Very few campers think about the power connection and the issue of safety. Sebastian explains what is important when it comes to shore power.
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The most important thing in advance
- There are different types of hammocks. You can choose between travel hammocks, net hammocks, cloth hammocks, pole hammocks and models with a frame.
- For outdoor use and camping, the material should be as durable and weatherproof as possible so that you can use your hammock for as long as possible.
- The various models differ in size, material and type of fastening.
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Inhaltsverzeichnis
- The most important thing in advance
- We have compared these hammocks
- Which hammock is suitable for me?
- These types of hammocks are available
- Bracket: How is a hammock attached?
- Care: How to clean hammocks
- Suspension: This is how much space you need
- This is what distinguishes a good camping hammock
- These are the features you should look for when buying
- The most important things in summary
We have compared these hammocks
For many, it is the absolute symbol of relaxation: the hammock. So that you no longer have to dream about relaxing in your favourite outdoor spot, it’s high time we took a closer look at hammocks. After all, not all hammocks are the same. There are different models for different needs and places where they can be used. Roughly speaking, we can distinguish between practical all-rounders, light and space-saving variants for on the go and hammocks with a frame.
Which hammock is suitable for me?
The first thing you should ask yourself is where and when you want to use the hammock. It can make a big difference whether you want to integrate the hammock in a fixed place or tuck it under your arm to hang it between two trees in the middle of nature. If you have a permanent place, a weatherproof model might be the right choice. If you want to create a chilled-out retreat at home, other factors play an important role.
For camping and travelling
There are several hammocks that are suitable for outdoor use. These are, for example, practical travel hammocks that you can stow away in a space-saving way and that impress with their low weight. Net hammocks are also usually very light and airy and are therefore particularly suitable for warmer regions. Cloth hammocks are also suitable as long as they can be folded. In general, models that have a small pack size and can be easily stowed away are particularly suitable for camping.
For home and garden
If you want to use the hammock mainly at home in the garden or indoors, other models may be suitable. For example, you can choose a version with a frame. You can set this up indoors or outdoors. In contrast to the travel hammock, you do not need to pay attention to a weatherproof material for an indoor version, but can choose according to your personal preferences.
These types of hammocks are available
As already explained, the selection of hammocks is really huge and choosing the right product depends on your wishes, preferences and use. For indoors, other hammocks come into consideration than a cosy spot in the garden or a practical travel version for camping. Let’s take a closer look at the different versions.
Travel hammocks
These practical all-rounders can be used in many ways. You can set up a travel hammock individually outdoors and even use it as a place to sleep. It is characterised above all by the fact that it has a small pack size and is particularly light. Not only can you stow it in your van or camper to save space, most models even fit in your rucksack, so that nothing stands in the way of a trekking tour and an overnight stay outdoors. You can set up your sleeping space and take it down again in just a few steps. It is therefore particularly suitable if you travel a lot and always want to have your chill-out spot with you.
The travel hammock is also available in an XXL version. This is a model that is suitable for couples or small families. The lying surface is significantly wider and also somewhat longer, so that you all have enough space. However, you should bear in mind that these models are considerably heavier and also take up a little more space when stowing. By the way, most travel hammocks are made of so-called parachute silk. On the one hand, this material is particularly robust and tear-resistant, and on the other hand, it is also extremely light. This nylon-like fabric is also easy to clean and is considered weather-resistant.
Net hammocks
The net hammock was already developed by the Maya about 1,000 years ago and is thus considered the origin of today’s recliners. At that time, it was used on the one hand as a place to sleep and on the other hand as a fishing net. Traditionally, the mats come from Mexico and are still made there today. They are characterised above all by the special knotting technique. In the meantime, this technique has been copied and so you will certainly come across models from Asia that are usually a little cheaper. However, if you want an original, pay attention to the origin of the product.
If you prefer travelling and camping in warm regions, then this airy hammock could be just right for you. The net provides a special and pleasant air circulation. Depending on the country of origin, different materials are used in the production. Some models are woven from soft cotton fibres, while others are made from weatherproof polyester yarn.
Rope hammocks
Visually, they are somewhat similar to net hammocks, but rope hammocks are much more coarse-meshed. They are made of somewhat thicker rope and are a real visual highlight. However, things can quickly fall out through the somewhat larger holes, which is why you should make yourself as comfortable as possible without objects. Depending on the thickness and nature of the material, it can be a little uncomfortable when you lie down on the knots, so it’s best to take a towel or blanket with you.
Rope hammocks are therefore less suitable for camping. For the garden, balcony or house, however, they are a great eye-catcher and the ideal place to relax.
Cloth hammocks
This variant is one of the most popular versions for the garden. As the name suggests, the lying surface consists of a large cloth to which small ropes are attached for fastening. Many models are made of cotton, but there are also some models that are made of weatherproof nylon or fine linen. Cloth hammocks made of cotton fabric are considered very stable, but are considerably heavier than travel or net hammocks. They come in different colours and patterns and are usually a real eye-catcher. Due to their weight and volume, they are only suitable for camping to a limited extent. Since cotton versions take quite a long time to dry, you should not hang them outside permanently, but take them down again after use. If you are looking for a hammock for indoor use or for the balcony, a comfortable cloth hammock could be just right for you.
Bar hammock
The special feature of a pole hammock is the integrated spreader bars. These are located at the ends of the lying surface and ensure that the surface is kept particularly wide and you don’t sag so quickly. This makes it easier for you to get in and the width remains the same when you lie down. Especially if you want to use the mat with several people, you have a little more space and don’t roll up so quickly. In terms of material, there is quite a wide choice. However, this model is only suitable for camping to a limited extent, as you cannot fold the mat so compactly due to the spreader bars.
Hammocks with frame
Finally, I would like to introduce you to hammocks with a frame in more detail. In contrast to models without a frame, you have the great advantage that you don’t have to rely on a tree or similar to attach the hammock. You buy a complete package consisting of a hammock, a frame and, depending on the scope of delivery, other extras. There are stands made of wood, plastic, aluminium, rattan or metal. If you want to use the hammock mainly outdoors, make sure that your chosen product is suitable for outdoor use and impregnated accordingly. However, if you choose a hammock with a frame, you should have enough space available, as not all models are foldable and therefore not so easy to store. For this reason, hammocks with a frame are only suitable for campers to a limited extent – after all, not only does the mat need to be stowed away well, but the frame also needs enough storage space.
Bracket: How is a hammock attached?
Especially when camping, hammocks without a frame are ideal, such as a travel hammock. They can be folded compactly, take up little space and are also particularly light. But how are hammocks without a frame attached? Depending on the manufacturer and model, there are different ways to attach them. For example, there is the combination of rope and hook, where the rope is wrapped around a branch, trunk or beam. The mat is then hung with the help of a hook. For a permanent suspension, there are certain plates and hooks that are drilled into the wall or a beam and are particularly stable.
Care: How to clean hammocks
Hammocks that are mainly used outdoors are exposed to various weather conditions. So first and foremost, make sure that the material is suitable for outdoor use. To ensure that you enjoy your new relaxation spot for as long as possible, there are a few things you should keep in mind when caring for it. On the one hand, the mat should be hung in such a way that it does not drag across the ground when it is loaded, and on the other hand, it is advisable to dismantle even weatherproof models in strong winds and rain and store them in the dry. In general, it is recommended that you dismantle your hammock at night so that it does not get too damp. Depending on the model and material, you can simply wipe the lying surface with a damp cloth or even wash it by hand or at 30 degrees in the washing machine.
Suspension: This is how much space you need
Finding a suitable place for the hammock is not that easy. If you want to hang the mat between two trees, the distance should be slightly less than the length of the mat, i.e. about 90 percent. As far as the height is concerned, it all depends on the model you choose. Hammocks with a pole, for example, do not have to be placed quite as high up as variants without a pole. Travel hammocks usually sag a little more and should be placed at a height of 1.5 to 2 metres. However, the optimum values are usually supplied by the manufacturer. If you don’t have a folding rule in your pocket, just make sure that the lowest point is no more than 20-40 cm above the ground so that the hammock doesn’t drag on the ground and you can get in and out comfortably.
This is what distinguishes a good camping hammock
A good hammock for outdoor use should have a long life span and the following features:
- It has a small pack size.
- It is particularly light.
- It is UV-resistant.
- It is weather-resistant.
- It is hard-wearing.
- It is easy to set up and take down.
These are the features you should look for when buying
Finding the perfect hammock for your camping trip is not that easy. In order to find the right product for you, there are some features and characteristics that you should consider.
Type
First of all, you should decide between the different types and models of hammocks. If you travel a lot and always want to have the hammock with you, I recommend a travel hammock because you can store it in your backpack. Also suitable for outdoors is the net hammock or a cloth hammock without a pole made of a light material. If you’re looking for a hammock for your home, you can also look for a pole hammock made of cotton or choose a hammock with a frame.
Material
Especially when camping, the material is important. It should be as durable and weatherproof as possible so that you can use the hammock for a long time. Of course, it should also offer you optimal comfort. Parachute silk is therefore particularly popular for travel hammocks. It is made of nylon and is considered particularly light and tear-resistant. As the name suggests, it is also used in the manufacture of parachutes. Most commercially available hammocks are made of cotton. This is particularly comfortable and can usually be cleaned in the washing machine. However, it is much heavier and therefore not suitable for backpacking. Hammocks made of HamacTex are also suitable for outdoor use. This is a synthetic fibre that is UV-resistant and water-repellent. So there is nothing to stop you leaving your HamacTex hammock hanging outside for a while. If the polypropylene mat gets wet, you can simply wipe it off or let it dry in the sun.
Size
If the hammock is primarily intended only for you, you can adjust the size to your body measurements. Of course, it should be a little longer and wider than you are. If you want a hammock for the whole family, look directly for a version in XXL.
Maximum load capacity
Depending on whether you want to sit alone or with your partner or even the whole family, the hammock has to withstand a lot. When choosing the right product, pay attention to the maximum load capacity. Ideally, it should have a load-bearing capacity of around 200 kg so that you can sit comfortably with several people. For you alone, it should be able to carry your weight plus about 15-20 kg.
Pack size
Especially if you travel a lot and frequently, your hammock should have a small pack size and not be too bulky. Ideally, the mat should only be large enough when folded so that you can easily stow it in your backpack.
Fastening options
In the best case, the scope of delivery already includes suitable fastening material. It is best to make sure that these are also suitable for your project. Otherwise, you should also look for a suitable supplement.
Care
Cleaning the hammock should not be underestimated. Outdoor hammocks in particular should be easy to clean, as very few people have a washing machine with a gentle cycle when camping.
The most important things in summary
- A hammock is the ideal place to relax in nature and enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Before choosing a model, you should consider whether you want to use the hammock for travelling or for at home.
- Hammocks are divided into: Travel hammocks, net hammocks, rope hammocks, cloth hammocks, pole hammocks and hammocks with a frame.
- There are various methods of attaching the hammock.
- The optimal location is characterised by the fact that the distance for hanging is about 90 percent of the length.
- Good models for camping are characterised by the fact that they have a small pack size, are robust and are easy to set up and take down.
Cover: (c) linux1987 / Depositphotos.com
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