Colin Snow
When it comes to outdoor sleeping arrangements, campers often have to choose between a sleeping pad or a hammock. Sleeping pads are placed on the ground and provide insulation and comfort to campers. Hammocks, on the other hand, are suspended between two trees and offer a unique sleeping experience with potential health benefits. So, should you use a sleeping pad in your hammock?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Comfort | Sleeping pads provide a flat surface, making it easier to adjust to your favorite sleeping position. |
| Warmth | Sleeping pads provide insulation from the air surrounding your hammock, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. |
| Cost | Sleeping pads are less expensive than hammock underquilts. |
| Portability | Inflatable sleeping pads are lightweight and fold up to fit easily inside a backpack. |
| Durability | Inflatable sleeping pads are prone to leaks. |
| Versatility | Sleeping pads can be used in a variety of sleeping situations, including on the ground, in a tent, or in a vehicle. |
| Set-up | Self-inflating sleeping pads require minimal effort to set up. |
| Compatibility | Sleeping pads can be used with or without a hammock. |
| Bug protection | Sleeping pads provide some bug defense when used with a top-only net. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping pad vs under quilt
When it comes to hammock camping, there are two main types of insulation to choose from: under quilts and sleeping pads. Both options aim to keep you warm while sleeping in your hammock, but they differ in several ways.
Under quilts are blankets designed to hang underneath your hammock, trapping warm air and preventing cold air from getting in. They are typically hung from the hammock itself using hooks or straps and are very easy to set up and take down. Under quilts are usually made from down or synthetic materials. Down is a great insulator as it is lightweight, compressible, and packable, but it can be more expensive. Synthetic under quilts are a more affordable and hypoallergenic option. However, under quilts can be costly, complex to rig if your hammock doesn't have built-in storage, and less convenient to pack due to their size.
Sleeping pads, on the other hand, are inflatable or foam pads that stay inside your hammock with you. They provide warmth and a snug fit, tapering at the ends to suit most hammocks, or coming in a square shape for double-layered hammocks. Sleeping pads are versatile, allowing inflation and deflation adjustments, and can be used as insulation for other purposes, such as seat cushions or ground mats. They are generally more affordable, especially if you already own one from tent camping, and are readily available. However, sleeping pads may shift during the night, leaving certain areas exposed to the cold, and they might not provide sufficient insulation for your shoulders and backside, especially in colder weather.
In summary, under quilts offer superior warmth and are ideal for extreme weather conditions, while sleeping pads are more versatile, budget-friendly, and convenient for backpackers or those new to hammock camping. Your decision between the two will depend on factors such as weather conditions, budget constraints, and personal preferences.
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Pros and cons of a sleeping pad
A sleeping pad can make hammock camping one of the best sleep experiences of any camping trip. Sleeping pads provide insulation from the air surrounding your hammock. They can also help you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Mummy bags and hammock under quilts can’t give you the same level of warmth.
Some of the pros of using a sleeping pad in a hammock include:
- They are cost-effective. Sleeping pads are usually cheaper than hammock under quilts.
- They are multi-use. You can use a sleeping pad as a seat cushion or as a footbox insulation.
- They provide added comfort. Sleeping pads provide a much flatter surface for your body, making it easier for a hammock camper to adjust to their favorite sleeping position.
- They are versatile. With a sleeping pad, you can camp directly on the ground or do tent camping.
- They are lightweight and easy to pack.
Some of the cons of using a sleeping pad in a hammock include:
- They can be uncomfortable. Some people find that sleeping pads make hammocks feel semi-hard and take away a small part of the comfort.
- They can be difficult to set up. Sleeping pads may require some initial "tweaking" and can sometimes move around too much.
- They are prone to leaks.
- They may not work well with certain hammocks. For example, some people find that sleeping pads are too plush when used with gathered-end hammocks.
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Pros and cons of an under quilt
A sleeping pad can make hammock camping one of the best sleep experiences during any camping trip. Sleeping pads provide insulation from the air surrounding your hammock. They can also be used to sleep on the ground or for tent camping. They are also very versatile and can be used as seat cushions.
However, one of the challenges of hammock camping is staying warm, especially during colder months. This is where the concept of an underquilt comes into play. An underquilt is simply an insulated quilt designed to hang underneath your hammock to prevent heat loss. An underquilt solves a similar problem to sleeping on the ground in a tent. Your sleeping bag compresses under your body weight, allowing the cold ground to conduct warmth away from your body. An underquilt provides consistent insulation and eliminates cold spots that can occur with separate underquilts or sleeping pads.
Underquilts are also easy to set up, especially in cold or dark conditions. They are also bulkier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can be a significant advantage for backpackers who need to minimize the weight and size of their gear. Unlike separate underquilts or sleeping pads, a built-in underquilt remains securely in place and does not shift during the night.
However, hammocks with built-in underquilts tend to be more expensive than purchasing a hammock and underquilt separately. They are also more difficult to clean and repair, and they may not be suitable for all seasons due to their specific temperature ranges.
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Sleeping pad setup
If you're setting up a sleeping pad in a hammock, it's important to ensure that it fits comfortably inside your hammock. Inflatable sleeping pads are adjustable, allowing you to customise the amount of air inside to fit your hammock. However, they are prone to leaks, so it's a good idea to carry a repair kit. Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are another option; they are lightweight, inexpensive, and can be cut to fit your hammock.
When using an inflatable sleeping pad, it is recommended to not fully inflate the pad so that it conforms to the size of your hammock. This will help the pad fit better inside the hammock. Additionally, consider the R-value of the sleeping pad, which indicates its ability to resist heat flow. Pads with higher R-values provide better insulation.
For a more cost-effective solution, consider using a sleeping pad you may already have from ground camping. These pads can be placed inside your sleeping bag or directly in the hammock. If you're using a double-layer hammock, you can place the pad between the layers to keep it in place.
If you're looking for a firmer mattress-like feel, a self-inflating sleeping pad is a great option. The open-cell foam inside provides flexibility and support, and you can adjust the firmness by blowing additional breaths of air into it.
It's worth noting that some people prefer using an underquilt instead of a sleeping pad. Underquilts provide better insulation since they hang outside the hammock, allowing the insulation to loft fully. They are often pricier than sleeping pads, but they eliminate the issue of the pad shifting during sleep.
Finally, remember to choose an appropriate spot to set up your hammock, following guidelines and respecting the environment.
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Sleeping pad recommendations
Sleeping pads can make hammock camping one of the best sleep experiences of any camping trip. They provide added comfort and insulation from the surrounding air. While a sleeping bag will keep you comfortable on the top and sides, a sleeping pad will help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
There are two options for insulating your camping hammock: an underquilt or a sleeping pad. Sleeping pads are the most cost-effective option, as they are usually less expensive than underquilts and can be used for multiple purposes. For example, you can use a sleeping pad as a seat cushion or as a mat to sleep on the ground.
When choosing a sleeping pad, it's important to consider the type of hammock you have. If you have a flat lie hammock with spreader bars, such as the Eno SkyLoft or the Haven, you will likely need a sleeping pad to lie flat comfortably. For these types of hammocks, the Kammok Pongo pad is highly recommended. It is designed for hammocks, with a grippy bottom and wings to push out the sides. However, it is on the pricier side.
If you have a gathered-end hammock, you may want to consider using an underquilt instead of a sleeping pad. While sleeping pads can be used with gathered-end hammocks, some people find that they move around too much or create uncomfortable curvature. If you do choose to use a sleeping pad with a gathered-end hammock, look for something slimmer and less plush to reduce curvature. Self-inflating sleeping pads with open-cell foam can provide a good balance of flexibility and firmness. You can also add more air to increase firmness. Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are another popular option for hammock campers as they are lightweight and inexpensive. However, they may require some trimming to fit your hammock perfectly.
If you're looking for specific product recommendations, here are a few mentioned across various forums:
- Thermarest Z-fold (also known as the Zlite Sol) - This pad is flexible and thin enough to conform to your body and the hammock's curves, while still providing warmth.
- Thermarest Basecamp (size large) - While it may be too bulky for hikers, it provides excellent insulation for cycle tourers.
- Thermarest Ridgerest Classic - A very lightweight option.
- Walmart "egg crate" style pad (in blue) - Also lightweight and wider than the Thermarest Ridgerest Classic.
- Nemo Switchback - Quieter and less movable than some other inflatable pads.
- Klymit insulated sleeping pad - Specifically designed for hammocks.
- Dutchware half zip with a Neoair Regular Wide - Provides a comfortable amount of plushness, but may create too much curvature for some.
Remember, when choosing between a sleeping pad and an underquilt, consider your budget, the type of hammock you have, and your personal comfort preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not necessary to use a sleeping pad in your hammock, but it can provide added comfort and insulation. Sleeping pads can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag and are often used by hikers when sleeping on the ground.
Sleeping pads can provide a flatter surface for your body, making it easier to adjust to your preferred sleeping position. They also offer insulation and can help maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Additionally, sleeping pads are versatile and can be used in various sleeping situations, including in a tent or in the back of a vehicle.
Sleeping pads may not nestle neatly into the hammock's shape and can be prone to shifting during sleep. Inflatable pads may develop leaks, and the curvature of the hammock, combined with a plush sleeping pad, may be uncomfortable.
One alternative is to use an underquilt, which hangs outside and below the hammock, providing better insulation without compressing like a sleeping pad. Another option is to use a foam mat, which is inexpensive and effective, although it may move around during sleep.
Self-inflating sleeping pads with high R-values are a good option for hammocks as they provide warmth and adjust to the shape of the hammock. Closed-cell foam pads are also popular as they are lightweight, inexpensive, and can be cut to fit the hammock.
