Whether you’re looking for a whole hammock setup for backpacking, something comfy to swing in while car camping, or a luxury hammock for relaxing in the backyard, we’ve got you covered. We’ve tested dozens of hammocks over the years, and we’ll use our experience to help you find the perfect one for you.
Last updated: March 17, 2023
Quick Recommendations
Check out this quick list of our favorite hammocks, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
Best ultralight backpacking hammock: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC
Best two-person hammock: ENO DoubleNest
Best ultralight hammock: Hummingbird Single
Best complete backpacking hammock: Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip
Best budget hammock: Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro
Best luxury hammock: ENO Skyloft
Best value hammock: Sea to Summit Pro
Most versatile backpacking hammock: Dutchware Chameleon
Hammock/bivy hybrid: Lawson Blue Ridge
Unique 2-person tree tent for car camping: Tentsile Connect 3.0
What’s Most Important to You in a Hammock?
PURPOSE/USE - Using a hammock as your main shelter for backpacking when it’s warm out can feel like a real treat. Sometimes we even carry a lightweight, compact one as a luxury item for hanging out around camp. Hammocks also make a primo spot to read a book or nap in the backyard and when car camping.
Best backpacking hammocks: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC, Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip, Dutchware Chameleon & Lawson Blue Ridge
Best ultralight hammocks for packing along as a luxury item: Hummingbird Single & ENO Sub6
Best lounging hammocks for the frontcountry: ENO DoubleNest, ENO Skyloft, Sea to Summit Pro & Tentsile Connect 3.0
PRICE - Hammocks can be pricey, especially when you factor in the added cost of straps and other accessories. With experience, we’ve found that more expensive backpacking hammocks tend to have upgraded quality in stitching, lower weight, and a small packed size. But we recommend great options for any budget in our list below.
Best value hammocks: ENO DoubleNest, Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip & Sea to Summit Pro
Best budget hammocks: Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro & Hummingbird Single
Best high-end hammocks: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC, ENO Skyloft, Dutchware Chameleon, Lawson Blue Ridge & Tentsile Connect 3.0
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY - If you plan to use your hammock for backpacking, it’s best to get one that’s lightweight and compressible. Remember to also factor in the size and weight of any accessories that go with it, like a tarp and a bug net.
Best ultralight hammocks: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC, Hummingbird Single, Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip & Dutchware Chameleon
Best lightweight hammocks: ENO DoubleNest, Skeeter Beeter Pro & Sea to Summit Pro Hammock
Best heavy-duty hammocks: ENO Skyloft, Lawson Blue Ridge & Tentsile Connect 3.0
DIMENSIONS - Hammocks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to look at the dimensions to make sure you’ll fit comfortably. It’s ideal to be able to lay diagonally in your hammock for the most ergonomic lounging, so pick one with an overall length that’s at least two feet longer than your height.
Best hammocks for people over 6 feet: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC, Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro & Dutchware Chameleon
Best two-person hammocks: ENO DoubleNest & Hummingbird Double
SUSPENSION SYSTEM - There are many different ways to string up a hammock, and some of them are easier than others. Most hammocks don’t come with straps, so you can mix and match suspension systems until you find what works best for you. If you’re not into revisiting your scout days and tying complex knots, go with a simple daisy chain and carabiner setup. If you want to build your own custom, ultralight kit, you’ll probably like whoopie slings and buckle suspension systems. Check out our Best Suspension Systems section after the main list to see our favorites.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A BACKPACKING HAMMOCK:
Asymmetrical design for a flat lay
Integrated bug net
Single layer to save weight, because we’ll almost always use an underquilt instead of a sleeping pad in a hammock
Ultralight and compact design
We prefer to use whoopie sling suspension
Some sort of storage (like a shelf, pocket, or sling)
WHAT WE LOOK FOR IN A BACKYARD/CAMPING HAMMOCK:
Comfortable fabric
Spacious, maybe even room for two
Easy to set up
Comes with carabiners on the ends
We prefer to use daisy chain suspension
Best Camping & Backpacking Hammocks of 2023
* The measured weights in the specs include what comes standard with the hammock (integrated bug nets, guylines, carabiners, stuff sacks, etc.)
BEST ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING HAMMOCK
MSRP: $200
MEASURED WEIGHT: 1 lb. 6.3 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, attached guylines, integrated bug net)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 350 lbs. (up to 275 lbs. for comfort)
DIMENSION (L x W): 132 x 62 in.
PROS: Ultralight, easy to lay flat in, versatile, built-in shelf, integrated bug net, can be used on the ground
CONS: Expensive, straps cost extra
BOTTOM LINE: The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is one of the most comfortable backpacking hammocks on the market, and it’s particularly popular with thru-hikers because of its ultralight design. Some of the details that make the Blackbird our go-to include the asymmetrical cut, the large shelf panel for gear storage, and the ability to zip in a top cover for cold weather. When you order yours, you’ll have the option of a single layer or double layer Blackbird. The double-layer design increases the max weight capacity and allows you to use a sleeping pad with your hammock. We use the single-layer because it weighs less, and we prefer to use an underquilt instead of a pad when hammocking. If you’re looking for a top-quality ultralight hammock for backpacking, the Blackbird is your guy.
BEST DOUBLE HAMMOCK
MSRP: $75
MEASURED WEIGHT: 1 lb. 3.5 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, carabiners)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 114 x 76 in.
PROS: Easy to hang, good value, roomy, durable, lots of colors/patterns
CONS: A little heavy/bulky for backpacking, straps sold separately
BOTTOM LINE: The extra-wide ENO DoubleNest is roomy and tough enough to fit two people comfortably, so it’s awesome for lounging around camp with a pal. It comes in a bunch of fun color combinations for showing off your personal style, and it’s incredibly easy to set up using the included carabiners. Straps aren’t included, though, so be sure to pick up some Atlas Straps (or Atlas XL Straps for extra length) if you’re planning to string it up between trees instead of on a hammock stand. We recommend the Doublenest for those who want the option to pair up while relaxing in a casual setting like the park, the beach, or on car camping trips. For solo hammockers, check out the Eno Singlenest or the ultralight ENO Sub6.
BEST ULTRALIGHT HAMMOCK
MSRP: $70
MEASURED WEIGHT: 5.5 oz. (hammock and stuff sack)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 300 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 104 x 47 in.
PROS: Ultralight, highly packable, affordable
CONS: Straps sold separately, a little less roomy than others
BOTTOM LINE: The Hummingbird Single is incredibly lightweight and compact, so you can take it pretty much anywhere. We like bringing the Single (and Hummingbird’s Ultralight Tree Straps) along with us as a luxury item on backpacking trips, so we have a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the views. It’s not as wide as some other hammocks, so it’s not our first choice to sleep in. But if you just need something simple for relaxing on a trail break, you’ll love the Hummingbird Single. If you want a little extra room for integrating into a complete overnight kit, check out the Hummingbird Single+ (116 x 63 in) or the Hummingbird Double (116 x 85 in). Check out our full review of the Hummingbird Single and Tree Straps here.
BEST COMPLETE BACKPACKING HAMMOCK SYSTEM
MSRP: $240 (complete system)
MEASURED WEIGHT: 2 lbs. l.8 oz. (complete system)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 200 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 100 x 47 in.
PROS: Comes with everything you need to set up & weatherproof, affordable for a complete setup, durable, can be used on the ground (requires trekking poles), easy to lay flat in, integrated bug net
CONS: Requires some knots for set up, low weight capacity
BOTTOM LINE: Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced hammock backpacker, you’ll appreciate that the Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip comes complete with everything you need to hit the trail. Setting up the Backpacker requires some knowledge of simple knots, but once you get the hang of it the whole system goes up in a matter of minutes. The asymmetrical shape allows you to easily lay flat, and the bug mesh can be conveniently clipped back for stargazing. Overall, the Ultralight Backpacker hammock is an excellent value since you’re getting everything you need for overnighting, and it’s been a favorite with thru-hikers and casual backpackers alike for many years.
BEST BUDGET HAMMOCK
MSRP: $70
MEASURED WEIGHT: 1 lb. 15.2 oz.(hammock, stuff sack, carabiners, integrated bug net, guylines)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 126 x 60 in.
PROS: Affordable, integrated bug net, versatile, easy to hang
CONS: Straps sold separately, a little heavier/bulkier than others
BOTTOM LINE: The Skeeter Beeter Pro is a good budget buy for people looking to dip a toe into hammock camping without spending a large chunk of change. It’s designed with a built-in no-see-um mesh canopy to protect against insects, and you can flip the whole hammock over to use it without the canopy if bugs aren’t a problem. The weight is also relatively low - especially for the price - but you’ll need to add a tarp and a suspension system to make it backpacking ready. The Skeeter Beeter Pro is an excellent choice whether you’re looking for a starter camping hammock or you need a comfy retreat in a buggy backyard.
BEST LUXURY HAMMOCK
MSRP: $130
MEASURED WEIGHT: 2 lbs. 12.5 oz. (hammock, carabiners, stuff sack)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 250 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 84 x 36 in.
PROS: Very comfortable, spreader bars make it roomy, easy to set up, durable, easy to lay flat in
CONS: Bulky/heavy, expensive, straps sold separately
BOTTOM LINE: The ENO Skyloft is perfect for those wanting a backyard lounger or a luxurious place to snooze on car camping trips. It’s designed with spreader bars at the head and foot to give you plenty of room to sprawl without the sides closing in on you. This unique hammock also allows you to switch between two modes: relax and sleep. Sleep mode gives you the perfect flat lay for napping, and pulling the cords at the head raises you up into the more upright relax mode for enjoying conversation or reading a book. The Skyloft is the créme de la créme if you’re looking for an ultra comfy place to hang around camp.
BEST VALUE HAMMOCK
MSRP: $120 (includes straps)
MEASURED WEIGHT: 19.7 oz. (hammock, straps, compression sack)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 108 x 60 in.
PROS: Ultralight, good value, packable, straps & compression sack included, versatile
CONS: Smaller than some, fabric isn’t as soft as some, buckle suspension takes some getting used to
BOTTOM LINE: The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock is an excellent value since it packs down super small in its included compression sack, it’s lightweight, and it comes with straps. On top of that, it’s incredibly strong with a high max weight capacity of 400 lbs. - pretty impressive for such a lightweight piece of gear. The included buckle suspension system takes some getting used to, but it’s simple to set up once you get the hang of it and very durable. The Pro Hammock is great for park hangs and car camping, but it’s also light and compact enough for backpacking if you pick up a tarp and bug net to complete the kit.
MOST VERSATILE BACKPACKING HAMMOCK
MSRP: $135 (hammock only)
MEASURED WEIGHT: 1 lb. 4.3 oz. (hammock, stuff sack, attached guylines)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 200-350 lbs. (depends on which fabric you choose)
DIMENSION (L x W): 128 x 58 in.
PROS: Versatile, ultralight, customizable, easy to lay flat in
CONS: Straps sold separately, expensive
BOTTOM LINE: The Dutchware Chameleon is very appropriately named, because it can adapt to so many different situations. The innovative design allows you to transform this hammock from a bugproof summer haven to a toasty cold-weather shell in a matter of minutes by zipping in different accessories. The Chameleon has a ton of options for customization as well, like adding a shelf or a gear sling on the side. And while the custom process can be a little complex, Dutchware provides helpful descriptions and videos to walk you through the selection process. The Chameleon is the ultimate versatile system for serious hammock backpackers who hang no matter the trail conditions.
HAMMOCK/BIVY HYBRID
MSRP: $229 (hammock only)
MEASURED WEIGHT: 4 lbs. 4.2 oz. (complete setup except suspension)
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 275 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W): 90 x 42 in.
PROS: Comes with everything you need to set up & weatherproof, integrated bug net, can be used on the ground
CONS: Expensive, straps cost extra, heavy/bulky, low peak height in bivy mode
BOTTOM LINE: Have you ever been in the backcountry and had to hike extra miles after a long day just to find a flat place to set up camp? Well, the Lawson Blue Ridge solves this common problem since it can be hung between trees or used on the ground like a large bivy. And while it does have a low peak height in bivy mode, the versatility is a huge plus in areas where your route alternates between thick forest and mountain ridges above treeline. The Blue Ridge is a little heavier and bulkier than some of our favorite backpacking hammocks, but the value is hard to beat since you’re getting two different shelter options for the price of one.
UNIQUE 2-PERSON TREE TENT FOR CAR CAMPING
MSRP: $599 (complete setup)
MEASURED WEIGHT: 20 lbs. 12.8 oz.
MAX WEIGHT CAPACITY: 880 lbs.
DIMENSION (L x W x H): 156 x 156 x 36 in.
PROS: Unique & fun shelter, can be used on the ground, lots of pockets
CONS: Very expensive, heavy/bulky, set up is more difficult & time consuming than standard hammocks
BOTTOM LINE: If you’re wanting a truly unique camping experience, look no further than the Tentsile Connect 3.0. The Connect is a tent that you hang like a hammock, which gives you a great vantage point for epic views and provides some really nice airflow to keep you cool on hot nights. You’ll need a large area and three well-positioned trees to string this baby up, so it can be a little more difficult to use. But once you’ve found the ideal spot, the ratchet strap system is easy to get the hang of. There are a lot of details that make the Connect super comfortable to spend time in, like a hanging tablet pouch for watching movies during rain and a divider with six pockets at the head to keep your space tidy. While the Tentsile is spendy, it’s worth the cost for the one-of-a-kind camping experience it provides.
Honorable Mentions
The following hammock didn’t make our final list, but it’s still got a lot of good things going for it. You never know, this hammock might be perfect for you:
Kammok Roo - The Roo and Roo Double are basic, comfy hammocks for lounging in the backyard or car camping. Ultimately we like the ENO Doublenest and Singlenest better for the small weight & space saving and the wider range of color options.
Best Suspension Systems
WHOOPIE SLINGS - Whoopie slings are an adjustable, lightweight way to hang a hammock, and they’re what we typically use for backpacking. Designs for whoopie slings have slight differences, but in general they use a simple loop and knot system that holds tension with weight, but can be easily adjusted when not under pressure. There are many different whoopie sling options on the market, but here are a few of our favorites:
Hummingbird Tree Straps - lightest weight & most affordable
Dutchware Whoopie Hook - highly customizable
ENO Helios - easiest to use
DAISY CHAIN STRAPS - Daisy chain straps are about as simple and convenient as it gets. They’re made up of two strong straps with many small loops at the end. Just wrap each strap around a tree and clip your hammock in on each side. Daisy chain straps aren’t as lightweight, compact, or adjustable as whoopie slings, but they’re a little quicker and easier to set up. This is why they’re the best type of suspension for hammocking in the backyard or for car camping, Here are a couple of our favorites:
ENO Atlas - readily available in most gear shops
ENO AtlasXL - longer
Grand Trunk Tree Straps - comes in fun color choices
BUCKLE SUSPENSION - Buckle suspension isn’t as common as daisy chain straps or whoopie slings, but they’re great because they’re ultralight and easy to use. Buckle suspension can be a little quicker to set up and take down than whoopie slings, but really the choice between the two will come down to your personal preference. Here are a couple of our favorite buckle suspension systems:
Dutchware Beetle Buckles - highly customizable
Warbonnet Buckle Suspension - most affordable
Best Underquilts
Most hammocks don’t easily accommodate sleeping pads to insulate you from cold air flowing under you. An underquilt is like a down blanket that attaches to the underside of your hammock to insulate you, and it’s an important part of your hammocking kit if you plan to do any backpacking with it. There are a ton of options available, and you can get custom quilts made to your specifications. These are a few of our favorites to get you started:
Enlightened Equipment Revolt V2 - High-quality ultralight quilt that can be customized. It’s a little pricey, but the warmth-to-weight ratio and coverage is hard to beat.
Warbonnet Wooki & Wooki XL - Made for Warbonnet hammocks, but can also fit other similarly sized hammocks. We like that the full length design helps keep the underquilt in place, and that the diagonally placed insulation saves weight.
Western Mountaineering Slinglite - Super lightweight and packable. We like that this underquilt is ready-made and therefore doesn’t require any waiting on a long lead time if you need it right away.
Best Hammock Tarps
For backpacking, you’ll want to pick up a good tarp to shelter you from wind and rain. Make sure the tarp you get is long enough to cover your entire hammock, and it’s always a good idea to set it up at home first to ensure it works for you. These are our favorite hammock tarps:
Sea to Summit Hammock Tarp - A little spendy, but it’s one of the lightest and most packable tarps out there. It’s also very easy to set up since it doesn’t require any knots and only uses three stakes.
ENO ProFly - Excellent value tarp with good coverage. The ProFly is very versatile, because the shape allows it to be used without a hammock to create a symmetrical sheltered area that can accommodate a few people.
Warbonnet Superfly - Custom all-weather tarp that provides maximum protection during wet and chilly weather.
Critical Hammock Considerations
KNOTS - Some hammock suspension systems will require you to know a few basic knots to achieve a safe setup. Make sure you practice any knots you’ll need for stringing up your hammock or for performing field repairs before you head out into the backcountry.
CHOOSING A HANGOUT SPOT - Finding the perfect set of trees for your hammock may take some trial and error, but you’ll quickly get the hang of recognizing great spots the more you use it. In general: always attach to live, sturdy trees that are at least six inches in diameter, and look above you for any dead branches or other hazards that may fall on your hammock. Set your hammock up at least 200 feet from trails and water sources to respect fellow hikers and wildlife. And lastly, don’t hang it higher than you’d want to fall. In areas where good hangin’ trees are sparse, you can use a hammock stand.
THE FLAT LAY - When you set up your hammock, look for the straps to be at about a 30° angle to the ground. This should leave your hammock with a nice curve in it. When you get in, position your body at an angle with your legs to one side and your shoulders to the opposite side. This will flatten the material under your back and eliminate any pressure points on your body. If you feel pressure points, you may have set your hammock up too taut.
LEAVE NO TRACE - Ropes and cords can damage trees, so you should always use a tree hugger strap with your suspension system (if it’s not already included as part of the design) to disperse the pressure put on the bark. Some parks and wilderness areas don’t allow hammocking at all, so make sure you check all local guidelines before you go.
need more Gear advice?
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