Ist Hammock Backpacking Trip

[mike8]

Me and my daughter have a our annual backpacking trip coming up in a few weeks and she's really wanted to try out a hammock. So for her Birthday I ordered her a Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter. Can you guys recommend anything else she may need with this hammock. She has a thermorest xtherm pad and a 20 degree down quilt. Will that work or do I need to buy a Speers Spe or some kind of tree straps or whoppie string? Im really sorry if this these questions have been asked before I just want to make sure whatever she will need will get here in time for our trip. Thanks guys and gals

[mike8]

Oh and i have a silnylon 9.5x7 ft tarp

[vtaflyer]

Good start! I'd get some 6' tree huggers and learn how to do a marlinspike hitch. Whoopie slings are easy to make if you want to do your own.

Be sure to bring a tarp of some kind, though- wet (even damp) isn't fun. Have a great time!

[karbo]

I use a 10x12 hennesy hex and this will cover my hammock, a small tarp to stand on. One thing i would suggest is spreader bars for the netting, this is the easiest thing i have tried and you dont have to mess with all that shock cord. I use two fiberglass poles cut to size. I also read here using arrow shafts.Hope this helps and have a great time.

[mike8]

Thanks guys for the replies but I notice a lot of guys use a 10x12 or 12x12 tarp is my 9.5x7 too small?

[sargevining]

Ontario in August would mean and underquilt or pad for insulation. I just got back froma trip down here in Coastal TX and the night time temps went down to between 68-72F and I wish I had brought an underquilt or pad. Sleep might be impossible without one.

[CrankyOldGuy]

Try you're 9.5 x 7 tarp on a diagonal and see if you feel like you have enough coverage. You probably do.

[CrankyOldGuy]

9.5 x 7 on a diagonal gives you 11-8 for a ridge length. Set it up before the hike to be comfortable, but it should work.