• Suspended/Convertible Camping Hammocks
The classic idea of a camping hammock is a large suspended piece of fabric that is hung between two beautiful trees, allowing a unique and peaceful nights sleep. However many of the camping hammock do not include the tree stakes required to setup a suspended hammock.
Therefore, if this is a preference for your portable camping hammock choice these items will need to be purchased separately. Also, the weight of the stakes can add weight to your load if hiking, which is a factor that should be considered.
The convertible camping hammock is a more versatile option for using a hammock. These hammocks can be used as a unique fully enclosed tent system which is ventilated and single walled for comfort. Or, the convertible camping hammock can be used as a hexagonal tarp.
These types of hammocks are ultralight, which makes them highly favored among backpackers, hikers, and frequent Trekkers. These hammocks to not require additional accessories for their functionality, as everything needed to setup the convertible hammock is included.
• One Person/Two Person Camping Hammock
A one person hammock is simply constructed to comfortably fit one average size person. These camping hammocks are durable, lightweight, safe, and easy to setup.
They provide a peaceful rest or dreamy nights sleep without weighing down a load if backpacking is your outdoor activity of choice. Additionally, with a one person hammock managing a consistent temperature is much easier with these hammocks. If planning to use a hammock during colder temperatures, this factor should be considered.
A two person or double camping hammock is perfect for couples who share a fondness for the outdoors and often spend nights out in the wilderness. These camping hammocks are slightly sturdier than the one person hammock, as they are manufactured to comfortably hold the weight of two individuals opposed to one.
These hammocks are slightly heavier in weight, but can also be beneficial as loads can be evenly distributed among more than one person. Thus, preventing the full load from being on one person alone which makes carrying a two person hammock much easier. This factor should be considered if backpacking, hiking, or performing any other outdoor activities other than car camping.
• Open/Enclosed Camping Hammock
The obvious benefit of an open hammock is the ability to gaze up at the beautiful sky in the comfort of a hammock. Of course by keeping campers free from the unforgiving texture of the ground while admiring the sky is a major benefit. Also, this is great for warm summer days and nights when warmth is not necessary, only comfort and safety. These hammocks can be used on a winter night as well, but are most favored in warmer climates due to the air exposure.
The enclosed structure hammock has its own set of benefits as well. Because the manufacturing style is intended to encapsulate these hammocks feature some cool aspects such as integrated bug screens. This allows you to be free from the elements of nature that are not as pleasant, while remaining comfortable and safe in the camping hammock.
The enclosed camping hammocks also have an option of tarp tops for some models, and can easily protect campers from exposure to rain, wind, and other harsh elements.
• Spreader Bar/Unstructured Camping Hammock
Hammocks are structured in a variety of ways, as you can see. A very common method of using a camping hammock is by incorporating spreader bars for additional stability and reinforcement of its setup. Spreader bars are typically made of wood and are used as a foundation for the cotton string, poly cord, or hemp strings that are attached in order to better form a sturdy hammock structure.
These hammocks are great for a relaxing day in the outdoors or even a light nap. However because of the lack of barriers with these types of hammocks it is easy for one to slip off. Therefore they are not recommended for overnight sleeping, due to the structure and design.
Unstructured hammocks have the traditional look and feel of a hammock. These hammocks are manufactured with a very comfortable material and are hung in a cocoon like fashion and shape. If you happen to be a first time hammock user, getting into this type of camping hammock can be challenging.
The structure is very forgiving, therefore one must hold it in the proper way to enter or it may swing. Thus, leading to the downside of this type of hammock. Because the unstructured camping hammock is easily swayed conditions that have high winds or harsh weather will not be the best place to use these type of hammocks. Although very safe and comfortable in calm conditions, adverse conditions can cause concern for stability with these models.
