First hammock trip success warm & cozy in cool temps

[zerobasecamper163]

Took my new hammock out for the first time on a weekend trip near the Smokies. Used a lightweight setup with a 45-degree quilt and underquilt. Temps dipped into the low 40s and I stayed warm and cozy the whole time. Anyone else making the switch from tents lately?

 

[cougarmeat]

zerobasecampe, your first post - Welcome to the forum. Congratulations on a successful first night out. Many people, including myself, feel a little uneasy on their first night in a strange place - whether it's outdoors, visiting a friend, or elsewhere. But each night it gets better and better. Soon, when you return home, that "home" seems like a strange place.

 

[CaffeinePoweredLife]

Took my new hammock out for the first time on a weekend trip near the Smokies. Used a lightweight setup with a 45-degree quilt and underquilt. Temps dipped into the low 40s and I stayed warm and cozy the whole time. Anyone else making the switch from tents lately?

Congrats on the successful first hang! The quilt combo held up well for low 40s, which is no small feat. If you're planning more shoulder-season trips, consider adding a top cover or sock for wind protection and condensation control. Have you tested your setup in rain yet or thinking about a tarp upgrade?

 

[thementalmechanic]

Nice, I myself I'm new to the forum and I made the switch last season and haven't looked back, its way lighter to pack and honestly more comfortable than sleeping on the ground. Only downside is scouting the right trees, but when it works out it's perfect

 

[cougarmeat]

thementalmechanic, when you are ready to consider it, look at the TensaOutdoor Solo Pole. It will eliminate the need to have two good trees, with the tradeoff of having to establish solid ground anchors. There is also a product that replaces standard trekking poles with a pair sturdy enough to support the hammock. It is a few steps more expensive than the solo pole. The solo pole is enough of a Plan-B for me.

I used the solo pole successfully, every time, on this adventure: https://tinyurl.com/mr2nccvw

However, on a subsequent adventure, I had anchoring challenges - all a learning process.

 

[Mclicks]

I switched to hammock camping about two years ago, and honestly, I haven't looked back since. I started off with some car camping trips to get the hang of everything, and once I felt comfortable, I dove into backpacking. The difference in weight is just amazing especially since I don't need to lug around a sleeping pad anymore. Finding two trees to hang from is usually way easier than trying to find flat, rock-free ground to pitch a tent

 

[caldwell-0100232]

I agree with them! Hammocks also let you camp in spots where a tent might be tricky, like uneven or rocky ground. As long as there are trees spaced well. It is a different style of camping, but for some it ends up being easier on the back and more relaxing overall.