Hammock tents are a unique and innovative solution for camping, combining the comfort of a hammock with the protection and structure of a traditional tent. They are designed for those who enjoy the simplicity and comfort of sleeping off the ground while also providing shelter from the elements. These tent-hammock hybrids are ideal for solo campers, minimalist travelers, or anyone looking to enhance their outdoor sleeping experience. Below is a detailed review of hammock tents, including a breakdown of some popular models, their features, pros, cons, and overall performance.
1. Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Zip
Price Range: Mid-range
Weight: 2.5 lbs (with rainfly and suspension system)
Capacity: 1 person
Dimensions (Hammock): 8’ 10” x 4’ 10”
Key Features:
- Asymmetrical design for increased comfort and better sleeping position
- Built-in mosquito netting
- Large rainfly for protection from the elements
- Easy setup with the included suspension system
- Reflective webbing and ropes to minimize nighttime tripping
- Durable and lightweight nylon fabric
Pros:
- Very comfortable with the asymmetrical design that promotes a natural sleeping position
- Mosquito netting integrated into the design, keeping insects out
- Lightweight and compact for backpackers and solo campers
- Comes with a rainfly that offers excellent coverage for stormy weather
- Fast and easy to set up, even for beginners
Cons:
- Limited to one person, so not suitable for group camping
- Requires trees spaced appropriately for setup, limiting where it can be used
- Not ideal for cold weather or winter camping without additional insulation
Review:
The Hennessy Hammock Expedition Asym Zip is one of the most popular hammock tents on the market, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and ease of use. Its asymmetrical design allows for a flatter sleeping position, which reduces the discomfort some experience from sleeping in a traditional hammock. The built-in mosquito netting and rainfly provide ample protection from the elements, making it a great choice for fair weather camping. However, its weight and design are best suited for solo campers and doesn’t offer enough space for multiple people. Additionally, it may not be the best option in extreme cold unless used with extra insulation.
2. ENO JungleNest Hammock
Price Range: Mid-range
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Capacity: 1 person
Dimensions (Hammock): 9’ 4” x 4’ 6”
Key Features:
- Built-in, full-length mosquito net for bug protection
- Includes tree straps for easy hanging
- Rainfly and extra weather protection can be purchased separately
- High-quality, durable nylon fabric for comfort and breathability
- Spacious interior with side entry
- Quick setup and takedown process
Pros:
- Great for those seeking lightweight, compact camping solutions
- Spacious enough for comfort while still being portable
- High-quality materials for durability and comfort
- Excellent bug protection with a full-length net
- Easy to set up and adjust the tension with the included tree straps
Cons:
- Rainfly is sold separately, adding to the total cost
- Limited insulation for colder weather
- Only accommodates one person
Review:
The ENO JungleNest Hammock is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The built-in mosquito netting offers full protection against bugs, which is essential for many outdoor trips. The hammock is spacious enough to move around in, while still being compact enough for backpacking. One downside is that the rainfly isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy it separately if you plan to camp in rainy conditions. Also, for colder weather, the hammock provides minimal insulation, so additional layers or sleeping pads would be required. It’s a solid option for warm-weather camping or for those who need a lightweight, bug-free solution for solo trips.
3. Tentsile Stingray 3-Person Tree Tent
Price Range: High-end
Weight: 10.5 lbs
Capacity: 3 people
Dimensions (Hammock): 13’ 1” x 13’ 1”
Key Features:
- 3-person capacity with ample floor space
- Triple-point suspension system for stability and comfort
- Fully waterproof rainfly and large windows for airflow
- Made from durable, high-quality materials for all-weather use
- Integrated groundsheet for additional comfort and protection
- Can be set up between trees or on the ground with additional accessories
Pros:
- Extremely spacious with room for up to three people
- Comfortable and stable sleeping experience, even in windy conditions
- Fully weatherproof with a waterproof rainfly
- Multiple entry points and windows for better ventilation and easy access
- Strong and durable construction for long-term use
Cons:
- Heavy compared to other hammock tents, which may not suit ultralight backpackers
- Expensive, especially for those who don’t need a three-person tent
- Setup can be complex, especially for beginners or solo campers
Review:
The Tentsile Stingray 3-Person Tree Tent is a luxurious and spacious option for hammock tent enthusiasts. This model is one of the few designed for more than one person, offering a comfortable, stable platform for up to three campers. Its triple-point suspension system ensures that the tent stays level and stable, even in adverse weather conditions. The tent includes a full rainfly that keeps the interior dry in heavy rain, and the multiple entry points make it easy to get in and out. While it’s heavier than traditional hammock tents and pricier, it’s perfect for those who want to camp with family or friends and enjoy a truly unique experience. Its setup is a bit more complex, and it requires three trees spaced adequately apart, but once set up, it provides an amazing shelter for group camping.
4. Kammok Mantis Hammock Tent
Price Range: High-end
Weight: 3.2 lbs
Capacity: 1-2 people
Dimensions (Hammock): 9′ 6″ x 4′ 6″
Key Features:
- Integrated insect mesh and rainfly
- Spacious interior with enough room for one or two people
- Dual-entry system for easy access from either side
- Lightweight and durable fabric with water-resistant properties
- Optional add-ons like the Mantis Bug Net for extra protection
Pros:
- Versatile and spacious for both solo and couple campers
- Full protection from insects with a large mesh area
- Quick and easy setup
- Lightweight and compact for backpacking
- High-quality, weather-resistant materials
Cons:
- Not as roomy as larger models, especially for couples with gear
- High price for the features offered
- Requires trees spaced adequately apart for setup
Review:
The Kammok Mantis Hammock Tent is a premium option for those who want a versatile and well-designed hammock tent. It’s a great choice for solo campers or couples, as it offers ample space without feeling cramped. The full insect protection ensures that you’ll stay bug-free, and the rainfly provides excellent coverage for wet conditions. The tent’s weight and size make it suitable for backpackers, but its price point may be a deterrent for those on a budget. The Mantis is a high-quality, durable hammock tent that’s easy to set up and provides great protection from the elements, but it may not be as spacious as some of the larger, more complex models.
5. Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge Camping Hammock
Price Range: Mid-range
Weight: 4 lbs 2 oz
Capacity: 1 person
Dimensions (Hammock): 9′ 6″ x 4′ 6″
Key Features:
- Dual-function design: can be used as a hammock or a ground tent
- Full mosquito netting for bug protection
- Fully enclosed with rainfly for weather protection
- Lightweight and easy to pack for backpacking
- Includes a comfortable sleeping pad and suspension system
Pros:
- Versatile design that allows you to use it both as a hammock and a traditional tent
- Comfortable sleeping experience with padded interior
- Full insect protection with built-in mesh
- Quick and simple setup, ideal for solo campers
- Lightweight and packable, making it great for backpacking
Cons:
- Smaller than some other hammock tents, best for solo campers
- Sleeping pad can be uncomfortable without additional padding
- The setup may be tricky for beginners
Review:
The Lawson Hammock Blue Ridge offers a unique dual-functionality that sets it apart from traditional hammock tents. It can be used as both a hammock and a ground tent, making it versatile for different camping conditions. The built-in mosquito netting provides excellent protection, and the rainfly offers full weather coverage. It’s lightweight and compact, making it a solid choice for backpackers. However, while it provides a comfortable sleep for one person, it may feel cramped for taller campers. The sleeping pad provided is adequate but not overly plush, so you may need to add extra padding for maximum comfort.