Finding the best backpacking hammocks could be tricky with so many hammocks brands in the market and each claims to be the best. Every backpacker want to keep the backpack light but at the same ensure it has the essential tools. Best hammock for camping must be comfortable, light, durable, versatile and ease of use.
Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Hammock Review
Best Hammock for Camping
A hammock is a perfect choice for those wishing to spend some time close to nature but still want to be protected from pests and elements that the outdoor brings. It keeps you wrapped up in relaxing comfort and suspended from the ground out of the dirt.
The Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest backpacking Hammock has a good deal of hype behind it and does not disappoint.
It is compact and lightweight which makes it suitable for most nature and adventure enthusiasts. Besides that, the ENO DoubleNest posses other great features like durability which make it perform remarkably well in most conditions.
Comfort
Being wide and long, the ENO DoubleNest offers exceptional comfort. It is made out of a stretchy parachute nylon material that feels great even on your bare skin. The extra width when compared to the SingleNest makes cocooning in the hammock easier.
Couples can lounge with ease and enjoy being close to one another thanks to the extra room. However, while the hammock is comfortable enough for two people to lounge in it, only one person can sleep in it for extra comfort.
Versatility
While it is not recommended for two people to sleep in the DoubleNest Hammock, this product still remains versatile. During camping and other outdoor activities, hammocks endure long lounging activities like sitting, reading and simple relaxation like watching the sun set.
For these uses, the ENO hammock has a 400 pound capacity which means that it can hold a couple of adults piled onto it or even kids playing on it.
This is really convenient especially if you are in areas where the grounds may be wet of inhabited with appalling crawling creatures like insects and lizards. Other than ensuring your comfort all through your outdoor activity, this versatility also provides safety to some extent.
Weight
Thanks to the handful of thoughtful features included in the ENO DoubleNest, the product remains light without compromising on its quality or usefulness.
This backpacking hammock has ultra-light aluminum carabineers and compression straps which not only places it ahead of its competitors, but also cuts down on a great deal of unnecessary extra weight. The ENO hammock weighs only 20oz.
But the weight of the hammock is great for summer use, a trip during the rainy or mosquito season will need a serious upgrade inclusive of a bug net and rain fly, which will substantially raise the hammock’s weight.
Easy Set-up
The Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest does not include straps or suspension but those looking forward to integrate their own set up may hardly notice the difference.
There are many set up options and methods to try but you will be happy to know that it takes just a short while and follows easy procedures. Considering its size, finding trees far enough part is slightly easy.
Pros
- The seams of the ENO hammock are all triple-stitched and have a gathered-end design which gives the hammock extra strength at the points of attachment.
- The DoubleNest is pretty small packed in its own attached stuff sack that has dimensions of 4x4x5 inches which makes it highly portable.
- It comes in a comfortable size that can hold up two adults with ease.
- This hammock brand has tones of accessories available. These include slap-straps, bug nets, tarps and even speakers.
- It is fast and easy to set up.
- It is made from breathable, quick-drying nylon.
Cons
- The nylon fabric is vulnerable to tear especially when exposed to sharp objects.
- It only works great as a summer hammock as it lacks additional features to get through other seasons.
- 2 person hammock tent
Final Thoughts
The Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Hammock is one of the best hammock for camping to any serious hammock camper who is looking for a hammock that can double up for lounging for two and provide enough sleeping space for one. Its light weight and tiny pack-up size also makes it attractive to any outdoor user.
Also, finding additional accessories for this hammock is easy which guarantees you maximum comfort for every occasion and season. This product gives you value for your money in every sense and is great for both new and experienced hammock users.
Himal Hammocks/Mat/Swing/Cradle Review
Best Hiking Hammock
Resting in a hammock can be peaceful, relaxing and generally feels great. But not every hammock is designed to offer these qualities. When looking for a good hiking hammock, make sure to check that it has the necessary features to live up to the task.
The Himal hammock/mat/swing/cradle is well designed and incorporated with a number of useful features that rank it well among other hammocks in the market.
As the name suggests, its uses vary from being used as a mat, to a cradle, swing and back to being a hammock. This makes it a very exciting product to have around as it can live up to a number of functions.
Lightweight
The Himal hammock is thin, lightweight, and easy to carry around while travelling as it weighs around 1.1 pounds. It folds into a roughly 6″x’6″x4″ square and comes with a carrying case.
There is a pocket on the side of the hammock that acts as the carrying case. The hammock comes rolled up inside of the pocket and all you have to do is unroll it and you are good to go.
Although the hammock is advertised to hold up to 331 pounds, it has been tested to comfortably support 550 pounds. It is also long enough for a person of around 6’2″ to comfortably lie in the hammock.
Durable
The Himal hammock can withstand the elements of nature. This is a great advantage since it will be spending a great deal of time outdoors. In addition it is easy to clean and dries very fast which allows you clean even when you are still out on your expedition.
The hammock also happens to be mildew resistant which helps extend its life.
Versatile
The list of activities you can use the Himal hammock is endless. Be it in the wild or in your backyard, this is one product that will prove handy in lots of ways as nothing beats the feeling of relaxing on a hammock any day.
The Himal hammock is ideal for backpacking, hiking, camping, boating, traveling, back-yarding, beach & lake, or just relaxing; perfect alternative to a tent, sleeping pad, ground mat, swing, cradle, and yoga mat.
A hammock is especially great for those people that may be avoiding lying so close to the ground for one reason or the other. Besides that it is exceptionally comfortable and enjoyable using one.
Easy to Set-up
Since the hammock is designed for use almost anywhere, the Himal ensures that you can easily set it up yourself. No tools are needed and you can have the hammock up in just a matter of minutes.
There are no complicated adjustments or parts involved in the set up process so you can have your hammock/cradle/swing ready in just a short time.
Quality Construction
The Himal hammock features sturdy hanging carabiners made from galvanized stainless steel. The carabiners have a widened diameter of 0.31 inches which makes them the strongest in the market in that they have the ability to hold up to 880 pounds.
Jut to be sure nothing is left to chance; Himal goes ahead to use braided nylon rope that is recognized by UIAA.
The braided nylon is strengthened to the inner core holding up to 1100 pounds. High fiber breathable 210T nylon used ensures your comfort as you sleep or even just lounge on the hammock. It has a capacity of 500 pounds which means it can comfortable carry two adults.
Pros
- High quality with at a fair price which makes it perfect for the conscious traveler.
- The Himal hammock comes with a long-life warranty and good customer support services.
- It is versatile.
- Comes in a compact carrying case and is very light.
- It is made from a breathable material to enhance comfort.
Cons
- It does not have any knot instructions.
Final Thoughts
There is a lot to appreciate of the Himal hammock. It offers great value for money and works well in just about any location. All you need is to find to points to tie both ends of the hammock to and you are set to go. Be sure to try this Himal backpacking hammock the next time you go backpacking.
How to Choose the Best Backpacking Hammocks
Before choosing a backpacking hammock tent there are a few factors you should put into consideration.
Dimensions of the Hammock
Width
There are different width for each camping hammock. (4feet to 8.5 feet) the 6 to 7 feet can be used as a one person or two person hammock tent. But it all narrows down to personal preferences in terms how much room you need.
Length
The length variation is not as high as the width, again it narrows down to personal preferences. For tall backpackers or campers an 8 feet long hammock will be comfortable enough.
System Suspending Your Hammock
For proper hammock set up you need a strong pair of carabineers and suspension system. Often manufacturers offer this as a different package from the hammock.
Suspensions come in different styles including synthetic strings, nylon ropes and webbing straps. Choose a hammock that has the best straps and lots of points of attachment.
Weight Capacity of the Hammock
Weight limit of hammock range between 150- 500 pounds. Always make sure you know the range of weight before buying a hammock.
As far as weight capacity is concerned remember it refers to static weight. Avoid stressing your hammock especially by jumping it will only weaken it.
Weight of the Hammock
Every backpacker is conscious about weight of their backpacks. Hence while shopping for a backpacking hammock choose the lightest. This will save space for other gear.
Insulation of the Hammock
A number of hammocks employ the use of breathable, lightweight nylon to maintain cool temperatures during summer.
However not all hammocks are suitable for outdoor use, those that are made of cotton are heavy and cumbersome especially when wet.
Hammocks with Bug Protection
This are to ensure you are not disturbed by bugs when using your hammock outdoors.
Tarps
Tarps are useful when you are camping or backpacking on rainy conditions.
Conclusion
Finding best backpacking hammock could be cumbersome especially if you are a beginner. Follow the steps above to choose and buy your first hammock.
Gather as much information as possible then compare different camping hammocks and choose one which fits your needs best.