(5) lightweight

Hammocks are generally light weight because they are essentially rope and fabric. The Hennessy Expedition Asym is 1247 grams and appeals to campers who don't like loads of equipment on their back.

Closing remarks - Is it for you?

Although I love hammock camping and find it the most comfortable way to sleep in the outdoors, there are people who prefer a tent. I would recommend trying both to see which one works for you.

Insulation is another factor that will affect the quality of your sleep and there are various systems that can be used such as underquilts and airmats etc. I use a thermarest and sleeping bag during the summer months and would say that is sufficient. Winter would require a decent amount of insulation and I hope to venture out in the coming months to test that out!