Backpacking Gear for Hammock Camping - Which Items to Buy First?

[@skeeterbone]

Great video!! My upgrade journey was very similar...I started out backpacking with a tent and cheap (and heavy) pack, already had a decent down sleeping bag (still use as top quilt). When I decided I wanted to transition to a hammock camping I got a VERY budget hammock w/ bug net without much thought really and an Ali Express knock-off of the Zpacks Nero. So my list is as follows... 1. Budget hammock (never even used) 2. Backpack (still using the Ali Express one) 3. Cuben fiber (Dyneema) tarp w/ doors (took 6 weeks for delivery) 4. Hammock (upgraded to a Dream Hammock Darien while waiting for tarp delivery) 5. 30 degree under quilt (also ordered and received while waiting for the tarp)

[@jamiemurphy980]

I started out with 60 lb of hiking into the woods for miles and miles at a time now down to 20 because I've been watching you and other people online thank you

[@stowe18]

Just got back from a week long island camping trip on Lake George, week before Labor Day -- my favorite place to "boat" camp. We like to hike up black mountain when we go.. great vid -- enjoy 'em all..

[@Lapeerphoto]

I am not sure of the demographic. But I assume the large majority here are backpackers. However, I am not. I Motorcycle camp. Which has many crossovers to Backpacking, but with a bit more latitude for weight. I don't have the priority of a ridiculously expensive tarp, "because it is so light". I prefer my slightly heavier tarp with reflective interior. It has made a HUGE difference on a couple very chilly nights. Good information. I'm always looking to upgrade my gear. But seldom based on weight. Size, somewhat. Thanks for sharing your experience. Other people's experience is always valuable. ~cheers

[@johnphillips3526]

Exactly what I did! Although I didn't go cuben, I DIY'd a hex tarp out of Dutch's Xenon .9, which is super light compared to the Hennessy Hex I was using before. I will now go back and upgrade my hammock to a Chameleon, then upgrade my underquilt to down, then finally, the cuben tarp. BTW, I went with the ULA Circuit for my backpack and saved 3 lbs over the High Sierra I started with. Love that pack!

[@flyrodhiker8326]

I started out with a backpack,hammock, under quilt. I just used cheap poly tarps for a tarp and a sleeping bag for a top quilt. I'm hoping to upgrade to a better tarp next. I love this video it starts a great conversation.

[@coyfish7091]

Started back into hiking/backpacking about a year ago and have been following similar path. Made the move to a hammock, then quickly added mid-level tarp and underquilt. Upgraded to ULA pack as first move to reduce weight, then got my Chameleon. Upgraded to nice 3/4 underquilt and snuck in lighter water filter. Ordering new, lighter top quilt tonight and snakeskin. Probably new tarp soon, but current one is fairly light. May get Duplex tent for ground trips next, but that will really challenge my ability to hide expenses.

[@claramullen]

Nice fade in. 1.hammock 2.cuben tarp 3.sleeping pad 4. Sleeping bag 5.backpack. live in Florida don't need a under quilt even in the winter.

[@sintax77]

+Clara Mullen Ah, yes - I didn't even think of climate as a factor for upgrade priority. Nice list!

[@DragonRoams]

Great video. Out of the gate I went straight for blackbird XLC hammock so I don't predict replacing that for a long time. I'm 6'4" and sleep amazing in it. 1. Under quilt to replace my DIY one. 2. Backpack my current on is 5.5lbs. 3. Top quilt to replace my down bag 4. Cuben tarp. 5. Hammock

[@hury0328]

Hey, Sintax77 pretty much spot on 1st time responding to any of your videos. But between you, Shug, and a few others. You folks have gotten me off my ass and back into the woods and on the trail. So thanks. Now back to the list for me 1) Hammock: Dutchware Chameleon double layer w/top cover & bug net. 2) Backpack: Osprey Stratos 50L for the upgrade from my MountainSmith Frostfire 2 (now used for winter) 3) Tarp: HG, Journey w/doors & pull outs poly nylon (upgrade from my 30 yr old EMS 4 season 2 person tent) 4) Under Quilts, HG Eno UQ 0° Full & 3/4 30° 5) Top Quilt, (still using snug synthetic sleeping bag 0° mummy) but going to be going with HG 30° the Borrow.

[@sintax77]

That's awesome, Chris. Glad to hear you're getting back out there! Great list, thanks for sharing.

[@242Shaker]

When I started out, I picked up the Osprey 50L pack, Hennessy hammock with Hex fly tarp and down sleeping bag. My first upgrade was replacing the sleeping bag with quilts. They fit better and take up less pack space. Followed recently with a cuban fiber tarp (weight/size). My next upgrades will either be the hammock or pack, likely the hammock to make a more significant decrease in overall space. Up until now, my concern was gear and shoes. I have downsized my cook and water filtration systems, and now own my 5th pair of shoes looking for the “one” pair that cover most options.

[@thomaszabel1521]

Since my wife isn't a fan of me spending money on hiking stuff, I will buy a new upgraded wife first. Then I'll go for a new hammock.

[@adrianmacklin418]

This was 2 years ago. Did you upgrade your wife and get your hammock lol?

[@user-0013-tx]

@@adrianmacklin418 this was 3 years, did you upgrade to a new wife and get your gear?

[@steelbob3]

I've been looking at getting into hammock camping and love the idea, but can't come up with a real compelling reason other than I'd just like to try it. My main reason would be to try to get my pack lighter. I know a hammock would be a lot lighter than a tent. But, it seems to me you wouldn't have much weight savings over a sleeping bag if you have to carry both an under quilt and top quilt. My other hang up is the ease of setting up my tent. It easily sets up in about 5 minutes, maybe less. Rigging up a hammock and tarp looks like it would take a lot longer. Accurate? The other reason for me is cost. I almost always backpack with either my wife or son. One tent, two people. Two hammocks, two tarps, four quilts, etc. would be a lot more expensive. Love your videos! I've learned a lot. I'd love to be convinced a hammock would make my experience better!

[@kcjoe82]

As you said assuming the person has a budget version of everything they need I would save the backpack for last. That way they have a little better idea of dialing in the capacity needed.

[@SoCalDaveL]

I was about to add the same comment. The gear taken drives the size/capacity of the backpack required.

[@scotts5993]

Started out backpacking with a hand me down backpack (still haven't upgraded). Started hammock camping this year. Made my own hammock (apparently saved some money and had some fun at the same time.). Next, I made my own tarp (12 ft. Silnylon hex tarp, cat cuts). The tarp is super lightweight, and very versatile (always take it hiking now, kayaking/canoeing). I do use my ground pad I the hammock when it's chilly, planning to make a top and under quilt in the near future. First, I had never sewn before, and my work is not perfect, but the gear works great and I am more that impressed with functionality! DIY!

[@sintax77]

Kudos on the DIY! I love that too, but I've got to work on my sewing skills, haha. I've done some minor projects with a 1950's singer clone that I found on Ebay, but I've got to step it up into some bigger projects one of these days.

[@scotts5993]

sintax77 my work is NOT all that impressive. But it was a fun project for me and my fiancé, and it's surprisingly functional. I think when it comes to cold weather, it might be worth it, in the long run, to go for the professional craftsmanship!

[@bernardweaver2416]

Great video, I love the progression. My own journey was similar to yours although I got a lighter cat cut tarp before my top quilt. I'm still using a sleeping bag half open while I wait for my new top quilt.

[@consumedesign]

When in the ADK head more North to lake placid area, it's amazing.

[@lisaray6493]

Hi Sean, I have really appreciated witnessing your evolution into a seasoned backpacker. You and Mike have really saved me the trouble of some costly gear trial and error. That being said, I still have made many upgrades of my own. I would love to see a video with your thoughts on selling and or purchasing used gear. What do you guys do with your old stuff?

[@forrestvining1459]

Started with a $40 hammock (that had a bug net built in) with my tent thermarest and sleeping bag to see if I would like it and justify all the money that would be needed for a real setup. Then upgraded to Hennessy Jungle (was onsale at the time) for the dual layer and Hex Tarp, then bought backpack. Used this for a year or so. Upgraded to the kickstarter Dutchware Chameleon, bought a Outdoor Vitals 20 degree underquilt, and using a down throw blanket from Costco (700 fill and only $20) as an overquilt. Currently in the process of upgrading wife and kids setups before buying the cuben fiber tarp.

[@sintax77]

+Forrest Vining That's a nice progression and gear load-out right there :)

[@bearbones9761]

Used an eno for ever with pad and bag, baught a hg incubator, new suspension, and a kammock roo then never looked back. Picked up a burrow, whoopies, and a gregory paragon pack for an AT section last year. Making the move on a chameleon and winter dream this morning. New pack when rei dividend comes out next month.

[@uptrail7169]

I started hammock camping in the same order as you. We are still using the Edge tarps from Warbonnet. They cost about $100 each and weigh around 11 oz. I still like buying and testing Dutch's hardware! My new Darien Dream Hammock should be coming soon to add to my hammock collection! Hurry up with the part 2.... LOL One last thing I'm still not a big fan of the woopies having used them several times this summer. The cinch buckles are quicker to setup and they seem to work better with close trees. Any updated thoughts about hammock suspensions?

[@benjamintodd3323]

Original Buy in; 1 hammock, 2 tarp, 3 UQ, 4 TQ, 5 backpack. Upgrade; 1 hammock, 2 TQ, 3 UQ, 4 tarp, 5 backpack. If I were to do it by cost/weight; 1 camp kitchen set up 2 water filtration/carry, 3 shoes, 4 clothes, 5 pack, 6 tarp, 7 hammock, 8 quilts top and bottom.

[@benjamintodd3323]

to be clear; I purchased 20* quilts first, and 40* set as my upgrade to adjust and balance out for 4 season range.

[@sintax77]

Awesome, thanks for sharing!

[@jeffsmith7617]

Whoa, whoa, whoa...what do you mean not everything in life is about backpacking??!?!? Now I'm going to have to sit down and re-examine life itself! This is the most thought provoking video ever! 😉 Seriously though, thanks for the vid! I can't make myself pull the trigger on the Cuban fiber. I've got a warbonnet cloudburst that is pretty light and does the job nicely. I do need to upgrade my underquilt and topquilt. Currently, I'm using the snugpak synthetic ones. They do the job but they are heavy.

[@wideone23]

Pack is huge... I'm still rocking an LL Bean "100 Mile Wilderness" Pack. The thing's a Cadillac. I mean cushy AND heavy. 6.5 lbs dead empty. Now, it can carry 40-50 pounds no problem, but if you can take 3-4 pounds off your pack, that's huge. The rest I can't say, but another factor is durability. A lot of times when you go "ultra light" you'll sacrifice some durability for weight too. You see thru-hikers replacing some ultralight packs at 1000 miles / 70 nights in. How long will it take you to hit 1000 miles? maybe a factor, maybe not. Just $.02

[@tommillard3878]

Underquilt!!! been hammock camping for 3 years and I havent had a good nights sleep until i got my Hammock Gear 0 UQ last year. Now i sleep like a baby. Not everything is about weight but down saves space too.

[@Chuck-a-Palooza]

Spot on Syntax on covering the question. I went budget or diy on those items to see if I'd stay with it and then started upgrading. I just ordered a down underquilt to replace the synthetic 3/4 jarbidge and will probably stick with the diy tarp for a while. I do wish I had bit the bullet and got the underquilt first (before the topquilt). By the way, I have that same t-shirt - my wife hates it!

[@sintax77]

+Chuck Carter Haha, nice. Sounds like we're on the same page with fashion as well as gear. I love DIY and improvised gear.

[@robins1241]

Hey! Not sure why folks give a thumbs down on you vids. They are always informative and like you state it's just what worked for you. I don't always agree with your reviews of equipment....but I do enjoy your perspective. Thanks for your vlogs. Oh by the way....where's part 2? haha jk

[@Devil0983]

I still don't have a underquilt and topquilt. Granted I don't do a ton of miles, I prefer to do more bushcraftish type stuff, maybe 10-15 total. When it gets cold, I just go to ground.

[@OUTDOORS55]

I've never been able to sleep well in a hammock (I've tried a lot even bridge hammocks). I would recommend trying to sleep in one for a week before you buy anything else as it may not be for you. Just my experience. I am a little "different" though 😉 So I may be in the Minority😀 Hey shouldn't you be slaving away behind a computer editing, so we can have some more free high quality entertainment! J/k 😉 Enjoyed the vid my friend 👍😉

[@Judaddy1]

Best point I think you made is your investment into items like a backpack as opposed to a tarp. You will get far more bang for your buck in weight savings for certain items. Like the dyneema tarps, although awesome you are spending 50-100 dollars per ounce saved essentially. To upgrade a backpack you can spend 50-100 per 1-2 pounds saved

[@kevinbungles]

Hammock (11 foot ), under quilt, top quilt, tarp, backpack. In the UK. So this would be my proffered upgrade sequence

[@fastcircuit]

Hey sintax77, what do you think of the Granite Gear Crown 2?? More I look into it, the more I like it. Take note that I'm coming from a 4lb and some change Kelty to that light weight monster. Thoughts?

[@swnorcraft7971]

Nathan, I wonder if OV understands that comfort in a hammock means a diagonal lay. The reason I say that is: their Mummy Pod and their Aerie unit both seem under sized especially in the length. Comments?

[@inthewoodswithbigfoot3941]

I started with a great mid grade hammock set that I found on sale from Yukon Outfitters. I stuck with the sleeping pad to keep my options open for going to the ground when necessary. I don't use a sleeping bag. Instead I use a blanket. It is a great system for me. Also I use a Yukon outfitters El Captain waterproof pack, because I also canoe camp. I try to stay somewhat universal so that I don't have to buy so much gear and still be quite comfortable. I really enjoy your videos as well as other KZbinrs and have used a great deal of information to formulate my setup. Thanks for all of your info.!

[@thelookouthostel6631]

Hey just met you at the MAHHA hang. This video is exactly my dilemma. Should up grade to cuban tarp with doors. I have a Hennessy Exp ZIP that I swapped out all my suspension.

[@sintax77]

Hey, Bernadette. Yeah, those models with the doors certainly do look nice. Just got back for a rainy trip on the Loyalsock and while my regular hex did okay, the doors would have certainly added extra peace of mind.

[@thelookouthostel6631]

@@sintax77 I think i will upgrade. Any suggestions, was thinking Dutch

[@sintax77]

Yup, I would say Dutch or Hammock Gear. Mine is an HG back before Dutch made tarps, but I'd say the quality is going to be awesome with either. It might just come down to whichever has the type of dimensions you prefer.

[@stephenpinder1903]

Great video - I was hoping you'd do something like this as I'm a hammock camping novice. Looking forward to BSF part deux. Did you enjoy it enough to return someday?

[@lanedouglas2165]

Backpack first, most weight savings for money. Tarp next, then hammock. Quilts require more discussion. Not sure weight savings will be a factor in regards to quilts.

[@paulkick7870]

Hey Sean, in your opinion what is the best chest rig for the Aukey camera? Thanks, Paul

[@briscohikes1889]

If there isn't an obvious need for a replacement. Then we like the weight/cost ratio concept. Cost per oz.

[@reaganl.5113]

I find the Cuban fiber not a value for the weight savings. Go with poly or silnylon as you can afford. Many gram nerds may disagree. You get more bang for the buck with the pack, and you can get a decent sub 3lb frame pack used on eBay for $50 or less (Coleman Peak1) that are about 55L size. I agree with the use of a pad prior going with an underquilt. Really depends on what temperatures you are planning on camping in, as to whether or not to bother with a down underquilt. If your not going camping when the temps are below 45-50F at night don't bother. Use a sleeping bag for a top quilt rated for BELOW the temps you will be camping in. Get what you can afford, until you know for sure that backpacking and camping are a pass time you will continue to enjoy, then dial in your comfort items. There is no reason to blow $1000 on gear you will only use twice a year...

[@rich196611]

I have been watching your videos for a few years now and really want to make the move on hammock camping instead of tent camping because you make it look so fun! My girlfriend and I love to tent camp but my 2 lb tent (the one I use for backpacking) is so small and cramped, it seems that you have more freedom with the hammocks.. is that the case? I

[@sintax77]

Yes, I would have to agree with that. For a similar weight as my old 2 person tent, we can both have our own hammock and tarp to hang out under. Compared to a roomier 3 person tent, we're actually saving weight. On our recent Adirondacks trip last week, we started using the double hammock system to hang on a single pair of trees under one tarp. We haven't invested in a lightweight tarp for that yet (we used a large old school tarp instead), so it was far heavier, but there's some serious potential for weight savings once we find the right tarp.

[@rich196611]

sintax77 I loved the video on the double hammock system and that's what really got me thinking about it where I would still be close to my girlfriend it makes it that much more desirable.. we love our 3 person tent but it's 6 lbs so I invested in the light weight 2 person which would be gear for 1 person but like I said it's so small and cramped! Thank you for the feedback I really appreciate it. I have to say your videos got me back into hiking and backpacking I think it was the one wheee the four of you hiked up to Mt Crawford spent the night so want to thank you for that!! Always a fan and look forward to the next videos as always Stay safe and have fun!

[@TheDunzweiler]

Enjoy the posts, subscribe and got a brand new It's Cheeseburger Time tee.... Sweet light weight knowledge! Thanks Brother!

[@sintax77]

Thanks, Dunz. Glad you're enjoying :)

[@failedclown36]

what about upgrading from the supercat alcohol stove?

[@fastcircuit]

Have you seen mac-gear yet syntax77? They seems neat, think I'm going to get one of their top quilts. What do you think?

[@sintax77]

+Fastcircuit No, I haven't checked them out yet. Thanks for the heads up.

[@joepreciado1]

Thanks for all your vids .... great information

[@jstone401]

There are some nice trails up here in the lake George region . Did you get a chance to experience any?

[@sintax77]

We did a three day base camp an hour or so north of Lake George along the Dix Range, summiting Beckhorn and Dix Mountain on the middle day. Afterwords we returned to Lake George and spent our time lounging and recuperating along the lake, so we didn't do any real hiking in that immediate area. I do want to do the Tongue Mountain loop over there someday though.

[@denali9643]

First things first: tremendous T-shirt you are wearing there!

[@sintax77]

+Denali 96 Haha, thanks. :D

[@danem.9571]

You need the hammock to sleep and camp 1. You need the tarp to stay dry! 2. Save the weight and get the pack 3! Then it's time to get pricey and get your bottom then top quilt 4 5! Then you can get all frustrated because by this time new, cooler, lighter, gear is now out so you start the process all over again because your a gear junkie!!!! 😛

[@sintax77]

+Dane M. Haha, pretty accurate right there.

[@jamiemurphy980]

I would say the underquilt in the top quilt would be the best one

[@michaelsylvia8129]

When are you and Sara going to pop out some little sintaxx77?

[@242Shaker]

No fair, I am actually backpacking at this very moment. 👍🏻

[@sintax77]

+SHAKER242 Dude, I was wondering where you were :) Enjoy they trip!

[@242Shaker]

sintax77 btw, love the shirt 😬

[@Kerobinson15]

Love your videos

[@shawnpire9061]

I get my pack last so I know what size to get

[@robertfrederick9061]

Geez Loiuse, I know I'm old when all you young fellas/lasses only know how to throw sheckles at a pastime. I use my old super down insulated underwear when it gets nippy at night in the swingy thing. There are very cost effective & light weight insulating materials at the hardware store that put an "under quilt" to shame but sadly folks don't reason things out.

[@robertmeintzer]

FIRST ITEM TO BUY IS A BOOK! IF YOU CAN READ! LOL SECOND IS SAVE UP A LOT OF MONEY! CAMPING AND BACK PACKING IS NOT FREE!!! THIRD IS BUY CHEAP! HELL YOU MIGHT NOT EVEN LIKE DOING IT! FORTH CAMP IN YOUR YARD OR THE CLOSEST PLACE YOU CAN! 5TH AND MOST IMPORTANT, BE SAFE! ALWAYS BRING A FIRST AID KIT AND A PHONE! GOOD LUCK! I HOPE YOU ENJOY IT! IT CAN BE LIFE CHANGING!

[@hipgroove68]

Only 15 min? Damn you ok?