Gear priority.

[kikoraa]

So it's been roughly 4 years since I've camped in a hammock. I sold all of my gear because my focus was directed towards other things. I'm assembling new kit again in hopes of doing it right and better the first time. I really never liked my pad in my hammock and I found I freeze pretty easy at night.

I already have a BIAS Weight weenie hammock and now I'm looking to buy a tarp or a UQ. Considering I'm in GA, a bug net is a necessity for the next few months. I used to use a hennessy hex fly but that weighed a ton to be riding a bike on a multi day trip. I'm hoping to get a normal hex tarp between 10-15 oz

I've never used an UQ and don't know what temp ratings sre preferred or if they really mean what they say

All in all, I'm on a budget so will have to collect gear over the course of a few paychecks.

That being said, if I were to buy new from cottage vendors, what would you prioritize first?

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[TrailSlug]

Since it's getting warmer I would start with a tarp, and then go for the under quit. Also depending on the temps you want to hang in will determine what temp rating quilts you will want to go for.

[kikoraa]

Spring summer fall. Would probably avoid winter since it's such a short season here. But I'm a baby sleeping in the 50's

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[GreatBigDave]

1) Tarp - Weather protection is critical.
2) Underquilt - As budget is a concern, consider the Jarbidge from Arrowhead. I prefer synthetic in warmer weather - it seems to wick better than down. Also bulk and weight are less of a concern for warmer rated quilts.

[SilvrSurfr]

Tarp first, but I'd go for a 4-season like the Warbonnet Superfly (19 oz.). I have hex tarps but they just don't hold a candle to a tarp with doors.

The Jarbidge is a great starter UQ - I've heard it is good down to 25. I have 40*, 20* and 0* HG quilts, but the first ones I got was a 20* HG 3/4 Phoenix and 20* Burrow - I used them for my first two years. In Georgia, those might be the only quilts you ever need.

[OCDave]

Just to be a bit contrarian; I can make a $15 construction tarp work to keep me dry. Nothing is as comfortable as good underquilt. I'd get an underquilt 1st.

[somniferous]

For me it's a toss up for which to upgrade first, especially since you already have a tarp (although admittedly heavy).

For tarps there are a ton of good hex tarps, I love my Wilderness Logics Tadpole. The Warbonnet Edge is also nice. I'd also take a look at the Dutch Hex. You really don't need a tarp with doors if you aren't camping in windy areas or in cold weather. I've survived big storms just fine with my small hex tarps.

Depending upon budget, take a look at Hammock Gears new Econ line of quilts. A full length 20 Incubator is $150, and a 3/4 20 is $110. The arrowhead suggestion is also good if you want to go synthetic.

[somniferous]

And for bug nets, any fronkey style will do you well. I personally use the nano buginator from BIAS. I like the fronkey style because I hate zippers, zippers are for tents and clothing.

[soul embrace]

I'm live in Alabama and have a 20° set and that's all I need. After the tarp get the underquilt. Hammock gear has a great deal on their Econo line they are a little heavier than their premium line but cost about $100 less.

[goobie]

If you watch the weather and can plan around it, a tarp isn't a necessity. Unless it's the middle of winter, cold and windy, my tarp stays in my pack, or stays in the snakeskins. All but impossible to sleep without insulation under you. Get an UQ first.