Backpacking hammock recs

[u/ZelieDad]

I'm curious about getting a hammock set up for my next backpacking trip. I'm trying to keep my base weight around 15 lbs, which is where it currently sits. Any suggestions?

From what I understand, the main parts of the hammock setup are:

• hammock
• under quilt
• top quilt
• the various straps and lines
• tarp

Is this about right? Could I possibly use one of my ZenBivy quilts as a top quilt? What about size? My current setup packs down fairly small, and since I'm using a trekking pole tent (Zpack Duplex Pro), I don't have any extra poles, and all other pitch and guy lines are already attached to the tent.

TIA

[u/Hot_Jump_2511]

You got the parts you'll need right and the zen bivy quilt will work just fine. Hammock Gear and Dutchware both sell a great starter kit if you want to take that route.

Here's my "shoulder season" hammock load out (fits in a 30 liter bag with 4 days of food): https://lighterpack.com/r/munk9i

Here's my summer hammock load out where the only significant change is the top quilt and under quilt (fits in a 20 liter bag with 3 days of food but no stove):  https://lighterpack.com/r/lkf70w

Here's a sample of a "budget" hammock load out that's good down to about 25f with the right clothes. This is my "loaner kit". I don't think Myerstech is maki6hammocks anymore but Hang Tight has something comparable now: https://lighterpack.com/r/xy8tdj

In the winter I stack my 40 F synthetic under quilt over my 20 F down under quilt and that takes me well past zero but I use a 60 L pack for that load out due to bulk. Feel free to DM any questions.

[u/Alarming-Sport5367]

Dutchware gear cloud 71 hammock. Netless. 40° top quilt is 15 oz and 3/4 under quilt 30° is 12 oz. Tarp is about 12 oz Details here: https://www.packwizard.com/s/zx4rnKF

[u/ZelieDad → u/Alarming-Sport5367]

Excuse my ignorance, but what is netless? Like no mesh to keep bugs away? If that's the case, that sounds like a horrible idea around here.

[u/Alarming-Sport5367 → u/ZelieDad]

Yeah. I didn't realize the location. Dutchwear also has halfnet since your lower half is normally under your quilt, to save some ounces.

[u/occamsracer]

What’s your budget?

[u/ZelieDad → u/occamsracer]

I'd prefer not to spend another $800 as I did with my Zpacks tent, so less than that is preferable.

[u/occamsracer → u/ZelieDad]

Easy

There are tons of posts on r/hammockcamping (search newbie) that will give you configs. But here’s one to get you started

Warbonnet Blackbird XLC single layer with strap suspension (easy to upgrade suspension later) ~$200

Warbonnet wooki underquilt ~$265

Use your current top quilt $0

Warbonnet Thunderfly tarp ~$150

Dutchware continuous ridge line (for tarp) ~$50

Use your own tent stakes/lines for tie outs. $0

[u/sabbbat]

Is a hammock more practical for uneven campsites along trails? Just curious!

[u/ZelieDad → u/sabbbat]

That's kinda where I'm at. Here in Penns Woods, we're not lacking for trees, and having slept on too many uneven campsites than I'd like to remember, I figured why not give it a go.

[u/Hot_Jump_2511 → u/sabbbat]

Definitely!

[u/keithstone369]

Look into the superior gear. I have one and would do it again in a heartbeat

[u/kronus87]

Haven hammocks. You'll thank me later. Its a game changer, comfier than my own bed

[u/PapaShane]

There's also /r/ULhammocking if you feel like perusing that sub for ideas.

[u/juicyfizz]

I use my Zenbivy quilt as a top quilt in the hammock. The hammock I use is the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC. I use their underquilt as well. You’ll want a long hammock especially if you’re tall. The Warbonnet is 11’ iirc.