Outdoor Blog

Hammock vs Tent Camping – The Debate is Over

Published

3 years ago

April 17, 2021

Back view of young woman silhouette relaxing on orange hammock between two trees

For most casual campers and backpackers, it would be wild to consider sleeping in anything other than a tent in the backcountry. While car and trailer camping are great options for people who need a little more comfort or want to cover serious ground, tent camping is the gold standard for spending a night in the embrace of the great outdoors.

You may be surprised to learn however that tents aren’t the end-all, be-all of great camping and backpacking. You don’t actually need a tent to stay comfortable and secure in the wilderness. In fact, many of the most experienced backpackers have cast off the traditional tent for much lighter and versatile options, like a hammock or bivy sack.

Is a Tent Always Worth the Hassle?

One of the main reasons you might go out into the wilderness on a camping trip is to get away from the hassles and complications of modern life. Enjoying the simplicity of outdoor living is a major motivation for plenty of backpackers and hikers. So why put up with the hassle and expense of a tent? After all, if the idea is to go without anything that’s not absolutely necessary, you might eventually find you can eschew even a tent!

For those unfamiliar with alternative sleeping arrangements for an outdoor or backcountry trip, it might sound scary to stay out in the woods without a tent to protect you from the elements. The truth is, though, that options like a modern hammock, a bivy sack, or even a well-planned ground sleeping situation can be plenty comfortable for your next trip.

As you might guess, hammock camping is especially popular among ultralight backpackers and anyone else trying to reduce the weight they need to carry. Even a simple one-person tent can get heavy when you consider the weight of tent poles in particular.

Another advantage of the hammock setup or similar sleeping setups is that they often combine your sleeping gear with the protective gear into one unified sleep system. This way, you can be comfortable and secure while carrying very little gear, and this less weight.

Young happy man relaxing lying in hammock on top of mountain

The combined weight of a hammock and a sleeping bag is usually less than that of a single camping tent.

Basics of Hammock Camping

The good news is that hammock camping is a lot easier than you might imagine! The modern hammock camper has many options to choose from and a lot of high-quality and cozy alternatives. Plus, you can combine elements of different sleeping options to figure out the right system for you.

No matter what equipment you’re using, everyone’s needs are going to be different and you should experiment with different alternatives to find what works best for you. We all have different tradeoffs between the amount of weight we want to carry, how comfortable we want to be, and the kind of weather we plan to be camping in.

It goes without saying that hammock camping in a temperate climate on a dry night is much different from winter camping with the same equipment. So, if you’re going to try hammock camping, the hammock gear you’ll need will depend somewhat on the conditions you’ll be using it in, your own personal comfort level, and other factors like weight limits, how many people you need to provide shelter for, and more.

To start designing the perfect hammock system for your next trip, you should start by familiarizing yourself with different sleep system options for backpacking and camping. Beyond basic hammocking and a traditional tent, there are ground camping alternatives as well, like bivy sacks and simple tarp set-ups.

A bivy sack is a bit like a super-insulated sleeping bag, with a raised portion above the head to provide some space and protection from bugs. While they’re usually not waterproof on their own, adding a tarp or rainfly can solve this problem easily.

You can also simply combine a sleeping bag, tarp, and maybe a mosquito net to achieve a pretty comfortable sleeping situation right on the ground. That said, most people are a bit more comfortable with space between their back and the flat ground. So camping cots are one way to provide a bit of space, although hammocks are both lighter and generally considered more comfortable than a cot.

Hammock vs Tent Camping

What is it that makes hammocking so comfortable and popular? To put it simply, flat ground is often very uncomfortable. You can try to make up for it with sleeping pads and thick sleeping bags, but the fact is the ground is hard on your back. A hammock, when used correctly, can take a lot of pressure off your back. This is really important if you’re trekking quite a long way and need to carry a pack for days on end.

But it also allows you to carry more of other things, go longer without restocking, and be less burdened by everything you need to carry. This makes hammock camping an especially great option for anyone who needs to carry along additional equipment, such as photography equipment, fishing poles, or whatever else you need to bring with you ut to the backcountry.

So if you’re ready to get a good night’s sleep on your next camping trip or save your back a little bit of strain, consider switching out your standard camping gear for a hammock. Ground camping can be a fun and effective option, but after you try hammock camping for the first time, it’s unlikely you’ll ever go back. Especially after learning how to combat bugs, rain, wind, and more effectively in a hammock.

When You Might Need a Tent

There are, however, some camping situations where a tent is the better option. In particular, hammocks are usually only designed for one or maybe two people. If you want to sleep more than that in one place, hammocks aren’t the best option. You should also consider whether you’re up to climbing in and out of a hammock as they can be difficult for people with hip or back issues.

It’s also true that hammocks just don’t provide quite as much protection from the elements as tents do. For some, this is part of the appeal, as it allows you to be closer to the natural world. However. This means there are limits to the conditions in which you can use a hammock.

For bad weather or extended camping, you may be more comfortable in a tent. Still, there are definitely ways to make hammock camping possible in even the worst of conditions. In fact, we’ll cover winter hammock camping a bit below.

If you need a tent, though, and don’t find the tradeoffs worthwhile in order to switch to hammock camping, that’s totally fine. Everyone has different needs and desires when it comes to camping and backpacking, so figure out what works for you. Just don’t count out hammock camping without considering it first!

Setting Up the Ultimate Sleep System

Now that you’re ready to try an alternative to traditional tent camping, how can you design a sleep system that provides comfort, ease, and security? The first question to consider is whether you want to go for an alternative ground camping option or a hammock. One way to decide is to think about your sleeping position. Do you commonly sleep in your back? On your side?

For side sleepers, a bivy sack or cot may be a better option than a hammock. Hammocks, on the other hand, are ideal for people who sleep on their back, although I’ve heard plenty of side sleepers also find them comfortable.

If you go with a hammock, the only components you’ll truly need are your hammock and a suspension system. There are a few different suspension systems out there, but most rely on straps, ropes, and carabiners to attach your hammock to trees or other suspension points (such as rocks).

This is an important thing to consider: if you use a traditional hammock, you’ll need something to attach it to! Hammocks with a stand are going to be heavier and, at that point, you may just want to use a tent. Some suspension systems also require stakes for tie-outs just like a tent.

From there, setting up sleeping space in a hammock is similar to what you’d do for a tent. You’ll generally need an under-quilt, a top-quilt, and a sleeping bag to sleep comfortably. Unlike ground camping, however, you won’t need a sleeping pad to reduce the pressure from the ground. This is one real advantage of hammock camping, you can set up camp even in areas where the ground would otherwise pose an obstacle.

Rainflys are made with water-repelling materials to keep you dry in your hammock.

Waterproofing and Bug-Proofing

With both hammocks and bivy sacks, you’re also going to want some sort of waterproofing to help keep you dry in a sudden rainstorm. You can buy a rain fly made for a hammock or bivy sack rather than a tent, or use a rain tarp to stay dry. Some bivy sacks are waterproof on their own, but it’s always a good idea to use a rain tarp underneath as well. You’ll sometimes see rain flys for hammocks called “hammock tents” too.

Finally, if you’re camping somewhere where there are lots of bugs, a mosquito net might make sense to add. Many bivy sacks and camping hammocks come with bug nets included, but you should make sure to get one if the hammock you’re using doesn’t. You can often find rain tarps and mosquito nets combined, and a lot of the newer camping hammocks come with all of these things as well as self-contained suspension systems.

Hammocking and Ultralight Backpacking

As you can see, hammocks are a great option for ultralight backpacking. Since they weigh very little, are easy to set up, and even cost less than the average tent, they make a great option for anyone looking for less hassle in their next camping trip. Some suspension systems are much more complicated than others though, and you can certainly set up a hammock sleeping system that’s just as complicated as any tent.

In choosing the right type of hammock for your trip, you’ll want to consider material, size, suspension options, and more. When it comes to suspension options, you have many, many choices. You’ll probably need to experiment a bit to figure out what works best for you. It’s good to know some basic options and terms to start.

The “ridgeline length” refers to the distance between the two ends of your hammock, and it’s important to make sure you get the right sag in your hammock to lay comfortably above the ground. You can achieve this by using just ropes, special tree-hugger straps, webbing, and more. For those just starting out, the daisy chain strap is the easiest to use, although many hammock campers swear by webbing-based suspension options.

Setting Up Your Hammock

At the very basic level, there are a few things you’ll want to do to make sure your hammock is set up correctly for a good night’s sleep. The first thing to do is locate the right spot to set up your hammock. You want to find two trees the right distance apart, as well as making sure there’s nothing sharp or dangerous below. You should also try to use tres that aren’t rotting, dead, or harboring any animals that might be disturbed by you.

In fact, hammocks make it much easier to live out the “leave no trace” principles of responsible hiking and camping. So you should avoid setting up your hammock near active water sources and use established sites whenever possible. You can also use special tree hugger hammock straps to avoid injuring the trees you’re using.

From there, you want to hang your hammock with the straps at about a 30-degree angle from the ground. It can be tricky to get the angles and sag right the first few times, but eventually, you’ll figure out the best way to set up your hammock. In general, you want to create a sort of diagonal space for your body so you’re laying across the hammock. The bottom should be about 18’ from the ground.

Using a Hammock in Cold Weather

So I promised we’d also talk about how to use a hammock in cold weather. These days you can get a hammock that’s well suited for whatever weather conditions you need. As it’s gotten easier and easier to produce effective lightweight winter camping gear, the camping season has extended for many people who enjoy trips to the wilderness.

Hammock camping is no different. You can now buy hammocks specially created for winter camping. Just like winter sleeping bags, these hammocks use advanced insulation materials to keep you warm even in the harshest of weather. In fact, hammocks are going to be cheaper than full tents with similar temperature ratings. In particular, Hennessy hammocks come with lots of options for increased insulation, reflective rain flys, and more.

Again, keeping warm in a hammock in the winter is going to require a bit of experimentation to get it right. Try different insulation options, like hammock pads, and inflated layers. One tip you might not expect is that mosquito netting can actually help keep you warm. It provides something of a windscreen and, when used with other forms of insulation, can keep you quite comfortable in cold weather.

Final Verdict

While there is definitely a learning curve involved, anyone can learn to use a hammock or another alternative sleep system to explore the backcountry. In fact, if the point is to get as close to the natural world as possible, it’s amazing that anyone camps any other way.

A hammock can help you save money, protect your back, get more in touch with nature, and even live out your values more fully. After all, it’s much easier to “leave no trace” when you don’t have to set up a tent and everything involved in that.

But hammock camping is especially great if you’re trying to go further, carry more, or challenge yourself to camp with less. With the modern materials and technologies now available, it’s easier than ever to stay warm sleeping in a hammock. Once you get rid of all that weight taken up by your tent, you’ll be freer than ever to explore the world around you.

Bonus tip: Check out this video on how to set up a hammock on a slackline for an even more extreme challenge!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 weeks ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter