This is a gear review about the best backpacking hammocks on the market in 2022.
The best ultralight hammocks can make a great addition to your backpacking trip. It can provide bring ultimate relaxation, allowing you to set up anywhere with a good book and take in the views whilst swaying between the trees.
But this is why it’s so important to buy the right one. You want one that is durable, compact, comfortable, lightweight, reasonably priced, and isn’t going to break.
With so much to consider, buying the perfect lightweight camping hammock can be an overwhelming task.
Below is a guide to the best camping hammocks for backpacking, as well as including a super handy buyer’s guide to point you in the right direction and a list of frequently asked questions if you’re still unsure about something. Take a look below.
Best Backpacking Hammocks 2022
The Best Backpacking Hammocks for 2022 are:
Best Ultralight Backpacking Hammock – Overall 2022
Hammock Gear – The Wanderluxe – Ultralight Kit
Weight: 33oz / 935grams
Pros:
> Dyneema Hammock Tarp included
> Kit includes everything including Stakes, cord, bug net, and more
> Good price
Cons:
> Not much
Hammock Gear has one of the best ultralight hammock setups with their complete hammock shelter kit called The Wanderluxe.
What I like about the Hammock Gear kit is that it includes everything you need, and I mean everything.
The Hammock Gear Wanderluxe Kit includes their best lightweight camping hammock, their top-of-the-range Dyneema fiber hex rain tarp, integrated bug net, ridgeline, carabiners, daisy chain tree straps, titanium tent stakes, and Dyneema stuff sack. This is the complete ultralight hammock kit. There is also the option to add a discounted ultralight quilt too.
The quality of this setup is great and this is best suited to ultralight backpackers or thru-hiker who wants an ultralight hammock kit that has everything. Thinking of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail? This is your thru-hiking hammock setup.
Overall, this is the best ultralight backpacking hammock shelter on the market. Best for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers.
Best Lightweight Backpacking Hammock 2022
Hennessy Hammock Ultralite Backpacker Classic
Weight: 1 lbs 15 oz / 868 g (inc rainfly and bug net)
Pros:
> Environmentally Friendly- Tree hugger webbing straps included.
> Durable- Built to last.
> Easy Access- Bottom entry with velcro strap.
Cons:
> Fiddly- Lashing can be fiddly and hard to hold the tension on the rope that’s quite thin.
Here is another one of the best lightweight camping hammocks, the Ultralite backpacker classic by Hennessy Hammock. This hammock tent is one of the ultra-lightweight hammocks that is both super easy to set up and super easy to get into, making it one of the most popular hammocks for backpacking on the market.
The Hennessy Hammock camping hammock has an asymmetrical shape and a structural ridgeline which ensures you will be comfortable all night. It is a classic bottom entry with a velcro closure so there’s no hassle getting in and out.
The hammock shelter is designed for anyone up to 200 pounds and 6 feet tall and built to last.
You can also mix and match your hammock by adding longer webbing straps, a bigger rainfly, and extra insulation.
Included with the hammock are attached bag nets, a detachable rain fly, support ropes, a stuff sack, and complimentary tree hugger webbing straps to protect the bark of the tree. So what’s not to love?
Overall, the Hennessy Hammock shelter is one of the best ultralight hammocks for ultralight backpackers and long-distance thru-hikers.
Best Lightweight Camping Hammock 2022
Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock
Weight: 7.2oz / 204g (no rainfly or bug net)
Pros:
> Small- Compact and portable when compressed.
> Breathable- Made of Nylon 66 monofilament.
> High Weight Limit- Can hold up to 300 pounds.
Cons:
> Features Sold Separately- The net and tarp are not included.
Next on our list is the Sea to Summit Ultralight Hammock. This is a great hammock for recreational day-trippers and backcountry trips. It’s easy to set up and will provide ultimate comfort in half the size of other designs.
When compressed, the Sea to Summit camping hammock measures only 4.5 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches and so it is perfect for fitting in even the smallest of backpacks.
Its small design comes down to minimalist aluminum buckles and low-density fabrics. The compression sack is still big enough however to store the Ultralight suspension straps.
Despite its small size, the Sea to Summit hammock still holds up to 300 pounds of weight and when unfolded, measures 118 x 58 inches. It’s built to last and is made out of Nylon 66 monofilament which breathes and wicks moisture.
This means it’s great for those humid and warm climates! You will need to purchase the Sea to Summit Hammock Bug Net and Nano Tarp separately but once you’re equipped with these, you can create the perfect insect-free shelter.
Overall, this is another great lightweight backpacking hammock and the best budget hammock for lightweight backpackers.
Best Camping Hammock 2022
Kammok Mantis Ultralight All In One Hammock Tent
Weight: 2 lb 4 oz / 1021 g (inc rainfly and bug net)
Pros:
> High Strength to Weight Ratio- Stong, yet light materials such as SpiraLine.
> Insect Repellent- Dragonet mesh.
> Easy Step Up and Take Down- Knotless suspension and a quick tear down.
Cons:
> Material- The material can rip easily if you exceed the weight limit.
The Kammok Mantis Ultralight All in One Hammock Tent is one of the great camping hammocks that is going to promise to lighten the load on your back, as well as lengthen and significantly improve your camping trip.
Created from Levitas 20D nylon ripstop, this hammock promises to last and the python straps are constructed with SpiraLine, which are even stronger than steel, yet light enough to float on water, meaning the hammock has incredible strength without you having to carry extra weight.
The Dragonet mesh protects you against all kinds of insects and the built-in pockets and structural ridgeline allows you to keep your personal items on you at all times.
Its customizable features also protect you from the elements but when the weather is clear, roll back the fly and look through the Stargazer panel to see the sky.
The Kammok Mantis Ultralight All in One Hammock Tent is easy to set up and takes less than 60 seconds with a knotless suspension. This means you won’t have to mess around with tent poles and knots. When you wake in the morning, simply tear it down with its quick tear-down feature, and away you go on your next adventure!
Overall, I like the Kammok Mantis Ultralight All-in-One Hammock Tent setup. This is one of the best camping hammock tents.
Best Hammock for Car Camping 2022
ENO subLink Hammock
Weight: 2lbs 7oz / 1.45 kg (inc rainfly and bug net)
Pros:
> Strong yet Breathable- Made of 30D Ripstop Nylon.
> Insect Repellent- Includes a Guardian SL Bug Net.
> Easy Step Up- No-knots-needed setup.
Cons:
> Bug Net Fitting- The bug net can be tight.
The all-inclusive and ultralight SubLink Hammock shelter system from Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO) promises to keep you dry all night and completely insect bite-free. You’ll be prepared for any climate with this hammock and with its quick and easy set up you’ll have a hassle-free experience every night.
The ENO SubLink Hammock shelter system is one of ENO’s lightest designs, yet is created with strong and breathable 30D Ripstop Nylon, that drys super fast.
The rain tarp included is streamlined and also uses ultralight materials which is great to add to your backpack for sudden downpours or even using it to shade yourself against other elements.
The set comes with a Guardian SL Bug Net, which features an integrated ridgeline for sleeve-like access and a J-shaped zipper for access that is as fast and easy as possible. It has a quick no-knots-need setup and so you’ll be protected in no time.
Finally, the Helio Suspension System promises the perfect hang with Microtune Adjustment technology and again, a no-knots-needed setup. So if you want something that’s easy to set up and offers ultimate protection, look no further than this SubLink Hammock System.
Overall, the ENO SubLink Hammock shelter system is another great hiking hammock for backpacking or car camping with everything included.
Best Double Hammock 2022
ENO Double Nest
Weight: 1 lb. 3 oz. / 539 grams (no rain fly or bug net)
Pros:
> Quite Lightweight for a double hammock
> 400lb / 181kg weight limit
> Durable
> Choice of several colors
Cons:
> Too heavy for most people to take hiking
> Need to buy Tarp and bug net as extra add ons
The ENO Double Nest Hammock is one of the best double hammocks for two people. The large size hammock is great for two people to use for car camping or as a lounging hammock at home.
It is compatible with the full range of ENO accessories so if you want a stand for home or a rain fly, they have you covered.
The ENO Doublenest two-person hammock does not come with an integrated bug net, straps, or rain tarp so if you plan on using it anywhere except at home in good weather be sure you buy the extras.
One of the best things about this double hammock is the huge choice of colors, there is sure to be one that will fit every style and every personality.
Two-person hammocks like this one will be best suited to car camping, stringing up between palm trees at the beach, or lazing around at home. Especially if you find a place to bolt it to the wall or buy the hammock stand.
Overall, this is a good double camping hammock. It is also the best budget hammock for couples who enjoy hammock camping at home and as a camp hammock.
Hummingbird Hammocks Ultralight Single Hammock
Weight: 5.2oz / 147 g (no rainfly or bug net)
Pros:
> Small-Smallest design on the market.
> Strong- Made of PIA-C-44378 T4 Certified Reserve Parachute Fabric.
> High Weight Limit- Can hold up to 300 pounds.
> Ultralight
Cons:
> Features Sold Separately- The net, straps, strap extensions, and tarp are sold separately.
The Hummingbird Ultralight Hammock is without a doubt one of the smallest and lightest hammocks on the market and so is perfect for those single campers who want something that isn’t going to weigh them down.
It weighs less than a lemon so you’ll hardly be able to feel it and since it is smaller than a coffee cup when packed away, there will be ample space in your backpack for it.
Despite its tiny size, it still is able to hold up to 300 pounds and is designed by an FAA Certified Parachute Rigger. This means it brings in parachute technology which is something brand new in the hammock world.
The Button Link attachment system contains no metal parts, making the pack as lightweight as possible and it is lock stitched with Nylon Thread.
It’s built with PIA-C-44378 T4 Certified Reserve Parachute Fabric which is what makes up a jumping parachute system, meaning it has incredible strength and will not break on you whilst sleeping.
This fabric is not coated either and so will never feel clammy or sticky on your skin in hot weather. Since it’s also windproof, this hammock is great for every climate!
Overall, these are the best camping hammocks on the market for lightweight hiking.
Warbonnet Outdoors Original Blackbird
Weight: 15.75oz / 447g (inc bugnet but no rainfly)
Pros:
> Comfortable- Made with cotton-feel fabric.
> Large- 7” wide strip netting to make a wider body.
> Insect Repellent- High-quality mosquito net.
Cons:
> Need Extra Protection- Mosquito net doesn’t reach underneath you and bugs might get through the stretched taut. Extra protection may be needed.
As the hammock that built the company, this hammock is short, lightweight, and has a non-removable net top. It is available in the Dream-Tex Fabric which was built exclusively for hammocks.
The hammock construction uses a traditional ripstop weave alongside a bias-directional diamond grid to replicate a material that feels like cotton. Yet it also has a great strength-to-weight ratio.
The hammock has a 7” wide strip of netting to raise the canopy’s edge height above the face. This means the entire width of the hammock can be used, meaning you have a wider body but at a lighter weight than other designs.
The elastic side guylines allow you to pull the netting away from the face too and they can be removed if necessary.
The noseeum mosquito net unzips on the entrance side and can be folded when not needed. Even the suspension options can be removed and changed around.
Suggested for users under 250 pounds and 6 feet, this hammock is perfect for your average camper looking for something practical and lightweight.
Overall, this is the best hammock for lightweight hikers, just add a lightweight rain fly tarp and you are good to go.
Buyer’s Guide
When buying a new camping hammock for backpacking, there are so many factors to consider. From weight to dimensions to strength, there is a lot that goes into your research before finding the perfect one.
This guide to help you out and highlight what you should be keeping an eye out for when looking for the best hammocks for backpacking.
Weight And Packability
If you plan on traveling far and wide with your camping hammock in your backpack, you’re going to want something lightweight and compact. The Hiking Hammock needs to fit in snugly and not weigh you down on the trail.
Luckily, a lot of the best camping hammocks that are designed for backpacking trips are now easily compressible, but ensure you read up on this feature first. You’ll also need to take into account any accessories that come with it as these can take up extra room and add extra weight.
The best camping hammock might need some camping accessories such as tarps, gear sling, spreader bars, straps, or bug nets and though they are needed with some camping hammocks. Sometimes they fit into the little compressible bag so it might be worth researching this too if you’re a smaller camper or have a relatively small backpack.
Hammock Dimensions
You’re going to need a hiking hammock that fits your body. This will provide ultimate comfort and therefore, the best night’s sleep. You need to note down how tall you are and then add a little room on either end so that you don’t feel restricted.
One top tip would be to buy a double hammock even if it’s only one person that intends to sleep in the hammock. A double hammock offers much more room for optimum comfort. But these are best suited as a car camping hammock as the extra weight might not be appreciated when backpacking.
The width of your hammock is down to personal preference. If you like to wrap up at night, buy a wider design so you can almost turn yourself into a cocoon.
Strength and Durability
After a long day hiking, the last thing you want is your hammock breaking. This is why you want a camping hammock that is strong enough to hold your weight and durable.
You need to know how much you weigh and compare it against the maximum weight capacity of your chosen hammock. Overloading can not only cause the material to weaken and break but reduce its overall lifespan.
Having a strong hammock doesn’t always have to break the bank either. Just ensure you find something with high-quality, long-lasting materials that have been tested and reviewed.
Suspension System for Hammocks
The suspension systems are what help to hold you up at night. The best hiking hammock will have a hammock suspension system that consists of straps and carabiners. Yet some hammocks don’t have a proper suspension system at all.
If you want to be flexible with where you set up your camping hammock, however, make sure you opt for a hammock with longer straps as part of your suspension system. This means you’ll have more options with your attachment points and can stretch them enough to reach generously spaced-out trees.
Moreover, if you want to opt for something that doesn’t require too many tricky knots, go for a daisy chain or carabiner setup but if you want to build your own, you’ll need whoopie slings and a suspension system.
Knots for Hammocks
There are a couple of different knots you need to know when hammock camping such as the Bow Line, Taut Line Hitch and a couple more.
Whoopie Slings
Whoopie Slings are the best choice to hang a hammock for ultralight backpackers and hikers and in most cases, they are the best options to protect the trees.
They are not only lightweight be easily adjustable due to the simple knot that is adjustable and holds weight quite well. Whoopie Slings are also good to use for hammock tents to protect the trees.
The Hammock Gear Whoopie Sling is a good choice.
Daisy Chain Straps
The Daisy Chain Straps are more common for car camping or hammocks for the backyard. They are super simple to set up and the easiest suspension system for beginners. Simply wrap the daisy chain strap around the tree and clip the hammock in.
Where to Hang
Make sure you take enough rope and slings to tie between trees that are quite spread out. It is best to try and find trees about 12 inches in diameter to ensure you have a strong tree and are not stressing the tree too much. Also ensure you are using common sense and not stringing the hammock across trail or access areas for both humans and wildlife. If in bear country ensure you are well away from your bear canister or bear bag.
Hammock Camping Accessories
Most hammocks come equipped with an integrated bug net, tree straps, tent stakes, sleeping pad, Under Quilt, and a rain fly, some are not included and you need to buy these hammock accessories.
Just a note that most people use an under quilt when hammock camping as most sleeping pads are too bulky to use on hammocks.
Rain Flys, Hammock Tarps and Shelter Systems
You will need to have one of the best rain flys for hammocks when hammock camping. The hammock shelter can come in many shapes and sizes. There are a couple of things to consider when looking for a good quality hammock shelter system.
- It must cover the entire hammock to keep you dry.
- It should be lightweight
- It should be waterproof
- It should pack up to a small size if you are backpacking. Not so important for car camping.
I wrote a guide dedicated to rain fly and tarps for camping hammocks. Take a look at the complete guide to the best rain flys for hammocks.
Some of the best hammocks are even waterproof themselves so keep an eye out for this as when that sudden downpour appears, the last thing you want is to end up being drenched right through.
Tent Stakes
Most hammocks that use a Rain Fly will also need good tent stakes to peg out the edges of the fly. When shopping around try and find the Best Ultralight Titanium Tent Stakes, even if they cost a little more. They will help keep the weight down to make backpacking a little easier.
Bug Nets
Whether you use integrated bug nets or something that you tie up to the main line is up to you. Unless you are hiking in the lifeless deserts (unlikely as you may not have any trees) or in a cold weather and winter camping, you will need a good bug net.
Under Quilts and Sleeping Pads
Most people use Under Quilts when hammock camping. They have good insulation and add to the comfort of the camping trip.
Most people do not use sleeping pads. They tend to be too bulky and don’t work well when hammock camping.
Purpose
The final thing you may want to consider is the purpose of your hammock. The purpose will affect how much you want to spend on your hammock, how heavy you’re willing to carry, or how many extra accessories you are going to need.
Ultralight Hammocks for Hiking
Since this is an article about which is the best ultralight hammock for backpacking, you’re going to want one that is suitable for backpacking trips. Hammock weight is one of the main things to consider when looking for the best lightweight hammocks for hiking.
There is a difference between a day trip and a thousand-mile-long adventurous thru-hike. Ultralight hammocks are usually made from a strong ultra-lightweight fabric that is durable and strong enough even for heavy hikers.
Camping Hammock
When it comes to camping hammocks they need to be comfortable and for some people, a hammock tent is a good option with everything included.
If you plan to use your hammock for sleeping in instead of a simple shelter when it’s warm out or to relax around camp, you’re going to need one that’s a lot more durable, weather-resistant, and insect-proof, so consider this before spending your money on something that isn’t suited for your individual situation.
Car Camping Hammock
For car camping a camping hammock can be simple or even a good cheaper camp hammock will be enough for a camping trip. Weight is not the biggest issue so look for comfort.
Backyard Hammock
A backyard hammock is not really within the scope of this gear review but any of the camping hammocks in this review could be used as a hammock in the backyard for lazing around, reading or chilling out. Most are heavier in weight and use a large spreader bar to make a flat hammock. Others are well-rounded like a banana shape. Either will be good for chilling out.
Budget Hammock
There are many good budget hammocks on the market. And many in this gear review are reasonably priced. If you want top-of-the-line ultralight fabrics with all the accessories then the price goes up compared to a hammock to laze around on at home.
Leave No Trace when Hammock Camping
When hammock camping makes sure you use wide tree straps that do the minimum of damage to trees. In fact when using your hammock setup, ensure your suspension system does not do any damage and when you leave your campsite there should be no evidence that you have been there, other than your photos.
Leave no trace of your trip so others can enjoy their own experience in nature.
Price and Value
Hammocks are certainly not cheap but they are kind of like tents when it comes to price. You can get cheap ones and expensive ones, and the price is often a good guide to the quality and features of the hammock. In many cases, you will need to ensure you have all the hardware, rain tarps, and mosquito net to find out the real cost. Specialist ultralight backpacking hammocks will be more expensive than camping or backyard hammocks.
Conclusion
Overall, the best backpacking hammock for 2022 is a choice between the Hennessy Hammock Ultralite Backpacker Classic, the Hammock Gear – The Wanderluxe – Ultralight Kit, and the Kammok Mantis Ultralight All In One Hammock Tent. All the best camping hammocks are lightweight, durable and very well suited as a hiking hammock for overnight hiking or long distance thru-hiking.
Any of these 3 camping hammock kits for backpacking will serve you well and I have a very hard time separating which of them is best but Hammock Gear – Wanderluxe Ultralight Kit is just ahead due to the use of titanium tent stakes and dyneema fiber tarp and stuff sack.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can create your own hammock camping setup by adding individual components to your current hammock.
However, like some of the kits we have recommended above, a prepackaged “hammock tent” is your easiest option and saves you worrying about if you have remembered everything.
If you are going to create your own, however, you need to remember to pack a hammock, a suspension system, an underquilt or sleeping pad, a rain tarp, and bug netting.
In certain situations, hammocks can be better than tents. For example, if you want lightweight, portable camping equipment for the ultimate backpacking adventure, a hammock is easier to carry around than a whole tent.
Moreover, to sleep in, they provide better back support than sleeping on the ground in a tent. However, bear in mind that tents are good in situations where you need a little more privacy, higher safety standards, and higher insulation value.
As a general rule, hammock campers go for a tent at around 32 degrees.
If you want to camp in a hammock in below zero temperatures, you need to do your research and go properly prepared with all the right equipment. You may even need to withdraw if conditions become too unsafe.
