GET INTO HAMMOCK CAMPING

Hammocks are enjoying a renaissance, as they are quick to set up and offer a consistent pitch every night. Most people find they offer a superior night’s sleep. Throw a big tarp over-head and you will enjoy generous shelter with weather protection, enough headroom to stand up in and great views of your campsite. A hammock also makes an excellent camp seat, without the need to bring a dedicated camp chair.

The initial learning curve can be steep. There’s a bewildering choice of suspension systems, and you’ll also want to avoid CBS (aka cold butt syndrome!). All campers are used to the idea of protecting our undersides with a mat of some kind, but hammock campers are even more sensitive to cooling from underneath. To prevent this, you will need to have effective insulation underneath your hammock: either a properly installed sleeping pad or an under-quilt (which are widely preferred). In extreme cold, a full-sided tarp to block the wind can be useful.

The Ultimate Hang by Dereck Hansen is a great introduction to the fine art of hammock camping.