Hammock camping for beginners: kit and set-up tips
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A hammock gets you off wet, lumpy or sloping ground, which makes it a good fit for UK woodland where flat pitches are hard to find. It takes a little practice to get comfortable, but the kit is simple. This guide covers what you need, how to pick trees and hang the hammock, how to keep rain off and how to stay warm underneath.
What you need
- A hammock with suspension. The lightweight nylon camping hammock with tree straps comes ready to hang. The lightweight travel hammock packs small, and the 2-person double hammock suits lazy afternoons at camp. Check the weight limit on each product page.
- A tarp overhead. A 3m x 3m waterproof tarp covers most single hammocks with room to spare. A hooded poncho that doubles as a basha works as a smaller shelter.
- Cord and pegs to pitch the tarp, if not supplied.
- Insulation underneath. A sleeping bag alone gets squashed flat under your body. A self-inflating sleeping mat inside the hammock helps.
- A head torch and a dry bag to hang your kit off the ground.
Browse the set in our hammock camping collection.
Choosing your trees
- Pick two healthy, living trees that are thick enough to take your weight without bending. Avoid dead trees.
- Look up before you hang. Check for dead branches above you that could fall in wind.
- Trees about four to five metres apart are a good starting point for most single hammocks.
- Use wide tree straps rather than thin cord, to avoid damaging bark.
Hanging the hammock
- Wrap the straps around each tree at roughly head height.
- Clip the hammock on and aim for a gentle sag, like a smile, rather than pulling it tight. A tight hammock squeezes you and tips more easily.
- Aim for the seat to sit roughly at chair height so it is easy to get in and out.
- Lie slightly diagonally across the hammock. This lets you lie flatter.
- Test it close to the ground before you rely on it, and check the straps and fittings each time you hang.
Keeping the rain off
Pitch the tarp on a line above the hammock so it overhangs both ends. In wind or rain, bring the edges lower on the side the weather is coming from. Add a short drip line (a piece of cord tied to each hammock strap) so rainwater runs off rather than along the straps into your hammock.
Staying warm underneath
Air moving under a hammock takes heat away quickly, even on mild nights. Put a mat inside the hammock, wear a warm hat and dry layers, and keep a spare layer to hand. Our winter layering guide covers clothing for colder nights.
Where you can hang a hammock
Always ask the landowner's permission before camping. In Scotland, responsible wild camping is allowed on most unenclosed land, with local restrictions in some areas. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland you generally need permission. Many campsites allow hammocks, but check first. Leave no trace and take all rubbish home. For more lightweight kit, see wild camping kit.
Hammock camping FAQs
Is hammock camping comfortable?
Most people find it comfortable once they hang the hammock with a gentle sag and lie diagonally. Try a night in the garden before your first trip.
How far apart should trees be for a hammock?
About four to five metres suits most single hammocks. Check the hanging instructions supplied with your hammock.
Do I need a tarp for hammock camping in the UK?
Yes, unless you are sure it will stay dry. A tarp keeps rain and dew off and blocks some wind.
Why am I cold in my hammock?
Your sleeping bag gets compressed underneath you, so it holds less warm air. Add a mat or other insulation underneath and wear a hat and dry layers.
Will hammock straps damage trees?
Wide straps spread the load and are much kinder to bark than thin rope or cord. Avoid young or damaged trees.