Hammock Camping

Hammocks are where top quilts were born. Under you, a sleeping bag compresses to nothing, so hangers pair a top quilt with an underquilt. These guides cover the whole system, from first hang to winter nights. For everything on bottom insulation, see our underquilt section.

All hammock guides

• The Complete Hammock Top Quilt GuideWhat a hammock top quilt is, why it beats a sleeping bag, and how to size and choose one that pairs with your underquilt.
• How to Use a Top Quilt in a HammockStep-by-step technique for getting in, sealing drafts and staying comfortable under a top quilt in your hammock.
• Hammock Insulation GuideHow top quilts, underquilts, pads and top covers work together to keep you warm in a hammock, and how to balance them.
• Cold Butt Syndrome: Why It Happens and How to Fix ItThe hammock camper's classic cold spot explained, with step-by-step fixes for underquilt gaps, compression and wind.
• Winter Hammock Camping GuideHow to stay warm in a hammock below freezing: insulation ratings, wind protection, site selection and cold-weather habits.
• Hammock Temperature GuideA temperature-by-temperature table of the top quilt, underquilt and extras you need to sleep warm in a hammock.
• Using a Sleeping Pad in a HammockFoam vs inflatable, R-values, stopping the slide and when to switch to an underquilt: making a pad work in your hammock.
• Hammock Camping Gear ChecklistEverything you need for hammock camping, from suspension and tarp to top quilt and underquilt, plus easily forgotten extras.
• Gathered-End vs Bridge HammockHow gathered-end and bridge hammocks differ in comfort, weight, setup and insulation, and who each style suits.
• Hammock Camping for BeginnersEverything a first-time hammock camper needs: gear, hanging technique, the diagonal lay and how to stay warm.
• Ultralight Hammock Setup for BackpackingComponent-by-component guide to a lightweight hammock kit, with sample base weights for summer and three-season trips.
• Hammock Top Covers and Hammock SocksHow top covers and full hammock socks block wind, add warmth and stretch your quilt's range into colder weather.