Years ago I went through a phase where I camped with the old style net hammocks rather can carry a tent and sleep on the ground.    A night sleeping in a hammock is much more restful than sleeping on the ground. Also, a hammock weights much less than a tent, and takes up much less space.   I used a surplus Army poncho to make a tarp.  It worked pretty well if the weather wasn’t bad, but keeping dry in the rain was problematic.  If I thought that there was a chance of rain I took a tent instead.

Today Eagle Nest Outfitters (ENO) produces a large line of hammocks for the same type of high-speed / low-drag camping, and they also sell matching tarps, mosquito nets, and other nifty hammock accessories.  I am amazed at how small and light each component is.  They are perfect for a bug-out bag, hiking, or canoe trip.

I’m planning a canoe trip for late in the summer.  Their gear will be perfect to camp by the river, away from the snakes and the bugs.

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