Hello from Pennsylvania

**Otisorgans** · 02-19-2019, 12:01

I am new to the forum and looking for some advice. I am planning on hiking the Appalachian Trail from Pennsylvania to Vermont this June. I am older (57) and larger (250 lbs!). I am trying to decide between a lightweight tent and a hammock system. I have done long distance hiking (The Camino Frances, The Portuguese Camino) but this will be my first time without lodging at the end of the day. My concerns are weight, comfort and protection. If anyone has any suggestions or recommendations, I am all ears.

**Pennsy Camp and Canoe** · 02-19-2019, 12:27

How much do you want to spend?

BTW Hello and Welcome from NW Pennsylvania

**Otisorgans** · 02-19-2019, 12:58

Originally Posted by Pennsy Camp and Canoe

How much do you want to spend?

BTW Hello and Welcome from NW Pennsylvania

Honestly, I dont want to be silly but it isn't a price issue. My concerns with the hammock are bad weather, and being a larger human, will the sleeping be comfortable or is it going to be like a banana. (yes I know about the diagonal sleeping but I tend to sleep on my side.).

I appreciate the reply!!

**oldpappy** · 02-19-2019, 13:00

Welcome to the forum. So many options to choose from. Lots of AT thru hiker post trip reports to get you thinking about what is best for you. Test close to home, tweak your selections, and go for it.

**Swishwebb** · 02-19-2019, 15:36

Originally Posted by Otisorgans

My concerns with the hammock are bad weather, and being a larger human, will the sleeping be comfortable or is it going to be like a banana. (yes I know about the diagonal sleeping but I tend to sleep on my side.).

I got my dad to start hammocking when he was still weighing in around 240 lbs. His comment was that it was much more comfortable than a tent. He would still prefer to stay at a lodge or cabin and day hike... but he said he wouldn't go back to a tent. If we were camping, he'd be in a hammock. It's nothing like a banana if you lay right and have a hammock the right size and material for your height and weight.

**Deerless** · 02-19-2019, 15:43

Hi, welcome to the forum! I'm 6' @ 220 and love my BBXLC, I'm a side sleeper also and have no issues at all. I'd be more concerned about sleeping on the ground, even with a pad....I just couldn't imagine how my back would feel in the morning.

**SoaknWet** · 02-19-2019, 17:13

I agree with peerless 100%. Same size, same hammock and also a side sleeper.

**Shug** · 02-19-2019, 17:27

If you go hammock get one soon as and start getting to know it.
Get the right hang and find your sweet spot.
Find what suspension your most comfortable with.
Figure your insulation.....pad, underquilt, sleeping bag or top quilt.
Tarp and how to rig it.

There is a bit of a learning curve with hammocks but for me; a much better sleep and an energized body that is ready to hike hard the next day.

Shug

**jtkratzer** · 02-20-2019, 00:14

Where are you located in Pa? The folks at Dutchware in Lancaster are awesome and helpful.

**Otisorgans** · 02-20-2019, 11:11

Thanks all for the great advise! I bought an eno doublenest to try out. Dont think ill stick with this if I do 300 miles. Most likely go with a Warbonnet. If I am hiking in June can I get away with a blow up pad instead of an underquilt? Trying to save weight!