Hammock straps are hands down the best way to hang a hammock from a tree.
Although you can certainly use ropes, dedicated hammock tree straps are not only easier to use, but they also won’t cause damage to the tree when used correctly.
Of course, a hammock with a built-in stand, like the Mock One, is almost always the most straightforward, many camping-specific models come without a hammock stand so you must use tree straps instead.
Here’s exactly how to use hammock straps to hang a hammock.
What Are Hammock Straps?
Hammock straps are specifically designed to hang hammocks.
Usually made from an ultra-durable webbing, you use them in conjunction with carabiners or clips to securely attach your hammock to two trees.
Universal and model-specific versions are available. It’s important to check to see which straps your hammock is compatible with before buying.
These durable straps are long enough to wrap around thick trees (extra-long versions are also available) and don’t cause damage to the trees like ropes sometimes do.
Straps are also easier to use than ropes as you usually don’t need to know how to tie as many hammock knots as you do with the rope-hanging method.
How to Use Hammock Straps
Luckily, hammock straps are very easy to use. You can follow roughly the same directions for most models. Here’s what to do:
- Select the Right Straps – Make sure the straps you choose are compatible with your camping hammock. You should also consider their length and weight capacity as well as the number of adjustment points. Backpackers should look for ultralight straps to save weight in their packs.
- Located Suitable Anchor Points – Before setting up camp for the night, scout out two solid anchor points. Most often these are sturdy trees. Look up to make sure there are no dead tree branches (known as widow makers) or other dangers. The trees should be around 10 to 15 feet apart from each other.
- Attach First Strap to Tree – Take one end of the strap and wrap it around the tree at a little less than head height. The goal is for the final hammock hang to sit about 18 inches off the ground to make entry and exit easy. Loop the long end of the strap through the opening on the shorter end. Pull tight.
- Attach First Strap to Hammock – Secure the other end of your strap to one end of your hammock. On some models the straps are built in, although most are attached with a carabiner.
- Attach Second Strap to Tree – Take the other strap and wrap around the other tree, looping the long end through the opening on the short end. Pull tight.
- Attach Second Strap to Hammock – Attach the other end of the second strap to one end of your hammock via carabiners.
- Adjust as Needed – Tighten or loosen the straps as needed to find the perfect hammock hang. You want enough tension to prevent too much sag, but not enough so that your lay is stiff. The hammock should sit about 18 inches off the ground when you’re finished.
- Ensure Proper Hang – Don’t get into your hammock before you double check the straps for a secure hang. You should also double check that the carabiners are secured tightly.
- Practice Makes Perfect – It’s not very difficult to learn how to use hammock straps but it does take some practice to get the ideal hang. After two or three outings, you’ll have everything down – so don’t worry.
Remember that every model of straps is slightly different, so read any instructions that come with them for the proper hang.
Best Hammock Straps
Almost every hammock strap model is slightly different. This is why it’s important to select straps that are compatible with your hammock, even though universal models are available.
That said, most straps either use a daisy chain or series of loops that require zero knots. Others incorporate a ridge line into the design of the hammock which makes things slightly more difficult.
Here are a few of the best hammock straps available now:
- ENO Atlas Suspension – Dependable and strong with a maximum capacity of 400 pounds, these long straps are compatible with all Eagles Nest Outfitters hammocks, including the popular ENO SingleNest and ENO DoubleNest, as well as many non-ENO models.
- Kammok Python – 10 feet long with a maximum capacity of 500 pounds, these are among the most durable hammock straps around. Better yet, they weight it at only 12 ounces total, making them ideal for hammock camping and backpacking.
- Grand Trunk Straps – Another versatile option, Grand Trunk Straps are best noted for their overall adjustability, making the easy to use with the vast majority of camping hammocks on the market today.
Other options to hang a hammock include a single line suspension system with rope or a hammock stand.
Get Outside and Go Hammocking!
What are you waiting for?
Now that you know how to use hammock straps to hang a hammock, get outside and try it for yourself!
For more hammock hang info, check out these posts:
Happy hammocking!
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