Why use a hammock

**Drybones** · 10-30-2013, 07:09

Well guys, just got home last night from a section hike, Pearisburg, VA to Harpers Ferry, WV, 387.1 miles, 22 days. I had hoped to have a hammock and tarp made in time for the trip but it didn't work out, not enough time, but I'll soon be back on the project asking for help. In the end though it was probably best to get another long section under my belt to evaluate tent camping and comfort to compare to a hammock once I get it made. The tent was comfy enough but I believe in the end I'll convert to a hammack to allow me to stop pretty much anywhere. I had intended to have a fairly light day one day and stop at about 18 miles but had to cross a state park that didn't allow camping and then find a flat spot...had to do 28 miles to the next flat spot...really could have used a hammock at that time.

**billygoatA** · 10-30-2013, 07:12

Reason # 47, you can set up a hammock virtually anywhere there are trees.

**jtdad13** · 10-30-2013, 07:20

Reason #74, also can be used as a chair!

**Cali** · 10-30-2013, 07:20

You couldn't find a flat spot for 10 miles, that seems a bit much, but another reason for hammocks over tents.

**Jeff Kindy** · 10-30-2013, 08:07

#36: If need be you can set a hammock up as a tent on the ground when no trees are available. Utilizing your trekking poles, bugnet and tarp. Just be sure to protect the bottom of the hammock with a ground sheet made from house wrap or plastic.

**perdidochas** · 10-30-2013, 09:29

Originally Posted by Drybones

Well guys, just got home last night from a section hike, Pearisburg, VA to Harpers Ferry, WV, 387.1 miles, 22 days. I had hoped to have a hammock and tarp made in time for the trip but it didn't work out, not enough time, but I'll soon be back on the project asking for help. In the end though it was probably best to get another long section under my belt to evaluate tent camping and comfort to compare to a hammock once I get it made. The tent was comfy enough but I believe in the end I'll convert to a hammack to allow me to stop pretty much anywhere. I had intended to have a fairly light day one day and stop at about 18 miles but had to cross a state park that didn't allow camping and then find a flat spot...had to do 28 miles to the next flat spot...really could have used a hammock at that time.

Comfort is the best reason I've found to use a hammock. Had to sleep in a tent on the ground last weekend with the Boy Scouts (Camporee, in the middle of a field, no trees, but I think a TL stand is in my future).

**Nodust** · 10-30-2013, 09:31

Comfort.

Cooler in the summer.

**Dead Man** · 10-30-2013, 09:51

Reason #007: You could stealth camp in that park that didn't allow it and save your legs. JK - follow the rules at all times even if it kills you.

(Please don't beat me up for suggesting this - Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do in the back country. In such an extreme situation as having to add 10 miles to an otherwise long day hike, better to ask forgiveness than permission. Keep quiet, leave no trace and be respectful in every way possible)