2nd try

[Vtpilot1]

I'm going to give hammocking a second try this year. Except rather than drop tons of money again I'm going the cheaper route and using a sleeping bag and foam pad. I bought the 1/4" foam pad from GG. what size do you normally cut it down to to make it more manageable to carry in a pack and still useable for insulation? Eventually I'd like to get another UQ if I decide I can make it work, but until then.

[mountainhanger]

The uq thing continues to be mind boggling for me too. I still don't know how I got my ugc dialed in but I did! I think it's because it's a dull length. As far as a pad goes I can't help you but I hope this bump helps! Hang in there! ( ok bad pun but it works)

[oldpappy]

I assume you got the GG wide pad that is about 60"X36" (the size when I got mine many years ago).
To test how I use mine, try folding it in half (36"LX30"W) and try it as a 3/4 length pad to see how you like that size. Try this for a couple nights prior to deciding.
What I did was cut the pad in half and use one pad down to about 35F, then use both pads doubled up below 35F (to 22F). I have a HH bottom entry so this works well for that application (insulates shoulders to thighs). For my feet I use a small sit pad inside sleeping bag and a vest/jacket zipped up and pulled over my sleeping bag foot end as needed. I find my legs don't compress the synthetic sleeping bag much thus the extra insulation for legs is only needed below about 35F. My feet do appreciate something extra so I sometimes wear socks and put them both in a single stuff sack (the empty one for the hammock).

Since you had past issues, try just afternoon napping or read a book until you get comfortable with a set-up - don't jump right into a 'must get good nights sleep in a new setting' scenario. It still takes me 2 or 3 nights to really relax into a new environment.