Hammocking on the East Coast

[Narwhalin]

I am planning a backpacking trip on the east coast (Virginia to New York) in late August through September. I would like to use a hammock and a poncho/tarp. I hope to be able to go without any insulation for the hammock, if possible...is this a bad idea? Don't want to freeze my bum...

[Perkolady]

Narwalin,

I would at least consider bringing a closed cell pad with you, or better yet, an inflatable such as a Big Agnes or Exped down air matress.
There are definite possibilities for chilly nights, even though it may be warm during the day. Wind will also be an important factor when in your hammock as well.

You may want to keep an eye on the weather forecasts as your trip nears, and decide once you see what you might be expecting, and pack accordingly.

With all the crazy weather we've been having, it's best to prepare for the worst, IMO.

I hope you have a great trip!

Perkolady

[Remnant]

Might want to bring some bug netting if your hammock doesn't have it...in addition to the CCF that Perkolady already mentioned...sounds like a good
trip!

[Narwhalin]

The primary concern for this trip is weight, right now. I wanted to do without a pad because they all seem to be at least 11 oz or more. Also, packability is a big concern to me, so CCF is not my first choice. However,I am interested in the CCFs that gossamer puts out as they are 40" and very light. Do you think this 1/8" pad would be enough to ward off the chill in September? I am also interested in the down mat, as it is more packable, no??

Alternatively, I was thinking of constructing an ultralightweight summer pea pod type multi-function quilt-or just a sheet-that could wrap all the way around to block the wind and provide a layer of warm air around me. If anyone has any ideas about materials for this, I am all ears. This may be too elaborate a solution, and maybe weigh the same as CCF anyhow, but I digress...

Thanks for the advice on bug-netting...I just can't go without it, personally...I actually have taken to winter camping because of the lack of bugs!! So, my hammock will have an integrated bug net.

[Perkolady]

Narwhalin,

I can understand your concerns.

I don't know that a light weight peapod would really do all that much for insulating.

Also, IMO, the gossamer pad would not really be enough insulation, esp for that time of year.

Perhaps a good compromise for you would be something like the Hennessey Supershelter (near the bottom).

While it weighs 13oz., It is not very bulky, and things like an emergency blanket, or spare clothing can be added under it if the need arises, which makes it very versatile. This system would not only help to insulate, but would also cut the wind and help keep things drier inside too.

If you go to the Hennessey website to look, there are also short video clips showing installation of this system, and adding insulation.

Really, any way you look at it, you will need some kind of insulation under you or your hammock other than your sleeping bag.
While weighing more than a gossamer pad, IMO a HHSS or the DAM would be less bulky and a LOT warmer.

Perkolady

[Narwhalin]

Perkolady,

Thanks for your wisdom...

You mention the HHSS will keep things drier inside...What is making things wet?

Man, I think my initial suppositions were right...I have been looking at the HH for along time, and thought the HHSS was a very versitale system. I have also been looking at the MLD hammocks, and I really like them because of the entry and the gossomer weight, but I think I could be convinced for a HH. I wonder how hard it would be to make my own Supershelter for the MLD...it has many tie-outs on the bottom...maybe I could use a combo of a sheet and CCP...and here I go again...maybe I should just leave it to Tom Hennessy to figure this stuff out...BTW- If the pod cast hasn't reviewed him, perhaps you all should.

Thanks again...

[Perkolady]

Originally Posted by Narwhalin

You mention the HHSS will keep things drier inside...What is making things wet?

Well, two things come to mind...

First, would be blowing rain. It CAN find its way in, mostly thru the netting (near the hammock ends). But- one nice thing about the HHSS is that it covers the ends of your hammock nicely for extra protection (this is just the bottom I am talking about).

Another thing- very often, using a ccf pad inside the hammock with you can cause dampness under you and even in the bottom of your bag, since they don't breathe. Since the HHSS is under the hammock, it should help to prevent this.

Hope that helps!

Perkolady

[Forgetful]

Originally Posted by Narwhalin

Perkolady,

Thanks for your wisdom...

You mention the HHSS will keep things drier inside...What is making things wet?

Man, I think my initial suppositions were right...I have been looking at the HH for along time, and thought the HHSS was a very versitale system. I have also been looking at the MLD hammocks, and I really like them because of the entry and the gossomer weight, but I think I could be convinced for a HH. I wonder how hard it would be to make my own Supershelter for the MLD...it has many tie-outs on the bottom...maybe I could use a combo of a sheet and CCP...and here I go again...maybe I should just leave it to Tom Hennessy to figure this stuff out...BTW- If the pod cast hasn't reviewed him, perhaps you all should.

Thanks again...

By MLD I assume you mean Mountain Laurel Designs. True?

If so where are you looking at their hammock. I know that Ron at MLD has posted that they are coming out with a hammock, but they haven't posted such a product on their web site yet (3-20-2007).

[Just Jeff]

MLD had their Trinity hammock up before the relaunch...they've been too busy since then to put it back up, but it's coming.

The PeaPod/sheet idea is also known as a TravelPod or Hammock Sock - it helps quite a bit with warmth by providing a volume of dead air space under the hammock, and it can help on top as well. But it'd be tough to make one that'll keep you as warm as a CCF pad for the same 11 oz, although it would be MUCH more packable.

Bug net is a must.

Check your PMs and I'll send you some more info.

[Narwhalin]

Thanks Perkolady and Just Jeff!!

I will check out the info you all provided, and see if I can come up with a solution.

Perkolady- about the water...oh, I get it!

Jeff-The pea pod/sheet idea is to accomidate for not just the CCF pad on bottom, but also the sleeping bag inside as well, so you would have to add 16 oz. (My bag) and 11 oz for a total of 1 lb. 11 oz. I was thinking I could come up with a pea pod lighter than this that could be used for SUL three-season/two season...I will throw it out there on some of the links provided, do some research and come back with this.

Forgetful- the MLD hammock, you don't remember??, you must have a short memory, or something...Seriously though, these hammocks are beautifully crafted, it seems...One thing I liked about them is the body is shaped to let you lay flat...in other words, no diagonal sleeping position, they have side entry-kind of nice for reaching gear, made of epic fabric (virtually waterproof...can use a smaller tarp), also the seperate rain fly for some reason seems desirable...besides the fact that MLD is known for great tarps...I just don't know what kind of bottom and top insulation is best for this model. Hopefully, the MLD Trinity hammock will reappear soon...

Thanks again, all

[PBF Support]