Most people start their camping capers in a good old fashioned tent and often evolve to hammock camping as and when the need/desire arises. But that’s not to say that if you’re just starting out camping that you shouldn’t jump straight into the world of hammock camping. In fact there are many advantages for camping newbies to get cosy in a hammock instead of a tent: they are inexpensive, simple to use and very comfortable.

But there are also some disadvantages to sleeping in a hammock, whether you are new to camping or not. And of course many of the points raised in the hammock vs tent argument largely depend on where, when and how you are camping. Not to mention personal preference. So let’s take a look at the advantages of both hammock camping and tent camping.

The benefits of hammock camping

If you prefer sleeping wild and getting away from the campgrounds then there are loads of benefits to sleeping in a hammock. But it doesn’t have to be all about roughing it. You can set up your hammock camping site in much the same way as you would with a tent. The presence of a tarp immediately makes things much more suited to bad weather and improves liveability. And what could be better than being rocked to sleep every night?

Hammock camping is ideal for:

• Fast and light backpackers
• Those who seek sleeping comfort when camping
• Camping in the forest
• Star gazers
• Those who are bored with tent camping!

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The benefits of tent camping

For some people, the appeal of camping in a tent comes down to little more than the cosiness that the thin shelter provides, and that reminiscent feeling of den-making as a kid. There’s just something so romantic about sleeping in a tent and listening to the pitter patter of the rain. But on a more practical level, many will argue that you just can’t beat a good old fashioned tent to go camping in.

Here’s why tent camping is great:

1. It’s more comfortable to spend time in a tent after dark (but before you want to go to sleep)
2. It’s easier to organise all your stuff in a tent
3. You are better protected in windy and stormy conditions
4. You don’t need to rely on the presence of trees or anchor points
5. You can camp above the treeline or in desert and moorland areas
6. Some people feel more secure and protected in a tent
7. You can easily share a tent with your camping partner or dog, and snuggle up for extra warmth
8. Keeping flying bugs out of the tent is relatively easy
9. You can zip up the doors and get some privacy if you need it

Camping in a tent is the perfect option for:

• Those looking for sheltered liveable space
• Families or couples
• Those who don’t mind searching around for the perfect camping spot
• Backpacking above the treeline