Hi All,
I’m a recent forum member, and am still deciding upon the equipment I plan to purchase.
I camped with a group of friends a couple of years ago and saw a hammock setup for the first time. I was dubious at first, but after talking to the owner and doing a bit or research the idea made a lot of sense. This is quite a change in thinking for someone who owns and uses both a 12x16 2-room tent for family outings and a two-person mini dome for personal trips.
I recently confirmed the dates of a trip with friends in April and began mentally making a list of all the stuff that needs to be pulled out of winter storage for the trip. We’ve done winter camping in the past, but since our youngest came along those types of trips don’t happen any more. She just doesn’t “camp” well and is a total opposite of her older sister. Maybe in a few years – we’ll see.
Anyway, I remembered my friend’s hammock setup and began to realize that he didn’t need to deal with all of the “stuff” that is necessary to get even my mini dome set up, and his whole kit packed up into a mighty small stuff sack. He also was able to set up a break down in no time. Can’t do that with a dome, rainfly, dropcloth, etc.
After a good bit of reading I’m beginning to realize that hammock camping isn’t as simple as I had first thought, but it’s not rocket science either. I’m also learning that this method of camping can absorb as much or more of my spending money as any of my other hobbies. Geocaching – there’s always a better GPS, daypack, container, etc. Straight razors and wet shaving – there’s always another custom blade, scales, soap, travel kit, etc. I’ve given up on having a hobby that doesn’t have a way of making my cash disappear. This one seems no different – top quilts, under quilts, tarps, suspension systems, etc.
I believe I’ve decided upon getting a Warbonnet Blackbird (WBBB?), but I’m still researching. After realizing that I still need to get under quilt, top quilt and tarp I’m realizing that although it’s going to be more convenient, and it sounds like I’ll sleep better, there’s no way that I’ll be able to get outfitted without spending at least as much as what our family tent cost. Not complaining, just getting my head around the numbers. My handle pretty much sums up my finances.
I realize I can go the budget route, but I don’t want to spend money on something only to replace it shortly thereafter because it didn’t do the job well. We mostly car camp, so bulk isn’t an issue. Therefore, I can use a cheap tarp for cover, and can get by with a top quilt and under quilt that are man-made rather than down-filled ones. I plan on starting with a good hammock and working my way out. If I’m lucky I’ll be able to order a hammock and test it before heading out in April. If not, I’ll have more time to save for a more complete kit. I’ve camped enough to know to NOT go to the field with untested equipment.
So much for a brief introduction.
I appreciate all of the advice, hints, tips, trick and such that are shared on this forum. I still have a LOT to learn, but I look forward to soon be sleeping above the ground instead of on it.
Regards,
- Mark (S-4-C)
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