Try an UQ

**jabraso** · 10-16-2015, 14:46

It seems like every conversation on here goes like this
Q: "what should I do to keep warm?"
A: "just buy an underquilt!"

I'm sure it is the way to go but I'm a long way from dropping $100's on it for the immediate future, but I'd really like to see what I'm really missing. What is the best way to experience the comforts of an UQ using what I already have if weight weren't an issue? Can it be done using regular household stuff like blankets, cordage, bungee cord etc and also without permanently modifying anything?

**themadindian** · 10-16-2015, 14:50

Originally Posted by jsorensen

It seems like every conversation on here goes like this
Q: "what should I do to keep warm?"
A: "just buy an underquilt!"

I'm sure it is the way to go but I'm a long way from dropping $100's on it for the immediate future, but I'd really like to see what I'm really missing. What is the best way to experience the comforts of an UQ using what I already have if weight weren't an issue? Can it be done using regular household stuff like blankets, cordage, bungee cord etc and also without permanently modifying anything?

You can rent one
www.undergroundquilts.com

**bkrgi** · 10-16-2015, 16:13

Yup rent one and see what the fuss is truly about and why it is worth the 100's in investment if your dedicated to hanging.

Until you wrap yourself in downy goodness ..only then can one understand.

If your totally on a budget then pads or synthetic insulation will suffice without breaking the bank

**jabraso** · 10-19-2015, 11:01

Renting one seems like a hassle and isn't exactly cheap. I was wondering if there is a way to rig something I already have without any permanent modifications just to experience the benefits. Weight wouldn't be a concern.

some combination of:

fleece blankets
sleeping bags
wool blanket
down comforter
small tarp
bungee cords

**daneaustin3** · 10-19-2015, 11:12

Bungee cord all that stuff around you with the tarp as the outer layer and have someone push you into your hammock.
Ok so that's intended as a joke.
You could use some of that. What temp do you want to get to?
You could rig the sleeping bags as an underquilt but I would test in the back yard.

**hikenbike** · 10-19-2015, 11:20

If weight isn't an issue.... Buy a $35 Dutch hammock. Hang it semi-fitted with bungee cord under your current hammock with a big-ol (synthetic insulation) comforter in between. If you don't have one you can go to Goodwill or savers and pay about $5. You get the underquilt benefits and a great hammock.

**Floridahanger** · 10-19-2015, 11:22

You can use your SB or Down Comforter as an UQ without too much hassle.

To try this without any permanent mods, loosely gather the ends of the comforter/SB with a bungy cord on each end and have someone adjust it at the hammock ends. This takes two people because you need to be in the hammock. Adjust until the comforter/SB is snug under the hammock AND touching you, but without compressing the insulation. Try to have them make sure there are no gaps at the ends.

Good luck.

**sr1355** · 10-19-2015, 11:30

Originally Posted by jsorensen

Renting one seems like a hassle and isn't exactly cheap. I was wondering if there is a way to rig something I already have without any permanent modifications just to experience the benefits. Weight wouldn't be a concern.

some combination of:

fleece blankets
sleeping bags
wool blanket
down comforter
small tarp
bungee cords

You can try all of those rigged in one way of another but it will never fit as well as a dedicated underquilt. Figuring and cobbling a suspension for each of those items will have it own set of problems and hassles. As for renting being expensive, not counting the deposit (full refunded if gear returned undamaged) and shipping cost (USPS ain't free) it's $29 for a three day weekend. 50% of which we credit back if you make a purchase within 30 days.