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Quick-start checklist
- Hammock: 10–11 ft gathered-end (roomier & flatter diagonal lay) or a compact bridge style.
- Tree-friendly straps: 1" (25 mm) or wider webbing, no knots required.
- Bug protection: Integrated net or a 360° add-on bug net.
- Rain fly: Hex/rectangle tarp sized to cover ends by 8–12".
- Warmth: Underquilt (best) or hammock-specific pad; add a top quilt/sleeping bag.
- Small parts: Ridgeline, guyline, stakes, and drip-line "water breaks."
Choose the right hammock
- Length & width: Most people get a flatter, more natural diagonal lay in a ~10–11 ft gathered-end hammock. Taller folks benefit from the full 11 ft.
- Integrated vs. modular: An integrated bug-net is fast and tidy; a modular net/tarp is more flexible for four-season use.
- Bridge hammocks: Flatter feel with short poles (a bit heavier and more parts than gathered-end).
Suspension: tree-safe & simple
- Use 1" or wider straps (no bare rope on bark). Daisy-chain or buckle systems are easiest.
- Hang angle: Aim for ~30° from horizontal and seat height at chair level (≈18" / 45 cm).
- Ridgeline (optional): A fixed ridgeline (~83% of hammock length) gives consistent sag.
- Water breaks: Tie a short cord or place a hardware "drip point" outside the tarp to stop rain from wicking down the suspension.
Weatherproofing: tarps made easy
- Coverage: Pick a tarp that extends 8–12" past each end of the hammock.
- Profiles:
- Hex/cat-cut: light, quick coverage for most trips.
- Rectangle: maximum pitch options and storm protection.
- Doors/beaks: close off ends in wind and sideways rain.
- Pitch tips: Hang the tarp first in questionable weather; pitch porch-mode high for airflow, storm-mode low and tight for sideways rain.
Warmth: underquilt vs. pad
- Underquilt (UQ): Hangs underneath so loft isn't crushed; warmest & comfiest for most people.
- Hammock pad: Works inside the hammock; choose hammock-shaped pads with "wings" to prevent cold shoulders.
- Top insulation: A lightweight top quilt or sleeping bag (unzipped as a quilt) completes the system.
Dial-in comfort (fast)
- Foot end slightly higher (≈6–12") than head end to prevent sliding toward the middle.
- Lie diagonally in gathered-end hammocks for a flatter body position.
- Knee pillow trick: If you feel knee pressure, place a jacket or small pillow under your knees.
- Site selection: Healthy trees, clear overhead, no dead limbs; avoid spanning trails or water.
Beginner-friendly "starter kit" picks
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Suspension (tree-friendly straps)
- Kammok Python 10 Straps – light, strong daisy-chain convenience.
- ENO Atlas Straps – easy & widely available classic.
- Wise Owl Straps (with carabiners) – great value.
Bug protection (modular nets)
- ENO Guardian Bug Net – roomy 360° protection.
- Wise Owl "SnugNet" Bug Net – budget-friendly and effective.
- Kammok Dragonfly Net – ultralight, knot-less setup.
Rain tarps
Warmth (underquilt or pad)
- OneTigris Night Protector Underquilt (3-season) – great price-to-warmth.
- Klymit Hammock V Pad – hammock-shaped pad with side "wings."
Guylines, stakes & tensioners (for tarps)
Hammock bodies (budget & integrated-net options)
Setup order (when weather threatens)
- Tarp first (stay dry while you work).
- Hang straps & hammock under tarp; adjust sag/ridgeline.
- Attach underquilt/pad, then top quilt/sleeping bag.
- Add drip-line water breaks and check guyline tension.
Safety & Leave No Trace
- Choose healthy trees ≥ 6–8" (15–20 cm) diameter; avoid dead branches overhead.
- Keep your hang height reasonable (≈ chair height). Never hang over water, sharp objects, or across trails.
- Use tree-friendly straps; pack out everything you bring.
Wrap-up: Start simple: solid straps, a roomy hammock, real bug protection, a weather-right tarp, and proper insulation. With a 30° hang angle and a slightly higher foot end, you'll sleep better than you ever did in a tent.