A hammock is the fastest way to turn two trees into a comfortable place to rest. It's lighter than a tent, kinder to the ground, and genuinely comfortable once you know a couple of tricks. Here's everything a first-timer needs.
Key takeaways
- Hang between two solid trees about 12–15 feet apart.
- Aim for a gentle 30-degree strap angle and a deep sag.
- Lie slightly diagonally for a flatter, more comfortable position.
- Add an underquilt or pad when it's cool — your back loses heat to the air.
Finding the right spot
Look for two healthy, solid trees roughly 12–15 feet apart, and always use wide tree-friendly straps rather than rope or bare cord, which can damage bark. Clear the ground beneath you of rocks and sticks just in case, and check for dead branches overhead before you settle in.
Getting the hang right
Set your straps about head-height on the trees and let the hammock hang with a deep, relaxed sag — roughly a 30-degree angle from strap to hammock. A taut, flat hang feels like a banana and squeezes your shoulders; a good sag lets you lie comfortably.
Sleeping comfortably
Lie slightly diagonally rather than straight down the center — this flattens your body and takes pressure off your back. In cool weather, insulate underneath with an underquilt or a sleeping pad, because the part of you pressing into the fabric loses heat to the air below.
Single or double?
A single hammock is lighter and packs smaller for solo trips. A double is wider and roomier, better for sharing or simply stretching out — and it still makes a very comfortable solo hammock if you don't mind carrying a little more.
How to hang a camping hammock
- 1
Choose two trees
Find solid trees about 12–15 feet apart.
- 2
Wrap tree-friendly straps
Set straps around head-height using wide straps, not rope.
- 3
Clip in the hammock
Attach with the included carabiners and let it sag gently.
- 4
Check the angle
Aim for a roughly 30-degree strap angle and a deep sag.
- 5
Test before committing
Sit in slowly and low to the ground to confirm it holds.
Frequently asked
Is hammock camping warm enough?
It can be, but you need insulation underneath. Because your body compresses the fabric, cold air below pulls heat away — an underquilt or sleeping pad solves it. Up top, use a quilt or sleeping bag as you would in a tent.
How far apart should the trees be?
About 12–15 feet works for most hammocks. Closer together and you can't get a good sag; much farther and the straps run out. The included straps give you room to adjust.
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