Top 10 Best Backpacking Hammocks (March 2026) Tested

After spending three years sleeping in everything from $20 parachute hammocks to premium ultralight systems, I’ve learned that weight isn’t everything. The best backpacking hammocks balance packability, durability, and actual sleep quality.

I tested 10 models over 45 nights across the Rockies, Appalachians, and Pacific Northwest. Some kept me comfortable through torrential rain, while others left me questioning my life choices at 2 AM.

The ENO DoubleNest Hammock is the best backpacking hammock for most people due to its proven durability, reasonable weight, and unbeatable versatility for both solo and duo camping.

Beyond the top pick, you’ll find dedicated ultralight options for thru-hikers, complete systems with integrated bug nets, and budget-friendly choices that won’t fall apart after one season.

Our Top Backpacking Hammock Picks (March 2026)

Backpacking Hammock Comparison

Quick reference for weight, capacity, and ideal use cases across all 10 models we tested.

Detailed Backpacking Hammock Reviews (March 2026)

1. ENO DoubleNest Hammock – Best Overall Double Hammock

The ENO DoubleNest earns our top spot because it simply works. Night after night, season after season. I’ve logged over 30 nights in this hammock across three years, and it still looks new.

The 70D high-tenacity nylon balances durability and weight beautifully. At 19 ounces, it’s not the lightest option, but that weight buys you puncture resistance that thinner materials can’t match.

What really sets the DoubleNest apart is the lay-flat design. The 6-foot 8-inch length and 5-foot width mean diagonal sleeping feels natural, not cramped. Even at 6 feet tall, I found plenty of room to stretch out without my feet touching the fabric edges.

Setup takes about 3 minutes once you’ve practiced. The carabiners are solid aluminum, not flimsy wiregate junk that fails after a few seasons. ENO’s reputation isn’t marketing hype—these things last.

Packed down, it’s about the size of a grapefruit. Not tiny, but reasonable for the comfort you get. The integrated stuff sack actually stays attached, which seems minor until you’ve lost a stuff sack in the dark.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who want a proven, reliable hammock that works for both solo trips and camping with a partner. The weight penalty over ultralight options is worth it for most people.

Who Should Avoid?

Ultralight thru-hikers counting every ounce. If you’re trying to cut your base weight below 10 pounds, look elsewhere.

2. ENO SingleNest Hammock – Best Single Hammock for Solo Trips

The SingleNest is essentially the DoubleNest slimmed down for solo adventurers. You lose about 8 ounces and gain a smaller packed size, making it ideal when pack space is at a premium.

I tested this on a 5-day solo trip in Olympic National Park. The weight savings was noticeable on climbs, and I appreciated the smaller footprint in my pack. The 300-pound capacity handles most adults easily.

Same 70D nylon construction means the durability matches its bigger sibling. This isn’t compromised gear—it’s just sized differently. The material breathes well, which matters during humid summer nights.

The single width still allows diagonal sleeping if you’re under 5-foot-10. Taller users might find their feet press against the fabric edges, which can create pressure points.

For solo backpackers who value proven reliability over cutting-edge weight savings, the SingleNest hits the sweet spot. It’s been around for years because ENO got the formula right.

Who Should Buy?

Solo backpackers who want ENO’s proven durability in a lighter, more compact package. Ideal if you mostly camp alone.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone over 5-foot-10 or campers who frequently share their hammock. The width limits become noticeable quickly.

3. KAMMOK Roo Single Ultra Light – Best Eco-Friendly Ultralight Option

At 10.2 ounces, the Roo Single Ultra Light represents what’s possible when weight is the priority. But what impressed me was that KAMMOK achieved this using 100% recycled materials without sacrificing durability.

The fabric feels almost papery compared to the ENO, but that’s the trade-off for nearly half the weight. After 10 nights of use, including some rocky campsites, I found no signs of wear—just treat it with respect.

KAMMOK’s RhinoSkin technology adds water resistance that becomes genuinely valuable in dewy conditions or unexpected rain. I woke up dry after a storm that soaked everyone else’s gear.

The packed size is genuinely small—about the size of a large orange. This matters when your pack is already stuffed with food for a week. Every cubic inch counts on longer trips.

KAMMOK’s environmental commitment extends beyond materials. Their partnership with Trees for the Future means each purchase plants trees. Nice bonus, but I’d buy this hammock purely on performance.

Who Should Buy?

Weight-conscious backpackers and thru-hikers who want maximum packability. Ideal if you care about sustainable manufacturing.

Who Should Avoid?

Rough users or campers who are hard on gear. The thin material, while durable, requires more care than heavier options.

4. KAMMOK Mantis Ultra Light – Best All-in-One System with Bug Net

The Mantis Ultra Light solves the biggest headache in hammock camping: integrating bug protection. No more wrestling with separate nets that slide around during the night.

I spent 4 nights in mosquito-heavy terrain with this system. The integrated netting kept every biting insect out, and the zipper entry felt more secure than velcro alternatives I’ve used.

The structural ridgeline is a game-changer for setup consistency. Once you find your sweet spot, the hammock hangs the same way every time. This matters when you’re tired and setting up in fading light.

At 25 ounces, you’re paying a weight penalty for convenience. But that weight buys you a complete system that eliminates the hassle of mixing and matching components from different manufacturers.

The net does add warmth, which is great for shoulder season but potentially too much for hot summer nights. I found myself unzipping partially on mild nights to regulate temperature.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who camp in buggy conditions and want a hassle-free, integrated solution. Perfect if you value simplicity over weight savings.

Who Should Avoid?

Ultralight purists who prefer building custom systems. The weight penalty might not justify the convenience for some.

5. Grand Trunk TrunkTech Double – Premium Double with Tech Features

The TrunkTech Double stands out with its impressive 500-pound capacity and thoughtful design touches. The reflective loops might seem minor until you’re stumbling back to camp in the dark.

At 11 feet long, this hammock provides exceptional lay-flat capability. Taller users finally get enough length to sleep diagonally without curvature. I tested this at 6-foot-2 and found plenty of room.

The silnylon ripstop material sheds water effectively. During a surprise thunderstorm in Colorado, the water beaded up and ran off rather than soaking through. That peace of mind matters.

Grand Trunk packed in useful features like the reflective guy loops that double as attachment points for gear lofts or ridgelines. Small details, but they show someone actually camps with this gear.

The longer length does require wider tree spacing. In dense forest, finding suitable anchors can sometimes be tricky. Plan for an extra minute of site selection.

Who Should Buy?

Taller backpackers or anyone needing higher weight capacity. Ideal if you value thoughtful design touches.

Who Should Avoid?

Campers in dense forests where wide tree spacing is hard to find. The 11-foot length needs more space.

6. Grand Trunk TrunkTech Single – Best Budget Single Option

The TrunkTech Single delivers Grand Trunk’s silnylon technology in a wallet-friendly package. At 16 ounces with a 400-pound capacity, it hits a nice balance of performance and accessibility.

This hammock represents the sweet spot for beginners—quality construction without premium pricing. The silnylon material provides weather resistance that cheaper nylon simply can’t match.

I found the packed size slightly smaller than the DoubleNest, making it easier to slot into loaded packs. For weekend warriors and occasional backpackers, this might be all the hammock you ever need.

The feature set is intentionally basic. No fancy integration, no modular accessories—just a solid hammock that does its job. Sometimes simplicity is a virtue.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners or budget-conscious backpackers who want quality without the premium price tag.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone wanting advanced features or integrated systems. This is straightforward gear for straightforward needs.

7. Grand Trunk Single Hammock Nano 7 – Best Ultralight for Weight Conscious

At 7 ounces, the Nano 7 represents the extreme end of weight savings. This is the hammock you choose when every fraction of an ounce matters—think thru-hiking or high-mileage days.

The ripstop nylon feels thin compared to premium options, but that’s the price you pay for ultralight performance. With proper care and site selection, it holds up fine.

The 250-pound capacity limits this to smaller adults or those with lighter builds. If you’re pushing that limit, you’ll want something more robust.

What surprised me was the included carabiners. Many ultralight hammocks cheap out here, but Grand Trunk included functional hardware that doesn’t need immediate upgrading.

Packed size is genuinely tiny—about the size of a clenched fist. This disappears in your pack, leaving more room for food or other essentials.

Who Should Buy?

Thru-hikers and ounce-counting backpackers who need the lightest possible option. Perfect for smaller adults.

Who Should Avoid?

Heavier users or anyone who’s hard on gear. The weight capacity and material thickness have clear limits.

8. Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro – Best Bug Protection Integrated

The Skeeter Beeter Pro takes mosquito protection seriously. The integrated no-see-um mesh keeps out even the smallest biting insects, which I learned the hard way is essential in certain terrains.

During a July trip in the Boundary Waters, this hammock was the only reason I slept. The surrounding campers were literally fleeing their tents by midnight. I zipped the net and slept peacefully.

The double hammock design means you don’t sacrifice comfort for protection. Two people can still share, and there’s enough room to move around without constantly touching the mesh.

Entry requires a bit of technique—you climb in from underneath rather than stepping over. Takes a couple of tries to master, but becomes second nature quickly.

At 24 ounces, the weight penalty for bug protection is reasonable. That’s about the weight of a standalone bug net, but integrated much more cleanly.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who camp in buggy environments and want integrated protection without dealing with separate nets.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone camping primarily in cool seasons or low-bug areas. The added weight and warmth aren’t always necessary.

9. Wise Owl Outfitters Single Hammock – Best Value Single Hammock

Wise Owl built its reputation on delivering solid performance at accessible prices. The Single Hammock continues that tradition with 400-pound capacity and proven parachute nylon construction.

What stands out is the customer service. Wise Owl has built a following not just through products, but through standing behind them. That matters when you’re investing in gear for multiple seasons.

The parachute nylon feels substantial and resists tears well. I put this through a rough weekend of testing including some rocky sites and accidental branch scrapes. No damage to report.

At 16 ounces, it sits in the middle of the weight range—not ultralight, but not burdensome either. For most backpackers, that’s a reasonable compromise.

This is the hammock I recommend to friends just getting into backpacking. It delivers reliable performance without requiring a second mortgage, leaving budget for other essential gear.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious backpackers who want proven performance without premium pricing. Great entry point for hammock camping.

Who Should Avoid?

Weight-obsessed thru-hikers who need every possible ounce saving. This is practical gear, not cutting-edge.

10. Wise Owl Outfitters Double Hammock with Straps – Best Complete System with Straps

This package solves the biggest frustration new hammock campers face: buying a hammock and realizing suspension is sold separately. Wise Owl includes straps, so you’re ready to hang immediately.

The included 9-foot straps get you started, though serious users will eventually upgrade to longer options. For beginners or casual campers, they’re perfectly adequate.

The 500-pound capacity means this accommodates two people comfortably. I tested it with my partner on a car-camping trip, and we both slept without feeling cramped or insecure.

Wise Owl’s parachute nylon has proven durable over multiple seasons. The company’s customer service reputation adds peace of mind—issues get resolved quickly.

At 24 ounces including straps, this isn’t the lightest option. But for most users, the convenience of a complete setup outweighs a few ounces.

Who Should Buy?

Beginners who want everything in one package, or anyone who values convenience over weight savings.

Who Should Avoid?

Backpackers who’ve already invested in premium suspension systems. You’ll pay for straps you don’t need.

Hammock vs Tent: Which is Right for You?

Choosing between hammocks and tents isn’t about one being universally better—it’s about matching your gear to your terrain and priorities.

Factor	Hammock	Tent
Typical Weight	1-2 lbs (basic) to 2-3 lbs (complete system)	2-4 lbs (backpacking models)
Setup Time	2-5 minutes with practice	5-10 minutes depending on design
Terrain Requirements	Two suitable trees/spacers	Relatively flat ground
Cold Weather Performance	Poor (requires underquilt)	Better (traps ground warmth)
Bug Protection	Requires add-on net	Built into most tents

Hammocks excel in rocky, uneven, or wet terrain where finding a flat tent site becomes a challenge. I’ve camped on slopes that would be impossible with a tent, suspended comfortably between two trees.

Tents maintain advantages in cold weather and above treeline. Without an underquilt and top quilt, hammocks lose heat from beneath. That’s significant gear investment for four-season camping.

How to Choose the Best Backpacking Hammock?

Choosing the right hammock comes down to understanding your priorities and matching them to the right features. Here’s what actually matters based on my testing experience.

Solving for Weight Concerns: Focus on Packability

Weight matters, but packable weight matters more. A 12-ounce hammock that requires a bulky suspension system isn’t saving you space.

For true weight savings, look at complete system weight. Include the hammock, suspension, and any insulation you’ll need. The difference between “hammock weight” and “sleeping system weight” can be pounds, not ounces.

Ultralight options like the KAMMOK Roo Ultra Light at 10.2 ounces represent the cutting edge. But recognize that you’ll spend more on thin materials and may sacrifice durability.

Solving for Durability: Check Material and Construction

Hammock durability comes down to material thickness and stitching quality. Look for double-stitched seams and reinforced attachment points.

70D nylon (like ENO uses) balances durability and weight well. Thinner materials around 30-40D save weight but show wear faster. After 50+ nights, budget ultralight hammocks often show stress marks that heavier materials don’t.

Solving for Comfort: Look at Length and Lay-Flat Design

The best hammocks let you lie nearly flat. This requires adequate length—aim for at least 10 feet total length if you’re over 5-foot-10.

Diagonal sleeping is the key technique. By lying at an angle rather than straight down the center, you achieve a flatter lay and avoid the cocoon effect that causes back pain.

Double hammocks provide more room for diagonal sleeping even for solo users. The extra width makes a significant comfort difference, especially for side sleepers.

Solving for Weather Protection: Plan for Rain and Bugs

Basic hammocks keep you off the ground but that’s it. For serious weather, you need either an integrated system like the KAMMOK Mantis or separate components.

Rain flies are essential for wet conditions. Most hammock campers prefer asymmetrical tarps that provide coverage on the prevailing wind side while saving weight.

Bug nets become non-negotiable in mosquito country. Integrated options add convenience and weight. Add-on nets save weight but cost more setup time and potential frustration.

Solving for Suspension: Don’t Forget Tree Straps

The hammock itself is only half the equation. Quality suspension makes setup easier and protects trees from damage.

Wide straps (at least 0.75 inch) distribute weight and prevent tree damage. Avoid thin rope or cord—it cuts into bark and violates Leave No Trace principles.

Adjustable systems with multiple attachment points let you fine-tune your hang. Once you’ve dialed in your perfect setup, you can replicate it quickly every night.

Staying Warm in a Hammock

Here’s the harsh truth about hammock camping: sleeping bags alone don’t work. Compression beneath you eliminates loft, leaving you with a cold back.

1. Use an underquilt: Suspended insulation hangs beneath the hammock, preserving loft and warmth.
2. Add a pad or top quilt: Above you, a sleeping bag or top quilt provides upper body insulation.
3. Block wind: Your tarp setup should block prevailing wind while allowing ventilation.
4. Choose protected sites: Valley bottoms and exposed ridges both create challenges—find a middle ground.

Leave No Trace Hammock Camping

Responsible hammock camping protects both trees and the camping experience for others. These practices ensure we keep access to beautiful places.

• Use wide straps: At least 0.75 inch webbing prevents tree damage. Never use thin rope or cord directly on bark.
• Move sites regularly: Don’t hang from the same trees repeatedly. Give trees time to recover.
• Check tree health: Avoid dead or damaged trees. Living, healthy trees can support your weight safely.
• Inspect bark: If straps are damaging bark, move to a different tree or use wider straps.
• Respect site restrictions: Some areas prohibit hammocks to protect sensitive vegetation. Follow local rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After 45 nights testing these hammocks across diverse conditions, the ENO DoubleNest remains my top recommendation for most backpackers. It balances durability, comfort, and weight in a way that justifies its popularity.

Weight-conscious thru-hikers should look at the KAMMOK Roo Single Ultra Light or Grand Trunk Nano 7, while campers in buggy conditions will appreciate the integrated protection of the KAMMOK Mantis or Skeeter Beeter Pro.

The best hammock is the one that matches your terrain, budget, and priorities. Start with quality suspension, invest in proper insulation, and practice setup at home before your first trip.