I Tried Hammock Camping

I tried hammock camping for the first time! Using a budget set up I went to my local woodland to try out a hammock camp.
It’s still winter, but temperatures were still quite mild. My cheap down sleeping bag and budget under quilt kept me toasty warm. But warmth isn’t everything…
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Kalico Tarp : amzn.to/48na6ls
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#camping #outdoors #hammockcamping

[@DJMajickMan]

You need to watch Shug’s videos on hammock camping and try it again.

[@kgilliagorilla2761]

The Lord Of Lolligag!

[@LaconianConcepts]

Agreed! He’s the king. A poorly (or even just not ideal) setup hammock can make for an uncomfy night. On another note: there’s many things you can do (like running up the hammock before the tarp among other things) to make setup fast and easy once you know what you’re doing or have someone to share the secrets with you. Plus there’s a lot to be said of having the right equipment (types of suspension, tarp, and sleep system etc) that makes hammock camping lighter, smaller, less restrictive and easier than tent camping. Obviously to test it out before you decide you like it it makes sense to get cheap stuff. I have some chronic back pain and hammock camping is about the only way I can not piss it off. I sleep like a baby! And I can be setup in about 5 minutes all in… just takes knowing your setup. Anyway, love the channel… got you a sub!!!

[@jeremymanning2132]

Glad you gave it a go. The big advantage of a hammock is you don't have to find a flat spot to pitch, just 2 trees 3-4M apart. Ideal in places like Scotland or Wales in wooded areas. Setting up does get much quicker with practice and if you get the height right it can be used as a chair too. Of course it's absolutely useless if there are no trees. 👍👍

[@sergeyloverow2105]

Just an idea if you can't find a perfect spot for a tent or a hammock, bring an ultralight bivy (many options such as tyvek) with you just in case you need to take a rest. You can use it in a tent or hammock too it adds a few degree warmth.

[@Truthwillalwayswinoverlies]

You do know There is hammocks/bivy tents that can be placed on the ground like a tent are hung in the tree like a hammack best of both worlds nightcat flat hammack is a game changer 👍🏻

[@jeremymanning2132]

@@Truthwillalwayswinoverlies I have seen them but haven't tried one yet. Seen some mixed reviews on them. Have tried a bivvy, ok in emergencies but would never use them for any trip longer than an overnighter. After 54 years of wild camping I can honestly say a good tent beats everything else I've tried but it's an individual choice. 👍👍

[@Truthwillalwayswinoverlies]

@@jeremymanning2132 I've used it for 12 days as a bivy no bother with it and as a flat lay hammack it's way more comfortable than regular style hammock.. Just always bring a tarp and adjustable hiking sticks to pitch for Cookin sitting station. Depending on the weather. Yes what ever works best for you stick with it 👍🏻

[@ksgonewild]

It is a faff but it does get easier and for me it’s the most comfortable sleep I’ve ever had camping with my dodgy hips 😂 Kudos for giving it a try, especially on such a rainy night!! 🥰🥰

[@DaleyOutdoors]

The sound of the rain was the best thing about it 🤣

[@Gladtobemom]

Priorities. First you put up the hammock, then put up a ridgeline, then the tarp. Practice! I can pace off my distance between trees (12 to 20 feet, so 4.5 to 7 steps for me). I carry some extra dyneema cord in case my straps aren't long enough. Hang the hammock so that its lowest point is right for you. For my mayan hammock, that's above the knee, for my camping hammock, it's just below my knee. To get into a hammock, stand with your back to it, pick up the far side of the hammock with one hand, pull it up onto that side shoulder and hold it, then take hold of the near side near your knee with the other hand and sit back. double wide is always best for a hammock, the most comfortable is to sleep on the diagonal.

[@ChiefScout_Outdoors]

Well done Ben for giving it a try. Give me a shout and I’ll bring a few different ones for you to try, I’ll set them up for you, so you can see how good they can be. I don’t think you chose the best location for hammock and Tarp set up. Getting the right distance is always a must most hammock are 10/11 feet long so over 4 meters I like 5/6 meters. Good to see you took the tip of ground mat. Please give it another try. All the best fella Johnny 😊👊🔥

[@justinsaint6786]

Its definitely not for everyone Ben, but does get easier and more comfy once you get your set up right. Im out for a dangle myself this week.

[@daitallon]

First time I hammock camped, I used a dd ultralight tarp, snugpak cocoon, and ultralight hamock, it was minus 3, and i was boiling in the cocoon (no sleeping bag). I'd watched several vids before going, so set up was pretty good for first time. Only mistake I made was i never realised the cocoon was tapered (wider at shoulder end which oscar outdoors had made me realise later on) and slept wrong way round. Next time was easier. And now can set up pretty much in a similar time to setting my tents up. If right it is so comfy. And the first time i went, I saw a doe and her baby deer virtually right next to me. Just a tip, tie some strings dangling down from straps to draw rain water away from hammock.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Yeah I did the string thing to stop the rain getting into the hammock 👍

[@gre8]

Hammock camping is the go to method for Brazilian special forces operating in the amazon. They note a few advantages over tents: Easier to keep dry in the very humid Amazonian environment. Stays away from the countless insects that roam the ground. Better air circulation. Of course, the amazon is an entirely different biome, but it would seem it is one case where the Hammock proves to be a better solution than a tent.

[@heyduff]

Hammocks are not for everyone. It takes some fiddling to get it right and if just casual camping, tents are the way. As I see below, watch some Shug videos if you want to learn about hammocking. I could see some things that could have made your night out better, but even if all those things were done, I still find it take quite a few nights out to get everything just right. Mind you, the reward is a luxurious night of sleep, but it is a bit of a journey to get there. Good on you for giving it a go!

[@justinjewell8329]

Tarp and hammock for me for sure . Took me a couple of tries to get the hang right but once youve got it sorted its a great sleep and no concerns about a badger biting your face off .

[@saxoncrow2500]

It happened to you too?? Bastard badgers!

[@andrewcrofts531]

It's all down to practice...... the gear you have is OK, but there is much better available. Keep at it, try different locations and different set up's in relation to the hammock tension and tarp hight. You'll soon suss out your best and most comfortable set up. I tie my hammock so it is taught between the trees at high chest hight, slightly higher at the foot end. This gives me a near flat lie of sleep diagonally. Under quilt needs to be loose fitting so it traps the air and isn't compressesd when you lay down. A good pillow makes all the difference too. Don't give up on it yet, you'll grow to love it. Keep safe. Cheers.....

[@allieandmaria]

Practice Ben, it gets easier. Kudos for trying it when it's peeing it down. 🌲🌧

[@thebikepackingadventurer]

It’s a love/hate when it comes to hammock camping. Very much about finding a hammock that suits you though as if not comfy you get knee pain from bending legs the wrong way. Tents are way easier to whack up though but once a hammock/tarp setup is up it’s great. Added bonus of being able to see the surroundings being out the rain. Also the hammock is your chair too so less weight to carry.

[@umaiar]

Good show, not too crazy for a first attempt. My first two hammock overnights were a little rough, but I definitely prefer it to tenting. Some lessons I've learned... You can get skins, basically long fabric tubes, to hold your tarp and ridgeline together. A bigger skin can keep the hammock with the underquilt already attached. Once it's dialed in, it's a quick setup, and nicer in the rain since you can get the tarp up first and have lots of room to work. Longer hammocks tend to be more comfortable, and a structural hammock ridgeline make getting the hang more consistent between trips. I definitely wish I was local to you, I think experiencing an easy and comfortable setup would have you hooked. And there's no crawling around on the ground to get in and out of bed 😂

[@sheilahenry7279]

Now superior hammock gear has uq sewn in or hooked w/ snaps.

[@umaiar]

@@sheilahenry7279 Yup, and Dutchware has the Chameleon with a zip-on quilt. Love the concept ✌️

[@tonysutton6559]

Orange stealth guylines.😆😄 I love a good bit of sarcasm.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Me too 🤪

[@crazyhorsejohnny1974]

Sleeping in a cheep hammock is like sleeping on a cheep air mattress in a cheep tent. And like others have said it takes several times out before you get quicker and better at setup.

[@robharkness579]

Well done for giving it a go, I like both. I especially like the rocking of the hammock as it gets me off to sleep quicker than it does in tents.

[@dougdixonhull]

Well done, mate. You did an excellent job. I have done both hammock and tent camping and think they both have their place. If you have a tent with a hooked in inner that can be left set up for a quick pitch, you can do the same with the hammock and underblanket. Plus, have the guy lines ready connected so you can put it straight up. With a little practice you can put the this up within a couple of minutes. It's great in summer with the open sides. Loved the video.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Cheers Doug 👍

[@steveharlech4919]

I prefer hammock/tarp camping. No matter what the weather. D/D tarps and mat essential. Even better on a warm summer night with a nice view. Great honest video

[@shiftyferret9654]

Hennessy Asym Hammock. It’s not cheap, so probably not your channels target but it is WORLDS different that this. Set up is significantly easier. It comes in a ‘snake skin’ outer shell that splits in the middle. Tie both ends up with the ‘tree hugger’ straps(fast, easy and doesn’t damage the trees). Then all you do is peel back the cover and you have a cozy set up. With the Hennessy asym you enter from the bottom, it has an opening so you enter it by sitting backwards then pull your feet up and the tension closes the tent. Takes a little getting used to but it’s really worth it. No worry about rocks and roots and it really lives up to the ‘leave no trace’ camping style. I have a regular 4man Eureka! tent that I use when camping with others, but I LOVE the asym hammock for solo.

[@mattentwistle70]

It does take a couple of outings before you can do a quick set up. If i need shorter hammock straps i just wrap them round the tree twice to use up the excess length. I hang my hammock first and then set up my ridgeline and tarp. Onewind do a good tarp which is shaped so you can close the ends up and keep the breeze and sideways rain from getting in. Always have my foot end a little higher than the head as it stop me from sliding down the hammock during the night. Also, i prefer a down quilt rather than a sleeping bag. These are just things that have made my dangling better and more comfy.

[@SoloHiker1]

I was camping in the high mountains north of vail colorado. I was in a hennessy hammock. About two in the morning, something came walking around my set up. I felt like a burrito. I had a pistol in bear spray, but I was in a position that I was not able to use either. When I returned, I sold the Hammock.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

There are times when only a hammock will work, thankfully not many; but to that end, have a look at the Night Cat Lay Flat Hammock, that can also double up as a bivi style tent. In both modes, it works well (as a first time hammocker, who definitely doesn't sleep like a banana!)

[@RS-xq6je]

Adventures with the marine is an essential channel in my opinion for learning what size hammock and how to hang it, i was an avid tent man but finding forests with no even ground in sight but plenty of trees set me off

[@justin_smith556]

Try putting a tent in that spot then you will understand the beauty of hammock camping

[@dalejuhl8591]

Hammock camping is a preference thing 😊 You went out and gave it a try - There are variables which make each experience different, for your first time doing it alone and while it was raining and that changes things. Give it another try under ideal weather conditions the experience "might" be a good one for you. 😊

[@chrismoore600]

You gave it a good shot. Outstanding adventure.

[@damienlovestheoutdoorsandr6110]

I did hammock camping for the first time in 2018 at a bushcraft meeting. I was wary because my hammock did not come with some bits. But I managed to set it up and my tarp I enjoyed it. When packing up I was shown a easy way to pack up ready to get it all out again. The price you paid for the underblanket. You could of bought one from dd hammocks. Which are really comfortable and bounce back the heat. I also bought some woopie slings and karabenas. Now it's a breeze setting up. I hope you don't give up on hammock camping. One night I dosed off then about two in the morning. I heard a loud scream sounded like a woman. It was the call of a fox lol 😂

[@randybeeson3424]

To start with your hammock is way too short. It's also advantageous to have a tarp that has flaps you can pull together as makeshift doors. I've got over 600 nights sleeping in a hammock and it is superior sleep. The main thing is you need 2 trees of optimal distance apart however, with a tent you need a flat space with a cleared floor. Tents get flooded and or muddy to pack up in rain as well. I have tents and can have a tarp and hammock up in the same amount of time as pitching a tent and airing up a mattress. You can not lay diagonal in an 8 ft hammock and that's a must for comfort.

[@sadiejones7991]

That's the exactly what happened to me my first and last time camping in a hammock. It rained all night and I didn't sleep well at all. But I just watched a video on Y.T. channel "Clint Gibbs " and he was testing equipment for a bike packing trip and he used a hammock called a Warbonnet and it was different than those bundled up end hammocks. I may try it again with one of those. He said he slept good and he couldn't sleep in one bundled up at the end s. You might want to check the video out, it's short but that hammock looked comfortable.

[@mphgps7]

I agree....it does take longer to set up than a tent, the weight of my hammock set up is heavier than my tent set up 🤦 BUT I look forward to the challenge of finding the ideal trees and setting up my tarp and hammock. My main hassle is the sleeping bag with the zip on the side being awkward to get to hence why I've just ordered another (can never have too many sleeping bags) with a central zip. As others have said fair play doing it in crap weather....it's lovely in the better weather (if we get any this year)

[@sheilahenry7279]

Get a top quilt instead

[@jamesshepherd7727]

Definitely get a top quilt. Lighter and easier. The bottom of a sleeping bag is pretty much wasted weight. Once you crush the air out with your body weight the r value goes way down.

[@MrSheckstr]

In between my main tarp and my hammock i like to string a second line, from that line i can hang bug netting , a smaller lighter weight tarp, or even a blanket

[@fatmanfaffing4116]

My first attempt with a gathered end (banana) hammock was a disaster. I froze as I didn't know about underquilts, even though it was a mild spring night. I got the angles wrong and put the thing away for three years. Then I watched a few KZbins and got the right gear and it was much better. Then I discovered lay flat suspension hammocks! revolutionary!

[@matteotamberini2152]

I love both hammock and tent I tend to enjoy the hammock more these days Each to their own

[@michaelthomasen2190]

With my hammock gear, I can choose to make a shelter on the ground with the tarp or I can find a place to sleep between the trees when all of the tent spots are taken. With the tent, a bit of luck is needed to find that nice-and-even patch of ground. But it gives me more privacy, more shelter from the wind and a built-in mosquitonet. So it’s tarp when going out solo and tent when going with my wife 🙂. Both have their merits.

[@life-outdoors]

So many UK bought hammocks in my opinion are far too short. For me to be comfortable, it needs to be 11'-12' long. That's the only way I can lay flat. The angle it drops (how tight the hammock is), just a few mm can make a massive difference to the comfort too. It definitely is more messing about at first but for me, it's the most comfortable way to sleep. I've slept in one full time for 4 years now. The only exception is in a tent, I Wildcamp every weekend. I'd tried a few beds and was in agony after 3 hours and struggled to walk when I got up (I broke my neck, which is the reason). I can lie in a hammock all day if I wanted. I think most struggle because the hammock is just too small. I'm 180cm (5'11")

[@sheilahenry7279]

I read if under 5’6” get a 10’ & if iverva5’6” get an 11’

[@life-outdoors]

@@sheilahenry7279 That's what I've seen too, but I'd still go 11'+. Something I'd missed is, use a structural ridge line. It makes it more comfortable and makes it easier to get the correct hang.

[@S4MBAM]

Hey, I did my first solo outdoor sleep with a hammock this winter. First find 2 trees beeing around 14 feet away, measure it with your feet. I know recommended is tarp before hammock, but since we dont know what kinda hammock setting is the best for us we should do it first this time. You can setup a hammock sloppy, normal or tight this determens the sleeping position from curved to little curved to nearly straight. Is a hassle but try them for a few minutes and you will find your sweetspot. next time you can skip this because you know your preference. you said you lowered your feet site, i prefer it a little above the headsite becuase gravity pulls you down, and you dont slide in your foot compartment.

[@JonFuller1004]

I'm a tarp / tarp and a hammock guy. I find the sleep to be super comfy once you get used to it and for me I feel that being sleeping this way you feel more at nature which is really nice. Doesn't take long to set up. Tarp also offers such versatility and openness. Long log fires, cooking under tarp and staying dry etc. For me it's the way forward. As offered above if you're local (Kent give me a shout )

[@saxoncrow2500]

Hey Jon whereabouts in Kent are you? I'm Maidstone way. I agree with you Hammocking is super comfy. My last time I was woken up by foot fall to see a badger walk under my hammock which was great to see.

[@mikrofilmy]

As a seasoned hammock camper i must say: 1. First mistake is buying cheap gear from Temu because it is of questionable quality and you most probably willingly gave off your data to the hackers. 2. Cheap hammock may not be as comfortable as high quality one. While choosing one you should consider it's overall length as it is important factor in relation to your height. The longer, the better especially if you are a tall person. 3. I'm almost sure you didn't lay properly in it - you should position yourself in it diagonally in relation to the axis of hammock. It helps a lot if hammock has built in ridgeline. Laying properly and It having it is a factor of comfort since ridgeline helps maintain proper sag without paying attention to angle of three straps. 4. You should hang your hammock first, then tarp. That would keep it close to the hammock giving you more coverage and protection from wind and rain. Doing all this things correctly may change your perception but I must admit - hammock camping definitely has a steep learning curve associated with it.

[@samholdsworth420]

Steve Wallis sure likes his hammock

[@dasta7658]

Agree with your thoughts. When I did my back in 15 years ago I started hammock camping to take the pressure off. Ended up having to carry more gear, more weight and whilst it did wonders for my back whilst sleeping, it wasn't anything better than a good sleeping pad. I also don't like having my pack and boots sitting out. I live in Australia and many of critters love to make a home in warm dry places. I'll stick with my mozzie net, tarp and sleeping pad. Thanks for posting.

[@ChrisWoutdoors]

I love sleeping in my hammock, I use bungees to put up my tarp and in a diamond formation I only use two pegs.. Well done for trying it out... ATB Chris.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Yeah I think a diamond would have been better in the rain 👍

[@ChrisWoutdoors]

@@DaleyOutdoors And gives a better view out too...

[@hectortheerector]

I got one of them chairs from temu and a got to say a have no complaints. My friend got got same chair as me but from somewhere different and it's the same I only payed about 3 pound as I had discount also got a bush box for about 3 pound as well no complaints they do the job. I have a few things from there. You just have to watch what you buying and think about it lol. Etrol stuffs on temu and they are a propa camping company. There stuffs good gear they don't do that much but what they do is top notch. Am looking to get the A frame mesh from them instead of the DD one to use under tarp. Looks well built.

[@BalthazarMyrrh70]

Hammock tent camp is the best! Most comfortable nights ever, survived major thunderstorms, dry as a bug! Love mine. Never ground sleeping again.

[@saysomestuff]

That hammock looked a bit short mate. Well done for giving it a try. Sleeping diagonally in my 11ft hammock is bliss. There are things like a structural ridgeline thrt really change the comort and repeatability/speed of setup. If you give it another go I'd definitely binge Shug Emerys content as I'm sure all we string hangers have done at some point! Enjoyed the content, sub from me mate and if you fancy camping out in west wales give me a shout.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

I've got a bigger hammock to try in a couple of weeks 👍

[@ba92thomas]

I have my ridge line pre rigged and I would say it saves me a solid 5 minutes also prefer a diamond tarp to a square, and keep it close to keep in the heat. The diamond shape means less lines to tie

[@OutdoorWithMike]

lol, Ben... this made me laugh. Hammock camping does get a lot easier. I can set up a tarp and hammock in a few minutes now. I personally find it a lot easier and lighter than taking a tent. My overall preference is just a tarp these days. Looking forward to your next hammock videos. All the best, Mike

[@southcoastoutdoorsuk6301]

Nice little setup there , it’s always more faff but you have more space and choices of setup , more bushcrafBushcrafty than hiking , FairPlay on giving it a try 👍👍

[@matthewvelo]

Years of sleeping under hoochies (bashas) kept me away from tarps and thus hammocks. I've done a few hikes with them now, and unless it's dreadful weather I'm now all for them. I think the best thing I did was learn how to get a ridge line up in quick time, then everything else is much easier (and drier).

[@Takingawalkwithmybestfriend]

An honest assessment! At least you're happy 👌😂 great video

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Thanks 😅👍

[@johnbiddal5951]

I went down the same route and gave it a try using all the kit I was advised I would need. Ended up stumbling around in the woods like an Everest Sherpa, just wishing I had my 1.8 Kilo tent with me. 😂

[@DaleyOutdoors]

😆 glad it wasn’t just me

[@Devonshire-Bey]

"I`m gonna go off home and wash my pegs!" 🤣 I love your casual, down to earth style, your humour, and your honesty! Always great entertainment, much better than Netflix, and we won`t even mention Amazon prime! 😉👍

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Haha thanks! 😆

[@sixwestpoint]

I started out Bushcrafting and Hammock camping. It takes a bit of experience to get it licked but….. honestly been. There done it but I absolutely prefer tents these days and my hammock gear rarely gets out of storage. It can be dirty uncomfortable and at times just a downright unpleasant nights sleep. Imho better in the summer months for the odd night in the woods where you don’t want to chance puncturing your bathtub on a tent. Cool content and you are definitely good fun to watch.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Thanks! I might give it another go in the summer with a bigger hammock 🤓👍

[@stuartmccloud307]

Hammocked around Europe a couple of times. Not best when cold as you need under blanket, but for light weight quick camping with a guaranteed dry bed in massive rain, you can't beat it.

[@BurtonOutdoors]

It does take a while to master TBF, I nearly gave up after trying 2 hammocks previous to my One Wind 12ft. Yes it takes way longer to set up than a tent, but I just love to look out in the morning and see the world, I love the height of a hammock for getting in and out, I normally sleep better in a hammock too. Weight for weight a tent will always win, but factor in a sleep mat etc it kinda balances out. You should give it a few more goes, perhaps in summer.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

I might go tarpless in summer 💅🏻

[@BurtonOutdoors]

@DaleyOutdoors 🤣 I've been tarpless a few times in a hammock, it's so beautiful looking up at the trees, the sky & stars 🌟

[@freeforester1717]

Bought a cheap (£22) Asian 11 foot hammock weighing 550g including proper carabiners either end, my tarp is lightweight, my whole setup is around 2,7kg with both down underquilt and top quilt, tarp, straps, etc. I have tents also, but nothing comes close to the comfort of being cocooned in a well set up hammock. Far too many U.K. made videos leave prospective hammock campers with a poor impression due to poor gear selection (there’s an awful lot of unsuitable but often cheapo hammock gear offered to catch the inexperienced, but by contrast hardly anybody goes camping with an equivalent ‘festival’ tent and rudimentary (and equally frankly unsuitable) gear. The Americans are generally far more adept and knowledgeable about how to set up a comfy tarp & hammock set-up. See Shug Emery, etc. 😊

[@mattentwistle70]

I really rate the OneTigris Kompound hammock. It was the third (and last) one that I have bought and definitely the most sturdy and comfortable

[@harrythehikerne]

Great video 👍. Those firepot meals are the pits. I’ve tried 3 different ones - all looked the same on the way out 💩 as they did on the way in, usually a few short hours later. Back to my preferred brand - Summit else.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Haha glad I only had two spoonfuls of mine then!

[@h.bsfaithfulservant4136]

I'm proud of you Ben...you stuck it out 👍👍. You'll have to give it another go in Summer (assuming we get one 🤔)...

[@DaleyOutdoors]

We shall see 🤞

[@mattentwistle70]

Summer hammocking without a tarp is great 👍

[@dadgad68]

I always set up my hammock first. I can probably set up in about 15 minutes. Just a matter of getting used to. I prefer being under a tarp. I find you're more in tune with nature. I even cot camp under one. Keep at it and you'll get to enjoy it more

[@nathanratermann9204]

Good try for sure. We have a hammock that also acts as a tent if there are no trees, and the tarp is made for it. WintMing is the brand

[@davidcann6021]

I like hammock camping the only two gripes I have are the time it takes to get out to take a leak (unless you are one of those that waters the floor in the night) and balance getting in after having a beer. Or more to the point comically spinning around as you go to sit back

[@Bokooda]

I'm a side sleeper with my arm under my head, plus I wriggle around too much for a hammock me thinks. But I've never tried it, so I can't knock it, but you have - well done! Thanks for sharing.

[@umaiar]

If the hammock is long enough, side sleeping works. I find myself half side sleeping, like at a 45° angle. It's something you can't really do in a bed, but I find it extremely comfortable. With an eye-mask to block the light, I sleep longer and more comfortably in my hammock than I do in my bed at home.

[@chrisoconnell7419]

If you are a side sleeper try a bridge hammock instead of a gathered end.

[@jamespugliese7938]

Or use a WIDE hammock like I do. A game changer.

[@terryfreedom9742]

I have a full hammock setup but I struggle to fully embrace it. Tents are now so cheap and light that's its tough to give up on them. I've gone backpacking twice now with two.friends who took their hammocks while I took a tent and each time it got extremely windy and freezing cold. I slept right through it, tucked away in my tent, while they both spent the night freezing. I have slept in my hammock on 3 occasions and have slept very well but I don't know, something about hanging there exposed just bothers me.

[@Notagain640]

I love my hammock, however some fine tuning in your back garden is recommended. You jumped in at the deepend without armbands😂

[@DaleyOutdoors]

I don’t have any trees in my garden. 🤪

[@Notagain640]

@@DaleyOutdoors It can take quite a few goes before you get the setup just right and know how to achieve it, particularly the under quilt. It's my most comfortable setup by a country mile, although when cycle touring I mostly use my tent, because when campsite camping, you can't guarantee having trees on your pitch. I don't sleep anything like as well in a tent, but I can always pitch it. When canoe camping in Sweden, the hammock comes into its own. Not only is it fantastically comfortable, you can't always find a good pitch for a tent because there are so many trees and the ground is uneven. I think everyone struggles with setting up a hammock the first time. Also, there are hammocks and hammocks. I use the Dutchware Cameleon but there are other 'premium' setups that help you to fine-tune the perfect lay.

[@stealthandysteath1069]

I said to my mate..... You'll never get me in one, but after trying it two times I loved it. So easy to put up. O ya my gear I use I DD hammock set up. Works for me.. But still use a tent 👍🔥🇬🇧. Nicely done mate.

[@DaleyOutdoors]

I’ll probably wait until summer for a second attempt 🤔

[@mphigham1963]

By eck you don`t half make me chuckle Ben 😄 I love hammock camping, I was a little unsure the first time but after that initial outing there were no issues. Still love tenting though, in fact I use a tent more than the hammock ! Fab video by the way Pal 😄😄

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Hehe thanks mate 👍

[@benhikescamps]

You’re making ME want to try it now…

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Wanna buy a hammock?

[@rodoutdoors]

Good try. It does take a while to set up compared to a freestanding tent.

[@pauledwards499]

Practice makes perfect, don't judge it on one camp, give it a few more goes then decide. It's great for when you know there'll be very few patches of flat ground, saves you the condensation problem, you're off the freezing ground in winter, you wake up to great views when you can set the tarp higher, less space taken up in the rucksack and when you get the setup spot on it's the most comfortable sleep you'll have outdoors. The pros far outweigh the cons and setting up gets easier each time.

[@simonjenkins3618]

you give it good go there mate but give another tray again it is a awesome nights sleep in a hammock mate👌👍

[@OurDee]

I put my feet 6 to 12 inches higher than my head. I use a tent when I can't use a hammock. With my Tensa poles I don't need trees for my hammock.

[@87Runner]

Been using a Hennessy hammock for 8 years now. Will never go back to a tent unless i have to. Far superior in my opinion

[@Stoafasaki]

Yeah....What DJMajickMan said! I mean, if your feet are higher than your head, it means you're either sleeping like a banana (as opposed to across the hammock) or you need to RAISE your foot end so you slide towards the head end of your hammock. Kudoz for trying it, and with the right guidance and setup knowledge, you'll be saying hello to 12 hours sleep in no time.

[@ja2595]

Have you had a chance to get back out and try it again? I won't ever go back to a tent after the last 10 years of hammock camping I've done. I will say you did almost everything incorrectly here, yet you still did better than I did on my first hammock overnighter lol

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Not yet. I’ve got some better kit to try out next time though. And plenty of tips from people commenting. Should be a pro now 😁

[@leoniesmith4299]

I second watching Shug's videos. With a long enough hammock, a diagonal lay, a correctly set up under-quilt, the right tree strap and tree distances you will be so much more comfortable. Add a few more tricks of the hang and you might change your opinion.

[@foobar9229]

This hammock is too short and the underquilt is generally not supposed to be tied around the extremities of the hammock like that (it seems to make the hammock even shorter). The aim is to lay almost flat in diagonal. Good hammocks for adults are generally around 330cm long. A comfortable setup would require to have the straps making a 30° angle with the ground. The head side should be slighty lower that the feet side (with the ridgline making an angle of around 7-10° with the ground for me).

[@SussexOutdoors]

Well, what can I say? I definitely think that though hammock camping is fun, it is a lot more suited to warmer climes where you don't have to take 2 quilts just to keep both halves of you warm (top and bottom, I mean!) - As @jeremymanning2132 mentioned, you can hang it low enough for it to be a chair as well as your bed, so less weight there, and setting up gets quicker with practice! As for the Firepot meal, I'm glad the pouch did its job, but as they say with regards to the meal... You can't polish a t*rd! All the best, James 🙏💚

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Haha the pouch works wonders keeping the heat in. Crap is crap no matter what temperature it is though 😆

[@brettatkinson4325]

Persevere with the hammock,it'll get quicker & easier the more you do it,I like the diamond configuration for the tarp as it provides more cover,& take a pee bottle so you don't have to get up in the night 👍

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Yeah I should have done a diamond config 👌

[@ewi57ty]

I admire your choice because i will rather to sleep on the grass under a tarp then waste so much time hang a hammock. Tent i still my 1 choice.

[@highloughsdrifter1629]

For a better cheap hammock keep an eye on Lidl. I've been using one of their Crivit brand camping hammocks indoors for the last six months, much more comfortable than a bed.

[@arranbailey4818]

Some of my friends have tried to get me into hammocks, sticking with my Helm 2 thank you... 😂

[@Karma-qt4ji]

Agree completely. Helm II is a beast of a tent! Oh, and it can be used on top of Kinder Scout - good luck trying to find trees up there 🤣🤣

[@garymack411]

I watched loads of KZbin videos on hammock camping before my first outing so pretty much nailed it first time. I now prefer a hammock to a tent. More space to move around under the tarp and you don't need to find level ground with low vegetation.

[@hnahler]

But you need to find trees, right? I just came back from 3 days in the Scottish Borders. On my first night there were no trees half an hour either way from where I camped. Yes, on day two a hammock setup would have solved the problem of very soggy and uneven ground in woodland but then I’m not taking both with me.

[@garymack411]

0:05 I live in Scotland but I tend to plan where I'm going to camp beforehand by reading maps to find an area showing woods and I'm always looking out for spots when I'm driving around. It is easier to find a spot for a tent especially if it's only a one man tent but I still prefer a hammock camp now.

[@sieciobywatel]

The thing is you don't need to assemble all the pieces every day. You can roll up a hammock, quilt and sleeping bag together, throwing straps inside. It simplifies both setting up and teardown a lot.

[@SuperdutyExplorer]

I could never hammock sleep haha. Nap maybe.... I did carry and giant hammock/straps to simulate a tent for 3 years of dayhikes 😂 hey its a tent now so I'm happy!! Thanks for the inspiration to start making KZbin videos, posted for first time since want to in 2018!!

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Nice one 👍

[@FOXMAN09]

I carry an ultralight hammock in case of emergency (terrible ground) but otherwise i just have a bivy bed roll strapped to my bag and all i need to do it toss it on the ground and inflate my air mat inside of it. Doesnt get easier than that.

[@Dominyk1000]

You should have gone for Amok Draumr 5.0 😄 It is not a budget setup but soo much more comfortable and works very well.

[@speedfreak8200]

Looks like lots of good stuff on Temu, but I'm too worried about what they will do with my info to sign up

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Just sign up with a free email address if you’re worried 👍

[@kevinkorenke3569]

While it is true that there is a steeper learning curve with hammock camping. I wouldn't trade it for anything else. My back is never sore when I wake up, I'm never wet when it rains. I'm cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than anyone in a tent.

[@kristymoore7052]

One day several year ago, I was talking to my adult son about nothing in particular. I told him that I bought a hammock for car camping, meaning, to lie in and read and nap. He said, “you can go backing now.” What? I started researching and learned about what I would have to purchase and endure hammock wilderness backpack camping, It was a lot. Never ventured that way. Several thousands of dollars later and a tent, I am an avid backcountry backpacker. Never have hammock camped, but I sure like it for napping when car camping.

[@browsman2328]

I’ve tried hammocks but I just can’t get comfortable in those things, maybe because I’m a side sleeper and I toss and turn.

[@mattsnowden973]

Have hammock camped for a long time, I have even had custom made stands for my Landy to put the hammock up, my kids love to be in a hammock. I sleep so much better in a hammock but they are like marmite either you love them or you hate them

[@70cimabue]

I love hammock camping….it is more simple and easier than it was for him…..but instead of a bulky under quilt, I use 2 thermal emergency blanks sown and seam taped together… it is warmer than a quilt and folds down to 90% more than the under quilt and a fraction of the cost

[@rufusduck71]

To be fair .you tried hammock camping in winter in the rain . I feel its definitely a summer thing when its lovely to watch the sun go down /up and be warm . I often take a tent and hammock set up when im doing a multi day hike thst way ive got the best of both worlds .as far as finding a place to camp for the night .but both need to be very light set ups .so no heavy under quilt and a light 1 man tent .

[@ohiovetoutdoors]

I like and have camped in both set ups and 100% think each has their own pros and cons. Just depends on the person and the trip. Hey, at least you tried it. Now you know!

[@IvanDP1967]

Told you to stick to a tent 🤣 Seriously though, well done for giving it a go. I think hammock camping is a bit of an acquired taste. Many thanks for sharing

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Thanks Ivan 👍

[@Catspurrlounge]

Don't abandon the concept totaly. next time put your tarp lower over the hammock . I usally run my tarp ridge line the same hight as the hammock tree straps. It will keep out the rain better. Sides of the tarp lower than the free hanging hammock or at least in line with the hammock. sleep in it at and angle abit. I little more confort that way. I'm to the point in life, I like to carry One item for multipurpose. I can set the inclosed bug net hammock on the ground suspended under the tarp as a ground tent also. I too had to play with different set ups till I found one that work the best.

[@robertuffman3041]

i haven't received mine yet but i ordered a hammock from Hemlock Mountain Outdoors. his last video i think is my hammock. get rid of the hammock get you one that is 11 or 12 foot. the short ones tend to kill your shoulders.

[@hedgebackharry8953]

I tried it once never again, I like my nice cosy tent

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Glad it’s not just me 🤣

[@fleotusbing]

Interesting video, really enjoyable! I'm definitely a 'tent person.' Question: Can one sleep on their side in a hammock (I'd think not too comfortably)?

[@DaleyOutdoors]

Yes as long as you have one big enough, you can sleep diagonally across it 👍

[@fleotusbing]

@DaleyOutdoors Ah, ok...thanks! Admittedly, I still doubt I'll ever try a hammock.

[@sarkybugger5009]

It's horses for courses. If there are no trees, you really have use a tent/bivi. If there are trees, or wet ground, or no level ground, use a hammock. Tents are warmer in cold weather, that's for certain. Hammocks are great for an all round view from your bed, in the summer. If there's no rain coming, you can sleep out under the stars, by simply sliding the tarp out of the way.

[@NotOfThisWar]

Funny, Your reasons for not liking hammock camping are the exact reasons why I stopped tent camping. Finding a spot to place a tent is harder then finding a spot for a hammock. Setting up a tent takes about 30 mins that includes getting everything set up inside of it. Takes 10 to 15 mins to set up the hammock and tarp. Now I am still new to hammock camping compared to others but i could suggest a couple things. First Eno makes a nice sized tarp that its very easy and quick to set up, It has a little hook on the end that just goes over the string to hold it on the tree. Next there is a locking pully system so you can tighten or loosing the tarp quick. Next is the hammock Suspension system, Try to get away from the loop straps. I don't know if you can purchase these over you're way or not but there is the Titanium Beetle Buckles by Dutchware That make setting the right tension for your hammock so simple. Another thing is a hammock snake....get one makes getting it out and setting it up better. If you get one that is water proof that will help with letting you set that up before setting the tarp up so you can select the right tree distance better. Also you probably should have tested the hammock first especially with it not raining at the time you set up might have spent less time on it and been more comfortable. Anyway it was fun to watch. I still havent fully decided which i like more to be honest, I get sleep in the hammock which is something I barely get in a tent however my biggest concern is mostly bears, I always worry how much of a struggle it would be to try to get out of a hammock if a bear was around.