I want to try out a hammock for backpacking- the High Sierra where I normally go isn't so conducive to hammocking but I plan on an Appalachian Trail section hike next year and an AT thru in about 3 years. Based on some nights hammocking on the back porch I -think- a hammock will work for me but I won't truly know until doing at least a weeklong trip. I don't want to spend thousands on the most perfect bespoke 1000fp DCF hammock setup to find out I prefer a foam mat on the dirt.

The Wanderlust kit with economy quilts appears to be a phenomenal deal at $500. I might eventually go with some different gear (such as a wider tarp with doors if I start the AT in winter), but at the price I don't see how I could go wrong. Since I'm in no hurry, is there ever an additional discount on the whole kit? In any case I probably won't buy until after summer. (Because money!)

Thanks,
Jim