A quality hammock is also a game changer for your next camping trip. Whether it’s for a quick rest from a day of hiking or a place to spend the night, making a hammock part of your camping-gear arsenal can completely change your overnight game. You can forget about the dingy motels by the national parks or rusty old log cabins and create your own refuge in nature, exactly where you want to be. These are the best hammocks, whether you’re looking for a portable one, a swing, or one with a stand.
Best overall: Easthills Outdoors Jungle ExplorerBest for backyards: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock with Space Saving Steel StandBest luxury swing: Lazy Daze Hammocks 55-inch Double Quilted Fabric Hammock Swing with PillowBest hammock bed: Mac Sports Collapsible Portable Removable Canopy HammockBest budget: Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
How we chose the best hammocks
Although they can be beautiful, the best hammocks should also be sturdy, safe, and secure. One tear or snag could render the entire thing unusable. That’s why we considered factors like durability, size, weight compacity, and waterproofing in our judging. Additionally, we conducted heavy research—looking at reviews, peer recommendations, and user impressions—when making our picks.
What to consider when buying the best hammocks
For a relatively low price, you can create the gently swaying bed of your dreams, where you can peacefully rest under a tree, bask in the sunshine, or lazily read a book. Hammocks are also convenient and don’t take up too much space. The entire family is sure to enjoy this peaceful backyard or garden addition. And practically speaking, when you’re hiking or spring camping, a portable one gives you a place to get shade or take a load off. Here are our suggestions for finding the best hammock for you.
Should you get a permanent, packable, or overnight protected hammock?
When picking a hammock, there are loads of options to choose from. Some are supported by a permanent metal or aluminum frame, which is great if you’re sticking them in your backyard and don’t intend to move things very much. But if you’re looking for something light and easy to throw into the back of your car, you want one that hangs with a simple tie and/or clip mechanism. This minimal design allows you to mount it anywhere you can imagine. Typically hung by rope or carabiners, the best hammocks can be set up in a matter of minutes. They’re useful for days at the beach or hikes in the forest, but if you plan to use yours as an on-the-go hotel, look for a protected style that shields you from weather and insects. An overhanging tarp or insect guard will keep you protected and create a nice environment in which to sleep for the night.
Location
If you decide to throw your hammock on some trees in the backyard, make sure they’re spaced out adequately. Otherwise, you won’t be able to hang and relax at all, since it can’t be set up. If you’re setting the hammock on a deck or a porch, try a stand for secure use all spring and summer.
Budget
Permanent hammocks that come with a base are typically more expensive than camping hammocks since they’re made out of more expensive materials and take more time to set-up. However, camping varieties are not the most aesthetic choice for creating a backyard paradise. How much you’re willing to spend will determine placement.
The best hammocks: Reviews & Recommendations
The best hammocks will turn your backyard into a peaceful getaway, or become the centerpiece of an outdoor hang with friends. From those with built-in mosquito nests to full-on beds, here is what we found in our quest to find the ultimate hammock.
Best overall: Easthills Outdoors Jungle Explorer
Why it made the cut: This bundle includes everything you need to relax in the great outdoors under the shadiest of trees. Specs
Maximum weight: 600 lbs.Seating capacity: 2 peopleDimensions: 118 x 79 inchesWaterproof: Yes
Pros
WaterproofRainfly and mosquito net includedFits more than one person
Cons
Thin material
If you love to camp in the open air, you know what it’s like when you’re not properly covered from mosquitos and other pests. A good trip can be spoiled by the discomfort caused by a night of insect attacks. You’ll rest easy knowing that you’re covered by a net. This one is lightweight and portable, with a nylon fabric that’s durable. You’ll get everything you’ll need in the package, including two steel hooks and two 10-foot tree straps, carabiners to hang the hammock, guylines, a 2000 mm PU waterproof rainfly, and aluminum stakes. Plus, it can fit two adults, meaning you don’t have to figure out how to stack hammocks. Since the nylon material is thin, make sure to use a blanket on the bottom to prevent mosquitos and the cold from ravaging your back.
Best for backyards: Vivere Double Cotton Hammock with Space Saving Steel Stand
Why it made the cut: Stylish patterns and an included stand and carrying case mean you can leave this hammock outside, or take it with you on a trip. Specs
Maximum weight: 450 lbs. Seating capacity: 2 peopleDimensions: 63 x 94 inchesWaterproof: Water-resistant depending on fabric
Pros
Included frameLots of color and fabric options
Cons
Not waterproof; will need to keep an eye on it in case of storms
A model with a frame is a great option for someone looking to permanently post up in the back garden. This vibrant backyard variety, available in tons of colors, will lighten up any outdoor space. It’s also sturdy—with a capacity of 450 pounds, multiple people can relax on it. You can also adjust it as high or low as you like so even the kids and your pet can climb on up. Lying out in the yard with a book in this will quickly become your favorite activity. Trust us, it’s pure bliss.
Best luxury swing: Lazy Daze Hammocks 55-inch Double Quilted Fabric Hammock Swing with Pillow
Why it made the cut: Turn your backyard into a 5-star resort with this stunning, chic hammock straight out of paradise. Specs
Maximum weight: 450 lbs.Seating capacity: 2 peopleDimensions: 164 x 55 inchesWaterproof: No
Pros
Hammock padded for comfortWideLooks more expensive than it costs
Cons
Frame sold separatelyNot water resistant
If you’re looking for a beautiful touch of resort quality lounging to your house, the Lazy Daze Hammock Swing will do the job. Its super-strong, high-quality rope gives it a solid build that feels oh-so-comfy when reclining. The headrest is perfectly situated for a doze. The bed dimensions are 78 by 55 inches with support up to 450 pounds, making it one for the family to rest in all day and night. You also have the option to add a steel frame if you want additional structure.
Best hammock bed: Mac Sports Collapsible Portable Removable Canopy Hammock
Why it made the cut: Take this hammock to the beach for shady relaxation or leave it in your backyard for an outdoor nap. Specs
Maximum weight: 250 lbs. Seating capacity: OneDimensions: including canopy, 88.6 x 39.8 x 25.9 inchesWaterproof: Water resistant
Pros
Quick, easy set-upSturdySmaller mesh hammock underneath for storage
Cons
Heavy
Outdoor adventurers need a hammock bed that can be easily packed. This one not only provides convenience with its foldable and fully collapsible frame, but it’s so comfortable that you’ll actually get a full night’s rest. The included canopy adds protection against finicky weather. It’s got heavy-duty strength with the convenience of a travel style. At 33 pounds, it is on the heavier side, but the carrying cases’ wheels take some of that weight off when transporting.
Best budget: Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Why it made the cut: You can get everything you need to achieve your outdoor hang dreams with this under $25 option. Specs
Maximum weight: 400 lbs. for one; 500 lbs. for twoSeating capacity: Up to two depending on size (medium is one person; large is two)Dimensions: 120 x 78 inches for largeWaterproof: No
Pros
Durable at a great priceIncluded tree strapsLots of colors and sizes to choose from
Cons
Not waterproof or water resistant
When you tally the list of outdoor gear needed for a camping trip, your wallet may tremble in fear—but it doesn’t have to. Enjoying the great outdoors shouldn’t break the bank, and you’ve probably already spent plenty on hiking boots, tents, and clothing. When you’re looking for one for less than $25, try this one from Wise Owl Outfitters. It’s made of nylon and comes with two carabiner hooks and tree straps. We love the lightweight feel and how simple yet effective this one is. However, it’s not waterproof or water-resistant, so be careful when using it after a rainstorm or near damp areas.
Final thoughts on the best hammocks
There’s no better way to spend the night outdoors or just have a cat nap in your own backyard. Material, frames, weight limit, and bug covers are all features you will want to consider when selecting the best hammock. Now that you’re in the know, find one and get it quickly so you can doze off in the hammock of your dreams.
