There’s nothing quite like the feeling of kicking off your boots after a long day on the trail and settling into the gentle sway of a hammock. It’s your personal sanctuary, a comfortable bed suspended above uneven ground and away from crawling insects. Choosing the right backpacking hammock can significantly enhance your outdoor experience, turning a simple overnight stop into a luxurious backcountry retreat.
With so many options available, finding the perfect balance of weight, durability, and features is key. Whether you prioritize a minimalist setup, maximum bug protection, or extra space for two, this guide covers some of the best hammocks on the market. We have compiled a list of top-rated models to help you find the ideal hammock for your next camping adventure.
Our Top Picks for Backpacking Hammocks
- ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Lightweight Camping Hammock
- Hennessy Hammock – Explorer Deluxe Zip XL
- Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
- Kammok Roo Double Hammock
- Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro Hammock
- Bear Butt Double Parachute Hammock
- Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set
- Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock
ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters DoubleNest Lightweight Camping Hammock
The ENO DoubleNest is a classic choice for backpackers who value simplicity and comfort. Weighing just 19 ounces, it packs down small, making it an easy addition to any pack without adding significant bulk. Its 9.5-foot length and robust 400-pound capacity provide ample room for one person to stretch out or for two to share a cozy hang.
Setup is straightforward, allowing you to go from packed to relaxing in minutes. This hammock is designed for versatility and is compatible with the entire ecosystem of ENO hammock straps and accessories. This means you can easily customize your setup with a rain tarp, bug net, or organizer, tailoring it to your specific trip needs.
Hennessy Hammock – Explorer Deluxe Zip XL
The Hennessy Explorer Deluxe Zip XL is a complete, all-in-one shelter system built for serious campers. It is a rugged, larger hammock designed to accommodate individuals up to 7 feet tall, featuring a durable nylon bottom fabric and an enlarged rainfly for superior weather protection. The side entry with a full-length YKK zipper offers easy access to the integrated No-See-Um mosquito netting.
This hammock reflects over 40 years of design refinement, resulting in countless small improvements that add up to a superior user experience. The system includes everything you need: the hammock, rainfly, mesh, and suspension ropes rated for 1800 pounds. It’s a trusted shelter used by law enforcement and defense organizations worldwide, speaking to its reliability and uncompromising construction.
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Wise Owl Outfitters is renowned for offering high-quality hammocks that provide excellent value. Their camping hammocks are made from durable parachute nylon, known for its soft feel and impressive strength. They are designed to be lightweight and compact, ensuring they won’t weigh you down on the trail while still offering a comfortable and spacious hang.
Many of their models are available in single and double sizes, along with a vibrant array of color options. Wise Owl also offers a range of compatible accessories, including tree straps and carrying sacks, making it simple to get a complete setup. It’s a fantastic option for both beginners and seasoned hammock campers looking for a reliable and affordable choice.
Kammok Roo Double Hammock
The Kammok Roo Double is engineered for performance and durability. Constructed from Dragon Weave fabric, which uses high-tenacity yarns, this hammock offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It is designed to support up to 500 pounds, making it one of the strongest double hammocks available, without sacrificing comfort or packability.
Attention to detail is evident in features like the triple-stitched seams and the inclusion of Glowire reflective tracer lines in the stitching for low-light visibility. The Roo is designed to work seamlessly with Kammok’s Python Straps and other accessories, allowing for a fast and secure setup. It’s an excellent choice for adventurers who demand the most from their gear.
Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro Hammock
The Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro is specifically designed to handle one of camping’s biggest nuisances: bugs. It comes with a built-in, full-length mosquito net that can be easily tied back when not in use. This integrated protection allows you to enjoy a peaceful rest without the need for a separate, add-on net, simplifying your setup.
Made from a breathable polyester mesh and parachute nylon fabric, this hammock provides a comfortable and bug-free environment. It includes everything required for suspension, making it a ready-to-use system right out of the bag. For campers in areas with high insect activity, this hammock offers essential protection and comfort.
Bear Butt Double Parachute Hammock
Bear Butt hammocks have earned a loyal following for their combination of durability, size, and affordability. These double hammocks are made from strong parachute nylon and are known for their generous dimensions, providing plenty of room to lounge. They are built to withstand regular use and support a significant amount of weight.
Each hammock includes heavy-duty rope and carabiners for a secure hang. The material is soft yet robust, and it packs down into its own attached stuff sack for easy transport. If you are looking for a spacious and reliable hammock that offers great performance without a high cost, Bear Butt is a solid contender.
Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set
The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock Set is designed with the weight-conscious backpacker in mind. This ultra-lightweight set doesn’t cut corners on comfort or features. It includes the hammock, a hex-shaped bug net, and a structural ridgeline, all engineered to provide a comfortable and protected hang with minimal weight penalty.
The hammock itself is made from a high-strength fabric, and the integrated bug net offers full protection without feeling claustrophobic. The entire system is incredibly packable, taking up very little space in your backpack. For those who count every ounce and prioritize a streamlined, efficient shelter system, this set is a top-tier option.
Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest Hammock
The ENO SingleNest is the perfect solution for solo backpackers seeking a minimalist and lightweight shelter. It offers the same high-quality construction and easy setup as its larger DoubleNest sibling but in a more compact form factor. Weighing only 17 ounces, it is an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their pack weight as much as possible.
Despite its smaller size, the SingleNest provides a comfortable and supportive lay for a single person. It is compatible with the full range of ENO accessories, allowing you to add a rainfly or bug net if conditions demand it. This hammock embodies the essence of simple, effective, and portable backcountry comfort.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Backpacking Hammock
When I first started looking for a backpacking hammock, I was overwhelmed by the options. A good hammock is more than just a sling of fabric; it’s your bed, your chair, and your view of the stars. To find the right one for your adventures, you need to think about a few key things.
First, consider the weight and packed size. This is probably the most important factor for any backpacking gear. You want a hammock that is lightweight and compresses down small so it doesn’t take up half your pack. Most dedicated backpacking hammocks weigh between one and two pounds for the whole system. Look for materials like ripstop nylon, which offer a great balance of strength, low weight, and small packability.
Next, look at the size and capacity. Hammocks come in single and double sizes. Even if you’re camping solo, a double hammock often provides more comfortable diagonal lay, which is crucial for getting a flat, non-banana-like sleeping position. Pay close attention to the weight capacity. Always choose a hammock rated for well above your body weight to account for your gear, your movements, and a safety margin. A 400-pound capacity is a good, sturdy benchmark.
Then, you have to think about the suspension system. This is how you attach the hammock to the trees. The easiest systems for beginners are all-in-one, like whoopie slings or daisy chain straps. They are simple to adjust and very forgiving. Make sure the straps are at least one inch wide to protect tree bark, as many parks now require this. Some hammocks come with everything you need, while others sell the suspension separately, so always double-check what’s included in the price.
Finally, don’t forget about the accessories. A hammock by itself is often not enough for a good night’s sleep. A bug net is essential for most seasons unless you enjoy being a midnight snack. Similarly, a rainfly, or tarp, is non-negotiable if there’s any chance of rain. Some hammocks have integrated bug nets, which I find very convenient, while others are modular. When you are looking for the 8 best backpacking hammocks for camping, you will see a mix of integrated and separate systems, so consider what works best for your typical camping environment.
FAQ
Is a hammock better than a tent for backpacking?
It depends on your style and where you camp. For me, a hammock is often better because it’s lightweight, comfortable, and keeps me off the wet, rocky, or uneven ground. It’s perfect for wooded areas. However, if you camp above the tree line or in wide-open deserts, a tent is the only practical choice. A hammock also has a smaller footprint, making it easier to find a stealthy campsite.
How do I stay warm while hammock camping?
This is the biggest challenge and a common mistake for newcomers. The underside of your hammock compresses your sleeping bag’s insulation, making it useless underneath you. You need separate insulation, like an underquilt that hangs beneath the hammock or a closed-cell foam pad placed inside it. Without this, you will get cold very quickly, even in mild weather.
What length of hammock straps do I need?
I always recommend carrying straps that are at least 10 to 12 feet long. Longer straps give you way more flexibility in choosing trees. You might find the perfect trees are 15 feet apart, and short straps just won’t reach. Longer straps are a little heavier, but the versatility they provide is worth the minor weight penalty for most trips.
Can two people sleep in a double hammock?
While it’s called a “double,” it’s usually more comfortable for two people to cuddle for a short while rather than sleep a full night. Two sleeping adults tend to roll into the middle. For actual sleeping, most people find it much more comfortable to have their own single hammock. A double hammock is fantastic for one person because of the extra room to lie diagonally.
Are hammocks bad for trees?
They don’t have to be! If you use wide, tree-friendly straps (at least 1 inch wide), you distribute the pressure and don’t damage the bark. Never use ropes or thin cords that can cut into the tree. Following “Leave No Trace” principles means protecting the natural environment, so the trees you use today will be healthy for the next person.
What is the best way to hang a backpacking hammock?
Aim for a 30-degree angle on your suspension straps. This might feel too loose at first, but it provides the most stable and comfortable lay. The hammock should sag in a gentle curve. If the straps are too tight, it creates a lot of tension and can make the hammock feel unstable and uncomfortable. The ideal height is to have the lowest point of the hammock about chair-seat height off the ground.