>>2830398If you’re really counting grams it’s generally not lighter. And it’s a little expensive if you really want a good set up, considering the cost of quilts.
But the comfort is unmatched. I have a ground setup as well, with a Nemo Tensor pad (3.5” thick), and it’s not even close. I just straight up sleep better in the hammock.
Everything is a give and take. Hammocks allow for more campsite options in some environments because you don’t have to worry about ground conditions. I’ve hung my hammocks in some truly janky spots, even somewhat steep hills (not precariously dangerous, just too steep for lying down). When hammocking I’m much more likely to sit under my shelter than I am with a tent. It’s a really comfortable chair while a tent is just shelter from bugs and weather. In rainy weather it’s actually nice to be able to chill out under a tarp rather than enclosed in a tent. Hammock systems are also oftentimes unique, with people using different tarps, hammocks, and suspension systems. Theyre the king on hot nights, when a tent is too stuffy and warm. Hammocks are much better ventilated as well.
There are downsides. Upfront cost is a big one. The hammock and tarp might be cheaper or about the same as an equivalent tent, but the real kicker is insulation. You’ll need an underquilt, and that’s crazy expensive ($300+). You could go cheap with synthetic but that’s a massive weight penalty. There’s a learning curve to setting up, and figuring out what works for you. I like my foot end about 12” higher than my head (it keeps me from “sliding down”). Even after you know what works there’s still some fiddling. Deploying and hanging is quicker than a tent but you’ll have to get out and adjust a little, move this up, move that down, slide that thing over… It’s never perfect on the first try. Wind can be an issue because the tarps are just so damn big, but that’s more of a skill issue.
