How To Choose The Best Hammock Tent

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Take Backpacking to Another Level

Did you know that 65% of Canadian campers travel with a spouse or partner? Camping in Canada can be fun throughout the year if you have the right gear. However, there's now a more comfortable way to camp.

A hammock tent is an ideal purchase for this summer. It offers premium comfort and safety when sleeping in nature. Read on if you want to find out more about this unique experience. In this article, we'll guide you on how to set up the best hammock tent.

What Is a Hammock Tent?

A hammock tent will replace the need for a traditional tent. It offers 360-degree protection from the weather and insects. You're guaranteed a good night's sleep in a comfortable hammock tent because you won't deal with hard or uneven floors.

The Requirements

A cheap or lower-quality hammock tent may sound great. But you'll change your mind when you're uncomfortable and harrassed by mosquitos. So, consider the following points when searching for a hammock tent.

Lightweight 

This might depend on your travel style. For example, you'll want to go for the lightest hammock if you're a shoestring traveller roaming on foot. However, you can get a heavier set if you have a car or will be using transport.

The fabric of a hammock tent is measured in denier or tex. The higher the denier, the heavier the hammock tent will be.

Spacious

Hammock tent sizes start from suitable-for-solo-travellers and go to a legit family-size. A two-person hammock, on average, will hold 500 lbs. Solo hammocks will manage up to 400lbs, although most sit around the 200lb mark.

Measure your height and look for a camping hammock tent with an extra two feet. This will allow for the natural sag when you lie down. A solo person hammock tent will provide up to four feet in width, and a 2 person hammock tent can be up to six-foot wide.

Strong

The higher the denier or tex, the stronger your hammock tent will be. In addition, look for one that is resistant to mould and mildew if you will use it in hot and humid climates. Finally, a carry pouch ensures it won't suffer any rips while you travel.

Quality Material

Designers use a variety of fabrics for hammock tents. A reputable hammock company will list the full material details online. Check out the characteristics of the two most popular fabrics below.

• Parachute nylon (ripstop nylon): has a hexagonal pattern and is found on a best budget hammock tent
• Nylon taffeta: a more expensive lightweight woven material for high-end hammock tents

These fabrics are equally comfy. The price difference is based on their production and weave styles.

Insulation

Purchasing an underquilt and a top quilt will give you added warmth. An underquilt hangs to the underside of your tree hammock tent to reduce heat loss. Essentially, the top quilt will act like a duvet.

You can purchase synthetic filling and down-filling top quilts. Down top quilts are long-lasting and heavy-duty. On the other hand, synthetic top quilts are lighter and easier to carry.

Read More: Why Camping Is Becoming More Popular Among Millennials

The Gear 

There are several pieces of equipment to invest in to make the most of your hammock tent experience. Purchase hardwearing gear if you plan to spend a significant amount of time hammock camping. Or, if you will move a lot, consider lightweight gear. Check out these items to get started.

Bug Net

Mosquitos spread diseases, so stay safe in your hammock with a bug net. The No-See-Ums Mosquito net is made from polyester and mesh. Find an extra-wide bug net to ensure your whole hammock is covered. Two-way zippers are beneficial so that you're not fumbling around while trying to avoid the bugs.

Tarp

A rain fly also called a waterproof tarp, will keep you snug and dry. Check the measures of your hammock tent and find a tarp that is 12 inches larger on both sides.

Choose a diagonal tarp if you will be hammock camping during the warm Canadian summers. It will help protect from harmful sun rays. Diagonal tarps are ideal for first-timers because they are straightforward to set up.

Things to Keep In Mind When Choosing

Knowing which hammock tent to choose is challenging with hundreds on the market. We want to make sure you have the best hammock tent for your needs. So, consider these points before purchasing.

Why You Want It in the First Place

The real question here is the purpose of use. Will you be hammock camping every weekend or once a year? The answer to this question will guide you to the weight and material you need for your hammock tent.

The Price

Your budget will be a factor when deciding on your gear. For example, if you're okay roughing it for a few days, you could save on an underquilt or skip it entirely. Instead, invest in tree-protective sturdy straps and a 360-degree mosquito net.

The Weight and Size

A superlight hammock tent will weigh 1.2 lbs on average, and you can store it in a compact bag. However, specialist family-sized hammock tents can weigh up to 19lbs. Add a full-sized 40ft underquilt at 1lb, a top quilt, and a tarp, and you'll start to feel the weight.

The Suspension System

Hammock suspension is the mechanism that allows you to hang safely while enjoying the gentle sway. For the best configuration, your straps should be at least 10 feet long and between 0.75 to 1.5 inches wide.

Read More: How To Hammock Camp?

How to Set up a Hammock Tent

You've found the ideal camping spot and, if necessary, gained permission. Be mindful to use robust trees that have at least 6-inch diameter trunks. Below is the easiest hammock tent setup. Start by hanging the hammock at a 30-degree from the tree with the lowest sag point at 18 inches from the floor. Then, tie a ridgeline 8inches above your hammock for your tarp. Finally, follow the manufacturer's instructions and hang your bug net.

The Best Hammock Tent - Takeaway

Hammock camping is an ideal way to re-connect with nature. You can travel with your hammock tent and save on expensive accommodation. You can camp in many natural sites across Canada with the best hammock tent. So, step outside and explore what's on the horizon. Check out our other informative blogs and purchase your gear online.

Read More: Best Hammock Camping Accessories