There’s no better way to relax at your campsite than from the comfort of a body-cradling hammock. You set up your tree straps, hang the hammock, and hop on in. You sigh contently, acutely aware this is a fantastic way to enjoy the view.
Here’s our guide to the best camping hammocks for side sleepers and a couple accessories you might want to bring along.
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2023’s Best Camping Hammocks
Wise Owl Outfitters Single or Double Hammock
The Wise Owl Single Hammock is the ideal combination of comfort and durability.
Weighing in at just sixteen ounces, this lightweight option includes nylon ropes for hanging and two steel carabiners.
Everything packs down into a compact, drawstring stuff sack that comes trail ready — all you need are two trees or hanging points.
A cool bonus feature? If you’re having problems setting up your hammock or tying the appropriate knots, the company will send you an email with easy instructions. You might want to get those instructions before your camping trip unless you know you will have data service.
ENO Eagles Nest Outfitters SingleNest or DoubleNest
The SingleNest is rated to hold 400 pounds — a popular hammock robust enough for camp use and light enough for backpacking.
It packs down into a softball-sized stuff sack so you can toss it into your pack and forget that it’s there.
It’s important to note that these hammocks do not include the straps, but you can purchase them separately.
The DoubleNest hammock is constructed similarly to the SingleNest hammock, also rated to 400 pounds, but designed for two people. These products feature heavy-duty triple-stitched seams and quick breathing nylon.
Winner Outfitters Double Hammock
This two-person hammock is ideal for when you’re camping with a loved one or close companion.
Supporting up to 500 pounds, you won’t have to worry about this hammock buckling under a heavy load.
The Winner Outfitters hammock includes tree straps and a suspension system so that you get everything you need in one package.
Quick and easy set-up means less time fiddling with your camping gear and more time lounging. Weighing in at just 1.5 pounds, this hammock makes for a coveted trail companion.
Honest Outfitters Single Hammock
The Honest Outfitters Single Hammock supports up to 400 pounds and only weighs 1.2 pounds.
Set up is easy and requires just a few minutes so you won’t waste any time getting to that point of ultimate relaxation.
This affordable and high quality hammock boasts soft, parachute nylon material that is durable and mildew-resistant.
2 Must Have Hammock Accessories
Bear Butt Kodiak Straps
If you’re looking to make your hammock extra adjustable or need some additional length for suspension between distant trees, the Bear Butt Kodiak straps are exactly what you need.
These burly straps offer 20 combined feet of length, one inch of width, and 40 combined attachment points — so that you can get your hammock positioned exactly how you want it.
Forget tying knots — the Bear Butt Kodiak straps exist to make your outdoor adventures more accessible.
Bear Butt Rain Fly
For those wet, rainy days when you want to spend time outside but still stay dry, consider purchasing a Bear Butt Rain Fly to use with your hammock.
It’s compatible with any kind of hammock and requires just a few knots for setup.
The rain fly comes with its own guy lines, grommets, and stakes — so you don’t have to purchase anything extra.
The material is comprised of tough polyester and coated with polyurethane (PU) to ensure complete protection from the elements. Seek escape from the rain or sun from the comfort of your own hammock.
How to Buy the Right Hammock for Camping
Things to Consider
Weight
Although weight is not as much of a consideration for camping when compared to backpacking, you’re still going to want a hammock that’s relatively lightweight and easy to carry.
How well it compacts down is also a concern so you don’t take up too much space for your other outdoor gear.
Consider the weight of the hammock itself and also the type of suspension system you’re bringing along. Most of the load weight will come in the form of tree straps, carabiners, and slings. The hammock alone can weigh anywhere from a few ounces to a few pounds.
Dimensions
For day use, you don’t need an overly wide hammock as you won’t be sleeping in it — except perhaps for a short nap. Wide hammocks are designed to allow you to stretch out and vary your sleeping position — more ideal for backpacking.
Unless you’re an extremely tall person you don’t need an extra long hammock, either. Choose something relatively small and light as you’ll only be using it for an hour or two at a time.
Capacity
Depending on whether you camp alone or with a companion, you can choose between a single or two-person hammock. Would you enjoy cuddling with your loved one on top of a mountain? Look for a hammock designed for two. If you’d rather have separate lounge spaces, consider purchasing a single hammock for each of you.
Suspension Systems
Hammock setup requires a suspension system, which may or may not be included with the hammock itself. Be sure to check whether or not you need to buy one separately when purchasing.
Different suspension options include webbing straps, synthetic tree slings, and nylon ropes. The hammock attaches to the suspension system using carabiners. Hammocks with lots of attachment points make for ease of adjustment.
Hammock Weight Capacity
Hammocks have weight limits ranging from 150 pounds to 500 pounds. When purchasing, consider your own body weight and if you might end up sharing your hammock with another person or dog. For example, if you frequently lounge with your large husky, you’re going to want a heavy-duty hammock.
Hammock Accessories
Insect Protection: If you’re going to be camping in a really buggy area, you might want to consider getting a bug screen for your hammock.
Rainfly: If you’re campsite experiences wet, rainy conditions, you’ll want to purchase a rain fly for your hammock. When a storm rolls in, it will be nice to hang out in your dry hammock, protected from the elements by the rainfly.
How to Hammock Responsibly
- Make sure your suspension system is wider than 0.75 inches in width or use tree protectors so you don’t damage tree trunks
- Don’t hang your hammock on dead trees
- Hang your hammock more than 18” off the ground — or you might wind up laying on the ground due to the sag factor
- Be aware of your surroundings when you’re hanging your hammock — be sure you’re not damaging or interfering with fragile plant or animal life
- Leave no trace — similar to a campsite, leave your hammocking site exactly as you found it
How to Hang a Hammock with Straps
Follow these 4 simple steps to hang your hammock and get relaxin’ in no time!
1. Pick Proper Trees
Utilize two living trees about 12 to 15 feet apart. You want to pick out trees that are a minimum of six inches around — the bigger the better as you’ll want to put as little stress on the trees as possible.
2. Hang Anchors Head High
Hanging your suspension straps about 18”-24” above the ground is ideal. Be sure to use wide straps or tree protectors.
3. Tighten It Up
Attach your hammock to your suspension system using carabiners and knots if necessary, then tighten up the knots as needed.
4. Test it Out
You won’t be able to tell if you set up your hammock successfully until you lay in it. Give it a try — does it sag and hit the ground? Then you need to tighten up your system or place your straps higher up on the tree if the system is not very adjustable.
Wrapping It Up…
When you’re hanging out in your hammock at the coolest lookout point, you’ll encounter fellow camper looking on in jealousy. Why didn’t they think to bring a hammock?
Don’t be that guy or gal — equip your closet with the best camping hammock for a side sleeper and wake up feeling refreshed for whatever the outdoors brings you!