This post serves to help new hammock campers save money as they acquire the necessary gear to safely and comfortably convert to a hammock shelter while backpacking. First, I’ll describe a typical forum member’s (John) expensive journey into this hobby. Next, I’ll suggest a way that a prospective hammock camper can save money while acquiring essential gear that won’t immediately need to be replaced. Finally, it’s important to note that there are as many ways to start hammock camping as there are people. I’m not suggesting anyone’s way is wrong. I’m offering a resource for the hammock-curious to consider at the start of their journey.
John
John is our generic camper who’s interested in converting to a hammock for his backpacking shelter. He reads through hammockforums and decides that he’ll spring for an ENO hammock from REI or online ($50ish). He soon realizes that he also needs suspension and tree straps. ($30ish). John tries out his system and quickly finds that his sleeping bag is not sufficient for insulation and reads up about using his pad in the hammock. After a night of cold shoulders and wrestling with the pad, John invests in a pad wing solution ($30ish). It still sucks so John tries to get an underquilt on the cheap. He buys a military poncho liner and cobbles together a reasonably functional underquilt ($50ish with cords, etc…). John then realizes that he wants a bug net. Perhaps he springs for a Fronkey style bugnet ($60ish)....but probably tries something else that doesn’t work very well before buying the legit bug net.
John now realizes that all of these half-efforts are way heavier and bulkier than his tent system but he’s hooked on hammocking. With better knowledge and experience, John now begins to acquire a lighter weight system with whoopie slings, tree straps, and Dutch hardware. He easily drops way more money than his previous efforts but he’s happy with his new gear. Now he wants to try to take his system into colder temps…..
And he still doesn’t have a tarp. (another journey for a different time).
The expensive hammock that will save you money
I’d like to make a case for the Warbonnet Ridgerunner hammock for new hammockers. While this $200ish purchase will not escape the spousal financial radar - you will be well on your way to a functional system right out of the gates. Here’s why:
- integrated bug net is just brilliant
- you can gracefully use a pad you already own
- you can purchase a high end inflatable pad that will work great for most temps much cheaper than an equivalently rated down underquilt
- the cinch buckle system is light and works really well
- it is very comfortable for most users
- It can be sold for almost full retail value if it doesn’t work out for you
If you are considering hammock camping for your backpacking shelter - please consider John’s journey. While discrete purchases from Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon will not raise the ire of your spouse...they end up adding up to way more money in the long run. Save up for a few months and get started in a happy place.
Good luck!
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