Hanging A Hammock In Your Camper: Easy Steps

Hanging a hammock in a camper van is a simple process that can be completed in just seven steps. It's a great way to save space and switch up your van's layout. Before you begin, you'll need to gather some essential tools, hooks, and other components to ensure a comfortable and long-lasting hammock setup. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you create the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Choosing the right location

Outdoors

When hanging a hammock outdoors, it is essential to consider the surrounding environment and cause minimal disruption to plants, animals, and other campers. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Distance from water sources: Always set up your hammock away from water sources, even small streams. This precaution helps prevent accidental pollution or disruption of water ecosystems and reduces the risk of flash floods.
• Familiarity with the area: Avoid camping in unfamiliar territory, especially if you are a beginner. It is advisable to have a guidebook, map, and compass if you plan to venture into unknown areas.
• Avoid popular trails: Refrain from hanging your hammock on trails frequently used by hikers or animals. Doing so ensures you don't obstruct their path and minimises disturbances.
• Safe terrain: Avoid setting up your hammock near dangerous areas such as tall drop-offs, jagged rocks, or poisonous plants. While hammocks don't require perfectly level ground, opting for slightly level terrain makes it easier to assemble a fire and unload your gear.
• Airflow and natural light: Look for a spot with adequate airflow above and below your hammock to stay dry and cool. Additionally, choose a location with plenty of natural light, so you don't have to rely on flashlights or headlamps.
• Leave No Trace Principles: Follow these principles by camping on durable terrain, using healthy trees, and respecting other visitors or wildlife in the area.
• Tree selection: Choose strong, healthy trees free of wildlife and visible signs of decay, such as rot, fungus, or loose branches. Maple and oak trees are excellent options due to their strong trunks and large diameter. Ensure the trees are adequately spaced apart to accommodate the length of your hammock.

Inside a Camper Van

When deciding where to hang your hammock inside a camper van, consider the following:

• Measurements: Measure the length of your hammock and the amount of space it will take up inside the van. Most ropes will need to be tied to opposite ends of the vehicle, so ensure you have sufficient space.
• Drill holes: Mark the spots for drilling holes by laying the hammock flat on the floor with the ropes stretched out. Move the ropes up the wall until there is only about 12 inches of space between the wall and the hammock, and mark these spots with a permanent marker.
• Rust prevention: Apply a heavy-duty sealant like Loctite to the bolts or holes to prevent rusting and corrosion. This step is crucial, as drilling into a metal van without protection can lead to severe structural issues.
• Hooks or bolts: Use metal hooks or bolts rated for your weight to hang the hammock. D-hooks are recommended as they prevent the hammock ropes from sliding off. You can also use wide bolts, but keep in mind that they are not as reliable as D-hooks.
• Adjustments: Once the hammock is hung, sit in it and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and safety.

Picking the right trees

Tree Health and Stability:

Look for strong, healthy trees that are free of visible rot, fungus, moss, mold, mushrooms, and other signs of decay. Avoid trees with loose or fallen branches, as they may indicate a sick tree. Inspect the tree bark for any peeling, holes, large gashes, or excessive sap production. Choose trees with smooth bark as rough bark can damage your straps. Ensure the trees are sturdy enough to bear your weight without bending or buckling.

Spacing and Distance:

The distance between trees depends on the length and style of your hammock and your desired tension. Most hammock campers look for trees spaced between 12 and 16 feet apart. If you have a spreader-bar hammock, the length of the hammock determines the distance required between trees. For example, a 13-foot hammock needs at least 13 feet of space between trees. If you want more tension, add another foot or two of space.

Wildlife and Vegetation:

Ensure the trees and the area under and around your hammock are free of plant life, animals, bird nests, beehives, insect nests, and poisonous plants. Research the area you're camping in to stay informed about any endangered species that may be present. Check for sensitive wildlife habitats and vegetation that could be damaged by your hammock setup.

Tree Diameter:

Choose trees with thick trunks or a diameter of at least 6 inches. Thicker trees can better support the weight of your hammock and reduce the risk of damage to the tree.

Tree-Friendly Straps:

Use tree-friendly straps to protect the trees and ensure a secure setup. Wide straps made of durable materials like polyester, UHMWPE, or Kevlar are ideal. These straps distribute the weight evenly and help protect the tree bark from pulling, scraping, or peeling. Avoid using ropes or cords as they can damage the tree by digging into the bark.

Remember to always follow the Leave No Trace principles when setting up your hammock. By picking the right trees and using tree-friendly techniques, you can enjoy your hammock while minimizing your impact on the environment.

Using the right equipment

Hammock Type and Material

Before you begin the installation process, it is crucial to choose the right type and material for your hammock. If you intend to use it for camping, invest in a durable camping hammock designed to withstand the elements and tree suspension. Consider the size and weight capacity to ensure it can accommodate your needs. Additionally, select a breathable material such as cotton, as vans can get humid, and your body heat can build up on synthetic fibres.

Hooks, Bolts, or Straps

When hanging a hammock in a camper van, you can use hooks, bolts, or straps as your mounting hardware. Hooks, such as D-hooks, are reliable and prevent the hammock ropes from sliding off. Ensure that the hooks are rated for your weight and consider using a heavy-duty hammock hanging kit that includes screws. Alternatively, you may use wide bolts, but keep in mind that they are not as secure as hooks, and the hammock ropes can easily slide off.

Drill and Drill Bits

To install your mounting hardware, you will need a drill and the appropriate drill bits. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the hook's diameter to create pilot holes. For the actual installation, you will need a larger drill bit, typically around 2.25 inches. Most vans have thin walls, so it is recommended to mount the hooks on corners or wooden planks.

Sealant

To protect your van from rust and corrosion, apply a heavy-duty sealant like Loctite to the bolts, hooks, or holes. This will also help prevent the bolts from loosening and ensure the longevity of your installation. If you are concerned about aesthetics, you can paint the hooks or bolts to match the colour scheme of your camper van.

Stud Finder and Tape Measure

When determining the placement of your hammock, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs or ceiling joists that will support the weight of the hammock and its occupants. A tape measure is also essential to ensure you leave enough space between the hammock and the floor, typically at least 4 feet. Additionally, measure the distance between the mounting points to ensure it matches the length of your hammock.

Carabiners, Chains, or Ropes

To fasten the hammock to the mounting hardware, you can use heavy-duty carabiners, S-hooks, short chains, or ropes. Ensure that any carabiners are rated for heavy loads. If using ropes, opt for thick ropes that can securely bear the weight and consider using tree straps or rope covers to protect the tree or mounting surface from damage.

Hanging at the right angle and height

Hanging a hammock at the right angle and height is critical to ensure comfort and safety. The ideal angle for hanging a hammock is about 30 degrees, with the bottom of the hammock around 18 inches off the ground. This height makes it easy to get in and out of the hammock, and reduces the likelihood of serious injury if you fall out.

To achieve this height, the mounting hardware should be placed at least 4 feet off the ground. The specific height will depend on the length of your hammock and how much space there is between the mounting points. For example, if you have a 12-foot hammock, you will need about 14 feet of space between the mounting points, and the hardware should be placed accordingly.

The amount of weight in the hammock will also affect the height, as more weight will cause the hammock to sag. Therefore, it is important to consider the amount of weight the hammock will need to support and adjust the height accordingly.

When hanging a hammock in a camper van, it is important to measure the length of the hammock and the space it will take up in the van. The ropes or straps should be stretched out as far as possible, and the mounting hardware should be placed to allow for the desired amount of sag.

Once the hammock is hung, it is important to test it out and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and safety.

Adjusting for comfort

Firstly, it is recommended that your hammock sits about 18 inches above the ground when you are in it. This means that it will likely be around 3 to 4 feet above the ground when you are not lying in it. This height makes it easy to get in and out of the hammock, and also reduces the likelihood of injury if you fall out.

To achieve this height, start by slowly sitting in the hammock and then measure the distance between yourself and the ground using a tape measure. If the hammock is too low, get out and tighten the ropes or straps on both sides by an inch or two. Test your adjustments and repeat the process until you are comfortable.

Another important factor for comfort is the angle of the hammock. Try to achieve a 30-degree angle between the strap and the ground. While it may be tempting to pull the hammock taut for a flatter surface, this can create tension in the sides, which may feel constricting. Instead, aim for a slight curve or sag in the middle of the hammock. This will cradle your body and provide a more comfortable sleeping position.

To achieve this, you can adjust the height of the hammock on the walls or hooks. As a starting point, secure the hammock or its straps about 4 to 6 feet high on the walls or hooks. This should leave enough sag for a comfortable sleeping position. You can always adjust this later if needed.

Additionally, when lying in the hammock, try sleeping diagonally. Instead of resting flat in the centre, position your body diagonally. Hammocks are designed for sleepers to lie like this, as it allows your body to relax with your head and feet slightly dropped.

Finally, consider the material of the hammock. If you are hanging it in a camper van, choose a breathable material such as cotton. Polyester and other synthetic fibres can cause your body heat to build up, making the hammock uncomfortable to sleep in.

Frequently asked questions