How to Pack a Hammock for Backpacking: Save Space and Weight

Quick Answer

To pack a hammock for backpacking, start by choosing an ultralight hammock system like the Mantis UL, then compress the hammock and suspension separately in a stuff sack. Store the hammock at the bottom of your backpack to balance weight, and use a compact pillow like the Puffin Pillow to fill unused gaps.

Step-by-Step Hammock Packing Process

1. 1. Separate the Hammock from the Suspension: Unclip the hammock body from the suspension straps. This allows you to pack each piece independently, reducing bulk and making it easier to compress. Common mistake: keeping the hammock attached to the suspension. This creates a bulky, awkward bundle that's hard to fit in your pack.
2. 2. Compress the Hammock Body First: Fold the hammock lengthwise a few times, then roll it tightly from one end. Place it in a dedicated stuff sack or a dry bag. Push out as much air as possible before sealing. Checkpoint: A loosely rolled hammock takes up twice the space. Use a compression sack if your hammock didn't come with one.
3. 3. Pack the Suspension Straps Separately: Coil the Python 10 UL straps neatly and store them in their Sil/PU coated stuff sack. This keeps them from tangling with other gear and makes them easy to find at camp. Common mistake: stuffing straps loose in your pack. They can snag on other items or become a tangled mess. Always use the stuff sack.
4. 4. Load the Hammock at the Bottom of Your Backpack: Place the compressed hammock and suspension sack at the bottom of your pack. This keeps the weight low and centered, improving stability while hiking. Checkpoint: If your pack has a separate sleeping bag compartment, use it for the hammock. This keeps your sleeping bag and hammock separate and organized.
5. 5. Fill Gaps with Small Accessories: Use items like the Puffin Pillow (deflated) or a stuffable camp pillow to fill empty spaces around the hammock. This prevents gear from shifting and uses every inch of pack volume. Common mistake: leaving voids in your pack. Even small gaps waste space and can cause your load to shift, making hiking less comfortable.

Gear That Makes Hammock Packing Easier

• Mantis UL: The Mantis UL is made from Levitas 20D nylon ripstop, the strongest, lightest hammock fabric in its class. It includes Python Ultralight straps with SpiraLine technology, which are 15 times stronger than steel and light enough to float on water. Choosing an ultralight hammock like the Mantis UL saves significant weight and pack volume, making it ideal for backpacking where every ounce counts.
• Puffin Pillow: The Puffin Pillow weighs just 2 oz and packs down smaller than your phone. Its micro adjust valve lets you inflate to your preferred firmness, and the curved scalloped edge supports your neck. A compact pillow like the Puffin Pillow can be stuffed into gaps in your pack, using space efficiently while adding comfort at camp.