Best Camping Hammocks UK | Buying Guide & Reviews

When we think of hammocks, we often think of kicking back and enjoying the tropical weather. What you may not be aware of is that hammocks have a vast history when it comes to helping us sleep, as well as a slew of benefits that can help us with stress and in some instances, recovery. Although many modern hammocks instil the original design thought of so many years ago, there are a number of different types of hammock that will cater to specific needs.

The reasons for purchasing a hammock are plentiful. For example, many people in the modern age think outside the box, and are always looking at alternative sleeping arrangements as opposed to just opting for the obvious. Similarly, there are those who may be taking their first foray into the great outdoors, and want to ensure that they are comfortable when it comes to catching some much-needed respite. Whatever the reason for needing a hammock, you can be sure that as long as you buy the right one, your sleep moving forwards will be improved tenfold.

The Origin of Hammocks

Hammocks can easily be passed off as something of a novelty, but nothing could be further from the truth. Hammocks actually have a history that dates back thousands of years ago, so their practicality shouldn’t be overlooked, nor should their benefits.

Hammocks were used by Mayan Indians in Central America, albeit in a primitive form. They were often created using bark or plant fibres. It is believed the word ‘hammock’ serviced from a Haitian word to describe fishnets, which can be atributed to their original appearance.

Like many good ideas, it wasn’t long before the hammock was embraced by several different areas and cultures, and soon hammocks were seen throughout South America, Central America and Mexico.

Of course, many of us would be quick to dismiss a hammock, because we have the comfort of our beds, but you shouldn’t case aside the humble hammock so quickly. There is an assumption made that due to the basic design of a hammock, then there is no way it can contend with the number of luxurious beds available. However, the fact remains that more and more people are adopting hammocks for their sleeping requirements, and are feeling the benefits of doing so.

Different Types of Hammocks

While it may come as a surprise to some, there are actually a few variations of the hammock design, which will each yield their own benefits. The following types of hammock should give you an indication of what kind of design you should look for when deciding on a hammock.

Of course, you may want a hammock for a number of different reasons. Although hammocks are durable, you still should ensure that the hammock you use is suited to the task in question. For example, a sleeping hammock probably wouldn’t serve you well in extreme conditions, so it’s definitely worth considering what you need before committing to a purchase.

Sleeping Hammock

As the hammock was originally designed for sleeping, it’s no surprise that sleeping hammocks are among the most popular. People can decide to choose a sleeping hammock for a variety of reasons, and is often thought to provide users with the following benefits:

• More Comfort: Those of us who use beds for our resting will be able to testify the limitations that some beds offer when it comes to your body. A hammock is thought to be more comfortable as there are no pressure points, allowing the user to truly relax.
• Less Stress: Many forget how soothing a rocking motion can be, which is why it’s commonly used to comfort babies who are stressed. While its often associated with children, a rocking motion can also aid those of us who may be suffering from a great deal of stress,
• A Better Night’s Sleep: There have been many sleep studies carried out that have shown that those who use hammocks to sleep often have a better night’s sleep as a result. If the weather permits some prefer to sleep in a hammock as opposed to opting for a camping mattress.
• Hammocks are Affordable: You’ve no doubt seen a slew of advertisements showcasing a number of beds with a plethora of different benefits. However, these benefits can come with a cost. However, hammocks are often seen as a much cheaper, and more comfortable solution.

The Best Kind of Sleeping Hammock?

Like anything, we should ensure that when buying a hammock, it’s fit for purpose. More unscrupulous dealers may look to offer an inferior hammock, that’s likely to cause you problems, and little in the way of a reimbursement. As such, you should have a general idea of what to look out for to ensure you’re buying the right kind of hammock. A majority of retailers are reputable, and will have little trouble in finding you a hammock that suits your requirements, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little knowledge to help you make a well-informed decision.

You should opt for a hammock that has material at both ends, and has a natural curve in the centre. The hang of the hammock is also important, and it should allow for a loose hang, as anything too tight can mean a restless night’s sleep. Reading through some reviews before deciding on your purchase is a worthwhile investment of your time, and will ensure that you’re purchasing a hammock that is best suited to your needs.

The Different Hammock Types Available

Although many hammocks will serve the same purpose, if we’re using it for the home, we may wish to opt for a certain design. Despite the basic design of a hammock, those looking for something that fits in with their décor are given plenty of choice when it comes to imposing a more bohemian look within their home.

Spreader Bar Hammocks

As the name suggests, spreader bar hammocks have wooden or metal bars at each end of the hammock, which makes the material taut. They are often seen next to pools and are also popular in many back gardens due to how easy they are to relax on. Spreader bar hammocks are often supported by stands.

Venezuelan and Jungle Hammocks

Although very pleasing to the eye, these types of hammocks were originally created to offer the user many benefits. The fine nettings would protect users against snakes, while its breathable material meant that users were protected from fungal infections. It’s one of the earlier hammock styles introduced and were even adopted during World War II for military personnel.

Mayan and Nicaraguan Hammocks 

Those who choose Mayan or Nicaraguan hammocks do so because of their handmade design, offering a more rustic feel around the home. As Mayan and Nicaraguan are often handmade, it can be worthwhile checking the thread count, as the higher the thread count, the better the quality. In this regard, it can be worthwhile checking out some reviews before committing to a purchase.

Brazilian Hammocks

Brazilian hammocks are recognised by the cotton fabric that gathers at each end. While not suited to a vast number of climates, the Brazilian hammock makes for an ideal solution to the bed, and can be used within cooler conditions.

Naval Hammocks

Those looking for durability, as well as a hammock that makes good use of space should look towards a naval hammock. The practicality of naval hammocks means that their design has changed very little over the years, often made with a heavy cotton or canvas base. While they may not have the comfort associated with some other hammocks, naval hammocks were built to serve a purpose, and that was to offer reliable sleeping arrangements in the toughest of terrain.

The Lounging Hammock Chair

While hammocks are primarily used for sleeping, there are variations that allow for a more relaxed feel, be in the home, or in the garden. Those who enjoy their garden in the summer months often opting for a lounging hammock or hammock chair, as it’s ideal for sunbathing, or even catching up on your favourite book.

The design of a lounging hammock itself is slightly more upright than that of a sleeping hammock, and are often characterised by the wooden spreaders the hammock is suspended by.

A hammock chair is often more cradle-like, and can be suspended from a beam, or attached to a stand.

The Hiking Hammock

In a world riddled with technology, there are many of us who crave a more feral lifestyle, if only for a couple of days. As such, the pastime of hiking has soared in popularity, as nature is able to provide much of what the modern world can, as long as we go prepared.

For example, although nature can provide us with some comfort, for the most part it can be uncomfortable. This is where the trust hammock comes into play, as it can adapt to a number of different environments, although you should ensure you have the right type of sleeping hammock for your trip, and not settling for an inferior product. A reliable hammock should be able to provide the following benefits.

• Easy to Carry.
• Comfortability
• Resilience
• Room for You to Sleep
• Accessorised (In Some Instances)

Considering Accessories for Your Hiking Hammock

Whether or not you will require accessories really depends on the nature of your trip. For example, if you’re likely to visit a wet climate, then it could be wise to invest in some weather proof tarpaulins. Similarly, if you know you’re going to be bothered by a lot of mosquitos, then it would be worthwhile acquiring some netting to keep you free of bites, which do not make for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Having prior knowledge of the conditions you will be using your hammock in allows you to make some purchase that can look to make your sleep as comfortable as possible when outside.

How Do You Fit Your Hammock Once You’ve Got It?

If this is your first foray into the world of hammocks, then the setting up may be perplexing in the first instance. An elevated and supported hammock works best, although there are some other factors to consider to ensure that your hammock is giving you the right kind of support and comfortability.

The secret of hanging a hammock is in the curve, think along the lines of a banana shape. Depending on the hammock you choose, how you acquire this curve can vary. The first factor to consider is the distance between the two attachment points. Set at the wrong angle, it could mean that your hammock is either too tight, or too loose, meaning that you’re not getting the full benefits. This also applies to the height of the attachment points.

Of course, everyone has their own preference, and this is the wonder of hammocks, as they can be adjusted to suit many preferences.

The Benefits Associated with Hammocks

It’s evident that hammocks are primarily used for sleeping, but it’s not hikers and adventurers that can benefit from a hammock. As you can see there are a number of different hammocks, depending on your requirements. If you’re still reserved about switching to a hammock, then you may want to consider the following,

A series of research was carried out back in 2011 showed that hammocks provide users with increased brain activity, and the increased brain plasticity could help aid users recover from stroke and other brain-related injuries.

While there are new studies being undertaken all the time, the benefits of sleeping in a hammock cannot be denied. Nor can their use in the great outdoors. It’s simply a case of ascertaining what kind of features you require, where the hammock will be used and whether you’ll be needing something for extreme conditions.