When you think of travelling and sleeping in nature, you immediately think of a tent in your backpack. But did you know that this is often not necessary? On some trails, it’s enough to bring just a hammock and leave everything else at home. It’s especially recommended in warmer areas since there is ventilation along the bottom and top. A few more advantages:
- You sleep in a very natural position in a hammock, which is better for your back.
- You don’t need a flat surface, just two trees or poles.
- The mosquito net above you is transparent, so you can peacefully stargaze before drifting off to sleep.
- If you can’t find suitable trees or poles, you can still use your hammock as a tent by laying it on the ground. It’s an emergency solution, but it's better than nothing!
While a hammock really is a great alternative to a tent, there are some drawbacks to consider:
- If it is colder than -10°C degrees in the morning, you will need extra insulation. And that, in turn, means extra weight in your backpack.
- You’ll need a waterproof tarp in environments where it rains a lot. Again, extra weight.
- You can’t take your backpack with you in your hammock. You will have to leave it under the hammock, and thus 'outside'.
- Getting into your sleeping bag and finding a comfortable position can be a task because you keep sliding to the middle. But practice makes perfect!