A camping hammock is a fantastic way to relax when you are camping. There’s nothing like lounging in a hammock and soaking up the beautiful natural scenery around you. Camping hammocks have become some of the most popular outdoor accessories, many of which are now much lighter and more packable than the heavy, old-school canvas or rope hammocks. These new and innovative hammocks are made from lighter, tougher materials and offer a plethora of options for hammock lovers.
A portable hammock stand is one such accessory to add to your RV camping gear. A portable camping stand allows you to set up your hammock anywhere without having to look for suitable trees from which to string your hammock. You can choose the place you want to set it up and your views!
A portable hammock stand is a fantastic way to transport your hammock and set up wherever you are for a relaxing, laid-back afternoon. Fatboy-Hängematte by Marco Verch Professional Photographer / Flickr / CC BY 2.0.
Why a Portable Hammock Stand?
A portable hammock stand is a great accessory to have for several reasons. The most obvious reason is that it allows you to set up a hammock anywhere, but it is super easy to set up, and they are more environmentally friendly than regular hammocks, which can leave trees damaged. Many national parks and most state parks do not allow hanging hammocks between trees for this very reason.
Types of Hammocks for Portable Hammock Stands
All types of camping hammocks can be used with a portable hammock stand – the stand simply acts as a substitute for the trees. Camping hammocks can be used as alternatives to sleeping bags or just for sitting and soaking up the view and can accommodate one or two people.
Camping hammocks are available in a wide range of models from large tent hammocks that can fully replace your regular tent or ultralight hammocks made from nylon that pack up smaller than a can of soda.
When choosing a hammock, you may want to consider the following factors:
- Use/functionality
- Comfort
- Weight
- Ease of setup
- Portability
- Versatility
- Accessories
- Price
Camping hammocks are available in a wide range of sizes, heights, and models.
1. Hammock Use / Functionality
Camping hammocks can be used for relaxing and soaking up the views or instead of a tent, allowing you to sleep beneath the stars. If you are planning on using your camping hammock as a tent/place to sleep at night, consider getting a few accessories like a rainfly or tarp to protect you from bugs and inclement weather.
2. Size
Most camping hammocks are designed for single or double use with single hammocks typically measuring four to five feet wide and doubles measuring five to six feet wide. Many campers tend to buy double hammocks even if they are flying solo as they offer more space and comfort and allow you to sleep in a range of positions.
3. Fabric / Material
The material from which the camping hammock is made is important as you want one that is tough and durable and lasts a long time, but that can also be packed into a small space such as a backpack. The fabric of camping hammocks is generally measured in deniers (20D, 30D, 40D, 70D), and the higher the number, the heavier the quality of the fabric.
4. Ease of Setup
Think about how you plan on hanging up your camping hammock. Does the hammock come with straps or must they be purchased as an extra? Does it need a hammock stand or can it be strung between two trees?
5. Portability
Ideally, you want a camping hammock of great quality that is lightweight and easily portable. Some hammocks have folding frames or stands that need to be set up while others simply fold up into a small ball and fit into your backpack.
6. Hammock Accessories
There are several accessories you may want to consider such as a suspension system (straps) from which to hang the hammock, as well as an underquilt for cold temperatures, a tarp for rainy weather, and a net for bugs.
The material from which the camping hammock is made is another very important factor when shopping for this accessory as you want one that is tough and durable, won’t break or split when used excessively, and will last a long time. There is nothing better than relaxing in a hammock
Things to Consider When Buying a Portable Hammock Stand
There are a few things you will need to consider when purchasing a portable hammock stand.
1. Price
Portable hammock stands tend to be on the expensive side but bear in mind that they will last a long time.
2. Weight
The weight of a portable hammock stand is a very important factor when deciding to purchase this accessory for your RV. You want the stand to be light enough to transport and take on camping trips without being a hassle. Portable hammock stands that weigh between 25 and 35 pounds tend to be durable and long-lasting, while anything over 35 pounds is going to be a hassle to lug around.
3. Material
The material of your hammock stand must be strong, durable, and weather-resistant. They tend to be made from either wood or steel, with steel being the most durable.
4. Size
Another important factor depends on how many people will be using the hammock stand. The size will determine how many hammocks the stand can hold and therefore, how many people it can accommodate.
The size of the hammock is an important factor and will depend on how many people plan on using the hammock. You can get hammocks that accommodate between two and six people. Share a Hammock by Garry Knight / Flickr / CC BY 2.0.
Best Portable Hammock Stand
Best Overall: ENO Nomad Stand
Extremely lightweight and portable, making it fantastic for shorter backpacking trips, the ENO Nomad Stand is our top pick when it comes to portable hammock stands. Weighing just 15 pounds and made from aluminum alloy, the stand is super light and easy to set up and break down, fitting effortlessly into its carry case.
Ideal for one person, the 13-foot-long hammock stand has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and has a shock-corded construction with two pyramid bases, making it very stable and durable.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Can hold up to 300 lbs
- Strong aluminum alloy frame
- Easy to set up
- Carry case included
Cons
- Only accommodates one hammock
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Best for Versatility: Sunnydaze Universal Hammock Stand
The Sunnydaze Universal Hammock Stand is a sturdy, dependable, and very affordable portable hammock stand and the perfect companion for your camping trip. It is very versatile with the ability to accommodate almost any hammock between 9-15 feet in length and is quick and easy to set up.
The portable hammock stand has several support beams and anchor points with chrome-plated chains and s-hooks that caters to all types of hammocks and allows them to be set up in different ways.
Weighing 25 pounds, the portable hammock stand is lightweight and easy to transport, and it has a weight capacity of 450 pounds. The Sunnydaze Universal Hammock is easy to set up with no tools needed.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Can hold up to 450 lbs
- Sturdy and dependable
- Easy to set up with no tools needed
Cons
- Can be slightly unstable when being moved
- Does not come with a carry case – must be purchased separately
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Best for Weight: Republic of Durable Goods Compact Portable Folding Hammock & Stand
Compact and lightweight, the Republic of Durable Goods Compact Portable Folding Hammock and Stand weighs just 15 pounds and is easy and quick to set up anywhere.
This portable folding hammock has several extra features, including quilts for warmth, a bug net for bugs, a rain tarp for rain, a sunshade canopy for UV block, basket and drink pockets for large storage, and a padded headrest.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Easy to fold down to transport
- Sturdy and dependable
Cons
- Relatively low weight capacity
- Only holds one person
- Not as comfortable as some other options
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Best for Solo Campers: Best Choice Products 9’ Space Saving Steel Hammock Stand
Boasting an innovative and stylish design, the Best Choice Products 9’ Space Saving Steel Hammock Stand is ultra-lightweight, easy to use and transport, and a really good choice for solo campers. Weighing 26 pounds with a weight capacity of 450 pounds, the portable hammock stand has six size settings for a variety of hammock types up to nine feet in length.
The portable hammock stand has heavy-duty construction and a weather-resistant black powder-coated finish that provides strength, sturdiness, and durability. Full welding along the joints further ensures the hammock stand will be long-lasting.
The body of the hammock stand has a snap-together setup, which allows for a quick assembly and breaking down and it also comes with a convenient storage bag to make transporting your hammock stand as easy as possible.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and deconstruct
- Portable, space-saving design
- Carry bag included
Cons
- It may not be suitable for larger individuals
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Best for Car Attachment: ENO SoloPod
If you are looking for an effortless setup then the ENO SoloPod is great. It is sturdy and boasts a unique design that simply secures the stand under the wheels of your car. The portable hammock stand has a weight capacity of 250 pounds and is made out of rust-resistant powder-coated steel for excellent weather resistance and durability.
The ENO SoloPod takes up minimal space in your vehicle, however, it weighs in at 56 pounds, making it quite heavy.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Weather-resistant and durable
- Carry bag included
Cons
- Not as versatile as other portable hammock stands
- Heavy
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Best for Combo: Vivere Double Hammock Stand
The Vivere Double Hammock Stand is constructed of powder-coated steel for durability and strength and weighs 33 pounds with a weight capacity of 450 pounds. The frame can accommodate a nine-foot hammock and the stands come with the hammock and two fabric pillows.
Designed for two people, the double hammock with stand and carry bag is tightly woven with high-quality cotton thread resulting in heavy, durable fabric with pure polyester end strings. The hammock stand is constructed of heavy-duty steel and can be assembled in a few minutes without any hassle.
Pros
- Comes with the fabric and a variety of accessories
- Affordable
- Accommodates two adults
Cons
- Not very durable
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Best Value: ONCLOUD Double Hammock with Steel Stand
The ONCLOUD Double Hammock with Steel Stand is durable and comfortable and includes two pillows. It is easy to assemble and adjust and has a pocket drink holder on the hammock. While it has a slightly lower weight limit, the portable hammock stand can carry up to 300 pounds and weighs 32 pounds.
The portable hammock stand is constructed from powder-coated steel and has a weight capacity of 330 pounds. It can be set up and taken down and comes with a compact carrying bag for indoor or outdoor use. It comes with two comfortable pillows, a little cup holder to store a bottle of water, a mobile phone, and other accessories.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Weather-resistant and durable
- Carry bag included
Cons
- Not as versatile as other portable hammock stands
- Heavy
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Tips for Taking Care of Your Portable Hammock Stand
As with most things in life, if you take care of something it lasts longer. Taking care of a portable hammock stand is fairly easy and there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Even though portable hammock stands are constructed for all types of weather, it’s a good idea to pack the hammock away when it’s not in use to give it a longer lifespan. Fabric hammocks can be bleached and worn by the sun and rain and it’s best to dry off the hammock when it’s wet to avoid mildew, mold, and rust.
- Stay within the weight capacity of the portable hammock stand as they are constructed to withstand a certain weight and will risk breaking if not used correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How does a portable hammock stand work?
Several types of portable hammock stand out there. Some can be broken down into pieces by removing screw-in knobs or pushing spring-pin buttons that hold the parts into place. Other stands are collapsible, much like a camping chair. There are also portable stands that are mounted to your truck hitch receiver.
No matter which version you get, you will have a stand that is easy to set up and take down. It’ll also be small and light enough to carry from place to place or pack into your car or RV storage area for some road trip fun or a bit of hammock camping.
- Are hammock stands safe?
When hammock stands are used following the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use, hammock stands are relatively safe. Falls from hammocks are always a risk, especially on spreader bar types. Keep the hammock stand at a safe distance from water and away from any electrical dangers. Never leave children unattended in or near a hammock.
- How much will my hammock stretch?
All types of hammocks will stretch over time, however, this can depend on the fabric from which the hammock is made. They can stretch anywhere from a few inches to as much as two feet, so if you want to avoid too much stretching, choose a camping hammock with a strong, high quality, and durable fabric.
- How can I clean my hammock?
Most camping hammocks are machine-washable, however, hammocks with frames or spreader bars can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water and left to air dry.
- What safety precautions should I take when using my hammock?
– Don’t exceed the weight capacity of your hammock.
– Make sure the hammock is secure and safe before climbing in.
– Don’t let children use the hammock without adult supervision.
– Always inspect the hammock before getting in to make sure there are no unwanted residents like spiders or snakes.
Happy camping!
Jill Miller is the founder of Your RV Lifestyle. Trading corporate America for the open road, Jill, along with her partner Jose, began their RV journey, making an unconventional start by wintering in New Jersey. A natural adventurer, she was motivated by a desire to explore the USA and beyond, embracing the varied landscapes, communities, and cultures across the country.
For Jill, the allure of RV living was not about material accumulation, but rather the pursuit of an adventurous, fulfilling lifestyle. A lover of golf, bicycling, hiking, and line dancing, she has carried her passions across the country, engaging with them in diverse settings. Jill’s commitment to the RV lifestyle came after years of careful research, numerous consultations with RV owners, and personal trials, including living in a rental RV.