>>2609891>still a cool thingThis really can't be stressed enough. I do actual backpack camping only 1-2/yr because I'm a larper like the rest of the board, but I use my hammock every week in the warm season at local parks or my backyard. Its a hammock, its awesome and generally better even than zero gravity lawn chairs. I'll bring it on dayhikes just so I can have an extended rest midway.
Likewise having a tarp gives you versatility when you are camping because sometimes its wet and you just want to take a break without setting up a full camp, and you can just string up your tarp in 5min and have a shelter from rain that you can walk around under and cook food and rest.
>>2609941Dutchware chameleon with integrated bugnet is up there with the ridge runner and a touch cheaper. Dutchware is another quality cottage seller with lots of accessory gear and fabric.
Also note that you do not need an expensive down quilt for summer. Mil poncho liner and a blue Walmart pad will easily suffice, throw in a light topquilt, which you'll want for colder weather anyway. Half the time the issue is not sweating to death anyway, and hammocks are perfect for that.
Also you should have an emergency space blanket for daypack, and you can toss that between the liner and hammock for added warmth. I've taken such a setup down below 40F and been mostly comfortable when I misjudged the weather once.
Down quilts I just set aside for Xmas.
