Known by a variety of aliases - 'camping hammocks', 'backpacking hammocks', 'hammock tents', etc - these babies are just airborne tents suspended between two trees.
We tested the best hammock tents on the market today. Read on to see which model is best for you and get some buying advice.
This guides focuses on overnight shelters designed for sleeping, NOT daytime loungers designed for relaxing.
Table of Contents
Best Hammock Tents
The best hammock tents are:
- Best Overall Hammock Tent: WARBONNET BLACKBIRD SINGLE LAYER
- Best Budget Hammock Tent:
- Best Ultralight Hammock Tent: HUMMINGBIRD HAMMOCKS SINGLE HAMMOCK
- Most Comfortable Hammock Tent: JACKS 'R' BETTER BEAR MOUNTAIN BRIDGE
| MODEL | Weight | PRICE | Dimensions | Maximum Capacity | Material | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Warbonnet Blackbird Single Layer | 15.8 oz | $175 | 120"L x 63"W | 350 lbs | 40D Nylon | 9/10 |
| 2. Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro | 35 oz | $70 | 126"L x 60"W | 400 lbs | 210T 70D Parachute Nylon | 9/10 |
| 3. Hummingbird Hammocks Single Hammock | 5.2 oz | $70 | 104"L x 47"W | 300 lbs | Nylon | 9/10 |
| 4. Kammok Roo Single Hammock | 11.4 oz | $75 | 100"L x 50"W | 500 lbs | 40D Water-Resistant Ripstop | 9/10 |
| 5. Jacks 'R' Better Bear Mountain Bridge | 29 oz | $185 | 132"L x 52"W | 250 lbs | 70D Ripstop Nylon | 8/10 |
| 6. Hennessy Hyperlite Asym Zip | 28 oz | $280 | 120"L x 59"W | 200 lbs | 30D Nylon | 7/10 |
| 7. Exped Scout Combi UL | 18.9 oz | $279 | 116"L x 55"W | 265 lbs | 15D Ripstop Nylon | 7/10 |
| 8. ENO SubLink Shelter System | 39 oz | $250 | 105"L x 47"W | 300 lbs | - | 7/10 |
PROS:
✅ Comfort
✅ Durability
CONS:
❌ No major cons
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 15.8 oz (0.99 lbs)
- Dimensions: 120"L x 63"W
- Maximum Capacity: 350 lbs
- Material: 40D Nylon
Warbonnet’s Blackbird is an iconic backpacking hammock. We personally love the storage shelf and foot box for extra leg room. We love the balance of weight and comfort. It has a huge amount of space making it very comfortable. Made of 40D nylon and supporting up to 350 pounds we found it to be a durable option.
All of this comes at a reasonable price too, making this our best overall hammock tent. Warbonnet offers 2 types of suspension systems - webbing or a whoopie sling - as well as a load of tarps and underquilts.
PROS:
✅ Inexpensive
✅ Large and comfy
✅ Durable
CONS:
❌ Heavy
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 35 oz (2.19 lbs)
- Dimensions: 126"L x 60"W
- Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: 210T 70D Parachute Nylon
Grand Trunk makes the most affordable hammock tents on our list, making it our best budget pick. At $70 we recommend it for those wanting to test out hammock camping.
With a 400 lb maximum weight limit and a length of 126", we love the strong and spacious design. The Skeeter Beeter Pro comes with a unique double ridgeline. The two ridgelines lift the bug net and maximize interior space which we like for reading on a rainy day. Our only complaint is the weight. At 35 ounces it’s the second heaviest on our list.
PROS:
✅ Ultralight
✅ Inexpensive
CONS:
❌ Small size can be less comfortable
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 5.2 oz (0.33 lbs)
- Dimensions: 104"L x 47"W
- Maximum Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Nylon
This is the lightest hammock system on our list. It is ultra-compact and packs down tiny. Hummingbird's Tree Straps are an extremely popular suspension system and pack up in the palm of your hand. It’s not often that ultralight gear is also inexpensive, but Hummingbird is tied for the least expensive hammock on our list.
The catch? This is also the smallest hammock on our list, offering a less comfortable hang than some. We found this true especially for taller hikers. But if weight is your ultimate concern the Hummingbird is our pick for best ultralight hammock.
Most Comfortable Hammock Tent:
JACKS 'R' BETTER BEAR MOUNTAIN BRIDGE
Price: $184.95
See on JACKS ‘R’ BETTER
PROS:
✅ True flat lay
CONS:
❌ Heavy
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 29 oz (1.81 lbs)
- Dimensions: 132"L x 52"W
- Maximum Capacity: 250 lbs
- Material: 70D Ripstop Nylon
Unlike most hammocks, Jacks 'R' Better does not bunch together at the head and toe (aka - no "gather end"). Instead, the ends corner out into a rectangular shape using unique "spreader bars". These spreader bars create a true flat lay making this the most comfortable hammock on our list. However, to get the flat lay requires carrying poles, which we found to make this a little closer to carrying a tent.
The Bear Mountain comes as a complete system with an integrated bug net as well as 1-inch polypropylene webbing suspension straps. We don’t like that this is a heavier design. But if you want a comfortable sleeping experience this is our top pick.
The Other Noteworthy Models
PROS:
✅ Durable
✅ Inexpensive
✅ Lightweight
CONS:
❌ Smaller size
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 11.4 oz (0.71 lbs)
- Dimensions: 100"L x 50"W
- Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs
- Material: 40D Water-Resistant Ripstop
The Kammock Roo is lightweight and well priced at just $75. It’s made of recycled bluesign® approved 40D ripstop nylon with DWR treatment, giving it some protection against the elements. We love the durability of this hammock, the most durable on our list.
The most notable feature is the generous 500-pound maximum capacity. Though designed for one, cuddling with your hiking buddy is not out of the question. We found the design is smaller and not as spacious making it less comfortable than other models.
PROS:
✅ Comfortable
✅ Spacious
CONS:
❌ Low maximum weight capacity
❌ Expensive
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 28 oz (2.19 lbs)
- Dimensions: 126"L x 60"W
- Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs
- Material: 210T 70D Parachute Nylon
Hennessy Hammock's Hyperlite Asym Zip is a well-integrated system, complete with everything you need to sleep on the trail. We personally love the easy access zippered bug net. The larger size gives you room to spread out and sleep in whatever position is comfortable for you.
However, a big concern for us is the 200 lb max capacity. Anyone above average size and weight will have an issue here. And at $280 it’s also the most expensive hammock tent on our list.
PROS:
✅ Lightweight complete hammock system
CONS:
❌ Price
❌ Not for users over 6ft tall
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 18.9 oz (1.18 lbs)
- Dimensions: 116"L x 55"W
- Maximum Capacity: 265 lbs
- Material: 15D Ripstop Nylon
The Exped Scout Combi Ultralight is a complete hammock system with a large rectangular tarp. It comes with unique features like sleeves for your trekking poles to open up the bug net. We like the suspension system - a daisy chain-like loop without the usual bulk.
We found the sleeping pad sleeve easy to use. And we’ll never complain about pocket space the Exped provided us with 2 internal pockets. We wouldn’t recommend the short length for anyone over 6 ft. With a $279 price tag, it is one of the most expensive hammocks on our list.
PROS:
✅ Large rainfly
✅ Range of gear options
CONS:
❌ Expensive
❌ Heavy
❌ Small hammock
KEY SPECS
- Weight: 39 oz (2.44 lbs)
- Dimensions: 105"L x 47"W
- Maximum Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: -
ENO’s SubLink Shelter System’s hammock is on the smaller end of the models on our list. The overall weight of the system is the heaviest we tested.
However, the standout feature is the large hex-cut Sil Nylon rainfly designed to stay suspended above the ridgeline of your hammock. It gave us ample space under the rainfly for gear storage, a stool to sit on, etc. If you like to tweak your system, we’re impressed with the large range of extra gear options for the SubLink.
Key Factors To Consider When Choosing
Price
Hammocks can range from $70 to $280+. More expensive models may include extra items like a built-in rainfly and hammock straps. For less expensive hammocks you may need to purchase those items separately. When evaluating price, be sure to calculate the total cost of all the items you will need for a comfy night’s rest.
Hammock tents that provide the greatest value:
- Warbonnet Blackbird Single Layer
- Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro
- Hummingbird Hammocks Single Hammock
- Kammok Roo Single Hammock
Affordable hammock tents:
Premium hammock tents (most expensive):
Weight
The weight of your hammock tent is one piece of your total shelter weight. Additional items can make calculating a suggested hammock tent weight more difficult. A complete hammock tent system includes a) hammock b) tarp/rainfly c) bug/mesh net d) suspension system/ straps. For lightweight backpacking, this system should be less than 3 lbs. *For this article we are using the weight of the hammock only unless it comes with inbuilt extras.
The lightest hammock tents:
Durability
A hammock needs to hold up to the elements and be strong enough to hold your body weight. Be sure your hammock can hold your weight, plus any gear, and a little bit of extra cushion. Most hammocks are made out of nylon or polyester fabrics with nylon being the more durable of the two.
The most durable hammock tents:
Comfort
A third of your time (give or take) on the trail will be sleeping. Comfort is an important consideration for us. Spacious hammocks give you more room to get spread out. At the minimum, a hammock should be 8.5 feet long and 4 feet wide.
Your sleep position will also affect your comfort. Lying diagonally at a 45-degree angle will allow you to sleep flatter, more like a bed. The classic hammock straight or “crescent moon” position is great for backyard relaxing, but not everyone enjoys it for a full night's sleep. The material also plays into comfort with nylon, debatably, being more comfortable than polyester. There are a variety of blends and weaves that can be as stiff or stretchy as you want.
The most comfortable Hammock Tents:
- Warbonnet Blackbird Single Layer
- Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro
- Jacks 'R' Better Bear Mountain Bridge
Other Things to Consider
Sleep-able Positioning
There are several sleeping positions for hammocks. Know which one you prefer and make sure your hammock is compatible.
1. Diagonally: lying asymmetrically on your back at about a 45-degree angle. Lying at an angle is ideal for sleeping flat on your back because your back does curve and sag as much. Some models are better set up (extra guylines attachments) for asymmetrical sleeping than others.
2. Straight: lying on your back in the natural banana or "crescent moon" shape parallel with the hammock ridgeline. This position is not my preference after spending a long day of backpacking hunched over.
3. 90 Degrees: on your back perpendicular at a full 90 degrees like this. Uncommon, but some love it.
Spacious
Ultralight backpacking hammocks can be a mere handful of ounces, but these can be tiny. You need adequate space to move around and sleep comfortably. Here are our suggested dimensions.
Length: minimum of 8 and 1/2 ft (102 in). The tension of your suspended weight will cause the ends (your head and feet) to squeeze together. If you are taller than 6 ft, for every inch of additional height, add about 2 inches to the hammock. Example: If you are 6' 4", then add 8" to the 102-inch minimum for a new minimum of 110 inches in length.
Width: minimum of 4 ft (48 in). For a day lounger, less than this is fine. To sleep in though, we want adequate width to feel properly cradled in and not fall out.
Simple Setup
As mentioned, hammock tents can come with a lot of moving parts (more on this below) and can be a hassle to setup. Getting the hammock securely strapped to the trees at the desired level of tension with minimal guylines and stake down points is the goal. I find that an easily adjustable suspension system is the best way to ensure a fast setup.
Bug Net
Sleeping exposed with mosquitoes flying around all night is not fun. You could wake up with swarms of swollen bite marks from their uninterrupted midnight feast. Bugs and mosquitoes are present in most backpacking terrain. Therefore, a full hammock enclosure is highly recommended. Note bug spray is an alternative and, of course, some places do not have many insects.
Tarp or Rainfly
For rain and weather protection, you will need a tarp. I do not recommend getting the everyday blue tarp from Walmart for this either. Those are heavy, bulky and difficult to efficiently cover the entirety of your hammock. Runoff from the guylines can also be an issue.
Most brands will come integrated with a tarp specific to each model. This cover will be the last outermost layer strung up on the ridgeline. In order to maximize coverage and minimize weight, the most popular designs are the 'diamond' and the 'hex cut'.
Insulation
One of the biggest problems with hammock sleeping is the cold... or really, a lack of insulation. Your underside is completely exposed to the circulating air below. If you are backpacking outside of the warm summer season, you will want to sleep with some sort of extra insulation underneath you. Note this is in addition to a sleeping bag. The two main options:
1. Sleeping Pad. Sleep on top of a foam or air pad just like you would on the ground. As you roll around at night, these can slip and slide around though. To keep them in place, you should either a) get a double layered hammock with slip holders or b) get a pad with 'walls' like this.
2. Underquilt. This is like a sleeping bag that hangs underneath your body on the outside of your hammock. Very warm, but heavy and bulky to pack.
Suspension System
This comfy sleeping machine is hung from two trees with using a 'suspension system'. Think of a suspension system as, simply, the method used to tie and secure a hammock to a tree. Most companies will offer compatible suspension systems with their hammocks - sometimes included, sometime not. The most common types:
1. Whoopie Sling. This is rope that has been manufactured with an adjustable loop on one end (attach to the webbing around the tree) and a fixed eye on the other end (attach to the end of the hammock). See how here.
2. Daisy Chain. This is a style of strap with fixed loops, similar to a chain. Once wrapped around a tree, your hammock will hook into one of these loops based on desired tension
3. DIY. You can always use some rope to tie up you hammock directly. This is obviously the lightest option. However, it will take time adjusting the fixed knots for an optimal hammock tension as well as require some knot knowledge.
FAQs
Is it better to sleep in a hammock or tent?
"Is it better to sleep in a hammock or tent" is a much-debated matter of personal preference. The main reason hammock tents are preferred over traditional ground tents is due to their flexible location placement (assuming trees are abundant) and comfort preferences (some people dislike sleeping on the ground).
Is hammock camping colder?
Hammock camping is slightly colder than tent camping. Hammocks provide less insulation because they are off the ground and more exposed to wind.
Read Next: THE Guide to Hammock Camping
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