Herbie Murray
If you're looking to save money while hammock camping, you may want to consider using a sleeping bag as an underquilt. While underquilts are more comfortable and thermally efficient, they can be expensive. Using a sleeping bag as an underquilt is a good option for those who want to try out hammock camping without investing a lot of money upfront. You can use a sleeping bag as a top quilt in a hammock, but a dedicated hammock underquilt may not convert well to a sleeping bag due to the suspension and shock cords.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Using a sleeping bag as an underquilt is a cheaper option than buying a professionally made underquilt. |
| Weight | A sleeping bag may be heavier than a dedicated underquilt. |
| Ease of conversion | Converting a sleeping bag into an underquilt can be a simple process, with some methods taking as little as 30 minutes. |
| Tools required | Some methods require tools such as zippers, grommets, and sewing equipment, while others suggest using binder clips, bungee cords, or clothes pins. |
| Effectiveness | A sleeping bag can be effective as a top quilt in a hammock, but may not work as well as an underquilt due to issues with bulkiness and suspension. |
| Temperature | Sleeping bags can provide warmth in cold weather camping, but may not be suitable for extremely low temperatures. |
| Water resistance | A tarp sheet is recommended to protect the hammock and underquilt from getting wet in rainy weather. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a cheap cargo net hammock to hold your sleeping bag
Using a cheap cargo net hammock to hold your sleeping bag is a great option if you don't want to spend a lot of money on an underquilt. This method is based on the premise that your sleeping bag can open up flat with the zippers. If it doesn't, you can use it as top insulation and opt for separate bottom insulation.
To use this method, start by purchasing a cheap cargo net hammock that is close in size to your main hammock. Place your sleeping bag inside the cargo net hammock, ensuring that the sleeping bag is large enough to provide ample coverage. You can then use bungee cords or clothes pins to hang the setup underneath your main hammock. This will provide additional support and keep the sleeping bag tight against the hammock, reducing heat loss.
If you're handy with a needle and thread, you can also consider sewing loops onto the head and foot ends of the sleeping bag, as well as along the sides. This will allow you to use elastic cord or suspension lines for a more secure setup. You can then clip these lines to your hammock suspension using carabiners.
It is important to test this setup in a controlled environment, such as your backyard or a car camping situation, before fully committing to it. This way, you can make any necessary adjustments and ensure that it suits your needs and provides sufficient warmth and comfort.
While using a sleeping bag as an underquilt may not be as effective as a dedicated underquilt, it can be a cost-effective solution, especially when paired with a sleeping pad for additional insulation.
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Sew loops onto the bag and use elastic cord for suspension
Sewing loops onto your sleeping bag and using elastic cord for suspension is a great way to convert your sleeping bag into an underquilt. This method is detailed by a user on hammockforums.net, who explains that they sewed on a few loops at the head and foot ends, and about a third of the way in from either end, with one loop in the middle. They then used elastic cord as suspension, threading it through three lines at the head and foot ends, which then attach to an aluminium carabiner that clips to the hammock suspension.
This method allows for flexibility depending on the temperature, as the cord can be left loose for warmer weather, and tightened when it gets colder. The user also notes that they have a few lines that go over the ridgeline of their hammock, which can be adjusted depending on the temperature.
Another user on Instructables.com shares a similar method, using 10mm grommets instead of loops, with one under each velcro patch near the head, and two at the base. They then thread their hammock strap through the hood and base openings to suspend the underquilt.
If you don't want to sew, another option is to use bungee cords to hang your sleeping bag and clothes pins to clip it to your hammock.
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Use a USGI poncho liner for a cheap, warm underquilt
Using a sleeping bag as an underquilt is a great option if you don't want to spend a lot of money. You can buy a cheap cargo net hammock that is close in size to your main hammock and place your sleeping bag in there. This method assumes that your sleeping bag opens up flat with the zippers. If it doesn't, you can use it as top insulation and opt for something else for bottom insulation.
If you're looking for a cheap, warm underquilt, the USGI poncho liner is a great option. It is a fully synthetic blanket with a polyester or nylon outer cover. You can find them on eBay for less than $20, or at your local military surplus store. The USGI poncho liner, also known as the "Woobie", is used throughout the US Military. It is water-resistant and can be exposed to water for short periods without being damaged. It is also wind-resistant, with ties along the sides that allow it to be tied down or integrated with a poncho. At 88" x 63", it's a comfortable size for wrapping up in.
To use the USGI poncho liner as an underquilt, simply hang it with some bungee cords and use clothes pins to clip it to the sides of your hammock. If you're happy with the warmth it provides, you can then look into trimming and rigging the poncho liner to better suit your needs.
If you're handy with a needle and thread, you can also try sewing loops onto the head and foot ends of your sleeping bag, as well as about a third of the way from either end and one in the middle. Then, use an elastic cord to create suspension. This method will allow you to adjust the tightness of your underquilt depending on the temperature.
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Cut your sleeping bag and hem the seams
If you are cutting your sleeping bag, it is important to ensure that you have enough material to hem the seams. One user on hammockforums.net cut right across their sleeping bag, just below one of the lower baffles, leaving enough material to hem a seam to close it up. They also cut the zipper off but left its ribbon and kept the hood intact.
If you are sewing a hole in the foot of your sleeping bag, one user on hammockforums.net recommends sewing a box of stitches in the body of the bag, leaving a hem allowance, and then cutting a slit in the shape of an elongated H. You can then fold and hem for clean edges. Another user recommends sewing two parallel lines of stitches, leaving about two inches between them, and then cutting in the middle. This makes it easier to work with than having multiple layers of fabric and thicker insulation.
If you are adding a liner to your sleeping bag, you will need to trim off the selvage edges of the liner and then align it with the top of the sleeping bag. You can then fold over the liner to create a hem at the liner's top opening. You can sew the hem with a satin stitch before pinning it onto the zipper tape.
If you are creating your own sleeping bag, you will need to cut your fabric to the desired length. For an adult sleeping bag, you will need about four yards of fabric, and for a child's sleeping bag, you will need about three yards of fabric. You will then need to place the fabric with the right sides together and pin them along one of the long seams.
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Use grommets to attach your sleeping bag to your hammock
Using grommets to attach your sleeping bag to your hammock is a great way to create a DIY underquilt. This method can be a cost-effective way to enhance your camping experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Prepare the Materials
Firstly, gather your materials. You will need a sleeping bag, preferably one that opens completely flat with zippers. If you don't have a suitable sleeping bag, consider purchasing a cheap cargo net hammock that is close in size to your main hammock. You will also need a grommet kit, which typically includes the necessary tools and instructions. Other useful items include fabric scraps, a needle and thread, scissors, a ruler, and a marker.
Measure and Mark
Before installing the grommets, carefully measure and mark the locations where you want to place them. Consider the placement of the grommets to ensure they provide adequate support and attachment points for your setup. Mark the centre of each grommet location on both sides of the sleeping bag fabric.
Install the Grommets
Follow the instructions provided with your grommet kit to properly install the grommets. This usually involves cutting holes in the fabric, inserting the grommets, and then securing them in place. Make sure to test the placement and adjust as needed to ensure your sleeping bag is securely attached to your hammock.
Suspension and Adjustments
Use suspension methods such as elastic cords, bungee cords, or paracord to hang your modified sleeping bag under your hammock. Attach the cords to the grommets and adjust the tension accordingly. Consider adding carabiners or clips to facilitate easy attachment and detachment. You can also sew loops at different points along the sleeping bag to provide additional attachment points for the suspension system.
Test and Refine
Once you have your sleeping bag attached to your hammock using the grommets and suspension system, test it out. Make sure to test it in a controlled environment, such as your backyard, before taking it on a camping trip. Adjust the tension, suspension points, and grommet placement as needed to ensure optimal comfort and security.
By following these steps, you can effectively use grommets to attach your sleeping bag to your hammock, creating a DIY underquilt solution for your camping setup. Remember to test and refine your setup to ensure a warm and comfortable outdoor experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use a sleeping bag as an underquilt. One of the easiest ways to do this is to buy a cheap cargo net hammock that is close in size to your main hammock and place your sleeping bag inside.
There are many ways to make a sleeping bag into an underquilt. One way is to fold the sleeping bag in half, and then fold the sides into the centre. You can then pull the sides out to make the underquilt wider.
You will need a sleeping bag, fabric for binding, zippers, a grommet kit, safety pins, a needle, thread, scissors, a ruler, and a hammer.
Using a sleeping bag as an underquilt can save you money and provide extra warmth when hammock camping.
