Imagine after a long hard day of outdoor activities; you’ve laid back and swaying on your hammock without a care in the world. But being a side sleeper, you’re afraid of falling out of the bed or spending the night sleeping uncomfortably.
Relax. For side sleepers like you, there are plenty of options to choose from on the market. Some of the best camping hammock brands offer specially designed models for sleeping on the stomach or sides.
Here check out our list for the best camping hammock for the side sleepers and compare the pros and cons yourself!
5 Best Camping Hammock for Side Sleepers – Sleep Tight!
Hennessy Hammock Expedition Series
The Hennessy Hammock Expedition Zip is a well-constructed, lightweight, asymmetrical designed model, perfect for side sleepers. This model comes with the most accessories options, along with a built-in suspension system. The 70D high-density nylon bottom and the 70D polyester ripstop rain tarp with YKK zippers make the hammock durable and rugged enough for extreme conditions. There’s also a mosquito mesh, and Heat-Reflecting DoubleBubble Pad included which give you protection throughout all seasons.
The weight capacity is at 250 pounds, but the ropes are tested to endure up to 1500 pounds. As the size capacity is at 6ft of height, it may not fit a taller person that well. In that case, check out the Hennessy Explorer model, which comes with all the features of this one, just with an XL size.
Considering the features, build, and the price it comes with, the Hennessy Hammock Expedition Zip is undoubtedly one of the best all-rounder hammocks for camping.
Pros
- Gear Pocket and Glove Hooks Threaded On The Ridgeline
- Complimentary Webbing Straps Included
- Unique Zip Side Entrance for Comfortable Position
- Versatile and Packable Design
Cons
- Not Suitable for The Tallest Users
Amok Draumr 3.0
In Old Norse Language, Draumr means dream, and the Amok Draumr 3.0 is truly a dream come true for hammock lovers out there. Its signature feature is that the suspension is attached to the sides and gives the user a flatter surface to sleep on. The unusual design makes it one of the best camping hammocks for stomach and side sleepers.
It comes with built-in suspension straps with 16 kN carabiners and an integrated bug net. The hammock can fit up to a maximum of 6ft height and 330 pounds of weight. The XL model offers a maximum 6ft 11 inches length, which can fit even giants. The Amok Draumr is constructed with 70D ripstop nylon making it durable and tear-resistant. To get the most satisfaction out of it, an inflatable sleeping pad is required.
Pros
- Easy to Setup and Well-Engineered Design
- Adjustable Chair Mode Function
- Plug and Play Suspension System
- Bottle Holderand Two Small Belongings Pockets Inside
Cons
- Slightly Heavier Than Other Hammocks
ENO DoubleNest Hammock
Eagles Nest Outfitters or ENO DoubleNest is one of the most popular choices for the best hammock for camping.
Despite being a lightweight hammock, it’s wide and durable enough to hold two people comfortably. The material of 70D high tenacity nylon taffeta with triple stitching is rugged enough to support up to 400 pounds of weight. Compared to the other double models, it’s highly versatile and compact, making it perfect for camping or backpacking trips.
The hammock kit includes a hammock stand, rain tarp, and a bug net. The quick-drying rain tarp is huge and easily able to cover the whole setup even during heavy rain. With the aluminum carabiners and the stainless-steel snap links, you can secure your DoubleNest hammock to trees, poles, boat masts, or anywhere basically.
Pros
- Available In 30+ Colors
- Budget-Friendly Price
- Easy to Pack and Setup
- Perfect for Summer Camping
Cons
- No Straps Included
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
If you’re looking for a budget option and don’t want to spend too much for a camping hammock, then Wise Owl Outfitters is the one for you. The simple design may not look much at first, but its multifunctional features and quality construction is worth every penny. It’s made of high-quality, heavy-duty 210T parachute nylon combined with triple interlocking stitching and capable of holding a maximum 500 pounds of weight. This extra soft but super strong material ensures a comfortable and relaxing experience.
The SingleOwl model is 9ft long, and the DoubleOwl is 10ft, and yet it conveniently packs down to the size of a grapefruit. Also, it comes with five separate loops, carabiners, and straps. You can easily fold the hammock into a compact bundle with the attached stuff sack.
Pros
- Excellent Value for Money
- Quick Setup and Safe Design
- Available In Plenty of Multicolor Options
- Compatible with Special Gears for Protection
Cons
- Fabric Slightly Thinner Than Other Models
Warbonnet Blackbird XLC
One of the most comfortable hammocks currently on the market, the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC adapts to a vast range of terrains and weather conditions as well.
The asymmetrical design and the footbox offer more space for a flat lay, which is convenient for side sleepers. With a 6ft 6 inches height capacity, the Blackbird XLC is available in two size options. The single-layer can carry up to a maximum of 350 pounds and the double-layer to a maximum of 400 pounds. You can put a sleeping pad inside the double layers, and there’s an exterior pocket to store your belongings. The 40D breathable nylon is treated with DWR finish to keep it cool and dry inside.
The Blackbird XLC may not come with many accessories, but it comes with an array of multiple colors. It’s compatible with other accessories so that you can build and customize your setup over time.
Pros
- Easily Removable and Interchangeable Suspension Options
- Alternative Setup As Ground-Based Shelter
- Easily-Accessible Storage Shelf
- Fully Removable Mosquito Net
Cons
- Carabiners and Tent Stakes Sold Separately
Buying Guide
Your camping hammock will largely be responsible for getting a good night’s sleep. For side sleepers, it’s more important to find the right hammock, which gives maximum comfort. Why, how, and where you will be using your hammock, that’s the initial questions you need to ask yourself before making your purchase. These are some essential factors to consider when looking for the best camping hammock for side sleepers.
Intended Use
While searching for your hammock, keep in mind its intended use and your preferred style of camping. Your hammock should be able to provide enough warmth and protection from the element so you can be safe and comfortable the whole night. When camping during winter, a thicker hammock with a zipper will be more beneficial. You can also buy accessories to customize your model, like adding a rainfly for protection in wet weather or mosquito net for keeping the bug away in the summertime. Besides, you can add an underquilt or sleeping pad for extra insulation during cold weather.
Materials and Construction
Quality materials and construction of your hammock are important for safety and comfort. These directly influence the strength and durability of the hammock, so make sure the material is strong enough while purchasing. Most hammocks use nylon for their durability and affordability. You can look for other fabrics for comfort, too; just make sure to choose one with a high denier rating.
During camping, weight isn’t an issue, so hammocks with thicker materials are more up to the task. Moreover, hammocks with double or triple-stitched seams provide more strength and better insulation.
Capacity and Weight Limit
Weight capacity refers to how much weight a hammock can safely hold. Most camping hammocks are capable of holding at least 200 pounds, some even up to 300 pounds or so. Meanwhile, the highest capacity double hammocks can carry up to 500 pounds of user weight.
In addition to weight, capacity also relates to size. Generally, hammocks are designed to hold one sleeper, but double models are built to hold two.
Always go for the hammock that has a higher capacity than your actual weight. Also, avoid using a single hammock for two persons. Because the hammock will rip, tear, or get damaged, and it’s dangerous as well. Look for the XL or double size model so that it can safely hold your weight.
Body Type
Your camping hammock should be large enough to accommodate your body size. It has to be long and wide enough for you to fit inside comfortably. You need to look for a model that’s at least two feet longer than your height. Most single models are 4 to 5 feet wide, which is spacious enough for comfort and coverage. But wider hammocks will give you more room to move around, and you’ll be able to sleep on your side or stomach at ease.
Also, if you have a bigger build, you can go for the double option, which is designed for two people but can easily be used by one. However, people with small stature should avoid double hammocks altogether as it can feel suffocating sleeping alone in it.
Suspension
Your hammock’s suspension system needs to be durable enough to carry on more weight than you’ll put on it. There are a variety of systems for hanging hammocks that can be divided into three broad categories:
Tree Straps
The strap should have at least 0.75 inches width or bigger, flat design and nylon or polyester design. Otherwise, it’ll dig through the bark and thus killing the tree.
Webbing / Ropes
For rope, it’s best to couple it with nylon webbing to limit the damage to the tree. Also, whoopie slings significantly help to get the perfect hang. It’s an adjustable piece of rope utilizing a loop and knot system that goes between the hammock and the webbing.
Hammock Kits
Some hammocks come with an accessories kit including straps, carabiners, ridgeline, cords for other lines, etc. Being specifically customized to the model, these are easier to set up and ultralight. However, hammocks with kits tend to be pricier than generic models.
Versatility and Accessories
The best camping hammocks are versatile models that can be customized. Some designs are more compatible with accessories like rainflys, bug nets, underquilts, etc. Many camping hammocks come with built-in accessories right away.
You should search for the accessories it comes with before buying your hammock. It’s better to look at the available accessories and which brands they are compatible with because many accessories are compatible across brands nowadays. That way, you can mix and match with different brands and get the most value out of it.
Conclusion
Don’t think you need to sacrifice your comfortable sleep in order to enjoy hammocks. Side sleepers are perfectly capable of getting a full night’s of sleep on a hammock. You just need to test your hammock beforehand and lie down a couple of times to find your sweet spot and sleep.
The best camping hammock for side sleepers isn’t something you’ll instantly find in a shop. The hammock itself, the hanging angle, weather, and your preferred style – everything combines into creating the perfect camping hammock for side sleepers. Even if your initial attempts with hammocking turned up not that satisfactory, don’t lose hope yet. With time and practice, you’ll become a pro hammock user in no time.