Relax in the middle of nature and simply unwind – with a hammock you can create a perfect oasis of relaxation. An outdoor hammock can be set up almost anywhere, while a version with a frame is suitable for a fixed location. You can read here what you should look out for when choosing the right hammock for camping and which different models are available.
The most important things first
- There are different types of hammocks. You can choose between travel hammocks, net hammocks, cloth hammocks, pole hammocks and models with a frame.
- For outdoor use and camping, the material should be hard-wearing and weatherproof so that you can use your hammock for as long as possible.
- The various models differ in size, material and type of attachment.
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Suitable for outdoor use: the editors’ recommendation
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The outdoor hammock made of double-layer 210T nylon scores points with an integrated mosquito net and a maximum load capacity of 400 kg.
Good & affordable: The price-performance winner
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The hard-wearing cotton, the wide range of colors and the tree-friendly high-performance nylon straps with 2 carabiners speak for this inexpensive hammock for gardening and camping.
Camping hammocks: What you need to look out for
For many, it is the absolute symbol of relaxation: the hammock. So that you no longer have to dream about relaxing in your favorite outdoor spot, it’s high time we took a closer look at hammocks. After all, not all hammocks are the same. There are different models for different needs and places where they can be used. Broadly speaking, we can distinguish between practical all-rounders, lightweight and space-saving versions for on the go and hammocks with a frame.
Which hammock is right for me?
The first thing you should ask yourself is where and when you want to use the hammock. It can make a big difference whether you want to integrate the hammock in a fixed place or tuck it under your arm to hang it between two trees in the middle of nature. If you have a permanent pitch, a weatherproof model could be the right choice. If you want to create a chilled-out retreat at home, then other factors play an important role.
For camping and traveling
There are several hammocks that are suitable for outdoor use. These include practical travel hammocks that you can stow away to save space and are impressively lightweight. Net hammocks are also generally light and airy and are therefore particularly suitable for warmer climates. Cloth hammocks are also suitable as long as they can be folded up. In general, models that have a small pack size and can be stowed away easily are mainly suitable for camping.
For the home and garden
If you mainly want to use the hammock at home in the garden or indoors, other models may be suitable. For example, you can opt for a version with a frame. You can set this up indoors or outdoors. In contrast to the travel hammock, you don’t need to look for a weatherproof material for an indoor version, but can choose according to your personal preferences.
These types of hammocks are available
As already explained, the selection of hammocks is really huge and choosing the right product depends entirely on your wishes, preferences and use. There are other hammocks for indoors than a cozy spot in the garden or a practical travel version for camping. Let’s take a closer look at the different variants.
Travel hammocks
These practical all-rounders can be used in a variety of ways. You can set up a travel hammock individually outdoors and even use it as a place to sleep. It is primarily characterized by the fact that it has a small pack size and is particularly light. Not only can you store them in your van or camper to save space, most models even fit in your rucksack so that nothing stands in the way of a trekking tour and an overnight stay outdoors. You can set up and take down your sleeping area in just a few simple steps. It is therefore particularly suitable if you travel a lot and always want to have your chill-out spot with you.
The travel hammock is also available in an XXL version. This is a model that is suitable for couples or small families. The lying surface is significantly wider and also slightly longer, so that you all have enough space. However, you should bear in mind that these models are significantly heavier and also take up a little more space when stowed away. Incidentally, most travel hammocks are made from so-called parachute silk. This material is particularly robust and tear-resistant on the one hand and extremely lightweight on the other. This nylon-like fabric is also easy to clean and is considered weather-resistant.
Net hammocks
The net hammock was developed by the Maya around 1,000 years ago and is therefore considered to be the origin of today’s sun loungers. At that time, it was used both as a place to sleep and as a fishing net. Traditionally, the mats come from Mexico and are still manufactured there today. They are characterized primarily by the special knotting technique. This technology has since been copied, so you will certainly come across models from Asia, which are generally a little cheaper. However, if you want an original, pay attention to the origin of the product.
If you prefer traveling and camping in warm regions, then this airy hammock could be just the thing for you. The mesh ensures special and pleasant air circulation. Depending on the country of origin, different materials are used in production. Some models are knotted from soft cotton fibers, while others are made from weatherproof polyester yarn.
Rope hammocks
Visually, they are somewhat similar to net hammocks, but rope hammocks have a much coarser mesh. They are made from slightly thicker rope and are a real visual highlight. However, things can quickly fall out through the slightly larger holes, which is why you should make yourself as comfortable as possible without objects. Depending on the thickness and texture of the material, it may be a little uncomfortable when you lie on the knots, so it is best to use a towel or blanket.
Rope hammocks are therefore less suitable for camping. For the garden, balcony or house, however, they are a great eye-catcher and the ideal place to relax.
Cloth hammocks
This variant is one of the most popular versions for the garden. As the name suggests, the lying surface consists of a large cloth to which small ropes are attached. Many models are made of cotton, but there are also some models that are made of weatherproof nylon or fine linen. Cloth hammocks made of cotton fabric are considered to be very stable, but are significantly heavier than travel or net hammocks. They are available in different colors and patterns and are usually a real eye-catcher. Due to their weight and volume, they are only suitable for camping to a limited extent. As cotton versions take quite a long time to dry, you should not hang them outside permanently, but take them down again after use. If you are looking for a hammock for indoors or on the balcony, a comfortable cloth hammock could be just the thing for you.
Bar hammock
The special feature of a bar hammock is the integrated spreader bars. These are located at the ends of the lying surface and ensure that the surface is kept particularly wide and that you don’t sag so quickly. So you can get in a little easier and the width is maintained when you lie down. Especially if you want to use the mat with several people, you have a little more space and won’t roll up so quickly. There is a wide range of materials to choose from. However, this model is only suitable for camping to a limited extent, as you cannot fold the mat up so compactly due to the spreader bars.
Hammocks with frame
Finally, I would like to introduce you to the hammocks with frame in a little more detail. In contrast to models without a frame, you have the great advantage that you don’t have to rely on a tree or similar to attach the hammock. So you buy a complete package consisting of a hammock, a frame and, depending on the scope of delivery, other extras. There are stands made of wood, plastic, aluminum, rattan or metal. If you want to use the hammock mainly outdoors, make sure that your chosen product is suitable for outdoor use and is waterproofed accordingly. However, you should have enough space available for a hammock with a frame, as not all models are foldable and therefore not so easy to store. In view of this, hammocks with a frame are only suitable for campers to a limited extent – after all, not only does the mat need to be stowed away well, but the frame also requires sufficient storage space.
What makes a good camping hammock
A good hammock for outdoor use should be as durable as possible and have the following features:
- It has a small pack size.
- It is particularly light.
- It is UV-resistant.
- It is weather-resistant.
- It is hard-wearing.
- It is easy to assemble and disassemble.
You should pay attention to these features when buying
Finding the perfect hammock for your camping trip is not that easy. To find the right product for you, there are some features and characteristics that you should consider.
Kind
First of all, you should decide between the different types and models of hammocks. If you travel frequently and always want to have your hammock with you, I recommend a travel hammock as you can store it in your rucksack. The net hammock or a cloth hammock without a pole made from a lightweight material is also suitable for outdoors. If you are looking for a hammock for your home, you can also look for a cotton pole hammock or choose a hammock with a frame.
Material
The material is particularly important when camping. This should be as hard-wearing and weatherproof as possible so that you can use the hammock for a long time. Of course, it should also offer you optimum comfort. Parachute silk is therefore particularly popular with rice hammocks. It is made of nylon and is particularly light and tear-resistant. As the name suggests, it is also used in the manufacture of parachutes. Most commercially available hammocks are made of cotton. This is particularly comfortable and can usually be cleaned in the washing machine. However, it is significantly heavier and therefore not suitable for backpacking. Hammocks made of HamacTex are also suitable for outdoor use. This is a synthetic fiber that is UV-resistant and water-repellent. So there is nothing to stop you from leaving your HamacTex hammock hanging outside for a while. If the polypropylene mat gets wet, you can simply wipe it clean or leave it to dry briefly in the sun.
Size
If the hammock is primarily intended just for you, you can adjust the size to your body measurements. It should of course be slightly longer and wider than you are. If you want a hammock for the whole family, look for an XXL version.
Maximum load capacity
Depending on whether you want to sit alone or with your partner or even the whole family, the hammock has to withstand a lot. So when choosing the right product, pay attention to the maximum load capacity. Ideally, it should have a load capacity of around 200 kg so that you can make yourself comfortable with several people. For you alone, it should be able to carry your weight plus about 15-20 kg.
Pack size
Especially if you travel a lot and frequently, your hammock should have a small pack size and not have a lot of volume. Ideally, the mat is only big enough when folded up to be easily stowed in your rucksack.
Mounting options
In the best case, suitable fixing material is already included in the scope of delivery. It is best to make sure that this is also suitable for your project. Otherwise, you should also look for a suitable supplement.
Care
Cleaning the hammock should not be underestimated. Outdoor hammocks in particular should be easy to clean, as very few people have a washing machine with a delicate wash cycle with them when camping.
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Frequently asked questions about the hammock
How is a hammock attached?
Hammocks without a frame, such as a travel hammock, are particularly suitable for camping. They can be folded up compactly, take up little space and are also particularly lightweight. But how are hammocks without a frame actually attached? There are different mounting options depending on the manufacturer and model. For example, there is the combination of rope and hook, where the rope is wrapped around a branch, trunk or beam. The mat is then hooked in using a hook. For permanent hanging, there are certain plates and hooks that are drilled into the wall or a beam and are particularly stable.
How is a hammock cleaned?
Hammocks that are mainly used outdoors are exposed to various weather conditions. First and foremost, make sure that the material is suitable for outdoor use. To make sure you enjoy your new relaxation area for as long as possible, there are a few things you should bear in mind when caring for it. On the one hand, the mat should be hung in such a way that it does not drag on the ground under load and, on the other hand, it is advisable to dismantle weatherproof models in strong winds and rain and store them in a dry place. It is generally recommended that you take your hammock down at night so that it does not get too damp. Depending on the model and material, you can simply wipe the lying surface with a damp cloth or even wash it by hand or in the washing machine at 30 degrees.
How much space do I need for a hammock?
Finding a suitable place for the hammock is not that easy. If you want to hang the mat between two trees, the distance should be slightly less than the length of the mat, i.e. around 90 percent. The height depends entirely on the model selected. Hammocks with a pole, for example, do not need to be positioned quite as high up as versions without a pole. Travel hammocks usually sag a little more and should be placed at a height of 1.5 to 2 meters. However, the optimum values are usually supplied by the manufacturer. If you don’t have a folding rule in your pocket, just make sure that the lowest point is no more than 20-40 cm above the ground so that the hammock doesn’t drag on the ground and you can get in and out comfortably.
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