New hanger from Sacramento

**Brien** · 06-26-2013, 23:46

I'm going on a backpacking trip in the Sierras next month. I was planning on bringing a tent, but after learning more about hammocks I bought a Lawson today. I think it will meet my needs and I like the idea of sleeping off the ground. No matter the surface, tent camping sucks.

I have a couple questions. 1. Is there a good resource to learn how to tie good knots? I was never a Boy Scout and don't know any knots. 2. Can I get some recommendations on the barrier under my sleeping bag. I have an inflatable sleep bag pad, would that help keep me warm?

**aka.jobbe** · 06-27-2013, 03:06

Welcome,

You have to know Your knots. If you dont, then just bring a tent. You Mighty be ón the Ground the most of the times.....

**Sidewinder** · 06-27-2013, 08:57

Welcome from San Rafael! Lots of good resources here. As for knots you really only need a few. Practice In your back yard first and dial In your set up. Pads will work fine. You might look into underquilts too. Where in the sierras will you be going?

See you on the trail...

S

**garyg763** · 06-27-2013, 10:18

Welcome aboard!

**cardo** · 06-27-2013, 11:08

Hello from Chico.

Depending on your suspension, you can get along without any knots at all.

Check out "hammock suspension differences" about halfway down the page for a couple of options that don't require knots. The suspensions are available from many sources or DIY. There are also other videos but this one is pretty succinct.

http://www.warbonnetoutdoors.com/setup.php

A poncho liner under quilt (PLUQ) might be all you need, depending on your tolerance for temperatures - are you a 'cold sleeper' or a 'hot sleeper'?

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/tags.php?tag=pluq

Happy Hangin'

**Brien** · 06-27-2013, 12:25

Hi guys, thanks for the warm welcome and pointers. I'm going to be backpacking in about 5 miles south of Lake Tahoe. Our base camp will most likely be at around 8,000 ft. So I am concerned about staying warm at night, but also don't want to bogged down carrying a heavy PLUQ (a new term I learned). The Lawson comes with a rain cover, so I will be set there.

I will start to watch those videos later today. Hopefully that will help. Do people typically put the liner beneath the hammock or directly under their sleeping bag? I understand the principle of having a space barrier to help trap the heat, but I just want to make sure I'm going about this the correct way.