Backcountry Sleeping Accomendations

[Spikorbust]

My question is does anyone use a Hammock setup for the hiking adventurers? After watching some of that video " Alone in the Wild (with Ed Wardle) Canada " (haven't made it through 2.5 hours of it  ) it looked like that a hammock might not be to bad.

Pluses
- Your off the ground away from wet ground, rodents, ground bugs
- Looks pretty comfy
- Use as a chair or lounge with cover
- Small and light

Negatives???

What would be the negatives unless you don't have access to trees?

[sirmissalot]

I have a pretty sweet one, I'll have to find it to look at the brand. Super light, easy setup and takes up almost no space, but I don't sleep worth a darn in it. Just puts me in a weird position to sleep, that and not always able to find a good set of trees are the only downfall I've found.

[JM]

I was gifted a hammock for my birthday last year. I brought my one man tent and the hammock on three seperate backpack/scouting trips figuring I would test it out before relying on it solely. The one draw back that I came to realize was that you need two fairly sturdy and fairly evenly spaced trees to set it up. Not sure what your backcountry plans are but when I scout I set my camp up above the treeline as high as possible without making my presence obvious to the animals and I then hike the ridges out from there. What I realized is that it is its not very easy finding the right spot for a hammock sometimes. the other thing is that it's nice to have a tent for something to store your stuff in out of the weather.

[turkeyfeather]

  I would also say that for me I had a harder time staying warm in the hammock. I think the ground actually helps insulate you better.

[JackOfAllTrades]

I've used a hammock for years of lightweight backpacking. You have to know your destination and tree availability. I've switched to a lightweight tent as I can cook out of the weather on flat ground, covered by a tent. I could not do that from the hammock. Squirels and Chipmunks still run across you in a hammock so the whole mouse/rodent thing is a myth. Just a different critter. Spiders, beetles, even birds will land on the lines...  I don't like swaying in the wind in the pitch black.
 
-Steve

[Spikorbust]

Exactly what I was looking for some live experiences.

Do most use small tents or tarps?

Tarps seem simple and light but seems like that could get old being on a wet/damp ground.

Tents seem cumbersome.

I like the idea of a 12 x 16 wall tent with a stove but it seems a bit heavy to put on the back 

[WaltAlpine]

Tube Tent. super light. $8. Can be used more than once depending on the weather and conditions.

[Doc Sauce]

Made my own hammock to custom specs.  Bought the ripstop nylon from Michael's (felt really strange walking around there looking for that stuff).  "Whipped it" with 550 chord, use light weight rings and old ratchet strap straps without the hooks or  buckles to secure it to trees.  Got a roll of visquene (I think that is what it is called) from a trucker and cut a really big diamond to stretch over it.  I use a double ridgeline to hold the visquene so that I can throw it over the hammock for fresh air, and throw it back over in case it starts raining. 

I didn't take pictures of it, but I can sent it up and take pics of it if asked nicely... and maybe for a nominal fee.

[boneaddict]

Miles had a really good thread on here somewhere with this exact setup.  He removed a bunch of posts so not sure if its still on here.   Not what I use, but a great setup.   I tend to be above trees so hammock not the best option for me 

[Spikorbust]

Trying to sift through the options seems overwhelming without help. Trying to keep the budget somewhere around $200 +/- otherwise I would jump out in get a Kifaru with a stove $800 out the door 

[washelkhunter]

I use this, a whelen leanto made of nylon by beckel canvas of portland. Cut your own poles or hang between 2 trees from a taut line. Plenty of shelter for 2 with all their gear. You can stand in it and build your fire in front for heat and cooking. Weighs 5.5 lbs in the bag with 3/8 nylon lines attached and 6 stakes.

[boneaddict]

Mine is the same concept but made out of a parachute

[JM]

If I was to go out and buy another backpacking tent and I had a $200 dollar budget I would personally get a ultra light 2 person tent. They might weigh a few ounces more but I think that the space to keep your gear out of the weather would be well worth it. Also trying to pack a 85 pound black lab and a 6ft 190 pound person into a Cabelas XPG ultra light 1 person tent and get any descent shuteye isn't easy. I know sounds like a spoiled mutt but she packs her own food my booze and doesn't complain which makes her great company in the backcountry.

[fillthefreezer]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

[JLS]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

That's a nice looking setup.  I wish you hadn't shown it to me, now I think I need one

[Spikorbust]

If I was to go out and buy another backpacking tent and I had a $200 dollar budget I would personally get a ultra light 2 person tent. They might weigh a few ounces more but I think that the space to keep your gear out of the weather would be well worth it. Also trying to pack a 85 pound black lab and a 6ft 190 pound person into a Cabelas XPG ultra light 1 person tent and get any descent shuteye isn't easy. I know sounds like a spoiled mutt but she packs her own food my booze and doesn't complain which makes her great company in the backcountry.

It's always good to bring a drinking buddy 

[Spikorbust]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

Looks like a nice shelter and price is better then some I've seen. I like the fact that you can close it shut.

No floor bug anyone? Not a big deal?

[fillthefreezer]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

Looks like a nice shelter and price is better then some I've seen. I like the fact that you can close it shut.

No floor bug anyone? Not a big deal?

i run a piece of tyvek or this year im gonna use a ti goat bivy
http://www.titaniumgoat.com/Omni-Bivy.html
once you get used to a floorless shelter theyre hard to beat, most people worry about bugs and rain etc, really a non-issue though. always nice to not worry about tracking muddy boots in or my dog f'n up the floor

[Smossy]

Exactly what I was looking for some live experiences.

Do most use small tents or tarps?

Tarps seem simple and light but seems like that could get old being on a wet/damp ground.

Tents seem cumbersome.

I like the idea of a 12 x 16 wall tent with a stove but it seems a bit heavy to put on the back 

With a nice big pipe stove. lol

[Smossy]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

PERFECT. Thats what I need to get, My trecking poles are mountainsmith to!

[Smossy]

check this out
http://mountainsmith.com/index.php/tents-sleeping-bags/mountain-shelter-lt.html
i get a killer deal on mountainsmith through a friend so i plan to try one of these out as a solo shelter to supplement my SL5 for 2.

edit to add: patrick smith owner of kifaru started mountainsmith so you could probably attribute this shelter to an early supertarp

Looks like a nice shelter and price is better then some I've seen. I like the fact that you can close it shut.

No floor bug anyone? Not a big deal?

i run a piece of tyvek or this year im gonna use a ti goat bivy
http://www.titaniumgoat.com/Omni-Bivy.html
once you get used to a floorless shelter theyre hard to beat, most people worry about bugs and rain etc, really a non-issue though. always nice to not worry about tracking muddy boots in or my dog f'n up the floor

Perfect man, Ideas to keep everything off your head
Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

[fillthefreezer]

Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

the tyvek is much lighter than a tarp and almost as cheap. i run a 9x9 chunk under my SL5 at less than a lb.

just make sure if you use tyvek to put it through the washing machine because when its brand new its as loud as bending metal roofing

[Smossy]

Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

the tyvek is much lighter than a tarp and almost as cheap. i run a 9x9 chunk under my SL5 at less than a lb.

Ohhh, thought your link was in regards to the sleeping bags with the netted face.
Whats tyvek?

[fillthefreezer]

Ohhh, thought your link was in regards to the sleeping bags with the netted face.
Whats tyvek?

i wouldnt say that their sleeping bags, your sleeping bag goes in that to stay dry and clean, keep any bugs out.
the tyvek is another option if you want to use floorles shelter but dont want to use a bivy. its what they wrap houses with under the siding. waterproof. lightweight. put it under your pad and bag when using a floorless shelter

[Smossy]

Ohhh, thought your link was in regards to the sleeping bags with the netted face.
Whats tyvek?

i wouldnt say that their sleeping bags, your sleeping bag goes in that to stay dry and clean, keep any bugs out.
the tyvek is another option if you want to use floorles shelter but dont want to use a bivy. its what they wrap houses with under the siding. waterproof. lightweight. put it under your pad and bag when using a floorless shelter

Oh so that "sleeping bag" thing is like a waterproof case for your sleeping bags then? If so that sounds interesting.

[Alchase]

You can use the rain fly off an old tent as well. Usually very light and packs real tight.

[NumaJohn]

For years, I have used a one-person tent by Sierra Designs, but in a quick search I just did on Google, I could see that even though they still offer what look to be good one-person tents, so do a number of other companies.  The Sierra Design tent offered now that is most similar to the one I own is listed for about $130.

My take on backcountry camping is that I want to do whatever I can to sleep well, but not at the expense of having to haul a ton of extra weight.  If I recall, my tent weighs 2.8 pounds.  For some people, that is probably too heavy.  For me, I would much rather carry enough weight to have an actual tent.  Lightweight bivvy sacks are fine, except you can't really move around much in them, and lean-to set-ups with tarps, though light, could be too light if the weather really came a callin'.  If I anticipate the possibility of having to spend a bit of time sheltered from inclement weather, I want a fully-enclosed shelter.

Just my two cents, if worth even that!

John

[Smossy]

For years, I have used a one-person tent by Sierra Designs, but in a quick search I just did on Google, I could see that even though they still offer what look to be good one-person tents, so do a number of other companies.  The Sierra Design tent offered now that is most similar to the one I own is listed for about $130.

My take on backcountry camping is that I want to do whatever I can to sleep well, but not at the expense of having to haul a ton of extra weight.  If I recall, my tent weighs 2.8 pounds.  For some people, that is probably too heavy.  For me, I would much rather carry enough weight to have an actual tent.  Lightweight bivvy sacks are fine, except you can't really move around much in them, and lean-to set-ups with tarps, though light, could be too light if the weather really came a callin'.  If I anticipate the possibility of having to spend a bit of time sheltered from inclement weather, I want a fully-enclosed shelter.

Just my two cents, if worth even that!

John

Ill usually go with the extra weight for comfort, as long as its within reason. My med pack that I carry with me probably weighs upwords of 3-5lbs not sure. I got just about everything besides a defibulator in my bag. Probably not smart might be why my back hurts from my last hike but atleast I know Im prepared, Gives me that peace of mind knowing Im prepared for most situations, Got casting material, and a stitch kit even.

[JLS]

So you're going to cast a broken bone in the woods?  Or suture a laceration?

[Smossy]

So you're going to cast a broken bone in the woods?  Or suture a laceration?

Yup. If the situations present themselves to where I need to, your absolutely right.
Casting material isnt permanent. Neither are sutures.

[JLS]

Whatever floats your boat.  Suturing under field conditions is just begging for infection.

[Smossy]

Whatever floats your boat.  Suturing under field conditions is just begging for infection.

Sure, if you don't know what your doing. Fortunetly my mother has been an RN for 20+ Years. Its called skintegrity hydrogel and alcohol. Look it up brotha.

[JLS]

Whatever floats your boat.  Suturing under field conditions is just begging for infection.

Sure, if you don't know what your doing. Fortunetly my mother has been an RN for 20+ Years. Its called skintegrity hydrogel and alcohol. Look it up brotha.

I'll suffice with a compression bandage or tourniquet and a trip to the ER.

[Smossy]

Plus, Id rather have a wound closed long enough to get out safely then have a gaping wound in my thigh with nothing but a pressure wound wrap. To me thats not very smart.

[Smossy]

Whatever floats your boat.  Suturing under field conditions is just begging for infection.

Sure, if you don't know what your doing. Fortunetly my mother has been an RN for 20+ Years. Its called skintegrity hydrogel and alcohol. Look it up brotha.

I'll suffice with a compression bandage or tourniquet and a trip to the ER.

To each they're own. You must be tougher then me.

[JLS]

You must be tougher then me.

Nope.  Just don't carry as much.

[Smossy]

You must be tougher then me.

Nope.  Just don't carry as much.

Thats fine, Im not an avid woodsman either. Im an Illiterate woodsman. Maybe I have no idea what Im doing. I do know I just had my ear cut 60-70% off 3 weeks ago by a piece of sheet metel and used nothing but skintegrity hydrogel and alcohol. And had my head wrapped like a head trauma patient. Healed like a champ, Never once stepped foot into a clinic or hospital. Looks great to. If you ever need advice on medical products though let me know. Ill be more then happy to to share what medical know how we do have.

[Smossy]

Ill show you a pic one second buddy.

[Smossy]

I can even show u the bloody mess I made later when my lady uploads them off her camera, Headin to the store be back later. Enjoy!

[Spikorbust]

Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

the tyvek is much lighter than a tarp and almost as cheap. i run a 9x9 chunk under my SL5 at less than a lb.

just make sure if you use tyvek to put it through the washing machine because when its brand new its as loud as bending metal roofing

Great idea with the tyvek.

Anyone try a simple SOL bag over there sleeping bag? Seems like a simple water resistant problem solver.

[boneaddict]

Idabooner had a cool system when packing.  He had a custom canvas bag/bivy made, with his sleeping bag and bedroll strapped to the back of his horse.   Just throw it out under a tree on a flat spot.  Wake up and shake off the snow and frost.  Obviously he wasn't backpacking it and had different application than you guys are talking.  More thread appropriate than Smossy and his ear though.

[ICEMAN]

Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

the tyvek is much lighter than a tarp and almost as cheap. i run a 9x9 chunk under my SL5 at less than a lb.

just make sure if you use tyvek to put it through the washing machine because when its brand new its as loud as bending metal roofing

Great idea with the tyvek.

Anyone try a simple SOL bag over there sleeping bag? Seems like a simple water resistant problem solver.

I love tyvek and I hate it. Stuff is real slippery... put it under a sleeping bag and you better be on level ground or see ya!

[Smossy]

Plus you can get 4x8 tarps for virtually nothing, throw one underneith if its that big of a deal to anyone. Thanks for that link

the tyvek is much lighter than a tarp and almost as cheap. i run a 9x9 chunk under my SL5 at less than a lb.

just make sure if you use tyvek to put it through the washing machine because when its brand new its as loud as bending metal roofing

Great idea with the tyvek.

Anyone try a simple SOL bag over there sleeping bag? Seems like a simple water resistant problem solver.

I love tyvek and I hate it. Stuff is real slippery... put it under a sleeping bag and you better be on level ground or see ya!

Even after its washed thoroughly?

[Knocker of rocks]

Whats tyvek?

Tyvek is the white building cloth you see on buildings under construction

[JackOfAllTrades]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyvek
 
-Steve

[zoorda]

This is the system I use, their web site addresses most of your questions including how to stay warm in sub 20 temps. http://www.hennessyhammock.com/

[Doc Sauce]

I love that site.  That is what inspired me to start making my own.  Not only did it save me a little money, but I was able to make a sleep system that actually fits me (6 feet 6 inches, 220 pounds) and fits my outdoor lifestyle the best.

[Skyvalhunter]

2nd the Hennessy Hammock.I don't use mine for hunting as the cold air underneath robs heat away from you. Great for summer backpacking. You don't get the hot spots sleeping in one.