Been doing some hammock camping lately, I really love it. I have been outside in my little cacoon around 20 degrees and I survived because I was engulfed in down.
I also just got a new puppy who's name is "Bernie", he is. german shepherd and I think he will be a great camp dog.
Let me tell you what I have learned: when you go hammock camping it's called "a hang". You should have a tarp over you and something called a top quilt ( a sleeping bag will do) and an Under quilt. There are a ton of cottage companies that will help you out with gear although most of them are backlogged by about 5 weeks.
I bought an underquilt from hammock gear outdoors. I got a warbonnet superfly tarp which has doors to keep me warm in winter. My underquilt is 20 degrees. For a top quilt, I am using my western mountaineering sleeping bag zipped open as a quilt.
There is so much terminology as with any new sport. For instance "Bling" doesn't mean diamonds, it means titanium hardware for your suspension system. How about the term whoopie sling or berry. Part of the suspension system too. So much to learn but I have completely immersed myself in it. I am sleeping in the backyard between two trees when it's super cold and my husband thinks I am a crazy fool. He said the same thing when I started my PCT hike. People ask "Why"?
I guess you just are born with an extreme "gene", there is something inside of you that makes you want to do these crazy things. Of course, it helps if you like the outdoors. I just love to camp.
I joined a few groups, hammock camping, hammock forums, Pacific Northwest camping group and some others. I'm just all excited about it, and don't knock it till you try it. They say that 75% of people sleep better in a hammock. I know it feels wonderful.
I just wanted you to know I haven't blogged in awhile, been buzy, kids having babies, a new puppy, an aging parent, etc. Life sometimes gets in the way but at least today I am writing. Until next time and when the snow melts. See you soon and Happy Camping!
