Both are great for certain reasons, I make the choice depending on where I will be going and what terrain I will be in! Also, with today’s amazing blow up sleep pads, I wouldn’t agree that hammocks are always more comfortable. Also a tip to try is not using an under quilt, just slide your sleep pad into the hammock, its works really well and makes it even more comfortable.
I'm a hammock guy my reason is mainly comfort I use the Dutchware chameleon I can definitely recommend it also dream hammock makes really nice gear , keep up the great work love your vids
I'm a hammock guy unless I'm somewhere where trees are scarce. It comes down to comfort for me. I sleep better in my hammock in the woods than I do going to ground.....or in my expensive, memory foam, pillow top mattress at home, for that matter. When I was young, I cowboy or tent camped exclusively. Now, at 49, I get much better rest and feel much better in the morning in my hammock. And now, after setting up and tearing down so many times, I feel like I'm as efficient with the hammock as I am with a tent. And I care little about privacy. I can change fine under the tarp. The biggest con to me is the extra weight. But at the end of the day, the comfort is worth the extra weight to me. I don't know if I would feel the same on an extended thru hike. But for over nighters and multi day hikes, I'll make the weight sacrifice.
I highly respect you bringing in someone who prefers hammocks to explain the pros and cons they run into. It shows a lot of character to properly give both sides of an issue. Great job, that's a sub for you from me.
Hiking is the easy/fun part. Setting up camp, taking down the camp, leaving no trace and cleaning up after yourself is the hard part. Also I have a gear hammock under my hammock so all my stuff is right there and off the ground. I think you may just not have the experience or desire to hammock camp in a better way
yea this past winter i slept in a hammock and had the best sleep ever woke up feeling great. I like my tent but if its nice out and no rain ill use my hammock
I've never tried a camping hammock. But my geertop is the best tent I've used! Thing is a beast. Do they make 3-4 season hammocks that pack down into one small bag? I might add one as a spare shelter in my sidepack. I saw your video on hammocks vs tents. I figure I really need a canopy tarp for either one. I may have to craft my own as I'd want one that is camouflaged an very large so as to allow plenty of room to move around in a storm. But the main problem I have with a hammock as well as canopy tarps is that trees are required and that may not always be in the area.
Dude, your video got me to try hammock camping. I'm never going back to a tent. It may not be for all, but for a hunter who spends a lot of time in the woods during the rainy season in Western WA, I like to be dry. Hammock camping all the way.
I wouldnt say a "standard tent" weigh less then a hammock setup. Most tents, espesially on a budget, are both messy and heavy. And in my opinion setting up a hammock is way easier in most cases, espesially if you hike in the forest, when used to it it takes just 2 minutes. You can also use it as a tarp set up incase you're above the tree line
Yeah exactly. I would say a cheap hammock setup is going to be lighter than a tent setup until you start really investing in a light tent. And you also have to keep in mind tents are going to be pretty leaky until you get into more expensive ones as well
I have a UL tent set up (duplex, quilt, thermarest) but I don't sleep well so I researched UL hammocking setup. Hammock, suspension, tarp w/ doors, top and bottom quilt is lighter than my tent/regular sleep system.
I own a Duplex tent, my hiking buddy has a hammock and tarp setup. I am usually set up so much quicker than him. Granted he is methodical about his set up, and also stakes down a large ground cloth underneath his setup. I am also able to brake down and get packed up several minutes before him. With that said, he recently gifted me a new hammock. I've ordered a silpoly tarp and am looking at underquilts. I love my Duplex, but don't love crawling on the ground. So I think I'm going to mix it up and start to use both, making my choice depending on the trail I will be hiking.
Hi. Great video! Excellent points. Very helpful. I'd like to suggest an additional factor to be considered: environmental conditions. If you are hiking through dense forrest or jungle or swamp, during summer or at tropical climate, hammocks should be your first choice. You could use a simpler hammock system with tarp and bug net only. Also a suspended sleeping system would be advantageous to avoid ants, snakes and unwanted visitors to your tent. Thanks for your attention Vanor from Brasil 🇧🇷
Actually the -13 celcius is quite mild temperature to hang. I find that when you go below -25 celcius i need to layer something more. There are many quilt manufactures both under and top that makes it easy to camp on lower temps. Research is the key and google has load of options to go with. Thats my two cents
As someone about to embark on their first hike (only a 2-3 day wild camp) your channel, for the enthusiasm and knowledge you provide, has been invaluable. We're worlds apart in terms of terrain and weather conditions (UK) but you've provided me with the confidence I need to get out there and experience the beauty that can only be provided out in the wilds. Thank you.
@Cody777 the point of camping is to get out in the world and enjoy the outside and that includes sleeping on the ground not hanging above it, but if you want to sleep in a tree like a monkey then that also works for camping but hanging and not feeling the hard earth is not camping
Hi Kaptin, I love freedom of choice. For me everyone can call what they do camping . Did you ever tried hammocking? Do you know how monkeys sleep? What is wrong with monkeys? ;) ;) ;)
Wow, great video. I love that you got a "guest speaker" to talk about something you have admittedly little experience with. Felt like a great unbiased review. Thank you, with this knowledge I am going to try out hammock camping because I don't do a lot of break down and set up.
Hammock for me. At the end of the day, I just want the best sleep I can get. Even it means carrying a bit more. Great collab with Frozen and great topic! Cheers.
Depending on the location, I'll always go with my hammock. Of course, above the treeline, you may have to use the hammock as a bivy and this thing won't work in a desert. However, I live in the PNW and have never had a problem using my hammock in Europe (bike touring), Belize, or Australia. I have a really efficient set up without any under or overquilt. My insulation is a reflector sheet and foam quilt between a double walled hammock (See Hennessey Hammocks). The entire system is packed together and hung together so it isn't complicated, inefficient, cumbersome etc. It's super lightweight and the comfiest thing ever. It's like a cocoon to retreat to. A large tarp gives you privacy and a giant space to cook or hang out under. I still reluctantly use our 3-person big agnes ultra light all the time to hike and cuddle with my husband and two dogs but when I'm alone, I always go to the hammock tent. Faster, cosier, lightweight, more comfortable, and makes long walks a pleasure. It's a life changer.
I am a stomach sleeper and a thrasher. I've found, from first hand experience, there is no way for me to reliably and consistently get quality, restful sleep in a hammock. I envy those who can.
@Brian Cuprisin Used to be a stomach sleeper as well - Thinking there’s no way to sleep in a hammock (btw true in banana style only) - That changed immediately when I learned HOW to get the most comfortable position in a hammock: the brazilian way - it’s diagonal. After that I found out that it’s even possible to get comfortable positions on my side or stomach as well. Finally my body is really resting overnight in my hammock - no tossing and turning anymore, sleeping like a baby, no back problems anymore. Though I threw out the bed, bought a hammock stand and nowadays sleep in my hammock at home like I‘ve never slept before 😴
I'm a stomach sleeper at home, but in my hammock I'm on my back or side, and I've never had a bad night. As Anne Li says, the key is a diagonal position.
Hammocking is great - when you know where you're going and that there will be good options to hang. If you don't know the trail, or part of the trail is desert or above the treeline, or any of the other places where options are limited, a tent is still usually the way to go. But Frozen's right, once you have your hammock rig dialed in, there is just no better night's sleep on the trail. If you want a great (and entertaining) source for hammock info, check out Shug's channel Shugemery.
And on top of that, any hammock can also be grounded just like a tent so that argument is wiped out also. it's just that hammocks are cheap to buy and that pisses off the major gear companies.
I always like hearing different perspectives. It's interesting to hear from someone who finds a tent simpler because I find a hammock to be much simpler than a tent. That said, I don't have anywhere near the miles you do so maybe I'd feel different in your shoes. And, maybe it's the hammock I have but I am usually set up and relaxing way before my friends in their tents. And if there aren't trees, I just pitch my hammock as a bivy and set my tarp low. Each to their own I guess. Thanks for all the great vids!
I’m a hammock person. The comfort I get is on a whole different level. I have a bad back and I’m cloister phobic. I find it easier to set up and take down a hammock in the rain than a tent. Given that I haven’t had a good tent to work with. And with my back, I find it easier to work standing up than bending over.
No I didn’t read all the comments. I will look for it. I watched a video of how to set up a hammock System fast. Maybe by Shug. It helped me a lot. Great surprise seeing frozen on here. Looking forward to following him. I love Darwin’s videos. Always great.
Found the hammock to be much easier on a bad back as well. Easier to get up, get in and set up. And love that I can prop up the tarp and watch it rain with room to spare for those stuck in a tent.
This is actually the first non biased review of pros and cons of each sleeping system, given that experts of both worlds give their points of view. You get my thumbs up ! Personally I like the modularity of the hammock system. Mostly the separation of hammock and tarp is a major plus. If it rains, you hang the tarp and get a dry area, where you can stand, cook, eat, pack or just dwell. A 3/4 underquilt will not be bulkier or heavier than a air mat like shown in your tent, no blowing, pumping or folding required, just 2 clips. When it rains, I just hang the tarp and the tree straps. The rest of my setup is stuffed in a single bag, I just clip each end to a strap - go. Packing is just as easy - just stuff everything back to the bag. And no matter how many nights you spend in the rain, your main sleeping gear stays dry. After 24 hours of rain any tent setup will get very wet. Imho being cramped in a 40 inch high tent is a high price to pay for privacy.
If it is an option, I will always go for a hammock set up. I don't mind the extra weight because of the huge comfort advantage and let's be honest, at the end of a day of long hiking, comfort is a must. My system has been dialed in over years and it is just a few ounces over my tent set up. I have a great tarp and I can close both ends and have all the privacy I need. I can even set up my hammock and tarp in a tent set up if there are no trees (which has never been an issue).
What tarp do you have? I like oversized tarps to keep out the wind? Often it'll save me from having to pack too big of an underquilt or overquilt in the spring and fall.
Great points in this video! Glad you let Frozen point out the good side to hammocking as well. For me, [comfort] > [weight, simplicity, cost, efficiency, anything else]. My back can't handle ground sleeping, so hammocking is what got me back outdoors after suffering through ground sleeping and giving up on camping altogether.
Me too, I also tent with a ground sheet and tarp. This is useful in torrential rain, and makes the tent last longer. Also going for a piss during the night, being on my knees and doing it outside the tent door, no need for feet to touch the ground.
I loved the way that this was edited. You used your resources for giving the pros and cons of hammocks! First video of yours I’ve seen, it’s cool that it was edited to make it seem like a real conversation.
As far as simplicity it's hard to beat a hammock. I can hang my Warbonnet in slightly over a minute. When I camp with tenters I'm sitting in my hammock enjoying a beer while they're still sorting out their poles. If rain is in the forecast I have my tarp dialed in so I can set it up in about 3 minutes. Privacy? My tarp has doors. I simply sit on the edge of my hammock and change my clothing.
I used tents since I was a kid camping and backpacking and no spring chicken..I do a lot of my backpacking in New England its where I reside..4 years ago I switched to a hammock setup learned to dial it in and I've never looked back..I sleep like I'm in the arms of the Mountain Angels...I do use a tent set up when situationally required..And every time I remember how much I love my Hammock..
As a hammock camper, one huge con that was missed here was the difficulty of finding a spot with two trees that are the right distance apart to hang between; especially if you're in the SW, there won't always be two trees where you're camping
If you have a fixed amsteel Ridgeline in your hammock it doesn't matter the distance apart of the trees as long as your straps reach...Not a big deal if you have the correct setup...
I've been waiting for this video for years. I agree 100% with what you and Frozen said. I would only add 2 things: 1) Occasionally it's difficult finding trees to hang from that are healthy enough, the right distance apart, and don't have any widowmakers waiting to drop on you in your sleep. 2) The cost of a good hammock setup (hammock, bug net, suspension, tarp, top quilts, underquilts) is almost always going to be more expensive than a tent. Don't make the mistake of ordering a cheap mass-produced hammock. At my age (almost 50), I prefer hammocks. They are just much more comfortable if you do it right. But it takes a lot of research and time and adjusting each time you set it up. If I was in my 20s again, I would probably still be doing tents, since they are indeed simpler.
About cost: It's surprisingly easy to DIY a hammock, suspension, and bug net though. I even DIY'd my top quilt (which I do admit, was a time consuming process, so your miles may vary on that one). Plus, I'm not sure you can lump the cost of your top/under quilt in with the hammock to compare to the cost of *just* a tent. You'll still need a sleeping bag/pad combo if you're tenting.
@@leleprtk How is that any different than being alone in a tent? Neither one is going to protect you from any serious threats. The feeling of safety you get from sleeping in a tent is entirely mental.
@@leleprtk Somehow for me, being off the ground actually makes me feel safer. I feel like I'm floating up high where nothing can get me, even tho I'm just a foot off the ground. Give it a try, you might be surprised!
My favorite thing about hammock camping, as opposed to tent camping, is the "airlock" you get with the area tarp. You can take off your wet gear outside the "bed" of the hammock, while out of the rain.
Speaking of tents, would love to see a detailed video on setting up once your in camp, tent, guylines, getting water, where you store your food for the night, etc... Thanks!
Hey Darwin, I am a hammocker and the number 1 reason I use a hammock is because of my back. Every time I go out tent camping with my wife I always wake up with back pain. Sleeping in a hammock is soooo comfortable and my back feels great the next day unlike if I were sleeping on the ground. That is just my preference due to back issues. I think even if I did not have back problems I would still sleep in a hammock because it is such a wonderful night sleep. Great video....
I appreciate Darwin's open-mindedness on the subject. I recently discovered hammocks and it has completely changed my outlook and motivation for getting out on the trail. Ultimately, if you want to really want to see some of the choice wilderness areas in the world, you gotta be willing to commit and take backpacking serious. However, in order to take backpacking serious, you also have to mostly enjoy it even if sometimes it also requires enduring it. And in order to be able to enjoy it (and sometimes endure it) you really have to figure out what works best for you or you just won't be motivated to do it... and you'll miss out on what the wilderness has to offer. Unfortunately, for me, sleeping on the ground was never restful, even as a spry younger lad. But at least when I was younger (and fitter and stronger) I could endure the lack of restful sleep better. Now that I'm older, with kids old enough to join me, I want to get them out in the wilderness; but sleeping on the ground for more than a night or two just wasn't working for me anymore. It was too much endurance and not enough fun anymore. That's why, for me, discovering hammocks last year was a game changer. And, ironically, while you might think the difference in weight of a tent vs. a hammock would be a deterrent for a guy complaining about getting older and being less able to endure it, in reality (and somewhat paradoxically), being willing to carry those extra ounces is the difference between wanting to keep backpacking at all, or simply giving it up altogether except for the occasional overnighter. Yes, hammock systems are often somewhat heavier especially depending on the season. BUT (there's always a big but, and it's usually mine)... these days I'm willing to pay the weight penalty for two significant reasons. First the weight difference really isn't huge for me because I make my own lightweight gear for and can do so for a very reasonable price these days. But, secondly and more importantly, because I sleep so much better in a hammock, I'm finally getting sufficient and real restorative rest again so that the extra little bit of weight is no longer really noticeable. For me, the ability to enjoy (and sometimes endure) a longer backpacking trip simply comes down to having sufficient energy each day, which comes down to getting good sleep and waking up feeling truly rested and restored. I envy Darwin for his ability to get that while lying on the ground, but I simply was never able to get restful sleep on the ground. And that's why I've become a hanger. All that said, if I could get similar restorative rest sleeping in a tent, I probably would've stuck to my tent and saved some money (and weight). So, if tents work for you, that's great...and I say 'thank you' for leaving the trees to those of us who need them! Great post Darwin, good luck and sweet dreams on the trail this season!
As always, Darwin.....Great video. It shows that you put a lot of thought and care into your productions. I really appreciate the links section. I am a diehard hammock fan. The comfort (meaning rest) that I get from a hammock setup justifies the weight and fiddle factor. Soon to be 60, I don't get good rest in a bed or on the ground. If I sleep one or two nights away from my hammock, my back aches and the day doesn't start out as good. Thanks for another great video!
Well done guys! I personally love to hang from the trees. Just a comfort thing for me. But I do use a bivy and sleep on the ground when bikepacking. Looking into Maybe getting a new ultralight tent for the bikepacking trips.
Thank you sharing this video! Mostly I tent person because I wear knee brace and had trouble once sleeping on a hammock my brace keeps leg straight and have problem keeping head up because I have reflux disease!
If all is equal, hammocks all day long. I'm with Frozen, hammocks mean great sleep. Sometimes I dont want to get out of my hammock. In a tent, I'm tossing and turning all night. It all depends on the trip, though. I use both depending on conditions.
As always, great video! In general, I'm 100% with you on the privacy aspect of the tent. I've never never done anything more than a long weekend hike (3 nights) and greatly enjoyed being able to get in my tent, lay all my stuff out, have everything enclosed in my space, and then zip up my door and shut the rest of the world out. All that said, I have a hammock set-up as well (just an Eno), but I just use it for day trips when I hike up to a nice ledge with some trees and hang out (literally) for a few hours. As much of an introverted loner as I am, I just couldn't imagine not being enclosed in a tent overnight. Maybe I'll give it a chance some time, but I'll stick with my tent for now.
Nice video. I actually use both and make selections based on where we go and what our goals are. Your video quality is always so clear and bright. Nice work.
Great video! I’m a hammock camper myself, but the arguments you make in favor of tents are extremely valid and thoughtful. Great work as always! Thanks!
Hammocks, Mostly the comfort and for me its a much warmer way of sleeping.Yes there is a learning curve and in the beginning I was not to sure about this hammock thing that was 7 years ago.
Great content! I use both depending on weather. In the southern U.S. during the humid summers hammock with a bug net, tarp and small fan. After roasting in tents all summer the comfort and breeze of a fan is awesome! Fall and winter give me a tent. The Sun heats it up sometimes and with proper ground protection you will be warm. Agree with the privacy addition as well and keeping gear out of precip helps too.
Excellent video Darwin. You are spot on with the simplicity issue regarding tents vs hammocks. I started using hammocks about 1956 as a young Boy Scout. But, I've had to use tents as well. I own a North Face single wall tent. It is pretty easy to set up. As a con for tents, you didn't talk much about condensation. This is pretty much a non-issue for hammockers, except during the winter when they button-up their hammock to keep the cold out. As a con for hammocks, also consider the benefits of setting up in the "porch mode" and sitting and cooking, reading, talking. It is just a better set up during inclement weather. I actually set up two tarps and use one for sleeping within the hammock and one for sitting and cooking, reading, whittling, cutting firewood out of the rain, etc etc. But, the biggest reason I prefer hammocking is I do not enjoy crawling around on the ground and I certainly do not enjoy sleeping on the ground. On a comparison scale of 1-10, hammocks are a 9 and tents are a 3. Now, is you are talking about sidewall, canvas tents that are roomy and sleeping on cots. Then that changes the conversation completely. But, I know you are not talking about that kind of camping. Honestly, I think for balls-to-the-wall through hiking where base weight is a primary concern, then your approach is probably the best choice. But, then you embrace "the suck" and the inconveniences of a tent are no big deal for you. Easy up, easy down, and move on. You're the best at it.
I’m in the hammock camp here. I’ll carry the extra gear for a better nights sleep. To date however I have never had bad weather to deal with and wonder if I will miss tent in a rain storm. Biggest fear is getting to destination and not being able to find trees. Hiked into a lake last year and could not find set of trees that would work, had to move on to the next lake. Still slept great however.
The most important disadvantage of hammocks for me, which noone seems to talk about, is the need for trees to hang it from. I constantly cross the tree line when hiking. One time a guy brought a hammock and needed to descend 500m from camp to set up his sleeping system. 500 m altitude is a lot and can make the difference when your day starts early and you need to summit.
With a hammock setup you can just as good sleep on the ground without trees. You have your tarp, so you can set it up as a tent with a walking pole or stick, maybe use the hammock as under sheet and voilla.
@@SmoothGefixt I'm sure it'll do in an emergency situation. And that's actually a good solution you bring up, that I will definitely suggest next time something like this happens. Regardless, it is undeniable that above tree-line, a tent is clearly the preferrable option. ;)
you can make a bivy tent with a hammock very easily, so that guy was just an idiot. You can sleep over water, above snow, uneven ground, and if need be on the ground as a bivy tent. You guys are smoking rocks with that dumb shit logic.
guywithbeard Interesting to come across this comment. About a month ago I was bikepacking with some guys and two of them were hammocking while the other two of us were in tents. We were in a desolate northern Arizona juniper forest where the few trees were stocky, far apart and pretty weak. One guy went to ground while the other guy found a perfect hang between the only two strong and tall junipers around for miles. The guy on the ground hung the middle loop of his hammock bug net over a branch and made a net bivy out of it. I was surprised that was their choice given the trip conditions but it all worked out in the end; didn't look that bad to me.
@@WildlandExplorer All depends. In the UK and Scandinavia you simply don't see hammocks in the hills. Trees are just too few and far apart, and the weather can be savage so you want a proper stormproof shelter and not an improvised tarp.
I love tent camping, but I have neck problems. If I sleep more than a day on the ground, even with a pillow and decent pad, I'm an unpleasant person to be around. I sleep like a baby in a hammock with a small pillow behind my neck, though.
I am a total Hammock guy.. I have a light weight tent I use when my girlfriend and I go hiking, but I sleep super comfortable in my hammock and I can be in my hammock just as fast as any tent dwellers. To each his own. Love your videos, keep them coming!!
If I have a rainfly (and you should on any thru-hike) then you always have a basic tent. You're going to find campsites with no trees in only a few types of locations. -A desert -Above the treeline on a mountain -Urban settings like parking lots. In the case of the parking lot, this is usually not a problem. Plenty of other things to hang on, like cars and fences. Even in a case where there's only a single tree there are a number of ways to hang a hammock on a single tree. A common method involves using a branch to run a bit of line to the ground and that line and a prussic knot become your second tie off. In another, you hang it over a branch like a swing and lay sideways for a night. In another, you can guy a sturdy treking pole as a second tie off point. And it's worth noting that there are ultralight gantry systems that you can hang on every single night trees or no trees. Adding them to your pack will add weight but may not when compared to most free standing tents. There are also a number of Treking poles sturdy enough to hang on when properly guyed with earth anchors. Earth anchors could be ultralight screw-type anchors or ridiculously ultralight retrievable trapping type anchors. Regardless, and in any of those cases you can always set up nearly any tarp as a stick tent as per the video above. In terms of ground insulation, those who use underquilts may be uncomfortable but there are plenty of hammock users who use pads just like tent campers. And in terms of a dry floor, you can either add a dry floor option to your pack or reuse another silnylon tarp, use an oversized tarp and fold it in half for the a-frame setup, or simply go without. I prefer an oversized tarp myself as it can be used to keep wind out in some configurations or double as a dry gear floor when going to ground. For thru-hikes I prefer the incredible comfort of an underquilt but grudgingly take a closed-cell matt if I'm unfamiliar with the trail or it has significant cold sections with no hanging option. When comparing hammock setups to setups like pole tents as above there is a weight savings but that saving is slight enough that it really boils down to how well you sleep in either or. I prefer confined and warm comfort. When I'm in chilly or cold conditions I prefer a hammock to a tent or a pad. When it's raining and I'm hiking for more than a day I REALLY prefer a hammock. Toss up your rainfly (or in my case and oversized tarp) and you have a dry work area to start getting your gear sorted out while standing. In my experience setting up a tent in the rain is going to get you wet. You toss it out on the ground and by the time you sort out staking and placement the waterproof floor has collected little puddles and if you're not very careful mud and dirt that won't dry up until a few days later. Then there's the getting into it while decked out in rain gear without getting soaked. I usually manage this by just leaving the raingear on until I've entered the tent and guess what? The little droplets on my raingear collect on my floor to join the ones that snuck in while I was setting up the tent. Those puddles end up either keeping you up at night (making you cold) or worm their way into your pack for a nice soggy hike the next day. I NEVER have these problems when setting up a hammock setup in the rain. You always get wet but I've had good luck keeping things simply moist and not soaking when I'm hammock camping. In a hammock setup once you have the rainfly up you can take off your rain gear and start working your way through your fairly dry pack. If you set up the hammock right away you have a table. Or you just hang the pack on the ridgeline and have access to it there. The ridgeline under the tarp (in my setup) is made of zing-it so I can hang my pack from that and have full access to it without it ever touching the ground. For me after a long day of hiking getting up and down and up and down just kills me. Crawling around on stick or rock infested earth where your knee seems to find the only lego in the whole damn forest. The hammock, however, is a damn fine chair before it's a bed. All of your camp business can be done standing or sitting comfortably. This little princess can never seem to feel the pea. Then there's breakfast in bed from the hammock. I'm not sure about other people but it's become one of my favorite parts of camping now. I use a solo stove most of the time and I can use it without fear of burning the floor or lighting myself on fire. And because my pack hangs just above me, I can do the entire thing astronaut style without ever leaving the comfort of my warm little bear burrito. You can be a purist if you want. Hammocks are just the way some of us camp now. I don't ever see myself preferring a tent pole setup now that I've gotten so spoiled. You're entitled to your opinion for yourself. I thought I'd give you some insight thought because your comment seemed a little misinformed.
These videos are all by "Shug" as he's known on the hammock camping forums. He's kind of a celebrity in the hammock camping world. Here are a few references for my text wall: th-cam.com/video/2kPvSn5_T58/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/0j54vMKGhiQ/w-d-xo.html Single tree stuff: th-cam.com/video/57I_HLsEnbc/w-d-xo.html www.instructables.com/id/One-Tree-Hammock-System-Ultralight/ No tree: Whole variety of options here... sectionhiker.com/portable-hammock-stands-for-camping-by-derek-hansen/ One of the better ultralight stand systems I have owned (10.5 oz) theultimatehang.com/2012/12/11/handy-hammock-stand-review/ You know why the handy hammock stand isn't sold anymore? Because no one needs it. They just go to ground on the very rare occasion they can't figure something else out. So for one or two nights, they sleep like a caveman. Then the rest of the time they sleep in a hanging hotel room still worth the trade. I think your comment is better stated like this: "How about the biggest con for hammock, there's a slim chance you'll have to go back to sleeping in a tent just like the one in this video for a night or two."
Hammock for sure. I’ve got a nice system down that involves less cordage to put up my tarp, and I don’t mind the underquilt setup, just a couple carabiners. I also find it really nice to use my hammock as a chair or almost as a recliner. And also to use it as a platform to organize my gear. I do enjoy tents but I’m a heavier guy and find I get much better sleeps in hammocks. I just simply find it much more relaxing being in a hammock though. Love the vids man!
New subscriber here. Although I really miss the coziness and the privacy of being in a tent the #1 issue for me was the quality of sleep as I got older. The hammock, particularly the bridge hammock, changed all that for me about 3 years ago. I get so much better sleep in the hammock. Once you get all your components dialed in set up is a breeze each time. Excellent comparison video, btw...
A decent hammock is lighter and smaller than a similar tent. It's much more comfortable to sleep in. If you're camping wild and there are trees about then the hammock wins. If you're in campsites or areas with few trees then the tent wins. You can pitch a hammock on flat ground but you lose all the advantages. Also, remember to use straps around the trees so as not to damage the bark.
Depends on the goal. For one person comfort, a hammock setup provides comfortable sleep and separation from the ground. And where there are plenty of trees to use like on the AT it makes sense. For doing trails where trees are limited then a tent setup will be all around the way to go. Hammocking just isn’t as intuitive as laying on the ground so there are a few skills to learn but they are skills that can easily be used when tent camping, like familiarity with knots.
Thanks for your comments and review. I took my first tent setup for my first 3 day section hike with a super cheap(but lightweight tent) in 2016. Used a hammock on my last non backpacking trip last year(2 nights camping) and heading out now for 5-6 days with the hammock and realizing it is a bit heavier with all the necessary setup as mentioned! Still, I'm not planning on super long or fast distance coverage and will give myself plenty of setup time so that's less of an issue I think for my mentality.
Awesome to see Frozen in the video. Hikers no mater where we sleep are hikers. I've got to agree with Frozen and it does take ALOT of research to get hammocking done correctly. there are so many variations of hammocks now, they can be affordable to very expensive. Sooo many add on's and different ideas out there. I've personally felt the rewards of a great night sleep in a hammock and it's hard to go back to ground. thanks for putting it out there to many who have never really thought of hammock camping. So many TH-camrs out there have done an excellent job at showing the in's and out's of the craft. "Whoooo BUDDDY!!!" thanks for a great video!
Darwin, Great Video, been following you and Frozen for a while. I'm a hammock guy! I did the tent thing for a while. As an East Coast backpacker, especially on the AT, a hammock is the way to go. Keep up the great videos, enjoy all of them, thanks!
6:22 I walked into my local outdoors store, bought the first hammock I saw and had the best night of sleep I've had while camping. This point is very subjective.
Nice video. There is a third option. I have an 8 x 10 ft tarp with mosquito netting sewn around the ends. I generally use it as a ground-dweller with the tent supported by one or two trekking poles. However, if I can't find a decent spot to pitch it for sleeping on the ground, I can hang my 9-ft hammock inside with my inflatable sleeping pad as insulation. This opens up a lot more options for stealth camping. The main benefits of the tarp - hammock - sleeping bag - sleeping pad option is flexibility and weight. The disadvantage is this setup doesn't work as well as a dedicated hammock rig or a quality tent. I am looking forward to your future videos.
I'm a hammock kind of guy. If I just want to rest for a bit or cook some food, I can set up my tarp in a few minutes and have cover from rain, sun or wind. If I don't find suitable trees I can use the hammock as a bivy tent with the tarp set up with trekking poles. The inflatable mat is light and small, so it's nice to bring as a backup. And I sleep so much better in a hammock. No pain in my back or hips, like when sleeping on the ground.
I see your points about the pros of tents. But i am definitely a hammock guy. It gives me the best sleep. I use a ENO JungleNest. What i love about it is that i can hang it anywhere. But i also can use it as a bivy in case there are no trees. I lay down a sleeping pad, place my hammock on top, use my trekking poles to prop up the net and tarp. Totally works. If there are trees, i find setting up a hammock quicker. And i dont have to worry about flat ground or mud. My hammock set up is actually pretty light. Yes, in cold weather an under quilt does add an extra item...but i just stuff it in with my top quilt. And if i am traveling in hot or tropical places...i can leave it at home. I do have a tent, but i hardly ever use it now. It’s all good tho. Whatever works for you. ✌🏼
Darwin is the man!!! He has been an extreme motivation to me and encouraged me to start doing my own adventures! I have decided to document/vlog every adventure I do in effort to show the brutal yet glorious reality of the outdoors! Hopefully I don’t die hahaha, feel free to subscribe ! I really appreciate the support! Thanks again Darwin!
TRAIL CAM I just subscribed! I wasn’t expecting much since you are just starting out but it was really entertaining! Your awesome 🤙🏼 Really looking forward to your weekly videos!
Great video. For me it depends on what I want from my sleep system. I’ve never been able to cook well from my hammock. It’s like getting comfortable on the sofa at home and everything I want is on a table just out of reach. But I’ll tell you, there’s nothing like setting up my hammock and tarp in porch mode, enjoying some amazing scenery and having a nice high and dry sleep. Also the tarp is great for getting out the rain super quick when needed.
I went on my first multi day backpacking trip in about 20 years last fall. I'm primarily a hammock camper, but I took my tent on the trip. In hind sight, I'm glad I took the tent. I didn't sleep quite as well as I do in the hammock, but as you mention in the video, it was nice to get set up and relaxing in the tent. I've been using a hammock for several years now and there's still the fiddle factor of a hammock to deal with. Finding trees a good distance apart, the few minutes of fiddle factor adjusting the hammock and tarp etc. It was nice to get to camp, throw the duplex down and set it up. I can set up the duplex in about 3 minutes and get out of the rain. Inflate the pad and get settled in the tent is so much more simple. Also bad weather is an issue with a hammock. It takes a bit to get set up in wind and rain using a hammock. On windy days, I'm fighting a flapping tarp AND hammock the whole time which makes set up even longer. And then there's the down. If you get your down hammock quilts wet setting up in a storm you're screwed......for days. Your insulation is shot. It has to dry and that takes a long time and usually results in clumped down that has to be sorted out and fluffed and that takes a lot of time. So I have to be extra careful setting up in the rain to protect my down quilts. I've set up my duplex in wind and rain and it was so much faster and simpler. So yeah, for me, if I did a long trail, setting up in bad weather alone would probably have me leaning towards a tent. Especially the AT and all the rain on the east coast.
Great video and i loved that you included outdoor adventures I used both your channels for at least a year now and gained so much insight, I love the way you (both) clearly layout your points of interest with a bit of clever editing.
Great video - as someone who has used both methods extensively I will say this is a massive subject of discussion. Weather, terrain, gear, personal preference, and experience are all big factors. On some trips, especially above treeline or in the desert, I will use a tent. Typically, the hammock is my go-to. I've set up my hammock enough times that it is very quick to get everything ready, oftentimes faster than my tent buddies. Privacy isn't much of a concern for me, and the ability to hang up items on the ridge line gives me similar real estate to a tent - although cooking in the vestibule can sure be nice. This comment only scratches the surface of what I could say on the topic, but in brief - both options have their own niche, with a lot of overlap.
Hey. Good video! I use a hammock when it is summer, but i use a tent when it is spring or autumn. One con is that where you keep your rucksack if it is raining or something like that
I’m not a distance hiker; I’m much more of a paddle/hike to a spot & stay a while guy. So I’m far less picky about base weight than I otherwise might be. Given the type of travel I prefer (kayak) and the places I go, a hammock is the system for me. I just used my Eno DoubleNest for a three-day winter camping trip in central MN. It got down to -7F but I was cozy. I know for sure I would not have slept half as well on the ground and at 44, a good night’s sleep is more than a luxury when camping. Great stuff as always, Darwin! Thanks for the introduction to Frozen. Gonna check his stuff out.
Absolutely. Happened too frequently for me on AT so I went back to my tent. Nothing is perfect I'm afraid. Some folks will transition to using it as a bivy where trees are not suitable.
The comfort part is very important. I've heard of people who sleep in hammock even at home just because it can be that much better. Anyone with back issues that does it properly is going to LOVE hammocks. The setup part is also very important. In the rain hammocks win, no doubt. You can much more easily set up in the rain, because you only really need a minute to fully set your tarp, and after that you're good to go, you're sheltered and free from the rain to set your hammock up and whatnot. I keep my quilts in the hammock to I really only have to install that once, I've set up camp in less than a minute, no joke. The modularity is great because i can leave my tarp at home and just look at the stars while camping, or set up near a nice view for the morning. I can take a groundsheet if I want to or not. I might only take and underquilt if it's nice and hot. As a major downside, I can not use this in a desert, neither in most mountain tops nor in something like the grand canyon. Anywhere where a fire has recently ravaged a forest is also going to be problematic if there aren't big enough trees. A hammock doubles as a chair and saves weight in that department. I've also taken mid day naps and set up my hammock in parks for a bit of relaxing I still prefer it for all seasons tbh, but i need to have a backup ground set-up plan.
I’ve done tents for years, but now it’s all about comfort. Meaning I like the hammocks. Once you get used to set up it’s a breeze, much quicker to me than setting up even the simplest tent. When I’ve been hiking all day and know I have a big hike the next day I HAVE to have a good nights sleep. As it relates to privacy. A hammock offers you the ability to camp where ever you want, you don’t have to be huddled up next to tents on the only level rock less spot, you can set up anywhere you want. I’ve hung my hammock in some really awesomely beautiful spots that a tent would never be able to be set up, and I don’t have to disturb the ground as much. Last thing I’ll say, do what’s best for you, but I’m all about the hammock
If you go to the tropical jungle or dense jungle you will see that you cannot find anyplace to set up a tent. But with hammock you can hanging it anywhere in the jungle. I think it depend on what geographical area that you’re travel in.
Excellent comparison. I respect that you brought in Frozen for the hammock pros and cons. You have another subscriber 👍 I am team hammock because of a better nights night's sleep. Getting to old to sleep on the floor.
Bears on AnimalTube are having this same discussion like “I like to attack and eat Hammock guys cause they are already rolled up like a juicy egg roll”
Hammock or Tent?
Which one do you prefer on the trail?
What New Shelter is currently on your Gear Geek Wish List?
👇Let Us Know Down Below!👇
Both are great for certain reasons, I make the choice depending on where I will be going and what terrain I will be in!
Also, with today’s amazing blow up sleep pads, I wouldn’t agree that hammocks are always more comfortable. Also a tip to try is not using an under quilt, just slide your sleep pad into the hammock, its works really well and makes it even more comfortable.
I'm a hammock guy my reason is mainly comfort I use the Dutchware chameleon I can definitely recommend it also dream hammock makes really nice gear , keep up the great work love your vids
Too old for long distance hikes now. So, hammock. Have a few tents if I change my mind.
Team tent here all day.
I'm a hammock guy unless I'm somewhere where trees are scarce. It comes down to comfort for me. I sleep better in my hammock in the woods than I do going to ground.....or in my expensive, memory foam, pillow top mattress at home, for that matter. When I was young, I cowboy or tent camped exclusively. Now, at 49, I get much better rest and feel much better in the morning in my hammock. And now, after setting up and tearing down so many times, I feel like I'm as efficient with the hammock as I am with a tent. And I care little about privacy. I can change fine under the tarp. The biggest con to me is the extra weight. But at the end of the day, the comfort is worth the extra weight to me. I don't know if I would feel the same on an extended thru hike. But for over nighters and multi day hikes, I'll make the weight sacrifice.
I highly respect you bringing in someone who prefers hammocks to explain the pros and cons they run into. It shows a lot of character to properly give both sides of an issue. Great job, that's a sub for you from me.
"I'm a lazy hiker" *hikes 40 miles*
Dude thats what I was thinking. No one can blame for wanting to get camp set up with ease at the end if the day.
lazy hiker is like physically active gamer
Yeah - truth is he is a lazy camper, not a lazy hiker.
Hiking is the easy/fun part. Setting up camp, taking down the camp, leaving no trace and cleaning up after yourself is the hard part. Also I have a gear hammock under my hammock so all my stuff is right there and off the ground. I think you may just not have the experience or desire to hammock camp in a better way
Once I got off the ground 10 years ago - I never went back. And I've never been happier. It's all about the hammock.
yea this past winter i slept in a hammock and had the best sleep ever woke up feeling great. I like my tent but if its nice out and no rain ill use my hammock
@@niq872 No rain? I've slept like a baby in raging downpours that would leave most ground dwellers soaking wet.
@@KarlBAndersen i dont have a small tarp to cover the top yet only a bug net .
@@niq872 get one they’re not expensive at all
Yeah same. My back can't handle the ground anymore so I went hammock and ease of setup/breakdown is amazing.
Hammoking for the win ;)
Hell yeah!
just the fact that you chimed in is a win! love your channel Fowler!
I just came from your video! I wanted to see both sides of the pros and cons.
I've never tried a camping hammock. But my geertop is the best tent I've used! Thing is a beast. Do they make 3-4 season hammocks that pack down into one small bag? I might add one as a spare shelter in my sidepack. I saw your video on hammocks vs tents. I figure I really need a canopy tarp for either one. I may have to craft my own as I'd want one that is camouflaged an very large so as to allow plenty of room to move around in a storm. But the main problem I have with a hammock as well as canopy tarps is that trees are required and that may not always be in the area.
Dude, your video got me to try hammock camping. I'm never going back to a tent. It may not be for all, but for a hunter who spends a lot of time in the woods during the rainy season in Western WA, I like to be dry. Hammock camping all the way.
Bringing in a expert on hammocks was smart
I wouldnt say a "standard tent" weigh less then a hammock setup. Most tents, espesially on a budget, are both messy and heavy. And in my opinion setting up a hammock is way easier in most cases, espesially if you hike in the forest, when used to it it takes just 2 minutes. You can also use it as a tarp set up incase you're above the tree line
Agree
Yeah exactly. I would say a cheap hammock setup is going to be lighter than a tent setup until you start really investing in a light tent. And you also have to keep in mind tents are going to be pretty leaky until you get into more expensive ones as well
I have a UL tent set up (duplex, quilt, thermarest) but I don't sleep well so I researched UL hammocking setup. Hammock, suspension, tarp w/ doors, top and bottom quilt is lighter than my tent/regular sleep system.
@@marinusingebredsen5342 .y
I own a Duplex tent, my hiking buddy has a hammock and tarp setup. I am usually set up so much quicker than him. Granted he is methodical about his set up, and also stakes down a large ground cloth underneath his setup. I am also able to brake down and get packed up several minutes before him. With that said, he recently gifted me a new hammock. I've ordered a silpoly tarp and am looking at underquilts. I love my Duplex, but don't love crawling on the ground. So I think I'm going to mix it up and start to use both, making my choice depending on the trail I will be hiking.
I think the video turned out great. Thanks for the shout out as well Darwin!
Thanks for sharing your Thoughts & Experiences Frozen!
Hike On,
Darwin
When he started the video I thought of your setup lol
I really enjoyed and appreciated the collaboration here guys. Well done and informative. Thank you.
How did you make it like as if you are talking to each other?
I finally got a chance to watch this video and almost died when I saw you in it Jason..😬😂😂 Great Job! 👍
Hi. Great video! Excellent points. Very helpful.
I'd like to suggest an additional factor to be considered: environmental conditions.
If you are hiking through dense forrest or jungle or swamp, during summer or at tropical climate, hammocks should be your first choice. You could use a simpler hammock system with tarp and bug net only. Also a suspended sleeping system would be advantageous to avoid ants, snakes and unwanted visitors to your tent.
Thanks for your attention
Vanor from Brasil 🇧🇷
Watching the video while hanging in a hammock in a snowy forest. -13°C 😉
What do use for that temp? I haven't found systems that will go that low.
Nice! Badass
@@Jimmy4video He never replied because he froze to death.
Actually the -13 celcius is quite mild temperature to hang. I find that when you go below -25 celcius i need to layer something more. There are many quilt manufactures both under and top that makes it easy to camp on lower temps. Research is the key and google has load of options to go with. Thats my two cents
@@grendelprime166 didn't receive notifications 😊
As someone about to embark on their first hike (only a 2-3 day wild camp) your channel, for the enthusiasm and knowledge you provide, has been invaluable. We're worlds apart in terms of terrain and weather conditions (UK) but you've provided me with the confidence I need to get out there and experience the beauty that can only be provided out in the wilds. Thank you.
As for me I'm older and the ground is hard. Hammocks have made camping enjoyably again.
Excellent Point! One of these days I might have to make the Switch! 🤔
Hike On,
Darwin
@@DarwinOnthetrail it ain't real camping unless you on the ground or on a tarp on the ground
@Cody777 the point of camping is to get out in the world and enjoy the outside and that includes sleeping on the ground not hanging above it, but if you want to sleep in a tree like a monkey then that also works for camping but hanging and not feeling the hard earth is not camping
I know people who have actually switched to hammocks at home. If you do it right, they can be more comfy than a bed.
Hi Kaptin, I love freedom of choice. For me everyone can call what they do camping . Did you ever tried hammocking? Do you know how monkeys sleep? What is wrong with monkeys? ;) ;) ;)
Wow, great video. I love that you got a "guest speaker" to talk about something you have admittedly little experience with. Felt like a great unbiased review. Thank you, with this knowledge I am going to try out hammock camping because I don't do a lot of break down and set up.
Hammock for me. At the end of the day, I just want the best sleep I can get. Even it means carrying a bit more. Great collab with Frozen and great topic! Cheers.
Considering you spend 1/3rd of your entire time sleeping, I agree. Plus it makes for the most comfortable chair to just sit in.
Depending on the location, I'll always go with my hammock. Of course, above the treeline, you may have to use the hammock as a bivy and this thing won't work in a desert. However, I live in the PNW and have never had a problem using my hammock in Europe (bike touring), Belize, or Australia. I have a really efficient set up without any under or overquilt. My insulation is a reflector sheet and foam quilt between a double walled hammock (See Hennessey Hammocks). The entire system is packed together and hung together so it isn't complicated, inefficient, cumbersome etc. It's super lightweight and the comfiest thing ever. It's like a cocoon to retreat to. A large tarp gives you privacy and a giant space to cook or hang out under. I still reluctantly use our 3-person big agnes ultra light all the time to hike and cuddle with my husband and two dogs but when I'm alone, I always go to the hammock tent. Faster, cosier, lightweight, more comfortable, and makes long walks a pleasure. It's a life changer.
Love my hammock and will use it whenever possible. Sometimes it's not possible. Lack of trees or rules. Get familiar with both and get out there.
Yeah Man! That's the most important thing... GET OUT THERE!
Hike On,
Darwin
Good point. I was not allowed to hang my hammock once in N. CA. Its something I always check now before heading to a new location.
I've ground bivied in my warbonnet blackbird a few times using my trekking poles. Not super comfortable sleep but it worked
Easy enough to set up a hammock like a tent using hiking poles when needed. Any hammock can be done that way. Cheers.
I love hammock i am Hammock maker
I am a stomach sleeper and a thrasher. I've found, from first hand experience, there is no way for me to reliably and consistently get quality, restful sleep in a hammock. I envy those who can.
Look at the amok draumr. A flat sleeping hammock.
@Brian Cuprisin Used
to be a stomach sleeper as well - Thinking there’s no way to sleep in a hammock (btw true in banana style only) - That changed immediately when I learned HOW to get the most comfortable position in a hammock: the brazilian way - it’s diagonal. After that I found out that it’s even possible to get comfortable positions on my side or stomach as well. Finally my body is really resting overnight in my hammock - no tossing and turning anymore, sleeping like a baby, no back problems anymore. Though I threw out the bed, bought a hammock stand and nowadays sleep in my hammock at home like I‘ve never slept before 😴
I'm a stomach sleeper at home, but in my hammock I'm on my back or side, and I've never had a bad night. As Anne Li says, the key is a diagonal position.
@@RatJan I have been told that exactly . I got a hammock but I haven’t used it yet.
Two words:
Warbonnet Blackbird!
Buy one and never look back!
Hammocking is great - when you know where you're going and that there will be good options to hang. If you don't know the trail, or part of the trail is desert or above the treeline, or any of the other places where options are limited, a tent is still usually the way to go. But Frozen's right, once you have your hammock rig dialed in, there is just no better night's sleep on the trail. If you want a great (and entertaining) source for hammock info, check out Shug's channel Shugemery.
Second that. Shug is font of hammock info and entertaining as well.
Whooo buddy!
Took some of Shug’s advice for my own recent trip. Good fella, that Shug.
@@KimberlyGreen All secure in sector 7!
And on top of that, any hammock can also be grounded just like a tent so that argument is wiped out also. it's just that hammocks are cheap to buy and that pisses off the major gear companies.
I always like hearing different perspectives. It's interesting to hear from someone who finds a tent simpler because I find a hammock to be much simpler than a tent. That said, I don't have anywhere near the miles you do so maybe I'd feel different in your shoes. And, maybe it's the hammock I have but I am usually set up and relaxing way before my friends in their tents. And if there aren't trees, I just pitch my hammock as a bivy and set my tarp low. Each to their own I guess. Thanks for all the great vids!
I’m a hammock person. The comfort I get is on a whole different level. I have a bad back and I’m cloister phobic. I find it easier to set up and take down a hammock in the rain than a tent. Given that I haven’t had a good tent to work with. And with my back, I find it easier to work standing up than bending over.
Comfort for the WIN!!!
Hike On,
Darwin
Hi Amy, did you read my comment? ;) I also have a bad back and prefer my hammock. Greetings from The Netherlands, Theo "SurvivalTrotter" Brouwers
No I didn’t read all the comments. I will look for it. I watched a video of how to set up a hammock System fast. Maybe by Shug. It helped me a lot. Great surprise seeing frozen on here. Looking forward to following him. I love Darwin’s videos. Always great.
Found the hammock to be much easier on a bad back as well. Easier to get up, get in and set up. And love that I can prop up the tarp and watch it rain with room to spare for those stuck in a tent.
I feel similar, though with my knees and bad ear.
This is actually the first non biased review of pros and cons of each sleeping system, given that experts of both worlds give their points of view. You get my thumbs up ! Personally I like the modularity of the hammock system. Mostly the separation of hammock and tarp is a major plus. If it rains, you hang the tarp and get a dry area, where you can stand, cook, eat, pack or just dwell. A 3/4 underquilt will not be bulkier or heavier than a air mat like shown in your tent, no blowing, pumping or folding required, just 2 clips. When it rains, I just hang the tarp and the tree straps. The rest of my setup is stuffed in a single bag, I just clip each end to a strap - go. Packing is just as easy - just stuff everything back to the bag. And no matter how many nights you spend in the rain, your main sleeping gear stays dry. After 24 hours of rain any tent setup will get very wet. Imho being cramped in a 40 inch high tent is a high price to pay for privacy.
If it is an option, I will always go for a hammock set up. I don't mind the extra weight because of the huge comfort advantage and let's be honest, at the end of a day of long hiking, comfort is a must. My system has been dialed in over years and it is just a few ounces over my tent set up. I have a great tarp and I can close both ends and have all the privacy I need. I can even set up my hammock and tarp in a tent set up if there are no trees (which has never been an issue).
Do you have a Ridgerunner by chance? That's my hammock of choice and it can be set up as a tent.
What tarp do you have?
I like oversized tarps to keep out the wind? Often it'll save me from having to pack too big of an underquilt or overquilt in the spring and fall.
Great points in this video! Glad you let Frozen point out the good side to hammocking as well. For me, [comfort] > [weight, simplicity, cost, efficiency, anything else]. My back can't handle ground sleeping, so hammocking is what got me back outdoors after suffering through ground sleeping and giving up on camping altogether.
Another well done! I commend you for bringing in an expert rather than winging it yourself like so many others. 😉
Such a clearly spoken review. Dude's definitely easy on the ears. You're a natural, keep it up.
I'm a tent guy all the way. I like the shelter, privacy, and with my sleeping pad I always have zero issues with comfort
Me too, I also tent with a ground sheet and tarp. This is useful in torrential rain, and makes the tent last longer. Also going for a piss during the night, being on my knees and doing it outside the tent door, no need for feet to touch the ground.
I loved the way that this was edited. You used your resources for giving the pros and cons of hammocks! First video of yours I’ve seen, it’s cool that it was edited to make it seem like a real conversation.
I have and continue to use both. Totally depends on the trail/terrain/location/season.
As far as simplicity it's hard to beat a hammock. I can hang my Warbonnet in slightly over a minute. When I camp with tenters I'm sitting in my hammock enjoying a beer while they're still sorting out their poles.
If rain is in the forecast I have my tarp dialed in so I can set it up in about 3 minutes.
Privacy? My tarp has doors. I simply sit on the edge of my hammock and change my clothing.
I used tents since I was a kid camping and backpacking and no spring chicken..I do a lot of my backpacking in New England its where I reside..4 years ago I switched to a hammock setup learned to dial it in and I've never looked back..I sleep like I'm in the arms of the Mountain Angels...I do use a tent set up when situationally required..And every time I remember how much I love my Hammock..
I've often thought, if I sleep this well on my last night on earth because a bear comes and noms me up... then I've made a fair trade.
As a hammock camper, one huge con that was missed here was the difficulty of finding a spot with two trees that are the right distance apart to hang between; especially if you're in the SW, there won't always be two trees where you're camping
Hence why it's important to carry a sleeping pad instead of an underquilt, and an emergency bivvy
@@pedroclaro7822 that's totally true, I always think about it tarp + hammock + sleeping pad is the most versatile combo.
@@alvaroelmanco43 yeah, tarp is a tent in a pinch.
If you have a fixed amsteel Ridgeline in your hammock it doesn't matter the distance apart of the trees as long as your straps reach...Not a big deal if you have the correct setup...
I've been waiting for this video for years. I agree 100% with what you and Frozen said. I would only add 2 things:
1) Occasionally it's difficult finding trees to hang from that are healthy enough, the right distance apart, and don't have any widowmakers waiting to drop on you in your sleep.
2) The cost of a good hammock setup (hammock, bug net, suspension, tarp, top quilts, underquilts) is almost always going to be more expensive than a tent. Don't make the mistake of ordering a cheap mass-produced hammock.
At my age (almost 50), I prefer hammocks. They are just much more comfortable if you do it right. But it takes a lot of research and time and adjusting each time you set it up. If I was in my 20s again, I would probably still be doing tents, since they are indeed simpler.
About cost: It's surprisingly easy to DIY a hammock, suspension, and bug net though. I even DIY'd my top quilt (which I do admit, was a time consuming process, so your miles may vary on that one). Plus, I'm not sure you can lump the cost of your top/under quilt in with the hammock to compare to the cost of *just* a tent. You'll still need a sleeping bag/pad combo if you're tenting.
When you have sciatica and love nature!!! Hammocks are a God's gift baby!!!! Hammock gang always!!! 🔥
I have sciatica too, but as a woman, I’d feel super unsafe alone in a hammock 😭
@@leleprtk How is that any different than being alone in a tent? Neither one is going to protect you from any serious threats. The feeling of safety you get from sleeping in a tent is entirely mental.
@@leleprtk Somehow for me, being off the ground actually makes me feel safer. I feel like I'm floating up high where nothing can get me, even tho I'm just a foot off the ground. Give it a try, you might be surprised!
Having the space to physically react quickly to any threatening event is why she may feel safer in a tent, over a hammock.
Darwin, I am old enough that I have trouble getting up off the ground. It is a hammock for me for my AT through-hike in 2021!
I plan on going NOBO 2020 or 2021 . Planning bug net/tarp setup , never tried a hammock
My favorite thing about hammock camping, as opposed to tent camping, is the "airlock" you get with the area tarp. You can take off your wet gear outside the "bed" of the hammock, while out of the rain.
Speaking of tents, would love to see a detailed video on setting up once your in camp, tent, guylines, getting water, where you store your food for the night, etc...
Thanks!
Hey Darwin, I am a hammocker and the number 1 reason I use a hammock is because of my back. Every time I go out tent camping with my wife I always wake up with back pain. Sleeping in a hammock is soooo comfortable and my back feels great the next day unlike if I were sleeping on the ground. That is just my preference due to back issues. I think even if I did not have back problems I would still sleep in a hammock because it is such a wonderful night sleep. Great video....
I appreciate Darwin's open-mindedness on the subject. I recently discovered hammocks and it has completely changed my outlook and motivation for getting out on the trail. Ultimately, if you want to really want to see some of the choice wilderness areas in the world, you gotta be willing to commit and take backpacking serious. However, in order to take backpacking serious, you also have to mostly enjoy it even if sometimes it also requires enduring it. And in order to be able to enjoy it (and sometimes endure it) you really have to figure out what works best for you or you just won't be motivated to do it... and you'll miss out on what the wilderness has to offer.
Unfortunately, for me, sleeping on the ground was never restful, even as a spry younger lad. But at least when I was younger (and fitter and stronger) I could endure the lack of restful sleep better. Now that I'm older, with kids old enough to join me, I want to get them out in the wilderness; but sleeping on the ground for more than a night or two just wasn't working for me anymore. It was too much endurance and not enough fun anymore. That's why, for me, discovering hammocks last year was a game changer. And, ironically, while you might think the difference in weight of a tent vs. a hammock would be a deterrent for a guy complaining about getting older and being less able to endure it, in reality (and somewhat paradoxically), being willing to carry those extra ounces is the difference between wanting to keep backpacking at all, or simply giving it up altogether except for the occasional overnighter.
Yes, hammock systems are often somewhat heavier especially depending on the season. BUT (there's always a big but, and it's usually mine)... these days I'm willing to pay the weight penalty for two significant reasons. First the weight difference really isn't huge for me because I make my own lightweight gear for and can do so for a very reasonable price these days. But, secondly and more importantly, because I sleep so much better in a hammock, I'm finally getting sufficient and real restorative rest again so that the extra little bit of weight is no longer really noticeable. For me, the ability to enjoy (and sometimes endure) a longer backpacking trip simply comes down to having sufficient energy each day, which comes down to getting good sleep and waking up feeling truly rested and restored. I envy Darwin for his ability to get that while lying on the ground, but I simply was never able to get restful sleep on the ground. And that's why I've become a hanger.
All that said, if I could get similar restorative rest sleeping in a tent, I probably would've stuck to my tent and saved some money (and weight). So, if tents work for you, that's great...and I say 'thank you' for leaving the trees to those of us who need them! Great post Darwin, good luck and sweet dreams on the trail this season!
As always, Darwin.....Great video. It shows that you put a lot of thought and care into your productions. I really appreciate the links section. I am a diehard hammock fan. The comfort (meaning rest) that I get from a hammock setup justifies the weight and fiddle factor. Soon to be 60, I don't get good rest in a bed or on the ground. If I sleep one or two nights away from my hammock, my back aches and the day doesn't start out as good. Thanks for another great video!
Well done guys! I personally love to hang from the trees. Just a comfort thing for me. But I do use a bivy and sleep on the ground when bikepacking. Looking into Maybe getting a new ultralight tent for the bikepacking trips.
Thank you sharing this video! Mostly I tent person because I wear knee brace and had trouble once sleeping on a hammock my brace keeps leg straight and have problem keeping head up because I have reflux disease!
Thank you for making the video Darwin! I get TONS of questions about hammock camping and now I can just refer folks to this video :)
🤙🤙🤙
Hike On,
Darwin
Another pro for hammocks is when you FART , you don't have to sleep with the smell it'll drift away, Not so lucky in A-tent
If all is equal, hammocks all day long. I'm with Frozen, hammocks mean great sleep. Sometimes I dont want to get out of my hammock. In a tent, I'm tossing and turning all night. It all depends on the trip, though. I use both depending on conditions.
As always, great video! In general, I'm 100% with you on the privacy aspect of the tent. I've never never done anything more than a long weekend hike (3 nights) and greatly enjoyed being able to get in my tent, lay all my stuff out, have everything enclosed in my space, and then zip up my door and shut the rest of the world out. All that said, I have a hammock set-up as well (just an Eno), but I just use it for day trips when I hike up to a nice ledge with some trees and hang out (literally) for a few hours. As much of an introverted loner as I am, I just couldn't imagine not being enclosed in a tent overnight. Maybe I'll give it a chance some time, but I'll stick with my tent for now.
Nice video. I actually use both and make selections based on where we go and what our goals are. Your video quality is always so clear and bright. Nice work.
Nice Strategy! Thanks for the kind words, I try...😂
Hike On,
Darwin
Great video! I’m a hammock camper myself, but the arguments you make in favor of tents are extremely valid and thoughtful. Great work as always! Thanks!
Hammocks, Mostly the comfort and for me its a much warmer way of sleeping.Yes there is a learning curve and in the beginning I was not to sure about this hammock thing that was 7 years ago.
Great content! I use both depending on weather. In the southern U.S. during the humid summers hammock with a bug net, tarp and small fan. After roasting in tents all summer the comfort and breeze of a fan is awesome! Fall and winter give me a tent. The Sun heats it up sometimes and with proper ground protection you will be warm. Agree with the privacy addition as well and keeping gear out of precip helps too.
Great points on both
Hennessy makes a good simple set up and especially if you modify its suspension to continuous loops
LOVE my Hennessy hammock. Finding smooth, level ground is not easy in the Rocky Mountains (says Captain Obvious)
Not stretching the last 14 seconds for maximum ad rev. You’re my hero dude
Used a hammock for the first time on trail, and I loved it. I'm never going back
Excellent video Darwin. You are spot on with the simplicity issue regarding tents vs hammocks. I started using hammocks about 1956 as a young Boy Scout. But, I've had to use tents as well. I own a North Face single wall tent. It is pretty easy to set up. As a con for tents, you didn't talk much about condensation. This is pretty much a non-issue for hammockers, except during the winter when they button-up their hammock to keep the cold out. As a con for hammocks, also consider the benefits of setting up in the "porch mode" and sitting and cooking, reading, talking. It is just a better set up during inclement weather. I actually set up two tarps and use one for sleeping within the hammock and one for sitting and cooking, reading, whittling, cutting firewood out of the rain, etc etc. But, the biggest reason I prefer hammocking is I do not enjoy crawling around on the ground and I certainly do not enjoy sleeping on the ground. On a comparison scale of 1-10, hammocks are a 9 and tents are a 3. Now, is you are talking about sidewall, canvas tents that are roomy and sleeping on cots. Then that changes the conversation completely. But, I know you are not talking about that kind of camping. Honestly, I think for balls-to-the-wall through hiking where base weight is a primary concern, then your approach is probably the best choice. But, then you embrace "the suck" and the inconveniences of a tent are no big deal for you. Easy up, easy down, and move on. You're the best at it.
Great video. Love the collaboration with Frozen
I’m in the hammock camp here. I’ll carry the extra gear for a better nights sleep. To date however I have never had bad weather to deal with and wonder if I will miss tent in a rain storm. Biggest fear is getting to destination and not being able to find trees. Hiked into a lake last year and could not find set of trees that would work, had to move on to the next lake. Still slept great however.
The most important disadvantage of hammocks for me, which noone seems to talk about, is the need for trees to hang it from. I constantly cross the tree line when hiking. One time a guy brought a hammock and needed to descend 500m from camp to set up his sleeping system. 500 m altitude is a lot and can make the difference when your day starts early and you need to summit.
With a hammock setup you can just as good sleep on the ground without trees. You have your tarp, so you can set it up as a tent with a walking pole or stick, maybe use the hammock as under sheet and voilla.
@@SmoothGefixt I'm sure it'll do in an emergency situation. And that's actually a good solution you bring up, that I will definitely suggest next time something like this happens. Regardless, it is undeniable that above tree-line, a tent is clearly the preferrable option. ;)
you can make a bivy tent with a hammock very easily, so that guy was just an idiot. You can sleep over water, above snow, uneven ground, and if need be on the ground as a bivy tent. You guys are smoking rocks with that dumb shit logic.
guywithbeard Interesting to come across this comment. About a month ago I was bikepacking with some guys and two of them were hammocking while the other two of us were in tents. We were in a desolate northern Arizona juniper forest where the few trees were stocky, far apart and pretty weak. One guy went to ground while the other guy found a perfect hang between the only two strong and tall junipers around for miles. The guy on the ground hung the middle loop of his hammock bug net over a branch and made a net bivy out of it. I was surprised that was their choice given the trip conditions but it all worked out in the end; didn't look that bad to me.
@@WildlandExplorer All depends. In the UK and Scandinavia you simply don't see hammocks in the hills. Trees are just too few and far apart, and the weather can be savage so you want a proper stormproof shelter and not an improvised tarp.
I like your mentality about having a "place" and your video is good because it stays on point. Thanks, well done!
I love tent camping, but I have neck problems. If I sleep more than a day on the ground, even with a pillow and decent pad, I'm an unpleasant person to be around. I sleep like a baby in a hammock with a small pillow behind my neck, though.
I am a total Hammock guy.. I have a light weight tent I use when my girlfriend and I go hiking, but I sleep super comfortable in my hammock and I can be in my hammock just as fast as any tent dwellers. To each his own. Love your videos, keep them coming!!
how about the biggest con for hammock, you need 2 freaking trees.
EXPmusic no need...
@@stefanekmartinko How so?
Never camped somewhere where there were no trees around... So not really something that limits you
If I have a rainfly (and you should on any thru-hike) then you always have a basic tent.
You're going to find campsites with no trees in only a few types of locations.
-A desert
-Above the treeline on a mountain
-Urban settings like parking lots.
In the case of the parking lot, this is usually not a problem. Plenty of other things to hang on, like cars and fences.
Even in a case where there's only a single tree there are a number of ways to hang a hammock on a single tree. A common method involves using a branch to run a bit of line to the ground and that line and a prussic knot become your second tie off. In another, you hang it over a branch like a swing and lay sideways for a night. In another, you can guy a sturdy treking pole as a second tie off point.
And it's worth noting that there are ultralight gantry systems that you can hang on every single night trees or no trees. Adding them to your pack will add weight but may not when compared to most free standing tents. There are also a number of Treking poles sturdy enough to hang on when properly guyed with earth anchors. Earth anchors could be ultralight screw-type anchors or ridiculously ultralight retrievable trapping type anchors.
Regardless, and in any of those cases you can always set up nearly any tarp as a stick tent as per the video above. In terms of ground insulation, those who use underquilts may be uncomfortable but there are plenty of hammock users who use pads just like tent campers. And in terms of a dry floor, you can either add a dry floor option to your pack or reuse another silnylon tarp, use an oversized tarp and fold it in half for the a-frame setup, or simply go without.
I prefer an oversized tarp myself as it can be used to keep wind out in some configurations or double as a dry gear floor when going to ground. For thru-hikes I prefer the incredible comfort of an underquilt but grudgingly take a closed-cell matt if I'm unfamiliar with the trail or it has significant cold sections with no hanging option.
When comparing hammock setups to setups like pole tents as above there is a weight savings but that saving is slight enough that it really boils down to how well you sleep in either or.
I prefer confined and warm comfort. When I'm in chilly or cold conditions I prefer a hammock to a tent or a pad. When it's raining and I'm hiking for more than a day I REALLY prefer a hammock. Toss up your rainfly (or in my case and oversized tarp) and you have a dry work area to start getting your gear sorted out while standing. In my experience setting up a tent in the rain is going to get you wet. You toss it out on the ground and by the time you sort out staking and placement the waterproof floor has collected little puddles and if you're not very careful mud and dirt that won't dry up until a few days later. Then there's the getting into it while decked out in rain gear without getting soaked. I usually manage this by just leaving the raingear on until I've entered the tent and guess what? The little droplets on my raingear collect on my floor to join the ones that snuck in while I was setting up the tent. Those puddles end up either keeping you up at night (making you cold) or worm their way into your pack for a nice soggy hike the next day. I NEVER have these problems when setting up a hammock setup in the rain. You always get wet but I've had good luck keeping things simply moist and not soaking when I'm hammock camping.
In a hammock setup once you have the rainfly up you can take off your rain gear and start working your way through your fairly dry pack. If you set up the hammock right away you have a table. Or you just hang the pack on the ridgeline and have access to it there. The ridgeline under the tarp (in my setup) is made of zing-it so I can hang my pack from that and have full access to it without it ever touching the ground.
For me after a long day of hiking getting up and down and up and down just kills me. Crawling around on stick or rock infested earth where your knee seems to find the only lego in the whole damn forest. The hammock, however, is a damn fine chair before it's a bed. All of your camp business can be done standing or sitting comfortably. This little princess can never seem to feel the pea.
Then there's breakfast in bed from the hammock. I'm not sure about other people but it's become one of my favorite parts of camping now. I use a solo stove most of the time and I can use it without fear of burning the floor or lighting myself on fire. And because my pack hangs just above me, I can do the entire thing astronaut style without ever leaving the comfort of my warm little bear burrito.
You can be a purist if you want. Hammocks are just the way some of us camp now. I don't ever see myself preferring a tent pole setup now that I've gotten so spoiled. You're entitled to your opinion for yourself. I thought I'd give you some insight thought because your comment seemed a little misinformed.
These videos are all by "Shug" as he's known on the hammock camping forums. He's kind of a celebrity in the hammock camping world.
Here are a few references for my text wall:
th-cam.com/video/2kPvSn5_T58/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/0j54vMKGhiQ/w-d-xo.html
Single tree stuff:
th-cam.com/video/57I_HLsEnbc/w-d-xo.html
www.instructables.com/id/One-Tree-Hammock-System-Ultralight/
No tree:
Whole variety of options here... sectionhiker.com/portable-hammock-stands-for-camping-by-derek-hansen/
One of the better ultralight stand systems I have owned (10.5 oz) theultimatehang.com/2012/12/11/handy-hammock-stand-review/
You know why the handy hammock stand isn't sold anymore? Because no one needs it. They just go to ground on the very rare occasion they can't figure something else out. So for one or two nights, they sleep like a caveman. Then the rest of the time they sleep in a hanging hotel room still worth the trade.
I think your comment is better stated like this:
"How about the biggest con for hammock, there's a slim chance you'll have to go back to sleeping in a tent just like the one in this video for a night or two."
Hammock for sure. I’ve got a nice system down that involves less cordage to put up my tarp, and I don’t mind the underquilt setup, just a couple carabiners. I also find it really nice to use my hammock as a chair or almost as a recliner. And also to use it as a platform to organize my gear. I do enjoy tents but I’m a heavier guy and find I get much better sleeps in hammocks. I just simply find it much more relaxing being in a hammock though. Love the vids man!
New subscriber here. Although I really miss the coziness and the privacy of being in a tent the #1 issue for me was the quality of sleep as I got older. The hammock, particularly the bridge hammock, changed all that for me about 3 years ago. I get so much better sleep in the hammock. Once you get all your components dialed in set up is a breeze each time. Excellent comparison video, btw...
Great video as always! The addition of Frozen to give the hammock side of the issue was an excellent idea. Your videos/content keep getting better!
A decent hammock is lighter and smaller than a similar tent. It's much more comfortable to sleep in. If you're camping wild and there are trees about then the hammock wins. If you're in campsites or areas with few trees then the tent wins. You can pitch a hammock on flat ground but you lose all the advantages. Also, remember to use straps around the trees so as not to damage the bark.
Holy Crap!!! My two favorite hikers in 1 video!!! Love both of you guys.
Depends on the goal. For one person comfort, a hammock setup provides comfortable sleep and separation from the ground. And where there are plenty of trees to use like on the AT it makes sense. For doing trails where trees are limited then a tent setup will be all around the way to go. Hammocking just isn’t as intuitive as laying on the ground so there are a few skills to learn but they are skills that can easily be used when tent camping, like familiarity with knots.
Thanks for your comments and review. I took my first tent setup for my first 3 day section hike with a super cheap(but lightweight tent) in 2016. Used a hammock on my last non backpacking trip last year(2 nights camping) and heading out now for 5-6 days with the hammock and realizing it is a bit heavier with all the necessary setup as mentioned!
Still, I'm not planning on super long or fast distance coverage and will give myself plenty of setup time so that's less of an issue I think for my mentality.
Why does this video have dislikes ?? Literally the most unbiased explanation ever.
Dude this video is so high quality, I love that you brought someone in who knew more about hammocks. Got the sub from me for that for sure.
Awesome to see Frozen in the video. Hikers no mater where we sleep are hikers. I've got to agree with Frozen and it does take ALOT of research to get hammocking done correctly. there are so many variations of hammocks now, they can be affordable to very expensive. Sooo many add on's and different ideas out there. I've personally felt the rewards of a great night sleep in a hammock and it's hard to go back to ground. thanks for putting it out there to many who have never really thought of hammock camping. So many TH-camrs out there have done an excellent job at showing the in's and out's of the craft. "Whoooo BUDDDY!!!"
thanks for a great video!
Darwin, Great Video, been following you and Frozen for a while. I'm a hammock guy! I did the tent thing for a while. As an East Coast backpacker, especially on the AT, a hammock is the way to go. Keep up the great videos, enjoy all of them, thanks!
6:22 I walked into my local outdoors store, bought the first hammock I saw and had the best night of sleep I've had while camping. This point is very subjective.
Nice video. There is a third option. I have an 8 x 10 ft tarp with mosquito netting sewn around the ends. I generally use it as a ground-dweller with the tent supported by one or two trekking poles. However, if I can't find a decent spot to pitch it for sleeping on the ground, I can hang my 9-ft hammock inside with my inflatable sleeping pad as insulation. This opens up a lot more options for stealth camping. The main benefits of the tarp - hammock - sleeping bag - sleeping pad option is flexibility and weight. The disadvantage is this setup doesn't work as well as a dedicated hammock rig or a quality tent. I am looking forward to your future videos.
I find that tents are extremely comfortable. I just make someone else carry my cot.
Ticky Tacky lmao
I'm a hammock kind of guy. If I just want to rest for a bit or cook some food, I can set up my tarp in a few minutes and have cover from rain, sun or wind. If I don't find suitable trees I can use the hammock as a bivy tent with the tarp set up with trekking poles. The inflatable mat is light and small, so it's nice to bring as a backup.
And I sleep so much better in a hammock. No pain in my back or hips, like when sleeping on the ground.
Darwin & Frozen in the same video!? Great video indeed! Thanks guys!
Who the f is frozen?
I see your points about the pros of tents. But i am definitely a hammock guy. It gives me the best sleep. I use a ENO JungleNest. What i love about it is that i can hang it anywhere. But i also can use it as a bivy in case there are no trees. I lay down a sleeping pad, place my hammock on top, use my trekking poles to prop up the net and tarp. Totally works. If there are trees, i find setting up a hammock quicker. And i dont have to worry about flat ground or mud. My hammock set up is actually pretty light. Yes, in cold weather an under quilt does add an extra item...but i just stuff it in with my top quilt. And if i am traveling in hot or tropical places...i can leave it at home. I do have a tent, but i hardly ever use it now. It’s all good tho. Whatever works for you. ✌🏼
Darwin is the man!!! He has been an extreme motivation to me and encouraged me to start doing my own adventures! I have decided to document/vlog every adventure I do in effort to show the brutal yet glorious reality of the outdoors! Hopefully I don’t die hahaha, feel free to subscribe ! I really appreciate the support! Thanks again Darwin!
Thanks For Watching & for the Support!
Hike On,
Darwin
TRAIL CAM I just subscribed! I wasn’t expecting much since you are just starting out but it was really entertaining! Your awesome 🤙🏼 Really looking forward to your weekly videos!
Thx for the support Jake!
Great video. For me it depends on what I want from my sleep system. I’ve never been able to cook well from my hammock. It’s like getting comfortable on the sofa at home and everything I want is on a table just out of reach. But I’ll tell you, there’s nothing like setting up my hammock and tarp in porch mode, enjoying some amazing scenery and having a nice high and dry sleep. Also the tarp is great for getting out the rain super quick when needed.
I went on my first multi day backpacking trip in about 20 years last fall. I'm primarily a hammock camper, but I took my tent on the trip. In hind sight, I'm glad I took the tent. I didn't sleep quite as well as I do in the hammock, but as you mention in the video, it was nice to get set up and relaxing in the tent. I've been using a hammock for several years now and there's still the fiddle factor of a hammock to deal with. Finding trees a good distance apart, the few minutes of fiddle factor adjusting the hammock and tarp etc. It was nice to get to camp, throw the duplex down and set it up. I can set up the duplex in about 3 minutes and get out of the rain. Inflate the pad and get settled in the tent is so much more simple. Also bad weather is an issue with a hammock. It takes a bit to get set up in wind and rain using a hammock. On windy days, I'm fighting a flapping tarp AND hammock the whole time which makes set up even longer. And then there's the down. If you get your down hammock quilts wet setting up in a storm you're screwed......for days. Your insulation is shot. It has to dry and that takes a long time and usually results in clumped down that has to be sorted out and fluffed and that takes a lot of time. So I have to be extra careful setting up in the rain to protect my down quilts. I've set up my duplex in wind and rain and it was so much faster and simpler. So yeah, for me, if I did a long trail, setting up in bad weather alone would probably have me leaning towards a tent. Especially the AT and all the rain on the east coast.
Great video and i loved that you included outdoor adventures I used both your channels for at least a year now and gained so much insight, I love the way you (both) clearly layout your points of interest with a bit of clever editing.
You answered my question. I'm sticking with my tent. I like my privacy. Thanks
I used to feel the same way. Warbonnet makes the Spindrift Sock that completely encompasses the hammock for added warmth and complete privacy
Balanced and thoughtful, with a special guest. Excellent video, thank you.
Hammocks: “set up anywhere” . looks around the hills I’m in for two trees near each other. Hmmmmmmm…
Great video - as someone who has used both methods extensively I will say this is a massive subject of discussion. Weather, terrain, gear, personal preference, and experience are all big factors. On some trips, especially above treeline or in the desert, I will use a tent. Typically, the hammock is my go-to. I've set up my hammock enough times that it is very quick to get everything ready, oftentimes faster than my tent buddies. Privacy isn't much of a concern for me, and the ability to hang up items on the ridge line gives me similar real estate to a tent - although cooking in the vestibule can sure be nice. This comment only scratches the surface of what I could say on the topic, but in brief - both options have their own niche, with a lot of overlap.
Damn that video quality is 👌💯. Looks sharp
Hey. Good video! I use a hammock when it is summer, but i use a tent when it is spring or autumn. One con is that where you keep your rucksack if it is raining or something like that
Maaan! Your camera lens for this vlog is awesome! 1080P runs flawlessly! 4K for what?? What kind of lens are you using? Camera as well...
CALHANGO agree. Amazing
Loved your video, and the special guest. Plus I found it fairly natural, despite the cuts ::)
Could not figure out how to use the hammock without trees. Tent with inflatable mat and pillow and a bag.
I’m not a distance hiker; I’m much more of a paddle/hike to a spot & stay a while guy. So I’m far less picky about base weight than I otherwise might be. Given the type of travel I prefer (kayak) and the places I go, a hammock is the system for me.
I just used my Eno DoubleNest for a three-day winter camping trip in central MN. It got down to -7F but I was cozy. I know for sure I would not have slept half as well on the ground and at 44, a good night’s sleep is more than a luxury when camping.
Great stuff as always, Darwin! Thanks for the introduction to Frozen. Gonna check his stuff out.
Wouldn't a lack of suitable trees be a con to hammocks?
Absolutely. Happened too frequently for me on AT so I went back to my tent. Nothing is perfect I'm afraid. Some folks will transition to using it as a bivy where trees are not suitable.
The comfort part is very important. I've heard of people who sleep in hammock even at home just because it can be that much better. Anyone with back issues that does it properly is going to LOVE hammocks.
The setup part is also very important. In the rain hammocks win, no doubt. You can much more easily set up in the rain, because you only really need a minute to fully set your tarp, and after that you're good to go, you're sheltered and free from the rain to set your hammock up and whatnot. I keep my quilts in the hammock to I really only have to install that once, I've set up camp in less than a minute, no joke.
The modularity is great because i can leave my tarp at home and just look at the stars while camping, or set up near a nice view for the morning. I can take a groundsheet if I want to or not. I might only take and underquilt if it's nice and hot. As a major downside, I can not use this in a desert, neither in most mountain tops nor in something like the grand canyon. Anywhere where a fire has recently ravaged a forest is also going to be problematic if there aren't big enough trees.
A hammock doubles as a chair and saves weight in that department. I've also taken mid day naps and set up my hammock in parks for a bit of relaxing
I still prefer it for all seasons tbh, but i need to have a backup ground set-up plan.
I’m a sleep in my car person 😂
Dirty mike and the boys!!
I'm a sleep in my travel trailer kind of person.
Oh yeah.....no zomvies will get you there, eh mate....!!!!
I’ve done tents for years, but now it’s all about comfort. Meaning I like the hammocks. Once you get used to set up it’s a breeze, much quicker to me than setting up even the simplest tent. When I’ve been hiking all day and know I have a big hike the next day I HAVE to have a good nights sleep. As it relates to privacy. A hammock offers you the ability to camp where ever you want, you don’t have to be huddled up next to tents on the only level rock less spot, you can set up anywhere you want. I’ve hung my hammock in some really awesomely beautiful spots that a tent would never be able to be set up, and I don’t have to disturb the ground as much. Last thing I’ll say, do what’s best for you, but I’m all about the hammock
I like his educated opnion but i love my hammock lol its awesome.
Super helpful. I was thinking about a hammock, but this convinced me that I'm way more a tent person. Thanks very much.
If you go to the tropical jungle or dense jungle you will see that you cannot find anyplace to set up a tent. But with hammock you can hanging it anywhere in the jungle.
I think it depend on what geographical area that you’re travel in.
Trying to sleep in the open in the jungle at night sounds like hell to me
Yes. In desert or plains, good luck finding adequate trees.
Excellent comparison. I respect that you brought in Frozen for the hammock pros and cons. You have another subscriber 👍
I am team hammock because of a better nights night's sleep. Getting to old to sleep on the floor.
Bears on AnimalTube are having this same discussion like “I like to attack and eat Hammock guys cause they are already rolled up like a juicy egg roll”
Right coz a tent would protect you more from a freaking bear 😅
giantfoam more than a hammock tho 😂
@@nathanjohn367 0+0=0
Set up higher in the trees with your hammock then... You know what bearbags are right? Just become a bearbag.