Hello all, fist time on the forum. I lived in my hammock most of last summer but never did much more than a weekend trek. In a few weeks I am planning a longer hike on the North Country Trail (about 2-3 weeks). Just wanted to toss out a few questions/ask opinions about gear.
First of all, sleeping pad. Take it or leave it? Never quite could use one comfortably in a hammock, but it may get cold (possibly 20's at the worst), and there may be times it is more convenient to ground-dwell.
Second: I picked up a Feathered Friends Winter Wren sleepingbag. http://www.featheredfriends.com/Prod...=Winter%20Wren
I've always had trouble getting into a bag in a hammock, and the idea of getting into my bag, then hopping into the hammock seems appealing. Plus I can wear it around camp on cold mornings (looking like a giant prophelactic device, but oh well). I was wondering though, has anyone tried using one of these as a pea-pod?
Going along with that, has anyone seen this product? http://www.hilleberg.com/2006%20Prod...wBivanorak.htm
Could that be used over a hammock for extra wind/weather protection plus afford lighweight emergency ground shelter if needed? Seems like a neat idea, but not sure if its neat enough to justify the price versus a poncho.
And speaking of multi-use gear, here's an idea some of you may like: I carry a couch/throw sized wool blanket whenever hammock camping. I line the bottom of the hammock with it on cold nights, use it alone instead of a bag on warm nights, and wear it as a kilt wit a couple large pins on cool days. It's warmer and easier to switch to shorts than zip off trail pants. Just have to get past the whole hiking in a skirt thing.
Sorry for the long post, just a newbie looking for direction. Thanks!