Outdoor Blog

How to Stay Warm Sleeping in a Hammock

Published

4 years ago

February 17, 2021

A man in a white t-shirt lyring in a hammock.

Hammock camping is very different from other types of camping because you are generally going to be suspended in the air for long periods of time. This has many advantages, such as being out of the reach of crawling bugs and being better protected from other potentially dangerous animals. However, one major disadvantage is the fact that you will no longer have the ground to insulate you from the cold air.

If you have ever used a bed tent, you’ll have a slight idea of what it is like to need insulation and protection from above. Bed tents block out the wind and allow warmer air to build up and not escape as easily. But when you are hammock camping, you are suspended in the air between two trees and you often have only a thin piece of fabric separating you from the cold air. If the surrounding air temperature is lower than your body temperature, it will pull the heat right out of your body in a thermal phenomenon known as convective cooling. This makes hammock camping perfect for hot summer nights but it can be so much more uncomfortable in the cooler months.

However, hammock camping in cooler weather isn’t necessarily a problem if you know how to stay toasty in a hammock. One of the most common questions about hammocking has to do with how to stay warm when you don’t have the insulation and shelter that you would usually have in a tent. If you have ever tried hammock camping, then you’ll probably know that you also need something below your body to reduce the chill and provide shelter from the wind when the temperature drops. The best way to retain your body heat is loft, which basically refers to the thickness of your insulation. In general, the thicker your insulation, the more heat you will tend to retain and the longer you will be able to stay warm.

There are a few ways to improve your insulation and make sure you stay even warmer when you are out camping in the backcountry. There are a wide variety of styles, colors, and insulation options available. Some people like top quilts, some like underquilts, and others like self-inflating pads or down-filled inflatable mats, closed-cell foam (CCF) pads, or even sleeping bags, which can be the simplest and most useful of all of these solutions.

Quilts are multi-layered, lightweight, and breathable blankets traditionally composed of three layers of fiber.

Top Quilts

What are some of the major benefits of a top quilt? Even if you’re only an occasional camper, you will want to be as warm as possible during the night, especially if you are camping in the backcountry. Most hammock campers will confirm that you will really need to get a good night’s sleep (every night) to make it through your backpacking trip as comfortably as possible.

A quilt will help you do that by protecting you from the elements all through the night. It will also help keep you warm all night long so that you can sleep soundly all the way through the night. Without a warm quilt on top of you, you may find yourself waking up in the middle of the night (or even several times during the night) because you are just too cold.

Overall, a top quilt should help you experience a more enjoyable trip and also keep you protected from the elements. No matter how many times you have been hammocking, your comfort remains of primary importance. You won’t really want to go hammock camping again after a miserable experience.

Underquilts

Hammock underquilts refer to lightweight fabrics that provide insulation and serve as a wind barrier when they are hung beneath the hammock. There are a wide variety of underquilt designs in all different shapes, colors, sizes, fabrics, temperature ranges, attachment methods, and insulation choices. The two most popular types of insulation used to trap heat are goose down and Climashield synthetic material.

Underquilts hang directly below the hammock and there is usually some method of adjustment in the form of small shock cords and cord locks. The general idea is to provide as much insulation and wind protection as possible to your exposed underside. Underquilts work best when hung properly and snugly against the bottom of the hammock. The adjustable shock cord attachments allow the underquilt to give and move with the weight of the user.

Most manufacturers of underquilts usually provide some sort of compression sack, too. These can be used to compress the quilt into a sack as much as possible to come out with the maximum amount of storage space. Many of the quilts available today are lightweight, easy to compress, easy to fluff, easy to hang, and they provide very good protection from cold and wind.

Being very durable and reliable, inflatable pads are commonly used both indoors and outdoors.

Self-inflating Pads or Mats

Inflatable sleeping pads or mats are easy to inflate and deflate. There are deluxe models that are made of goose down and they are very long and wide, which provides a great deal of warmth and wind protection. Inflatable pads made by any of the major hiking or camping gear manufacturers use top-notch materials and craftsmanship. Some have insulation, some just use the air in them as the barrier between the user and the cold ground or cold air, and some use a combination of air and insulation to prevent a lot of heat loss.

The idea of inflatable pads or mats is to provide a barrier. Instead of being attached below the hammock, like underquilts, pads or mats are placed in the hammock. Inflatable pads or mats can be adjusted accordingly. Each user can decide just how much or little air to use in the inflatable pad or mat. Some people like to pump them up really firm while others like just a little inflation. As long as there is a warm air barrier, that is the most important thing.

You can also use foam sleeping pads as another layer of insulation. These are generally easy to carry and stow in your backpack. In addition, some hammocks have a double layer of fabric on the bottom and it is often possible to slide your pad in between the two bottom layers of the hammock. This can help keep the inflatable pad or mat from sliding around but you can also just place it on the hammock and lay on it directly to stay warm and comfortable all night long.

Closed Cell Foam Pads

You will find many different closed cell foam (CCF) pads on the market. Some are made by major outdoor equipment manufacturers and others can be bought from retailers like Home Depot or Walmart. CCF pads can also be used to provide a thin layer of protection from cold air or wind. CCF pads are cheap, durable, and very light.

Like inflatable pads and mats, a CCF pad can be placed directly in the hammock. Some CCF pads wrinkle up which can be irritating and sometimes lead to condensation issues with certain types of CCF material. While CCF still insulates when wet, it can be uncomfortable to wake up with small pools of sweat everywhere. While CCF pads are very light, they can be bulky when they are rolled or folded up. Many hikers and campers use CCF pads on the ground and don’t have to worry about the punctures that can commonly be associated with inflatable pads or mats.

CCF pads are an inexpensive solution and they can also be multi-purposed. You will find that they can also be used in combination with underquilts, sleeping bags, or inflatable pads to increase the level of protection from the elements.

Man relaxing in sleeping bag enjoying sunset.

Sleeping bags are designed to be used on the ground so aren’t really ideal for hammocks.

Sleeping Bags

So why not just use a sleeping bag with a sleeping bag liner to stay warm? Well, sleeping bags are designed for the ground. They work really well at insulating your top half and then a sleeping pad insulates your back half. When you get in your hammock with your sleeping bag, your backside compresses the insulation against the hammock fabric and basically makes the insulation useless. Remember, the primary factor in staying warm with insulation is loft and if your sleeping bag has no loft on your backside, you’ll be cold, miserable, and not getting any sleep.

So sleeping bags are not always the best solution since the insulation is compressed by the weight of the user, which reduces the value of the insulation material. However, sleeping bags remain popular insulation solutions for many hammocks and they can be a cheap alternative to underquilts.

Some sleeping bag systems can include military modular systems and army surplus bags. The modular systems consist of a lightly insulated bag inside an intermediate insulated bag, which is then inside a heavy insulated bag and finally inside a waterproof bivy shell. With so many layers, you can use all the bags, some of the bags, just the shell, or any combination, depending on your specific needs.

Some sleeping bags and their inside shells can also be used as top insulation layers to help reduce the chill in the air. Check out this quick list of some of the most highly recommended sleeping bags for hammock camping.

Best sleeping bag overall for comfort, price, and quality: REI Co-op Magma 15 and Magma 30 (women’s Magma 15 and 30)
Best warmth-to-weight ratio: Western Mountaineering Alpinlite 20°
Best backpacking quilt overall for weight, versatility, and price: Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt 10°
Best budget sleeping bag: Kelty Cosmic Down 20
Budget-friendly bags that offer the most options: REI Co-op Igneo 17 (men’s) and REI Co-op Joule 21 (women’s)
Best women’s sleeping bag: Feathered Friends Egret UL 20°
Best synthetic sleeping bag at a very good price: Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20
Affordable quilt with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio: REI Co-op Magma Trail Quilt 30
Most versatile ultralight quilt: Feathered Friends Flicker 30 UL Quilt
Luxurious bags: NEMO Disco 15 (women’s Disco 15)
High-quality ultralight quilt with the best seasonal performance: Katabatic Flex 22 Quilt

A Few Other Ways to Stay Warm

Some very useful things to have in your backpack are a few packs of compact and lightweight hand warmers, which are single-use air-activated heat packs that provide real warmth and can be perfect for keeping your body warm when the temperature gets cold while you are lying in your hammock. These hand warmers are available in a wide variety of styles designed for your hands, feet, and body. Hand warmers like HotHands have been used for over 20 years by professional athletes, outdoor sporting enthusiasts, spectators, skiers, and everybody else who needs safe, convenient, concentrated warmth in cold weather conditions.

Another good thing to use when you are hammock camping is an insulated hot water bottle. These types of bottles are designed to hold warm liquid (usually water) and they can be kept under your sleeping bag to warm it up before you go to sleep. They also have a screw stopper that prevents leaks, and they are made from durable material so that you can use them over and over again. The insulating rubber material keeps the water inside warm for a long time, so it is perfect for hammock camping. The rubber water bottle includes a textured surface to make sure it doesn’t roll around, and it also has several holes for easy hanging and drying.

Clothes, too, are excellent things to use to keep yourself warm throughout the night and they can be easily discarded in layers if you happen to get too warm. If you have a windbreaker or even a heavier jacket, you may want to sleep with that on as well as with all of the other covers, just to provide you with yet another layer of insulation and to add to the overall comfort of your hammock camping sleep system.

Some Final Considerations

The reality about staying warm is that your body is actually like a heater. It converts the caloric energy that you consume when eating food into energy and heat, which stabilizes your body at the ideal body temperature of 98.6°F. When your body is surrounded by cold, you have a few ways to retain your body heat.

Most importantly, you will need to trap the heat you are creating with as many layers of insulation as possible. Try to surround your body with layers and space from the cold to make sure your heat stays with you longer. You should also eat more heavy food and then convert that energy into heat by doing strenuous exercises like jumping jacks or sit-ups to warm your body as much as possible.

Also, you can always turn to an outside heat source like a fire or an electric heater to warm your body effectively before you even get in your hammock. There are even tents with stove jacks that you can use to warm up in the morning after you have been exposed to the cold for a few hours.

Another factor in insulation is the amount of dead space between your body and all of the insulation layers. Having a lot of extra space to freely move around inside your insulation layers may be exactly what you prefer at first, but keep in mind that all of that space will first have to be heated by your body as well before it even makes it to any of the insulation layers.

These are just a few of the basic options you have for staying warm when it’s cold. Always remember that insulation is really just a barrier between hot and cold. Ultimately, there are a lot of methods for staying warm in a hammock during the cooler months. A solid understanding of all of the advantages and disadvantages of each method can really help you make some good decisions upfront and let you experience backcountry camping comfortably in your very own hammock.

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

4 weeks ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

2 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

4 months 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.