Hammocks are a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But, even though they’re easy to set up, it can be tricky if you’ve never done it before. In this blog post, we’ll teach you how to set up your hammock from start to finish including all of the materials you’ll need and how to use them. We’ll also cover some safety tips that will protect you from falls or injuries.
Preparation
You’ll need two trees that are at least 12 feet apart to set up your hammock. If you’re planning on setting it up in the forest, make sure there is plenty of room between each tree so you won’t hit any branches when falling asleep or swinging back and forth. If you’re setting up on the concrete, make sure that the trees are strong enough to hold your weight.
Step One: Attach Hammock Strap
Start by looping one end of the strap around each tree at hand height so you can easily reach it while laying in the hammock. If there is a gap between where you’re setting up and the ground, you’ll need to loop it around the third time.
Step Two: Attach Hammock End
Now attach the other end of your hammock strap to one side of your hammock by sliding it through either triangle in the center and tying a good knot (we recommend using two half hitches).
Step Three: Complete Knot (Optional)
If you’d like, you can finish this knot off with another half hitch to make it extra secure. This will help prevent your hammock from slipping while you sleep or swing back and forth. Remember that good knots are the most important part of setting up a hammock! If it isn’t tied right, your hammock could fall and injure you.
Step Four: Hang Your Hammock
Now that one end of the strap is attached to both trees, use it as a rope to hoist the other side into position (again at hand height). You can do this by holding onto both ends of the strap and walking backward.
Once your hammock is lifted into position, attach the other end of the strap by looping it around one side and tying a good knot as we mentioned above. You can use either triangle on this strap to tie off onto because it will be attached at both ends (rather than just one).
Step Five: Add Bugs Net (Optional)
Add a bug net to your hammock for extra protection from mosquitoes and other bugs. There are two main styles of bug nets; an under-quilt or over-the-head style that you can hang inside with zippers on each end. This step is completely up to you, but they both
Step Six: Add Pillow (Optional)
You can add a pillow for more comfort and support when you sleep on your hammock overnight. Just make sure it’s one that won’t slip through the triangle or straps of your hammock by making sure it’s tied tightly in place.
If you want to see our recommendations, check out this blog post: Hammock Pillows What to Look for in a Great Camping or Backpacking Pillow
Now that your hammock is set up and ready to use it’s time to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Safety Tips
- Make sure to always check the condition of your straps before climbing in. If they look like they’re fraying or damaged, it’s better to replace them than risk falling while you sleep.
- Don’t attach your hammock too high; Make sure that there are at least 12 inches between where you tie the strap and the branch itself. If you tie it too high, there could be damage to the branch and if your hammock isn’t tied tightly enough; it may fall off.
- Never take a nap or go to sleep without first doing a safety check of all knotwork. This will help prevent injury in case something slips loose during use.
- Always double-check that everything is secure before climbing in and remember that good knots are the most important part of the setup.
Make sure to follow all of the safety precautions we’ve recommended and double-check all knots before using your hammock.
FAQ
Q: Will I fall out if my hammock isn’t tied to the tree tightly enough?
A: No, your straps should be attached at a height that is waist or chest level. If it’s too high, there could be damage to the tree and if it’s too low you could fall out.
Q: How many people can sleep in a hammock?
A: Hammocks are typically meant for one person, but if you’ve got a double-wide or family hammock, you can fit two people in it comfortably.
Q: Is it easy to set up a hammock?
A: It’s actually really simple! All you need is two trees of the appropriate distance apart, two hammock straps, and a good knot to tie it off with.
Q: What size is best for me?
A: Hammocks are available in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. For one person, you’ll want at least a 12-footer and if you’re looking for a double or family size, look for one that’s 16+ feet.
Q: How do I keep my sleeping pad in place?
A: There are a few different options; you can buy an under-quilt that goes underneath the sleeping pad to keep you warm and in place. You can also use a few extra straps or rope to tether your sleeping bag down onto the pad.
Q: Do I need to use a sleeping bag with my hammock?
A: It’s not necessary, but it can make things a bit more comfortable and warm. Some hammocks come with their own built-in insulation, but if yours doesn’t you’ll want to pick up a sleeping bag.
Q: What’s the difference between an under-quilt and over-the-head net?
A: An under-quilt goes underneath you and is meant to insulate your body from the cold ground.
An over-the-head net goes over your head and is meant to be a bug protector.
Q: What is the best way to tie the hammock straps?
A: The best way to tie your tree strap is to loop it around one side, pull out about six inches of slack, then tie it in a good knot with both ends together. Make sure to use two half hitches (tucked under) for each strap. This will make your straps extra tight and secure.
Q: How do I set up my hammock without trees?
A: Setting up a hammock without trees is possible, but you’ll need special straps. These are called “tree-straps” and they’re not just for camping. They’re used by rock climbers to suspend their hammocks while sleeping out under the stars in places where trees are scarce or non-existent.
Q: How do I wash my hammock?
A: You can hand-wash your nylon or cotton fabric with a mild detergent and let it air dry. Make sure to avoid bleach (it will cause your fabric to fade) or high-heat drying because this can cause your fabric to wear out faster.
Q: What happens if my straps get wet?
A: Make sure to always dry them off before packing up or using your hammock. This will prevent any damage to the straps and make sure they don’t slip while you sleep.
