Best Camping Hammocks: 8 Picks for Every Budget

Emily got me my first camping hammock as a birthday gift, and now we bring two on every trip. There is something about swaying between pines after a long hike that no camp chair can replicate.

What to Look for in a Camping Hammock

Before we get to the picks, here are the features that actually matter:

Weight capacity, Most single hammocks hold 300-400 lbs, doubles up to 500 lbs. Check the rating before buying.

Material, Nylon ripstop is the standard. Parachute nylon is soft and affordable. Dyneema blends are ultralight but pricey.

Suspension system, Tree straps are gentler on bark than ropes and far easier to set up. Look for hammocks that include straps or budget $15-20 for a separate set.

Bug net, If you plan to sleep in your hammock, an integrated bug net is worth every penny. Trust us on this one.

The 8 Best Camping Hammocks

1. Best Budget: Wise Owl Outfitters Single

Under $30 and it comes with carabiners and tree straps. The nylon is comfortable, it packs to the size of a water bottle, and it holds up to 400 lbs. This is the hammock that got half of our camping friends hooked. Perfect for campsite lounging and naps.

2. Best Budget Double: Kootek Camping Hammock

A double-wide hammock for around $25. It fits two people comfortably for lounging, though sleeping two in any hammock is cozy at best. Great value for families who want everyone swinging at the campsite.

3. Best All-Around: ENO DoubleNest

The DoubleNest is the hammock that made camping hammocks mainstream. Breathable, durable, and available in dozens of color combos. At around $70, it is the sweet spot between budget and premium. Straps sold separately, so add $20 for the ENO Atlas straps.

4. Best Ultralight: Sea to Summit Ultralight

At just 5.4 ounces, this is the hammock for weight-obsessed backpackers. It sacrifices nothing on comfort and holds 300 lbs. If ounces matter on your trips, this is the one. Around $65.

5. Best with Bug Net: Kammok Mantis

A full sleep system with an integrated bug net that zips shut completely. The net is fine enough to keep out no-see-ums, not just mosquitoes. Around $130, and worth every cent if you camp in bug country from May through September.

6. Best for Side Sleepers: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC

Most hammocks force you onto your back, but the Blackbird XLC has an asymmetric cut and a shelf for a sleeping pad that lets you sleep on your side. It is the gold standard for hammock camping purists. Around $90 for the single layer version.

7. Best Complete System: Hennessy Expedition Asym

This hammock comes with a built-in bug net and rain fly. You unpack it, clip it to your trees, and you have a complete shelter in five minutes. No separate tarp or net to set up. It is the most popular among thru-hikers for good reason. Around $200.

8. Best Premium: Kammok Swiftlet

A premium all-in-one system with a diamond ripstop rain fly, bug net, and reflective guy lines. The setup is tool-free and fast. At around $250, it is an investment, but one that replaces a tent for three-season camping. We used one for an entire summer and never missed our tent.

Hammock Camping Essentials

If you plan to sleep in your hammock, you will also need:

Ready to plan a hammock camping trip? Use our Camping Gear Checklist to make sure you have everything you need, and check out our guide to dispersed camping for the best hammock-friendly sites away from crowded campgrounds.