New to hammock camping.

**nighthawk156** · 02-14-2009, 09:23

Hello, I have only spent 2 nights now in a hammock and that was because i was to lazy to set up my tent, lucky for me it didnt rain and it wasnt windy those nights.

I am getting ready to take few weekend trips and then this summer im taking a 50 mile AT trip. At this point in time all i have is a hammock and a hanging system. What else should i get or make that wont cost me very much?

To make things harder my first trip is Febuary 20-22. Anything you can tell me would be great!

Thanks.

**Mrprez** · 02-14-2009, 09:30

You are definitely going to need something underneath you or you will be very cold. What kind of hammock is it? What are you using for a top cover? Sleeping bag or quilt? Are you using a pad? Welcome to HF!

**nighthawk156** · 02-14-2009, 09:37

Thanks for the quick reply.

I have this for a hammock http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___67881.
I have a nice sleeping bag rated to 35 degrees and it worked great for those 2 nights. I wasnt plaining on carrying a pad but i dont know yet. Most of my trips will be in FL.

**sir White Wolf** · 02-14-2009, 09:49

Welcome

Sleeping bag loft is what keeps you warm, and when your laying on/in it your weight compresses that loft cutting down the warmth ie one long cold spot.

Pads and such help but are not as effective as an under quilt.

That is my experience

**Mrprez** · 02-14-2009, 09:46

I guess I should've asked where you will be hiking!!! But, even in milder weather you will gradually lose body heat pretty fast. I have laid out in mine in my backyard at 75* and in no time, I was feeling cool.

**nighthawk156** · 02-14-2009, 09:51

I am hoping to either make or buy a tarp with in the next week otherwise i might have some problems on the trail.

I have been reading about tarps and the shap, what would you recomend? Im looking to spend no more then $60, i dont have much money.

**sir White Wolf** · 02-14-2009, 09:58

Originally Posted by nighthawk156

I am hoping to either make or buy a tarp with in the next week otherwise i might have some problems on the trail.

I have been reading about tarps and the shap, what would you recomend? Im looking to spend no more then $60, i dont have much money.

At that price you might be better off making one.
if you have sewing experience with SilNylon

Here are a few links to get ya started

http://www.tothewoods.net/JeffsHikingPage.html

http://www.speerhammocks.com/index.html

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ead.php?t=6871

**nighthawk156** · 02-14-2009, 10:02

If i was to buy one how much am I looking a spending and which one would you say would work for FL hiking?

**nighthawk156** · 02-14-2009, 10:26

Which would you say would work better an Equinox 8' x 10' or a MacCar Mirco?

**Ramblinrev** · 02-14-2009, 10:01

Tarps can be almost anything you are willing to carry that will keep the rain off and withstand the wind. A thick painters drop cloth could work for a tarp with marble wad rope attachments. It wouldn't be great but it would keep you dry. Some people use the blue tarps from the big box stores. They aint the best for backpacking but they will do.

Take a marble and wrap the drop cloth around it where you want to attach the rope. Tie the rope on so it cinches the tarp around the marble. Voila.

Check out the video on Underquilts on the Cheap.. you might find some ideas there for underquilts.

Wally world cheap pads can do wonders in getting you into the 40's and lower for some people.