Yeah, but it's only going to heat up your butt, and you'll need to keep flipping around all night to stay warm!
I found these sweet LED light strips on Amazon. They're only 0.6oz and use button batteries which are easy to carry extras. Only issue is they sometimes come on when the hammock is packed up.
Edit: Toodour 8 PCS 20 LED Fairy... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071K64N72?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have 3 Eno hammocks among my family. I just replaced 2 of them with Bear Butt hammocks from Amazon. The fabric is exactly the same. (75D/250T) The gathered ends use nylon straps instead of the marine grade rope on the Eno. (I replaced these with Amsteel continuous loops from Dutchware.) The carabiners are not as nice as the wire gates on the Eno so I just transferred those from my old hammocks.
For a budget hammock you cannot go wrong with Bear Butt. I am more than happy with them especially for $26.
I have this one myself and it’s worked great for many trips so far. I’m sure you can even find cheaper on Amazon.
Here is what I bought Amazon Link
I wanted to get something relatively inexpensive to mess around with. Might go camping with it in the summer (when I don’t need to worry about the cold so much) or just use it to chill on my balcony.
This evening was the first time I got a chance to set it up, I made sure to even out the straps after I took this photo.
Anyone have any tips for a newbie?
I have a Grand Trunk Brand Hammock that looks and feels just like the expensive Eno hammocks, but i got it off Amazon for $19.99. It doesn't come with straps, but I found an awesome set of straps for $4.99 on Amazon as well. If you are interested, let me know and I will send you the links! Edit: spelling, and heres the link for the hammock: Grand Trunk Ultralight Hammock (Forest Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001AIHB76/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_VHywxbV0QYDTV
> The first one he linked is 8 feet long.
>DIMENSIONS - Hammock 8ft 91in/230cm (Long) x 2.8ft 33.5in/85cm (Wide)
That's not a hammock, that's a bodybag lol.
I'm 190cm and previously had a 2.7m DD hammock which was definitely too small for me to sleep in comfort. My new Dutchware 3.3m is way better (but also more expensive).
Depending on your height I don't see why you wouldn't be comfortable in something like this:
(literally the top result on amazon)
It won't be the absolute lightest, most high-tech, durable, easy-to-set-up hammock, but then again: it's not expensive and I doubt it will be 4x as uncomfortable as a 100 dollar hammock.
The ones /u/tikker_g mentions are all well-respected brands, but if you're just getting into hammocking I think a cheap & cheerful hammock is a better way to start. You may find you don't like it, or can't sleep in a hammock.
EDIT: this one combined with their tarp also looks pretty decent if you're under 1.75m or so:
You might be best off getting a set of poles that are usually designed for supporting tipi/pyramid tents as they'll be very strong and potentially very light/packable.
I did a quick search on Amazon and these poles might just be perfect for you. They're just slightly out of your budget, but I think you get a ton of adjustability and pretty decent quality for your money.
Animated knots https://www.animatedknots.com/
There's also an app, it's not free but worth the couple of pennies to have them all on your phone to practice.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.animatedknots.knots
This one has suited me very well for a couple seasons both in the hammock and on the ground.
Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad, Lightweight, 2.5 Inches Thick, Sleep Comfort for Backpacking, Cold Weather Camping and Hiking, Inflatable Camping Mattress https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07YP8TFJB/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_NEE1DHXRJ93J6MWKV3P9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Do you have Amazon Prime? I just went onto Amazon and found these for $30 shipped.
Kevlar Hammcok Tree Strap 10' - Minimalist (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N0WIRWU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_GuTSzb2735W4J
If income is part of you problem and you need cheap, DIY is a good way to go.
The Costco Packable Down Throws can be easily converted into an under quilt and a top quilt, and they are pretty cheap.
I have these:
MSR Night Glow Zipper Pulls, 2-Pack , Red/White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019F2QW8C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_07R2B7FQN64CGYGEFMX2
However, they don't work well on the "first night", if you keep the pulls on the hammock, and you don't stop hiking until close to nightfall. They don't get time to charge. I've considered putting them on my pack during the day, and then transferring to my hammock when I set up camp.
We got these hammocks on Amazon. We wanted something on the cheaper side to start with that still worked fine. We are not avid outdoors people but are planning 1 or 2 adventures in the wild every year. Super glad we got these and they have worked great. Love the integrated bug net that you can clip to the side during the day.
1 is probably the best bet. I've seen this hammock recommended on this sub before and it defintely looks like a really good hammock for the price.
I'm a fan of whoopie slings, i'd say a good place to start would be the ENO Helios https://www.amazon.com/ENO-Outfitters-Ultralight-Suspension-Capacity/dp/B07S9H25PX/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=eno+helios&qid=1605832945&sr=8-1
I was able to get this tarp for $20 on woot, but its sold out on that site. still, its a deal on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Yukon-Outfitters-Walkabout-Rainfly/dp/B00EUHZ74I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467162722&sr=8-1&keywords=yukon+outfitters+tarp
i think its a lot of legal requirements for example bear butt hammocks say right in their description on amazon
On amazon, look up the twisted root underquilt. I snagged one off of Woot the other day, and it is decent for in the house. I haven't had a chance to take it outside yet, but this sounds like it would fit what you are looking for.
You can actually get these on Amazon (although a little more expensive). 2 for $60 including shipping vs. Costco 2 for $40.
Double Black Diamond Packable Down Throw - Ultra Light 60 Inch X 70 Inch, Stuff Sack Included (Green), 2-pack
It’s a bit late in the season to shop on Ali Express (2-8 weeks for shipping depending on which items, which sellers, and how much you pay for shipping), but if you can wait, you can get your gear even cheaper. I have a $32 silnylon 10x10 tarp, and I just recently bought another hammock for $17. I’ve also bought $9 tree straps there, but never used them—they might be worthless breakable, stretchable junk. I don’t know yet.
I would skip Outdoor Vitals. My underquilt is falling apart after one season of light use. I keep finding blue threads on the ground when I use it, baffles are slowly coming undone, it’s a mess. Even though it seemed great at first. Just not very well made. I recently bought a cheap bug net ($18.99) on Amazon, and so far so good. It’s not the finest mesh, but it’ll keep out mosquitos, black flies, bees, wasps, and other annoying bugs.
I picked up a Chill Gorilla tarp recently. But The one I found doesn't match the specs you posted. Here it is on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X9SCN5D
It's centerline is 142" (11' 10") and it's width is 108" (9'). It's still the same weight you listed.
I definitely consider it budget-level gear, but as a new backpacker, it met the budget constraints I set for myself.
For the $30 range, I'd give a good look at the Chill Gorilla hammock:
https://www.amazon.com/Chill-Gorilla-Backpacking-Parachute-Lightweight/dp/B01LYOL6QH
$36 on Amazon with tree straps. I don't have any direct experience with this hammock, but I have a Chill Gorilla tarp that I like a lot. It's a good product for the money, and if the hammock is similar value (and I see no reason it shouldn't be) then it's a good deal.
I purchased a really cheap hammock from Amazon last year and haven't had a problem. You just have to be picky about the features you need. For me it was more the price and the bug netting that I was looking at. Cheers, and here is the link https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B071CKGTTT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XJEfDbV5CVQZA. It
Tarp on top would be the obvious suggestion (read that as last item packed, first item out). Maybe utilizing a couple of figure 9's or my old favorite the truckers hitch.
We followed this loop counter clockwise, which left the best views for the end. It’s moderate in difficulty and good for beginners (it was our first backpacking trip). The only quite strenuous part was the Old Butt Knob Trail (the east-to-west trail at the top of the map), which takes you to be top of a mountain, but not to many great overlooks to enjoy the view. If you want to avoid the steep 2 mile incline, you can take the Shining Creek Path instead, which keeps you along the water (blue line underneath Old Butt Knob). Our favorite was definitely the last few miles once you connect to the Art Loeb.
The first 8-9 miles is along a river, so a reliable water source and lots of campsites. The middle few miles have a few campsites here and there. Make sure you have plenty of water (maybe 2-3 liters) before you ascend the mountain if you choose to take Old Butt Knob. The last 5 miles are pretty flat with beautiful views, but only small streams for water and not a ton of campsites until you connect to the Art Loeb. It was a great loop, and I would highly recommend to any backpacker that wants to experience a variety of terrains and views!
I'm not familiar with the area or general temps, but looking at weather in August, it looks like 80º highs and high-40º lows? Let's take off ~10º for altitude. It's obviously personal preference, but in the mid-30's I've been pretty comfortable with the following:
Especially if there's wind, the quilts are key to deadening the wind and keeping you warm. I've done the same without a UQ and with a pad in the hammock, and it was a pretty chilly night.
If it gets down to the low-30s or below, I might add a silk liner bag (~+10º of warmth) or liner pants and shirt (~+10º of warmth).
I got a family cooking set that I mostly use for car camping. They are heavy but the bottoms are very good for heat distribution, and I like the handles. You could find that (or similar) frying pan and just bring that, it would be pretty versatile. I've also got a folding titanium wood stove that I put my alcohol burner in, and that works as a wind screen and a pot stand. I can find a link to the burner and/or the stove if you want. Alcohol stove is good for boiling water, but wood gives you a much more adjustable heat for real cooking, and it really doesn't take a large amount of wood (it does take a long time though and you need to tend it a bit).
If you already have a tent for stowage and changing (get a small lock for the zippers -- again, doesn't provide any actual protection, but usually even the smallest barriers are enough), you just need a tarp that's big enough to provide rain protection for your hammock.
The two tarps I have are https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SYZLTHN/ which is very large. I have a warbonnet blackbird which is 10 feet long (less when hung, of course) and this tarp goes way beyond either end. Great in a storm, kind of annoying otherwise.
My other tarp is this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DT9EC2G/ and it's too small for the blackbird. In a light and completely vertical rain it would probably keep me dry, but I wouldn't trust it for anything other than shade or otherwise. It was fine (when hung on the diagonal) for my older hammocks which were shorter, but it's just too small.
I'm still debating which proper hammock tarp I'm going to get (like warbonnets mountainfly, for example), so for now cheap, heavy, square tarps are fine. And for this purpose as long as it's big enough and actually waterproof, it should be fine as well.
Just spitballing here, so things to consider rather than proper suggestions.
You will have little privacy compared to a tent. Even if you have a tarp up in storm mode that means you'll only have privacy while actually in your hammock. This might make it troublesome to change, so you might want to bring a significantly larger tarp than you really need so you can set it up somewhat like a tent (including closing the ends) over your hammock or something to make walls for your canopy to give you some flat space to have privacy in.
Related... some people just can't seem to help themselves if they see unattended anything. Your stuff might be perfectly safe inside a tent but if it's just out it might end up vanishing, despite a tent providing effectively no security other than a visual screen.
Also I don't know what the infrastructure is gonna be like at the festival, but it might be a good idea to spring for a 5 gallon jug and a pump ( https://www.amazon.com/Bottles-Pressure-Drinking-Fountain-Coolers/dp/B07KVDGDTN/ ) because the site water sources might be extremely crowded and inconvenient. Similarly, a hefty battery pack to keep your stuff charged without drawing on external infrastructure probably wouldn't be amiss.
My black lab shredded my expensive DutchWare Chameleon one night while we were in it 😢 (Adding injury to insult, I had it set up in my garage, above the concrete floor! Good thing I was hanging low -- I ended up with a slightly bruised butt but no real damage 😛) Even though I keep his nails trimmed, they're still there and dog nails aren't retractable 🙁
I ended up replacing my Chameleon with a $50 knockoff made out of sturdier material, because I'm not going to stop letting him snuggle with me -- listening to him cry all night because he's cold/scared/lonely makes me feel like a monster and besides, he adds like 10˚ to my sleep system! I figure even the sturdier material might eventually shred, but I can replace it a couple more times before I've equaled the price of my Chameleon 🤷🏽♀️
Actually, he's sleeping in my indoor hammock right now, which is a netless version by the same company 😆 I've had it for 9 months now, and he's in it daily -- so far although I can see one spot where his nail snagged, the tiny hole hasn't spread. I guess the ripstop is doing its job 😀
Sure thing. It's this one, the red camp hammock tarp, the 12 x 10 one, specifically.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VWPXRQW/ref=twister_B07L5BF8QH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Maybe a bolster pillow is in order to help the angle of sitting? It's the only other thing I can think of. Like this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Husband-Pillow-Detachable-Removable-Adjustable/dp/B073WKJ67W
How about a pants hanger? A bit of a pain to turn pages, but it seems like that's going to be an issue with most any solution.
I have two sets of these in two different areas of my home. In both cases, one side is connected to an exterior wall 2x4, the other side to a large structural header.
https://www.amazon.com/Eagles-Nest-Indoor-Hanging-Silver/dp/B00DVE2AW8/
Tarp is at the link down below. It gives great coverage but was pretty heavy for what it is (2.5lbs). Replaced it with a dyneema ASYM tarp for summer.
My local Walmart sells an Ozark Trail summer bag that compresses down as well as anything at that temperature rating, $35 CAD, often cheaper on sale. Honestly for summer you should be fine with the cheapest thing that compresses to the size you're looking for.
Naturehike down bag - this one gets good praise as a budget down-filled bag, $85
Blue Ridge Activ Packable Throw - this is the famous Costco down throw, $40
How has that treated you during rain and wind? I was looking at this and wise owl (premium)
Wise Owl Outfitters Rain Fly Tarp – The WiseFly Premium 11 x 9 ft Waterproof Camping Shelter Canopy – Lightweight Easy Setup for Hammock or Tent Camp Gear https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073GQXMM9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_03EFMFXTRA8CCPWTGESZ?psc=1
If you really want to stick to that budget, any old tarp will do. They're heavy, bulky & loud in the wind, but they'll keep the rain off of you.You should be able to find one that's big enough for relatively cheap, especially if you're looking on Amazon.
I actually just picked up a cheap "hammock" tarp from Amazon to bring with as a wind wall/part of a tarp city for our BWCA trip. It was like 30 maybe? Comes with string for tie downs. It's certainly not high quality and is much bigger than the Warbonnet SuperFly I use for my hammock, but again, it will keep things dry.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08TQS4HRB/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 this is the one I bought to use a as a crude rain/wind shelter.
Again, these tarps are like 1/4 the price of what some other tarps cost. Just like with anything else, you get what you pay for. If this is your first time, something cheap like the tarp linked above might be enough to get you hooked on hammock camping. I went on many trips with an old-school diamond rainfly & have had so much fun expanding & exploring new gear. Give it a try!
ETA: you mentioned this is a backpacking trip. Weight really matters here, and that's where the price differences come in. Also, hammock camping can take a bit of practice to get it dialed in right & there is nothing worse than waking up wet & cold because something wasn't set up right. It can happen to anyone & that can completely ruin a trip. I'd advise doing a test run or two before relying on this as your shelter in the wilderness. Even after years I made a mistake that could have been deadly had I been alone/unable to get warm again. Just my two cents!
I've had success with this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C3MJFZZ/ref=twister_B08B55PSDN
Just make sure you use cordage that doesn't stretch to string it up, and if it still comes with the little plastic buckles don't attach the cord to those, attach directly to the webbing loops.
IF your sleeping bag is the type of bag that you can zip around the outside of the hammock, that is better than just using it inside. As other's have said, an underquilt is worth it. If you don't want to spend a bunch of money you could consider making your own. I did something like that to make an underquilt for my chair, it worked pretty well using this cheap sewing machine.
Its a smaller hammock that you hang below your main hammock and it holds your gear up off the ground.
This is the one i have:
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B087BKSP95/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_2uqdGbT4NGMTZ
I have a lot of trouble with pillows at home and waking up with a sore neck. Then I found the COOP Home Goods pillow on Amazon—one of those shredded memory foam pillows. They cost an arm and a leg, but for me it's so worth it.
So for use in the hammock, I bought a bulky, heavy pillow: COOP Home Goods travel pillow. I don't even care. I forgot it once and had to use balled-up clothes. Woke up with a stiff, sore neck and had a terrible morning. I don't know if I need this exact pillow, but I have never found anything better and experimenting means almost certainly waking up in pain.
So I can't say I recommend such a large, heavy pillow to other people, but for me, I won't ever go without it.
I’m a self proclaimed cheap mother trucker, and refused to spend over $50 on a tarp.... came across the Roman Ventures 13’ on Amazon and I love it! Fits my cheap motif, too.
Got it on Amazon. It was this guy right here It worked really well, as there were a LOT of mosquitoes out.
Eno has a indoor hanging kit you can buy on amazon that is probably the best cheapest way to hang inside
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DVE2AW8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The best part is unclip one side, hang it, and you reclaim the space the bed takes up for the rest of the day
Here's a link to the S2S quilt on sale at www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk.
As far as the DD UQ goes, air temp was measured at -10C, not by me though. I had my 2 season bag as a base layer inside the hammock, me lying on top of that, with my top quilt over me. I also had a couple of layers of clothing on too.
I too also own a lot of DD stuff ... and I've bought their stuff for others too. It's good quality, decently priced, and their customer service is excellent.
The Golden Eagle double hammock is on sale at Amazon right now for even less than I paid. I switched out the suspension for whoopies and soft shackles which brought down the weight. It's served me well for a couple of years now through some pretty hellish conditions.
If you want good and cheap (but a little heavy), the 12x9.5’ Chinook on Amazon works great for car camping and/or short trips. EDIT: not quite as heavy as I thought, reviewers like it Chinook Tarp (Sand, 12 x 9.6-Feet) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0052SXFXE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_i8p2BbT99A8XN
A Warbonnet Thunderfly is a great option for maximum coverage without needing full doors. Personally I’d go with the Silpoly option.
Hammock is an old Castaway single with Grand Trunk tree straps. Under quilt is a four season Jarbridge from Arrowhead Equipment. Top quilt is a North Face 20° sleeping bag. Rain fly is an Amazon special called 'Preself'. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M8LCDBH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_0mZSCbB7R51MR
In the 30 dollar range I would say most of the amazon ones will be pretty similar. Though anything that you get as a feature is probably a cost cut somewhere else.
Something like this might be a good start. It has tree straps with it, but I would strongly recommend getting a ridge line somewhere. Arrowhead has some adjustable ones that you can take with you between hammocks if you get into it and want to get a nicer one. Usually you want your ridge line about 81% of your hammock length, and they are easy to make if your up for it.
This all works for body and suspension, but do know that under insulation is important if you're sleeping in it. You can use a cheap foam pad or camping pad if you want to save money.
Take the edge that you want to be the cinched end, fold it over and sew it. Then run some sort of shock cord and run it through the channel you just sewed.
There are many good youtube videos, but concerning tools you need to be creative. especially if you are trying to do it on the cheap. for the heavier amsteel, I use a length of wire (1/32 piano wire available at a HDWR store) bend it in half and tap the end with a mallet gently to make it easy to insert. for small stuff (1.7mm zing it and similar) I use https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004I0Z7V0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
For the intermediate line between these 2 sizes, I uses the eye end if a 12 inch upholstery needle
I have a Hennessy A-Sym Explorer and the One Tigris double underquilt works fine for me. It's definitely bulky but I've found that if you don't use the stuff sack and just put it in your pack loose it'll fill in all the nooks and crannies. They have a winter version as well.
Depends on how light you wanna run... Some my rigs I pass through loop and some I use carabiner like you described.... Carabiner is heavier... But depending on my rig I like to have spares... If I need 2 carabiners minimum to hang the hammock then I probably have 2 on my pack holding my sandals on that I can repurpose to using on ends on my strap... Or to replace a failed one either way it goes.
@OP they have to be weight rated carabiners.. 12KN like these... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073GPFCDT/
This was my first and only time in the Smoky's.
These are the campsites I stayed at. Day 1- Campsite 61- Bald Creek Day 2 - Campsite 64- Mill Creek Day 3 - Campsite 70- Jonas Creek
Here is the all trails link:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/north-carolina/forney-loop
This was my first and only time through.
These are the campsites I stayed at. Day 1- Campsite 61- Bald Creek Day 2 - Campsite 64- Mill Creek Day 3 - Campsite 70- Jonas Creek
​
Here is a link to the all trails route.
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/north-carolina/forney-loop
The parking lot was almost full when we got there Monday afternoon, around 3pm. We saw a handful of people on the way up. We also, incidentally, found someone else hammocking on a ledge below the shelter, about 200 yards away. They appeared to be already settled in for the night at 5pm, so we retreated and didn’t see them again after that.
On Tuesday morning, we woke up in the clouds, hiked the Tom Jones–Parker Cabin–Lake Skemonto loop loop. While the sun had boiled off the fog by about 1pm, we saw only three girls and a jogger.
I've used a Onetigris underquilt for years, and have been very pleased with it. I see they have a couple different sizes now, cheapest one is $40
You can soak the lines with Sawyer Permethrin. That should be safe for most strap materials, and provides protection that can last for months.
I use the tactical toggles on some of my tarp ridgelines as well based on the Jeff Myers video. I've been really happy with them. My ridgelines are all made with the 1.6mm UHMWPE cordage from Emma Kites:
It's just a little bit thinner than lash-it so the NAMA claws go on there better and it comes in different colors :)
> portable washing line
I found the same thing: I tried using some thin amsteel - lighter and with less stretch than the parachord I was using; but, prone to tangle too easily and even the slightest wind buffed it around causing tangles. So, I am back to the parachord.
I did put it on a spool; but, still a bit too time consuming for me, especially in foul weather.
I've had good luck with Easthills Outdoors on Amazon. Holds 660 lbs - $25.99
Easthills Outdoors
If the weather is 40 plus this underquilt has been working for me at $54.85
Underquilt
I don't know about 9x9 but i can definitely recommend this 10x10. Mine has served me well for 4 years now.
I've had most of the "best" hammocks (hennessy, warbonnet, amok), and just recently tried a onewind "budget" hammock from Amazon. You could get a full setup for the cost of an underquilt somewhere else, and the quality is top notch.
Compare this hammock & tarp with this underquilt to the other options you have.
Personally, I use
Eno hammock straps - adjustable due to the daisy chain design
Abrigo rainfly - ripstop nylon and has over 15 configurations
Grand trunk double nest - good for someone who is my height (6"1) and loads of space to diagonal lay
Hotcore sleeping bag rated to -10C I just unzip it and use it as a blanket all though I would love a top quilt so I don't have to wrestle with the sleeping bag.
Paracord - makes a great ridgeline and I tie Prusik knots on the line and attach them to my rainfly
Xblack Underquilt - Cheapest of the underquilts on Amazon but is good to -10C but I found most comfortable between -5C and 20C. Meaning to upgrade to something better but it was my first underquit and i still use it, before that I used the TrailScout sleeping pad by ThermaRest.
Bug nets are debatable and I have yet to find one that has strings on the side to draw it out but here is the link the one I bought doesn't exist anymore but it's basically the same thing
I use S- Biners to attach my rainfly using Prusik knots
You also want some sort of drip line, I find combined with drip lines, the bug net takes most of the water that gets by the drip lines and I stayed dry even in heavy rains.
Total weight for all of this is just under 30 pounds!
Check out onewind. I got pulled in by the underquilt, and ended up picking up their whole 12' system just recently. I've been testing it out on my patio and I'm super impressed. I'm likely going to sell the hennessy now.
I recently tried this Ridge Outdoor Gear hammock, the Pinnacle 360. It isn't too heavy. It has a zip bug net that is removable. It comes with a structural ridgeline and small organizer. I also like the double-ended stuff sack which makes deploying and stowing it easier (in my opinion). I also liked the price, $65, which seems good for all the nice features.
https://www.amazon.com/11ft-Camping-Hammock-Mosquito-Net/dp/B07P1NWGL4
>I'm trying to avoid hammock-specific top quilts and underquilts.
15 is cold - mental without an underquilt minimum.
In addition to tarp, top, and underquilt, you might want a full windbreak sock.
I just picked up the onewind double layer underquilt, each layer is rated to 20º. I obviously haven't had a chance to test it yet, but based on my experience with other quilts, I'm pretty confident this will help get me below 20. It's about $100 on amazon, and you won't find anything close in terms of price.
For that price I think you are going to have a hard time getting both a tarp and a hammock. I would suggest starting with something like the onewind you already mentioned, or the Pinnacle 360. For a 11 ft hammock with a bugnet, I don't know of anything cheaper. Then use a cheap blue tarp or something, until you can save up for a proper tarp.
I have and like the pinnacle 180 hammock. It doesn't seem to be available anymore, but the 360 version is.
I've seen a few people mention the onewind hammock on amazon as a 11ft option that is more economical.
Both are more economical 11 ft hammocks.
Of course, there are also lots of good things said about the normal cottage vendor hammocks you see on here.
It was pretty hot. Still around 80degF at 10pm. Got to low 50s by around 5am or so. So the 20 deg set was more than adequate. I'm generally a cold sleeper though. I brought a down hoodie too but didn't need it. I figured I should first be ready for winter temps for my area. Maybe next year I'll shed some weight and pick up a 40 deg top quilt & a 40 deg 3/4 Phoenix underquilt. It's pretty easy to regulate the heat though. I had the underquilt pulled to the side and had the top quilt kind of tucked around the peak loft until it got colder.
For the pullouts, I made them myself. Basically bought a roll of shock cord and a box of mitten hooks. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LZGDKJZ?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
The head end pullout helps keep the bugnet away from my face. The foot end helps create a footbox. Also when the hammock is kind of stretched out that way it makes it easier to climb in.
you mean like this
6'2" here – imo the extra ounce or two is worth the comfort, but yes, everyone is different. Here's an 11' the same weight as the ultralight
As much as I suggest OneWind, you guys must think I'm on the take, but for the money this gear is hard to beat. Here's a 365cm hammock bundled with a removable bug sock. Having looked at plenty of fabric from ripstopbytheroll, it's hard to imagine making a hammock cheaper than just buying that one.
I have a double layer bridge hammock and have used a wool blanket in late fall and the shoulder season. I double it up and just lay it inside the hammock and had no problems with it. I do use a pad with a military casualty blanket in the sleeve of the hammock as well. Last year I used this technique for sleeping in a wool blanket when I went back to the ground for one trip. It took a bit of practice (at home) before the trip, but once I had it down, it worked well with a pad underneath and the military casualty blanket beneath that.
I've really enjoyed my pinnacle hammock (https://smile.amazon.com/11ft-Camping-Hammock-Mosquito-Net/dp/B07P1NWGL4). It is a pretty decent price for an 11 foot hammock with a bugnet.
I have mad respect for the Onewind 40 degree underquilt. I used it all last year. It is crazy warm. Tons of coverage. Lots of adjustability. Very water resistant. It's just maybe a little fiddly for my tastes, and doesn't pack down all that small. But the packed size issue goes for most underquilts with synthetic insulation, so it's really a knock on OneWind. Overall, it's an amazing car camping underquilt.
This is the quilt I bought. It has buttons on the edges that I just popped off for sewing. Packs down in a compression sack to about the size of a nalgene. I bought this one because I couldn't seem to find the Costco quilt everyone talks about anywhere. I think they stopped making it?
Here is the instructions I semi followed: Video
I have a have a cheaper setup and i was looking at dutchware gear, but for $30 for the buckles with straps included, these look great.
After about 10 hangs I was getting sick of wrapping the straps it came with around the trees multiple times in order to make adjustments.
The Ridge Outdoor Gear Pinnacle 360 is a really great hammock for $64.00. It's a full 11 feet long, has a structural ridgeline, and a zip-on/off bugnet. The zipper isn't as heavy duty as the one on my Warbonnet, but still respectable. It even comes with straps and an open ended stuff sack.
That is actually one of the things I got it should be coming in on Wednesday https://www.amazon.com/Wise-Owl-Outfitters-Underquilt-Hammocks/dp/B08GD3MD7B/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=3CLVH44FD18R7&keywords=wise+owl+underquilt&qid=1660009400&sprefix=wise+owl+under%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-3
I have a onetigris https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08938G2DS/, it doesn't fit my warbonnet blackbird asym very well, my feet tend to pop out over the edge. I'm still trying to figure out the best way to stop that from happening. I think I'll have to pack a clip or something and basically manually pull up that spot and connect it to the hammock. There seems to be enough material to cover the asym foot pocket without exposing anything, but the shape and rigging doesn't support it by default.
I tend to sleep on the warmer side so you might be a bit cold with it, but that UQ was quite cozy in temps right around freezing.
Maybe some adhesive backed screen repair tape to go over the seam, and then stitch the edges of the repair tape to the bug net?
You could buy the ENO Guardian bug net. It's an okay bug net, although the zipper is kind of finnicky. Sort of a pain to setup and take down, but it works.
It might be worth paying a little more, and going for a hammock with a built in bug net. The Ridge Outdoor Gear hammocks are actually pretty good. A more comfortable hammock to sleep in than an ENO, due the extra length and structural ridgeline. The zipper is also easier to use, and no having to setup a bug net because it's already built into the hammock.
I've never seen a combination bug net with a tarp. But if you're after an inexpensive tarp, I can highly recommend the Foxelli Outdoor diamond tarp. It's inexpensive and surprisingly good.
I got the cheap OneTigris one for $40 to try out UQs. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08938G2DS/
I've used it in near-freezing temps and it was pretty comfortable with the only problems being that I set it up too loose because it was literally my 2nd time using it. I'm still trying to nail down exactly how to set it up with my asymmetric warbonnet blackbird, my feet keep popping out over the edge, but otherwise I've got nothing but good things to say about it.
Can't vouch for longevity, though, I've only had it since last winter. It's lasted this long and it's a pretty simple poly/cotton batting fill so short of physical damage I expect it to last more or less as long as I care to use it, maybe with resewing the loops eventually.
This is the condom catheter he was talking about. It is a purely external catheter rather than an internal one.
I’ve never used it in a hammock but this is how drysuit divers pee when diving.
External condom catheter like this
You would need to rig a hose and connector. Acrylic tubing from lowes and a connector should work. They are somewhat unpleasant to remove if you have a lot of hair.
There are options for women. You would have to be insane to go through that just to chill in a hammock IMO.
I got a thing from Amazon made for peeing in a car, camping etc... it has a wide mouth and tight fitting lid, streches out to hold quite a bit if needed, you pee in that, empty later. But to be honest most of the time I just get out of the hammock and walk about 20 ft away, but if it is really cold I will use that device.
This hammock is 59.99- comes with hammock, suspension, tarp and bug net.
Hammock
This underquilt is more for spring/summer
Underquilt 54.85
I've just used a sleeping bag for only zipped it about 3/4 and stuffed my feet into the foot box. Worked out pretty well.
Might not a bad place to start.. and you'll have a few bucks left over.
Your buddy is right.
Hammocks pull heat away from the body via convection. Sleeping bags don't work so well in hammocks, as your weight compresses them, and you lose the air pockets that insulate. The hammock and sleeping bag are breathable, so that's a double whammy.
here's a few ideas:
1) a mylar emergency blanket rigged up fairly snug under your hammock (on the outside), and a blanket inside.
2) an inflatable sleeping pad that will fit in your hammock, and a blanket on top.
3) big rig double bubble visor makes a decent hammock sleep pad in a pinch.
OP mentioned they had the 12m length lights and they take AAA batteries, might be something like these;
Gonna second the onewind hammock and bug tent setup on Amazon is a hell of a deal for what it is. It's just as good a quality as most of the $100+ hammocks out there and won't break the bank for you to try and make sure you enjoy hammock camping. I've gone camping in it multiple times and love it. You'll need a tarp and an underquilt but can probably find those just fine as well.
Since I started using a little, low-maintenance Sawyer filter, I snapped up the company's 7 Litre Bag.
The filter screws onto the end; then, I hang the bag, and save the labour of pumping or squeezing. Plus, I bring an extra cap along with holes in it; and, after leaving the bag full of water in the sun, I can have a pretty warm shower on multi-day trips too.
I've never seen a bag of 15 litres though...
Not them, but I got the super cheap one tigris "4 season" one for $40. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08938G2DS/
It's not 4 season. You'll be in for a cold, cold night if you use it in winter. Even down to freezing was ... not great. Not dangerous, but not very comfortable, either.
I have a warbonnet blackbird asymmetric hammock and it's a serious pain in the rear to get the UQ to actually cover the footbox (and I still haven't quite nailed it, but I have a feeling it's possible), but otherwise the size of the UQ is good.
What feels most secure to me is a hammock gear strap. Hang the strap above your hammock, high up under the peak of your rainfly, and hang your stuff from it like you're storing it in an attic. Keeps your gear up off the ground which keeps it dry and cleaner and keeps critters out of it. Keeps your gear out of sight of folks, and out of easy reach. Someone could reach a gear hammock that's under you easily, but can't reach your stuff up in the attic without you at least hearing it, if not outright bumping into you.
Something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/LAMURO-Campsite-Supplies-Horizontal-Organizer/dp/B07BLWZ5YQ
This one is what I've been using. Plenty of coverage for an 11' hammock, made from silpoly instead of silnylon so it wont stretch in the rain, and reasonably light.
My set up is literally just a hammock and tarp. Links to my gear.
Aqua Quest Defender Tarp. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VBJH5HV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
WINNER OUTFITTERS Double Camping... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCKAM7W?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share