The Best Camping Hammocks

The Best Camping Hammocks

A hammock is one of those simple items that instantly elevates any adventure and opens up new ways to experience the great outdoors. With options ranging from lightweight and incredibly packable hammocks to others with a bit more heft that you can simply toss in the car, there's a hammock for every need. Whether you're looking for a neat little afternoon napping spot on your camping trip or a new way to sleep under the stars, we've rounded up our favorite hammocks for all your travel needs.

Wise Owl Hammock

The Superhero of Hammocks

This lightweight hammock is so compact and durable that you'll be using it every opportunity you get.
Best Overall

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If you were to get one hammock and only one hammock (though we believe there’s a hammock for every occasion), Wise Owl’s is the one to bet on. It’s an excellent value for the quality that won’t strain your wallet. The hammock is made of heavy-duty parachute nylon, which says something about how sturdy it is. It comes with 9′ straps, two carabiners to attach to anything strong, and a storage bag. Wise Owl makes this hammock as convenient and simple as can be so that you can kick up your feet ASAP.

Pros:

  • Comes in either a single (9′ x 4′) or double (10′ x 6.5′)
  • Five adjustable loops so that you can adjust your hammock to your preference
  • Breathable material

Cons:

  • Carabiners are a bit heavy, so be aware of this if weight is a concern

ENO DoubleNest Lightweight Hammock

Two for One

This double hammock is light as a feather but can hold you and a friend without a hitch.
Most Lightweight

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The ENO hammock clocks in at a mere 19 oz., which is just slightly over a pound. Despite that, it can support up to 400 lbs. Now that’s what we call impressive, and we’re fans of how compactly it packs away, too. You might even forget you’ve brought the ENO hammock along — which we sincerely hope you don’t, because you’d be missing out. At a little more than 9′ x 6′, it’s ideal for two people, as well.  The straps have stainless steel snap links, which add extra security to the carabiners. You and a buddy will always feel safe and secure in this hammock.

Pros:

  • Breathable, quick-drying material
  • Packs up into a built-in, attached pouch (which goes inside another pouch)

Cons:

  • May need a sleeping mat on cooler nights

Sunyear Camping Hammock with Mosquito Net

Shoo Fly, Don't Bother Me

This hammock includes a net to make sure no pests get into your hammock.
Best Protection

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For some, a hammock is a fun pastime, a way to pass the day in the park or backyard. For others, a hammock is a more serious endeavor, truly a place to lay one’s head and go to sleep. If you’re in either camp — but if you’re especially in the latter camp — then the Sunyear hammock would be a great investment. It’s compact and lightweight, even with the net and extra tools (hammock straps, elastic ropes, and 4 carabiners total). The bug net has twice the density of similar nets on the market, so you can sleep peacefully knowing you can enjoy the great outdoors without waking up with unwanted bug bites. If you want extra protection on the bottom of the hammock, we recommend setting a thick wool blanket down before lying down.

Pros:

  • Spacious — this hammock is 10′ long and supports up to 600 lbs
  • Ideal for avid campers and outdoorsy types

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come with a rain fly tarp

Anyoo Single Cotton Hammoc

Color Me Pretty

Bright and happy stripes add life and fun to this hammock.
Best Canvas

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The sight of seeing a hammock strung up between trees, especially if there’s a cluster of hammocks in one place, is always a happy sight to behold. If you’re looking for a fun hammock that breaks out of the nylon mold, you might want to try this cheerful, striped one from Anyoo. It’s constructed of tightly woven cotton so the material doesn’t feel the least bit flimsy. We like that the material doesn’t collapse or fold up easily, and the braided ropes look great and are strong enough to hold your weight. If space and weight aren’t an issue, or if you’re looking specifically for an aesthetically pleasing hammock, this one from Anyoo is a great option.

Pros:

  • Eye-catching colors that would also look great indoors
  • Comes with a pouch in matching stripes

Cons:

  • Not as compact

Gartio Hanging Tree Tent

Three's a Crowd

The more, the merrier with this hammock, which can fit up to three people at once.
Best for Groups

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Sometimes it’s good to operate a little outside the box. Garto’s hanging hammock breaks from tradition, and we’re so glad they did. It comes with a special inflatable and curved seat cushion, so you can sit upright comfortably. It’s particularly ideal as a fun hideaway for kids on a camping trip — or even just in the backyard — though no one said adults weren’t allowed. Of course, this hammock (or tent, depending on what you want to call it) takes a bit more effort to set up, especially inflating the cushion and packing the extra tools that come with it. But overall, it’s not complicated to set up. We think it’s well worth the effort and it makes for a truly one-of-a-kind hammock experience.

Pros:

  • Includes a string of LED lights to create an extra fun atmosphere
  • Waterproof
  • Has small pockets inside for convenient and fun storage

Cons:

  • Packs flat, but does not fold up and can be bulky

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get a single or double hammock?
That depends on you. Most people choose a double for that extra space and comfort for themselves. But if you’re not a large person, a single might offer ample room. Single-sized hammocks are about 4′ to 5′ wide, and doubles are about 5′ to 6′ wide.

What kind of accessories should I get with my hammock?
If you’re really going to sleep in your hammock, things to consider are an underquilt for warmth, a sleeping mat for a little more support, a mosquito for protection, and a rain tarp. However, if you’re using your hammock for fair weather days, or just recreationally, you probably don’t need the extras.