Enjoy Nature with Best Hammock Tents for Camping

You’ve hiked all day. You’re tired and sweaty. And, you seriously don’t want to sleep on the ground tonight.

What if you didn’t have to? Sure, you could pitch your tent. But, there’s an alternative location for sleep: in the trees.

Hammock tents are a great no-footprint alternative to sleeping on the twig and rock-infested ground. So, what are you waiting for? Here is a review of the best hammock tents on the market.

Best Hammock Tent: Hennessy Hammock Explorer Deluxe Asymmetric Zip Hammock

Review:

If you are in the market for a hammock tent, you can’t go wrong with a Hennessy. Hennessy Hammock is one of the most trusted brands in the industry. And, the Explorer Deluxe Asymmetric Zip Hammock is one of the best hammock tents for camping.

One of the first things you need to know is that this is an asymmetrical hammock. This means that rather than the traditional banana shape, this hammock anchors on the sides. Doing this stretches the base out a little bit.

The asymmetrical shape provides a flatter base surface. It also feels roomy inside. This differs from traditional hammocks that come up on the sides to cradle the body.

Hennessy tents are modeled after the World War II military hammock tent. The designers have taken the original premise of the tent and added modern conveniences. But, this is the tent that is still used by U. S. soldiers.

This one-person tent can accommodate someone up to 7 feet tall and 300 pounds. It’s very lightweight at a little over 3 pounds. And, you can compress the stuff sack a little bit.

Additionally, this is a side-zip entry tent. Traditional hammock tents usually open from the bottom. But, this one has double heavy-duty #10 zippers for ease and durability. #10 is the largest and strongest consumer-grade zipper. It means the width of the zipper when closed is approximately 10mm – the exact specification depends on the type of zipper. In the case of the Hennessy, it uses the double-slider Vislon #10 zipper which is 8.49mm wide.

If you want to find out more about this exceptional tent, view the video below:

Finally, keep reading for more information. We will outline the pros and cons of this hammock tent.

Pros

• Side-entry

If you’ve ever tried other hammock tents, you know that sometimes bottom entries can cause problems. Most notably, sometimes you can fall right out of the bottom! This new side-zip design takes care of that problem.

• Asymmetrical rainfly included

Next, if you’ve started your hammock tent research you know that a rainfly is not always included. Some people like to replace them with their own favorites. But, it’s nice that this tent already comes with one.

• Lightweight

This hammock tent is not the lightest tent option available, but it’s very close. So, at a little over 3 pounds with standard gear you may use this for backpacking.

• Quick set-up

Finally, this tent sets up quick. In a mere 3-4 minutes, you will be ready to get off your feet after a long day of hiking.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with stakes to anchor asymmetrical corners

This may not be a deal-breaker for most of you. But, the lack of stakes to anchor the corners may be very inconvenient.

• Can get stuffy inside tent

Next, the air flow is a bit limited. While this may be a plus in cold weather, for warmer nights it may get uncomfortable.

• Laying in it can be tricky

Because of the asymmetrical design, you are supposed to lay diagonally on your back. But, if you are hiking for more than a few days you may eventually find this uncomfortable.

Additionally, if you move a lot in your sleep you may move “out of position” without knowing.

• Rainfly is small

The included rainfly fits very snug on the tent. That isn’t a bad thing by itself. However, if you were hoping to use it for additional rain protection for the space around your tent you will need a bigger one.

Materials Analysis

This entire kit is made from a high-quality polyester. Both the tent and rainfly are 70D ripstop polyester. The rainfly is also waterproof to keep the rain off you.

The bug netting is a durable 30D mesh. It’s thick enough that you can’t see through it. And, all the cords, “treehugger” webbing, and carrier case are also made of polyester. However, the seams of the carrier bag are not waterproof.

Who It’s Best For

This is one of the best hammock tents on the market for backpackers. It is relatively lightweight and compact. If you are going to an outside weekend festival, this may also work great for you.

Need to find out more about this hammock tent? Check out the link below:

https://www.rei.com/product/849591/hennessy-hammock-explorer-deluxe-asym-zip-hammock

Runner-Up Hammock Tent: ENO OneLink Shelter System with DoubleNest Hammock

Review:

Although this hammock tent did not make it to the “top” spot on this list, it was a very close decision. The ENO OneLink Shelter System with DoubleNest Hammock is a great option when you need a 2-person hammock tent.

This great tent comes complete with tent, canopy, rainfly, and stakes. You also get the suspension straps and carabiners to make hanging the tent easier. It all comes conveniently packaged in a carry sack.

Additionally, since this is a 2-person tent the weight capacity is a little more than other tents at 400 pounds. It weighs a little more than 4 pounds. And, packs up to the size of your palm. This makes it an excellent choice for couples who backpack together.

Want more information? Take a look at the in-depth outline of the positives and negatives for this hammock below:

Pros

• Fits 2 adults

This is one of the rare hammock tents that has a 2-person capacity. This comes in handy for warmth and security. Only having to carry one tent is even better.

• Comes with carabiners and stakes

Many hammock tent veterans prefer to use carabiners to make the set-up easier. A lot of kits don’t come with them. However, since this one does this eliminates the need to buy them separately.

Also, some kits also don’t include stakes. So, you would be forced to buy your own separately. But, this tent is ready to use out of the box.

• Lightweight and portable

Finally, this is a great backpacking hammock tent. It is relatively light. And, the packed size is relatively small. Especially for a 2-person shelter.

Cons

• Accessories and seam not very durable

The plastic on top of the aluminum-coated stakes can pop off. Also, the cord frays easily and may need to be replaced with something more durable. The seams for the tent and cover may be a little weak.

• Difficult to repack

It may also be difficult to repack the DoubleNest and tarp into its carry bag. You may have to practice folding it a few times to get it to fit.

Materials Analysis

The rain tarp is a treated ripstop nylon that repels water. While the hammock is a breathable nylon with triple stitching. Both are strong and durable.

And, the canopy is a Guardian Bug Net made from no-see-um netting. The included Atlas Suspension straps are very strong polyfilament webbing. Usually purchased separate, it is conveniently included with this system.

You may want to replace the cord and stakes, though. For light use, you may be okay. But, they are not as durable as the other components in the kit.

Who It’s Best For

This hammock tent is best for backpackers who want to share their tent with a second camper. Or, for those of you who like extra room. It is lightweight and very portable for days long camping trips.

This convenient system doesn’t need extra components. So, you can use it right away if you want. But, remember that you can’t use it if you will be someplace where there’s nothing to hang it from.

For additional information on this hammock tent system, take a look at the link below:

https://www.rei.com/product/129825/eno-onelink-shelter-system-with-doublenest-hammock

Best Backpacking Hammock Tent: Hennessy Hammock Explorer Ultralight Asymmetric Zip Hammock

Review:

Need a very lightweight backpacking hammock tent for your pack? The Hennessy Hammock Explorer Ultralight Asymmetric Zip Hammock is the solution for you. It’s like the other Hennessy tent on this list. However, it’s a bit lighter.

First, this Hennessy Explorer Ultralight features the same asymmetrical design that this company is known for. This allows you to lay flat, without the curving bottom of traditional hammocks. It’s also more comfortable than sleeping on the floor of a traditional tent.

This is a hammock tent for one person. If the person weighs under 250 pounds. And, is under 7 feet tall. Luckily, this applies to most people.

But, you probably want to know what makes this “ultralight.” This tent system weighs only 2 pounds and 4 ounces. It is significantly lighter than most hammock tent systems on the market.

If you like what you’ve read so far, check out the outline below. It provides more information on the pros and cons of this hammock tent.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable

This is a great backpacking tent because it is very low weight. It shouldn’t make as much impact on your carry weight as other hammock tents available. Also, everything can be packed into its included carry bag. Or, you can buy a separate dry bag for added security.

• Easy zip entry

This tent system also features a zip entry on one side of the tent. The #8 zipper is durable, though one size down from our top choice the Hennessy Explorer Deluxe. And, it has double sliders so that you can adjust the hammock and mesh with ease.

• Ridgeline design

Additionally, the hammock tent has a ridgeline that allows the tent to hold its shape. This also helps to keep the sleep space flat when you are laying diagonally.

You also get a convenient storage pocket. It hangs from the ridgeline for easy accessibility. So, your small personal items like flashlights or cell phones are always within reach.

• Does not require staking, trenching, or ground leveling

Finally, if no-impact camping is important to you, don’t worry. This hammock tent doesn’t require you to mar the surrounding ground for set-ups.

Cons

• Hard to find the right trees to hang the tent

If you are in the forest, it shouldn’t be hard to hang a hammock, right? Unfortunately, you need trees that are the right distance apart for this hammock tent. And, they need to be the right width. That isn’t always easy to find.

• Rainfly covering can get loud

Additionally, the rainfly may protect you from the rain. But, it may also keep you up all night. The sound of raindrops magnifies as it hits the tarp.

• Straps not long enough

And lastly, you may find that the treehuggers, or straps, may not be long enough to go around certain trees. Or, the distance between the trees. If you do run into that problem, you can easily upgrade them to other straps.

Materials Analysis

The ultralight tent is made of durable ripstop polyester fabric. The canopy is no-see-um mesh polyester that encourages privacy. And, the rainfly fabric is a strong 30D coated ripstop nylon.

This hammock is made to last for years. And, if you don’t abuse it too much you will get your money’s worth.

Who It’s Best For

The Explorer Ultralight is best for backpackers. However, regular campers can make use of this as well since it won’t take up as much room as a standard tent.

Also, anyone with back troubles may find this type of tent more comfortable than sleeping on the ground.

When you are ready for additional information about this super-light system, check out this link:

https://www.rei.com/product/849592/hennessy-hammock-explorer-ultralight-asym-zip-hammock

Best Tentsile Hammock Tent: TENTSILE Connect Tree Tent

Review:

Do you like the idea of a suspended tent? But, you don’t want to sleep in a banana-shaped hammock? You may want to check this one out. The Tentsile Connect Tree Tent is like a traditional ground tent in the trees.

This tent comfortably sleeps 2 adults, or one adult and some small kids. Additionally, create a super suspension camp by attaching 3 or more Connect tents together. Make a tent city in the trees!

Climb in and out of your tent using one of four available mesh doors. And, you can keep the airflow fresh because the top is mesh, too. You also get 4 pockets on the inside to keep track of the stuff you need.

And, you can even create a “porch” underneath to stow your gear. This “dry porch” under the tent is approximately 50 sq. feet. Just enough room to keep your dogs, bags, shoes, and bicycles out of the rain.

Lastly, the maximum weight capacity for this system is 880 pounds. This is more than enough to include you, your spouse, and all the gear you want to keep inside with you.

If you wish to learn more, keep reading. Next is an in-depth look at the pros and cons of this hammock tent.

Pros

• Very roomy

It’s difficult to find hammock tents that can accommodate the family. And, this system probably comes the closest. The weight capacity is probably one of the highest for this type of system, too.

• 4 doors

Additionally, the 4 mesh doors are also very convenient. And, it takes the guesswork out of getting in and out of the tent.

• Large “dry porch” area

Next, the porch area helps you keep everything nice and tidy. And, it keeps things out of the rain in inclement weather. Or, you can hang a single hammock underneath the tent to suspend your gear, too.

• Better ventilation

With the mesh doors and top, this tent already has better air circulation than other tents. But, you can also peg out the ends of the rainfly for additional air. This comes in handy during balmy summer months.

Cons

• Heavy

There’s no way around this. At 14 pounds you will not be backpacking with this tent. But, this is tent is a great option for car campers with a family.

• Difficult to find the right trees

Additionally, to make this system work you need to find 3 trees that are the proper distance apart. And, they need to be of a workable width. Hopefully, each time you use this tent Mother Nature will conveniently provide them.

• Set-up learning curve

Next, the learning curve on how to set up this tent may be daunting at first. But, after a few tries and numerous instructional videos you will get the hang of it.

• Rainfly mishaps

Lastly, you may find that the rainfly won’t cover your tent fully. Or, the dimensions fall short of being able to set up as recommended. However, some people don’t have problems with this, so it may be a user error.

Materials Analysis

The tent base is nylon. And, it’s very similar to your standard tent material. The mesh is a polyester nylon as well.

Both fabrics look and feel the way traditional camping tents do. Though they may be durable with normal use, they will not stand-up to a lot of abuse. Treat the material with care or you may end up with rips and tears.

The rainfly is a coated nylon material. It keeps the rain off the tent.

Finally, the poles included with this system are aluminum alloy. Though the light metal helps keep the weight of the system down, it may bend if misused. So, be careful how you distribute weight.

Who It’s Best For

This hammock tent is best for car campers. Especially those of you in large groups or families. The connecting system is ideal for keeping loved ones close and secure.

Because of its weight, it is not ideal for anyone hiking into their campsite. But if you plan on making multiple trips to the car and back it may not be a problem.

Lastly, remember that the minimum recommended suspended height is 4 feet. So, short people or children may need help getting in and out of the tent.

If you are interested in getting your hands on a tent like this, check out this link for more information:

https://www.rei.com/product/877814/tentsile-connect-tree-tent

Other Hammock Tent Options

If you got this far in the article, but still have not found your ideal hammock tent. Here are more options below. You may find one that fits your needs better.

If you already have your go-to hammock but need a shelter for camping, Hammock Bliss may have the answer. The Hammock Bliss Sky Tent 2 is a suspended enclosure that can accommodate up to 2 hammocks.

The Hammock Bliss works like other systems. It comes with a tent, no-see-um mesh panels, and a waterproof rainfly. The only real difference is that hammocks don’t come with it.

Additionally, the ripstop nylon floor of the tent is a great space to store gear. And, it provides a buffer between cold ground air and your sleeping body.

Next, if you are in need of a 4-season hammock tent you can take a look at the Clark NX-270 hammock tent. This tent is a little pricey, but it is an all-weather system.

The Clark NX-270 has a no-see-um mesh panel to keep the bugs away. It also has 6 inside pockets to store your gear and provide extra insulation during cold weather. The height and weight capacity are 6’9” and 300 pounds. So, it will fit most people comfortably.

If you like Tentsile tents, you can take a look at the Tentsile Flite Tree Tent. This Tentsile tent is smaller than the one previously listed. It still fits 2 adults but is smaller in dimensions.

The Flite has 2 entry doors. It also has a maximum capacity of 420 pounds. The “dry porch” is smaller too, at only 40 sq. feet. And, as you may expect, it is a little cheaper.

Lastly, the REI Co-op Flash Air Hammock is a good option for a simple, no-frills tent system. This one- person tent is lightweight and portable. It has a bug mesh, canopy, and simple hammock body. When you need a light sleeping option that is relatively cheap, this may be the one for you.

Hammock Tent Considerations

Before you make your final decision, you may need to outline your priorities first. These are some points of consideration when you choose your tent system.

Everyone’s camping needs are different. So, make sure you buy exactly what you need for a great camping experience.

• Capacity

This one is self-explanatory. You can’t use your tent if you can’t get into it. Double check the height and weight capacity before you buy.

• Included gear

Next, most systems have a standard set of gear that is included. But, some systems don’t include essentials like a rainfly or even a hammock.

This may be okay for veteran hammock campers. But, if you are just starting out you may need a complete system.

• Weight and portability

This consideration may not be as important for car camping. But, for backpackers and hikers this detail can be a deal-breaker.

When checking weight, remember that it is only for the standard gear included in the system. If you make additions, like stakes or carabiners, or leave things behind, it will really impact your total weight.

• Entry points

Next, figure out how you want to get in and out of your tent. Do you like using the standard bottom v-opening? Or, maybe you prefer having a double zip side entry?

This point is important. Because the last thing you want to do after a hard day on the trail is figure out how to get into your tent.

• Bug netting

Most hammock tent systems will come with some type of netting to keep out bugs. Some have simple nylon mesh. While others have more sophisticated no-see-um mesh screens.

• Set-up

Lastly, you need to find out how easy the set-up will be. Generally, hammock tents set up the same way. However, if you are moving to a different type of system like the Tentsile hammock tent 3-point system, you may need to relearn.

Check out some set-up videos online to find out how difficult it will be. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of the wilderness trying to figure it out without YouTube.

Additional Accessories

You may also want to buy or swap out accessories for your hammock tent system. Optional purchases you may make include:

• Sleeping pad/underquilt

This isn’t a necessary purchase. But, you may want to get one for added comfort and insulation. Especially if you are not using a sleeping bag.

• Suspension straps

Next, sometimes the suspension straps you get with your tent are insufficient for your needs. There are different reasons why you may think so. But, you do have the option of buying other brands of straps that may work better.

• Stakes, carabiners, and cords

Additionally, many veteran hammock campers like to replace their tent knot system with carabiners. This is a personal preference. But, you can take a look at videos online to see if this option would work for you.

And, you may not need stakes, but some systems require them to anchor the points of the tent or rainfly. Unfortunately, most systems don’t include them in their kits. Luckily, they are inexpensive, so you can buy them as you need them.

Lastly, replacing cords is also a personal preference. Some campers feel that the cords that come with their tent is sufficient. While others, especially ultralight backpackers, prefer to replace the cords with multi-purpose ones.

• Hennessy snakeskins

If you opt for the Hennessy hammock tent, you may want to throw the snakeskins into your checkout cart. Most people prefer to use the skins for set-up ease. It keeps your tent nice and dry. How? This carry sack system for any Hennessy hammock tent allows you to set up and collapse your hammock in midair without ever touching the ground.

• Dry Bag

Next, most hammock tents come with a carry bag. But, if you are backpacking you may want to replace the stock bag with a dry bag. The last thing you want is a wet tent at the end of the day.

The carry bags are usually the same durable ripstop material as the tent. However, they typically are not waterproof.

• Rainfly and bug net

And, if you don’t like your rainfly you don’t need to use it with your system. Rainflies come with your tent kit for your convenience. But, if you prefer another brand or want to upgrade you can do so without compromising your tent.

The same goes for included bug nets. Sometimes, a premium one is better for your needs. Or, maybe you simply want extra protection for a very bug-infested area.

You can’t replace mesh sewn into your tent. But, you can put an additional one around your tent.

• Tent ladders

Finally, you may not think you need one. But, if you or someone in your party is short you may want to consider a tent ladder. Hopping in and out of a suspended tent can be a challenge if you hang it high.

Final Thoughts

Deciding to make the transition to hammock tents for camping is a big decision. And, it will change the way you camp. So, picking the right one for you depends on your personal preferences.

If you backpack often as a couple, you can’t go wrong with the ENO OneLink Shelter System with DoubleNest Hammock. It provides ample room for you and your loved one.

And, it is relatively lightweight and portable. This is important for a comfortable hiking experience.

So, if you want to invest in this new way of camping, take the plunge. And, click on the link below:

https://www.rei.com/product/129825/eno-onelink-shelter-system-with-doublenest-hammock

However, if you want one of the best hammock tents for camping you should check out the Hennessy Hammock Explorer Deluxe Asymmetrical Zip Hammock. It’s spacious for one person. And can comfortably fit most body types.

Its asymmetrical design makes for more comfortable nights. And, the size zip entry is much more convenient for getting in and out of the tent.

Ready to take out that credit card? If so, click on the link below to buy your own Hennessy Explorer Deluxe:

https://www.rei.com/product/849591/hennessy-hammock-explorer-deluxe-asym-zip-hammock

Lastly, like all your camping equipment the best hammock tent for you depends on your personal preferences. You may need to make a few compromises. But, once you try these tents you may never sleep on the ground again.