as long as the mosquitos don't drop you as they carry you off.
as long as the mosquitos don't drop you as they carry you off.
Here's a pretty decent idea what to expect...
http://youtu.be/_I226Sfgs0s @ approx at the 6:40 mark
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As another Florida hanger I too am patiently awaiting the cooler weather. Except for the Florida Hangs in January with temps in the mid 20's I've managed down to 32 with a PLUQ + a layer of insulfleece if it is needed. Also carry a set of polprop UW in light or mid weight for sleep wear.
Most of us end up poorer here but richer for being here. Olddog, Fulltime hammocker, 365 nights a year.
I still use a sleeping bag and pad as my primary insulation. I started hammock camping in Gainesville, FL, where it can get chilly sometimes, with an ENO DoubleNest.
My beginning set up was: Eno Singlenest modded with straps/cinch buckles. A Kelty Noah's 9 tarp and bag and pad. Worked great. You probably want to add a lightweight bug net. You can buy them or make your own.
If you want to make your own Fronky has a great design that you can mimic. He has a video about it on his YouTube page. Search: TheFLsurfer776
The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog.
I am not sure what else I can add to the discussion, but in my experience you need a good three season setup.
During the dry season, Oct - April, it can get cold at times. 70's or 80's during the day down to mid 20's at night. When a cold front comes through from the north it can be in the 50's or 60's during the day. The rain is rare if it occurs at all. The insects are also not too active at this time. I recommend insulation that can get you down into the 20's. If the night is to warm you can always remove insulation as needed.
During the rainy season, May - Sept, it never appears to cool down due to the high humidity and predictable afternoon rain. Combine that with the insect population, I don't recommend going out during those months. You will end up being constantly dripping wet in your own sweat. Now people do go out during these months and are happy, but I don't know how they accomplish that.
Once you get used to the temps and bugs, you'll notice the wonderful thing about summer camping in Florida. The two legged bug population is a lot less.
Permethrin treatment of your hammock does wonders to help keep the little critters at bay and mosquito coils are great too.
Also, before hitting the trail in the fall, check the hunting season dates for your location. Florida forests attract a lot of hunters.
Welcome to Florida!
hammock [ham-uhk] noun
Man's successful attempt to sleep on a cloud
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