Outdoor Blog

Should You Take a Hammock or Tent on the Appalachian Trail?

Published

5 years ago

January 8, 2020

A tent in the forest next to a hammock between two trees daytime.

Whether you’re backpacking for one night, a couple of weeks, or a few months on a long-distance thru-hike you will need a secure place to rest your head each night on the Appalachian Trail. Other than the shelters that are placed along the trail the go-to choices for most people are hammocks and tents. Which is better though and how can you decide?

Thankfully thousands of people have trodden the path before you and they have experimented with almost every imaginable form of hiking and camping, some even going without a tent at all. The experiences of others serve well to determine the pros and cons of each approach. Almost everything in hiking is personal and no one person can decide everything for you. Only by weighing the different aspects of hammocks and tents can you decide if one is better for you than the other.

A man sitting on a rock ledge during sunset.

As the sun sets on the trail you will need to know where you are sleeping that night.

Where will you be sleeping?

When you set off to hike the Appalachian Trail you can expect that most of your nights will end in and around shelters, also known as a “lean-to”. These are three walled bare-bones wooden structures studded along the trail. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) estimates there are a little more than 250 of them. Whether you have a tent, a hammock, or some other shelter you are still likely to end up around these spots on a regular basis. It isn’t necessary of course but it is important to be aware of when considering your own shelter.

These lean-to shelters dot the trail at an average of 8-mile intervals and they are typically the target for a days hike. At least this is how many people plan their day to day walking distances. The shelters are key waypoints where hikers meet, exchange stories, socialize and rest. The shelters are also sometimes, and sometimes is the operative word here, near a spring or water source. They are also occasionally equipped with some kind of toilet, typically something a couple of steps removed from a hole in the ground. Most importantly some of these shelters have storage systems in place to protect your food from bears. That is very much an issue.

You can’t rely on these locations every night though. The shelters operate on a first come first serve basis and during hiking season they can fill up quickly with other thru-hikers. Other times, even when the shelter is not full, you’re just not going to want to sleep in it. These places become permanent homes for all sorts of bugs, snakes, mice, and other animals. The structures can also get very run down and very dirty since they are exposed to the elements and difficult to maintain on a regular basis.

Then there is the very real issue of other people. Depending on your comfort level around certain types of people you just might not feel comfortable sleeping in the same space with particular strangers. The trail can attract longe term vagabonds, drifters, and the homeless who all try to make use of these shelters on a more permanent basis. Most of these fellows are probably totally harmless but you have to go with your gut.

The key takeaway here is that shelters are these focal points for evenings on the Appalachian Trail. You can benefit from their water source, nearby privy, food storage for bears and the camaraderie that occurs there. It is important to appreciate that you won’t always be able to rely on these spots though nor will you always want to stay in them. Stopping in for a quick hello and then moving on down the trail to make your own campsite isn’t unheard of.

This means that you absolutely must bring your own form of shelter when hiking the trail. You will be needing it and using it even though the shelters are there. This does become less of a problem towards the end of the trail usually so some people do try cowboy camping at that point. Cowboy camping is where you just sleep out under the stars and hop from shelter to shelter when necessary. That’s a matter of personal preference but you’ll definitely need a shelter at the beginning and you’ll probably still want one towards the end.

Taking a tent: pros

If you’re going to spend an extended period of time outdoors the go-to shelter is usually a tent. There are several tried and true reasons for this. For one, tents can be very good at protecting you from the elements. With the current waterproofing and rain flies available a decent tent will keep you and all your stuff nice and dry during a rainstorm or snow. Good tents are also built with a waterproof floor that curves up on the sides to help hold out water even as it pools outside.

With tents, you can also put a ground tarp down beneath the tent and a sleeping pad down inside the tent. This creates several layers of insulation and protection to make sleeping a lot more comfortable than just sleeping outside. An excellent sleeping bag adds the final touch to keep you cozy. If you are on uneven terrain or cold ground it is better to have these layers. All the ground layers of the tent, as well as the tent itself, also serve well to keep bugs and small animals out. Inside the tent, you can almost completely shut out the world.

With a good tent, you will stay warm. In addition to the ground layers acting as insulation, your own body heat will build up inside the tent. The further north you go later in the season the more important this will become. There is nothing quite like pervasive cold to slowly chip away at your resolve. Having a warm tent to retreat into can be such a relief.

Tents are also an excellent option because you can set them up almost anywhere. This is perfect for any backpacker trekking through the backcountry. You just need a mostly flat area big enough for your tent to fit and there you go. You can even set your tent up inside a shelter to give yourself some privacy or to make an otherwise run-down shelter livable. Tents beat hammocks on this point because a hammock requires two points from which to hang it while a tent does not. Anywhere can become your next campsite, even wide open prairies or old buildings.

As a corollary of a previous point, tents are great for protecting your stuff as well. You never know what or who is lurking while you sleep and with your whole world stuffed into one backpack it is best to keep it inside and in your line of sight. Tents aren’t really a defense against bears though so you should still make use of a bear box if present. Also, this isn’t to say that you need to hike in a state of constant apprehension of others. If anything people on the Appalachian Trail are more likely to give you the shirt off their back, literally, than they are to take something from you. They are great people with great traditions. A tent can just give an added degree to your peace of mind.

Tents have many benefits but they have their downsides too. It is important to understand both.

Taking a tent: cons

The biggest downside of lugging a tent everywhere is often the weight. The tent can easily be one of the heaviest and bulkiest things you carry due to the tent poles and stakes. If you have the money to spend there are some high-end ultralight tents available that are made with lightweight and high-grade materials. These are nice but there is still some weight on them. Anything under 5 lbs can get quite pricey. For example, the 2 person 3 season Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent weighs only 3 lbs but it will cost you around $450. As the price drops the weight goes up!

Tents can also become very uncomfortable depending on the climate and what you have. All the body heat that a tent traps is great during cold weather but during the summer it can become unbearable. It then becomes important to ventilate your tent well and keep it breathable so you don’t cook alive inside of it. Tents that breathe better can also be pricier than those that don’t. Condensation is another issue. Hot humid and rainy environments all combine with the water vapor of your own breath to create damp and moist areas inside the tent. Again, ventilation is key as well as a good rain fly to help prevent condensation.

Relative to other forms of camping like hammock camping or cowboy camping the tent can be a real chore to set up and take down. It isn’t too much of an issue for the first few days but doing it every evening and every morning for months can become a bit laborious. There will be times when you just don’t feel like it and even contemplate just passing out on the ground, especially when thru-hiking. It helps if you hike with someone else and you can work together or take turns with camp setup and breakdown. Otherwise, if you’re solo, the smaller the tent the better.

Hammocking: pros

Depending on what you spend and what you get your hammock gear can be much lighter than a tent. Saving that weight on your back can translate into huge energy gains that make your daily hike more enjoyable and boost your mileage. Even if you spend big money on the higher end and splurge for something like a Hennessy Hammock Ultralite you will still spend less that you would for a tent. That Hennesy Ultralite weighs in at only 1 lb. 15 oz. and costs around $230. Sure, that is pricey but when compared to the $450 Big Agnes Copper Spur tent mentioned earlier it isn’t that bad.

Of course, you don’t have to spend that much. It’s just important that you have the essentials. For bug-filled summer nights, you can stay cool and protected with a bug net and for rainy nights you will want a good rain tarp. You need the whole hammock system including an underquilt for insulation. With those equipped, you can get through most climates fairly well in a hammock.

Hammocks are usually more comfortable than tents too. It does depend on preference and how you sleep but laying in a nice hammock up above the ground just might be the best sleep you get on the trail. During the summer months especially a hammock is nice. Unlike with tents, the hammock won’t trap your body heat as much so you can stay cool in the heat of the night.

Set up and takedown are also a nicer experience when you are camping with a hammock. You just need two trees, posts, or hooks far enough apart to hook up to. In the morning you release these and you are on your way. Easy as pie. What’s also nice is that hammocks work in places that tents never could. After heavy rain when shallow spots become flooded you can just sleep above them. The same goes for really rocky and uneven ground, just string the hammock overtop and you are good to go.

A blue hammock in between two trees daytime.

Hammocks can bring you closer to nature, they are not perfect though.

Hammocking: cons

The great benefit of an easy setup is also part of the downside of hammock camping. It is only easy, and possible, to set up if you have the right kind of place to do so. You can’t just set up camp anywhere like you can in a tent. You have to search for the right spot that has adequate support and enough space to hook up your hammock. This isn’t always possible and with no backup, you’ll be sleeping on the ground.

Another consideration, not so much a con to hammock camping necessarily, is that hammocks aren’t always lighter than tents. You have to keep in mind that the hammock still requires a rain fly and bug net along with all the straps to hang it. That weight can add up depending on the quality of the hammock.

Also, even with all the right equipment, a hammock will not protect you from the elements as well as a tent can. Since a hammock does not trap body heat it is very cold during the winter and on chilly nights. You can set up an underquilt or Therm-a-Rest and that insulation can help. It can also get very wet when it rains hard enough. Even with a rain tarp set up the water still finds a way to you. Most hammock setups are not totally isolated from the outside world so there is always room for outside climates to get in.

You must also consider that hammocks are typically big enough for you but only you. This means you can’t keep your gear inside the hammock with you for one. Rainy nights present a challenge then for keeping you and your stuff dry. They are also best suited for people who sleep on their back and sometimes side sleepers can have trouble getting a good night’s sleep.

Why not mix it up?

There is no rule stating that you have to finish the trail with the same camping equipment you started with. You could easily start at the southern terminus with a hammock and then switch to a tent as you go along. You could even transition entirely to cowboy camping at one point as you get more comfortable in the outdoors. Some Appalachian Trail campers have done exactly that.

It all depends on your degree of experience, comfort and when you are hiking. Regardless, mixing things up in terms of how you camp each night can add a nice amount of variety, and learning, to the overall experience. Your first time camping without a hammock or tent can have a bit of a learning curve in terms of finding comfort and rest but it is worth trying.

Two person sitting in a green hammock over a creek in the woods.

There are some places you can sleep in a hammock that you never could in a tent.

Final Verdict:

When your hiking the Appalachian Trail hammocks and tents can bothe be good options depending on your preferences. If you favor a warmer more climate protected place to sleep at the cost of weight and relative comfort then a tent might be right for you. Otherwise, if warmth and climate barriers aren’t more important than weight and comfort sleeping a hammock may be the better choice. The pros and cons extend beyond these as you’ve read and it is important to really weigh both before making a choice.

Bonus tip: Join one hiker on the Appalachian Trail as he explores and discusses the shelters there!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month 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