How to Choose the Right Hammock for You

Your Guide to buying the best Hammocks

Overview

A hammock is a classic outdoor item that can offer a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But with the variety of styles, materials, and features available, it can be hard to know which hammock is right for you. This buying guide will help you understand the different considerations you should make when selecting a hammock, from size and material to the amount of weight the hammock can safely hold. By the end of this guide, you will be able to choose the perfect hammock for your outdoor relaxation needs.

Key features

  1. Size/Weight Capacity - How much weight can the hammock hold? Does the hammock come in different sizes? Will the hammock hold the weight of two people?
  2. Material - What materials are used to construct the hammock? Are they durable or lightweight? Do they offer UV protection and weather resistance?
  3. Setup/Installation - Is the hammock easy to set up and take down? Are mounting accessories or tools required for installation?
  4. Mobility - Is the hammock portable and lightweight? Is there a carrying bag for easy transport?
  5. Durability - Is the hammock made of a strong and durable material? Will it stand up to regular use and weather elements?
  6. Price - What is the cost of the hammock? Are there discounts or coupons available?

See the most popular Hammocks on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Portability: Hammocks are lightweight and can be easily moved and transported, making them an ideal choice for camping and travel.
  • Comfort: Hammocks provide an incredibly comfortable experience, with some designs even allowing for the addition of pillows and blankets for extra comfort.
  • Safety: Hammocks offer a safe and secure way to rest, as the high-tensile strength material makes them highly resilient and secure.
  • Versatility: Hammocks are incredibly versatile, as they are often designed to be used on almost any surface, from trees and posts to walls and ceilings.
  • Affordability: Hammocks are an affordable option, with a variety of designs available to suit all budgets.

Cons

  • Weight Capacity: Hammocks are typically not designed to hold large amounts of weight and are often rated to hold only a few hundred pounds at most.
  • Durability: While hammocks are generally made from durable materials, they are often not as long-lasting as other seating options.
  • Size: Depending on the size, hammocks can be difficult to fit into small outdoor spaces.
  • Setup: Setting up a hammock can be time-consuming and require additional accessories, such as stands or rope.
  • Weather Resistance: Hammocks will typically not hold up well in wet or cold climates.

Best alternatives

  1. Swing Chairs – Hanging chairs that come in various designs and sizes for indoor and/or outdoor use.
  2. Camping Cots – Portable sleeping cots for camping or travel that are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground.
  3. Hanging Beds – A bed suspended from the ceiling or walls by chain or ropes, usually constructed of wood or metal.
  4. Daybeds – A bed designed for daytime use, typically with a low back and often used as a sofa.
  5. Suspended Loungers – A lounger suspended from the ceiling or walls by a chain or ropes, usually constructed of wood or metal.
  6. Suspended Swing Chairs – A suspended chair similar to a hammock, but with more room for sitting upright.
  7. Yoga Swings – A suspended yoga swing designed to help deepen stretches and improve flexibility.
  8. Hammock Chairs – A suspended chair similar to a hammock, but with more room for sitting upright.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Hammock Straps - Straps and carabiners used to easily hang a hammock on a tree or other secure anchor point.
  • Rain Fly - A tarp-like cover that helps protect the hammock and occupants from the elements.
  • Lightweight Rope - Nylon rope that is lightweight and strong enough to support the weight of the hammock and its occupants.
  • Insect Netting - Fine mesh netting that can be used to protect the hammock and its occupants from insects.
  • Hammock Stand - A metal or wooden frame that can be used to hang the hammock without needing to find two trees.
  • Cushions - Thick pads or cushions that provide extra comfort and insulation to hammock users.
  • Hammock Chair Stand - A metal or wooden frame used to hang a hammock chair instead of a regular hammock.

Common questions

  1. What materials are hammocks typically made from? Most hammocks are made from a cotton-polyester blend, polyester material, parachute nylon, or woven fabric.
  2. How long do hammocks typically last? Hammocks can last for many years if they’re taken care of properly and are made from strong materials.
  3. What size should I look for in a hammock? It depends on how much weight the hammock will need to support and how much room you need to move around while in the hammock. For one person, a single hammock will generally be 9-11 feet long and 4-5 feet wide. For two people, a double hammock will generally be 12-14 feet long and 5-6 feet wide.
  4. What accessories should I look for when buying a hammock? Accessories can vary depending on the type of hammock you purchase, but common accessories include straps to hang the hammock, a rain tarp, a bug net, and a carry bag.
  5. What type of hammock should I buy? This depends on what you plan to use the hammock for. If you’re looking to use it outside in your backyard or while camping, you might want to look for a camping hammock. If you’re looking for something to lounge around in, you might look for a more sturdy hammock with a stand.
  6. How much should I expect to spend on a hammock? Hammocks range in price depending on the size and type. Generally, hammocks range in price from around $20 to over $200.

Trivia

In 1998, a family of four in Michigan managed to float across Lake Michigan using hammocks as their method of transportation. The family, consisting of the parents and two children, used two hammocks attached to an inner tube and managed to float the entire 95 miles from Pentwater, Michigan to Port Washington, Wisconsin in only three days. The family set off on June 15th with a canoe, life vests, and food and water, and they were welcomed in Port Washington on June 18th. The family made the trip to raise money for charity, including a children's hospital and a homeless shelter. This story is supported by a variety of sources, including the Chicago Tribune. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.