When backpacking in the woods, hanging a hammock provides a comfortable way to sleep off the ground during your next camping trip.
However, with numerous hammock tent options available, it can be overwhelming to select the right one, as key factors like weight, durability, features, and comfort level vary widely.
To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve conducted thorough testing and are pleased to present our top picks for 2024.
Let’s explore these options to help you find the best hammock tent for your backpacking and camping needs.
Key Specs
Weight: 1lb 15.6 ounces (896g)
Material: 70D nylon
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Ultralight
✅ Durable
CONS
❌ Zipper can snag
❌ Not the best rainfly
The Ultralite Backpacker Zip from Hennessy Hammock is a prime option for ultralight backpackers seeking a lightweight and durable shelter.
Its ingenious design features side entrance with zipper closure, ensuring effortless and snug access.
At only 1 pound 15 ounces, this is Hennessy’s most popular Zip model. Its asymmetrical shape and structural ridge line provide exceptional comfort and reliable setup every time.
While the Ultralite Backpacker Zip excels at insulating hammockers in humid environments, my initial experience found the heavy duty YKK zipper snagged frequently until treated with dry lubricant. With this simple fix, the zipper now slides smoothly as silk.
Another issue is the shelter’s smaller rainfly, which sagged heavily under heavy rain. Water would drip into the open hammock. The tarp works fine for light drips or dew but proved unsuitable against hard angled rain. Setup is nonetheless easy and the tarp attaches tightly – until becoming wet, that is.
Overall, this remains an ideal solo shelter for its lightweight durability and comfort. Just be aware of the rainfly limitations in heavy precipitation.
Key Specs
Weight: 2lb 15.37 ounces (1343g)
Material: 40D nylon (proprietary)
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Easy to set up
✅ Durable
CONS
❌ The fly could be a bit longer
The Kammok Mantis Ultralight Hammock is constructed from tough yet recycled fabrics. It features a plush hammock surrounded by integrated mesh for bug-free sleeping.
Setup and breakdown is rapid, streamlining camp duties, while thoughtful pockets and a stargazing panel enhance camping comfort.
Protection from elements is virtually total thanks to the included rainfly. My sole reservation was its length during torrential downpours, though coverage has proven adequate for normal rains.
My only issue originated when repacking the rainfly into its storage pouch. Fully collapsed, it remained puffy and didn’t fit back in properly. So, I changed to an aftermarket storage pouch.
Minimal learning is required to master setup. Overall comfort, thoughtfulness and durability make the Mantis a standout shelter for lightweight trekking.
Key Specs
Weight: 2lb 6.8 ounces (1100 grams)
Material: 30D nylon
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Easy to set up
✅ Comfortable
CONS
❌ The bug net is a bit tight
The ENO SubLink Ultralight Hammock System provides a complete solution for comfortable, protected sleeping in the backcountry.
Including the durable Sub6 hammock, Helios straps, Guardian SL bug net and ProFly Sil rain tarp, camp setup is simplified with this all-inclusive package.
Featuring lightweight, fast-drying materials and an intelligent no-knots design, the SubLink sets up securely and cozily.
During testing in sub-40 degree conditions paired with an underquilt, I slept soundly until sunrise thanks to the system’s warmth and bug-free protection. Its Lichen green hue proved virtually stealthy for wilderness discreetness too.
My one critique is that the Guardian SL bug net tends to be quite snug. While performing well for its purpose, it can feel constrictive for side sleepers.
Nonetheless, this remains an excellent ultralight option overall, especially considering the simplicity of its all-in-one design.
Key Specs
Weight: 2lb 12.1 ounces (1250 grams)
Material: 40D hex-ripstop
Price: $$
PROS
✅ Optional upgrades available
✅ Wide option available
CONS
❌ Low temperature rating for the insulation quilts
The WanderLust hammock sleep system from Hammock Gear is a top choice for those seeking a comfortable introduction to hammock camping.
This starter bundle provides great value by offering a roomy Circadian Bug Net Hammock, ultralight suspension, durable Quest silpoly tarp with effortless knotless setup, stakes, and storage sack. Its wide assortment of colors and sizes ensures a customized fit.
New hammock campers will appreciate the WanderLust’s simplicity – everything needed is right in the pack. Guideline colors make tarp pitching visible day or night.
My only critique is the insulation quilts only rate to 35 degrees F, which may not be warm enough for colder seasons without additional layers.
Overall, the WanderLust establishes a solid base for hammock adventures. For a budget-friendly introduction that requires zero prior experience, this complete system exceeds expectations.
Key Specs
Weight: 2lb 11.2 ounces (1225 grams)
Material: proprietary nylon
Price: $$$
PROS
✅ Good for tall people
✅ Great fabrics
CONS
❌ Not the easiest set up
The Dutchware Wide Netted Hammock Package is perfect for bigger hammock campers. It comes with everything you need for a setup, including a spacious hexon fabric hammock, strong continuous loops and suspension, an adjustable tarp with ropes, and stakes.
The hammock has a half-zip design, which means you can easily remove the bug netting when you don’t need it. It’s really wide and has a sturdy ridgeline to make sure you’re comfortable when you hang out in it.
Setting up all the gear might seem a bit tricky at first because there’s a lot of stuff, but they include crib cards and labels on the cords to help you organize everything.
Overall, we like that Dutchware made a hammock kit that’s great for larger people. It’s roomy and comfortable, and it has everything you need for a good camping experience.
When selecting a backpacking hammock tent as your next camping shelter, consider key features that impact comfort, durability and convenience on the trail:
Weight – Total weight should suit your backpack’s carrying capacity and trip length. All-in-one sets range typically 2-3 lbs but under 2 lbs offers optimum lightweight comfort.
Capacity – Single hammocks minimize grams but restrict space compared to doubles with more maneuvering room. Consider your height and if a companion may join.
Materials – Nylon and polyester dominate for strength and breathability. Higher denier fabrics like 1.0oz withstand abrasion better but add ounces. Balance needs with specs.
Included Gear – Essentials like suspension, bug netting, rainfly and underquilt ensure full protection from elements. Sets including all simplify setup over modular options.
Pack Size – Even compressed, will it conform to your pack’s dimensions? Check published stats and vacancy to optimize storage and minimize camp workload.
Durability – Seams, zippers and guyline attachments will withstand stresses over trips. Reinforced design prolongs shelter life and satisfaction.
If you want to learn in more detail how to choose a hammock, check out our detailed post here.
A hammock tent combines the benefits of camping hammocks and tents into a versatile portable shelter for outdoor adventures. Unlike a traditional tent which rests directly on the ground, a hammock tent suspends a lightweight constructed fabric sling between trees. This offers a cozy elevated sleeping place off the ground while still providing overhead protection from wind, rain or sun like a regular camping tent would. Many hammock tent designs feature built-in components like mosquito netting and rainflys to fully enclose the sleeping area similar to cabin tents.
With solid anchoring points like trees, rock faces or poles, hammock tents offer a comfortable alternative sleeping arrangement for those seeking different camping ideas or shelter styles on trips. Their portable hammock construction makes setup simple and quick for any outdoor location. When packed down with suspension accessories, today’s high-quality hammock tents constitute a very compact camping package in backpacks.
While hammock tents can work very well as a backpacking camping sleep system, their suitability will depend on the season and use of proper accessories. During warmer weather, a basic hammock tent typically pairs the hammock with a rainfly or bug net and offers a lightweight shelter option. However, to be fully enjoyable and effective in colder conditions, additional insulation accessories like underquilts may be required depending on the anticipated temperatures. With a full system incorporating a hammock, rainfly, bug netting, and underquilt insulation, hammock tents can indeed function as an versatile all-season camping sleep system, on par with tents when equipped with the proper camping accessories for any forecast.
Setting up a hammock tent can generally be quite easy, providing a number of camping tips and hacks are followed for a smooth process. Many modern hammock tent designs integrate bugnets, rainflys and suspension straps into complete kits for rapid pitch, often within minutes thanks to included continuous ridgelines, carabiners and adjustable straps. Some camping hacks to optimize hammock tent setup include pre-attachingguylines before departure, color coding accessory ropes, and practicing the flow at home to perfect the process. With a bit of familiarization gained from following basic camping tips, hammock tents can typically be arranged faster than a traditional tent, getting campers up and swinging in no time – a convenient feature appreciated by all as daylight savings draws nightfall earlier.
There are several key ways to stay warm when sleeping in a hammock tent through the use of strategic outdoor camping equipment and camping essentials. While the insulated space underneath a hammock can trap warmer air compared to tents, cold air can still penetrate without the proper insulation. Critical camping essentials include an underquilt that attaches underneath to block convection, along with a top insulation layer like a sleeping bag or quilt to retain body heat. Supplementing with additional pads inside the hammock can further fend off cold surfaces. Proper hanging of the hammock tent itself to maintain an angled lay also concentrates warmth. With the right combination of insulation like quality underquilts along with a sleeping bag, hammock campers can stay cozy through cooler nights with minimal risk of chilling from below, keeping outdoor excursions comfortable.
There are several important features for outdoor enthusiasts to evaluate when selecting a portable hammock tent suitable for tree camping. Key items on the camping gear list include the tent material, which should be lightweight yet durable for repeated use. A roomy interior space allow freedom of movement. Look for adjustable suspension points and guylines for personalized hanging and stability in varied outdoor settings. Quality zippers and seams protect from rain, while integrated bug netting and rainflies keep unwanted insects or elements at bay. Consider packed size and whether included camping gear like stakes and straps make setup simple from multiple hanging positions.
