How to Hang a Hammock: Setup, Sag and Comfort Tips
Quick answer: To hang a hammock, pick two sturdy, healthy trees spaced for your hammock's length, wrap them with wide tree-friendly straps, and clip in so the straps run at roughly a 30-degree angle. Leave a gentle sag rather than pulling it tight, then lie diagonally across the hammock to get a flat, comfortable position.
A good hammock setup can turn any campsite, trailside grove or backyard into the most comfortable spot around. Whether you're new to hammocks or switching over from a tent, these are the techniques that make the difference between a restless night and a great one.
Choose the right hammock and suspension
Everything starts with your gear. A double-wide hammock gives you more fabric to spread out in and makes a diagonal lay easier, and many can fit two people for lounging. Pair it with an adjustable suspension system so you can hang between trees at different distances without retying knots.
How a daisy chain suspension works
A daisy chain strap is a long length of nylon webbing with a loop at one end and a series of smaller loops sewn along its length. You wrap the strap around the tree, pass it through the end loop, and clip your hammock's carabiner into whichever daisy chain loop gives you the right height and tension. Moving the carabiner one or two loops is the fastest way to fine-tune your hang.
Pick the right trees
- Healthy and sturdy: choose live, solid trees, never dead trees or trees with dead limbs overhead.
- Proper spacing: the trees should be far enough apart to fit your hammock's length with room for the straps.
- Protect the bark: use wide webbing straps rather than rope or cord so you don't damage the tree, and avoid very rough or flaking bark that can chew up your straps.
Get the perfect hang
The key to comfort is the balance between tension and sag. Aim for roughly a 30-degree angle on your suspension straps. That creates a gentle curve that lets you lie flat without feeling squeezed, while keeping the load on the straps and trees reasonable.
Adjust the sag
A hammock that's pulled too tight wraps around you like a burrito, while one that's too loose can feel saggy and unstable. Lie in it, then move your attachment points up or down the daisy chain until it feels supportive but relaxed.
Sleep flat: side sleeping and the diagonal lay
The trick to sleeping well in a hammock is to lie at an angle rather than straight along the centerline. Shift your head toward one side and your feet toward the other; the fabric flattens out underneath you. Side sleepers can use the same diagonal position, while back sleepers can simply scoot slightly off center and lean back so the fabric contours naturally to your body.
Hammock camping: light, versatile and good in any season
Hammocks have become popular with backpackers because they can be a light, packable alternative to a tent, especially for solo trips. Add a tarp overhead and you have a weather-protected shelter.
They also work in more seasons than many people expect. In mild weather a light blanket or quilt is often enough. In colder conditions, the air moving underneath you pulls heat away fast, so add an underquilt or insulating layer below and a top quilt or sleeping bag above to stay warm.
Shop hammock camping gear
- Vigel Camping Hammock Packable hang for camp or backyard
- Featherstone Moondance 25 Top Quilt Quilt-style warmth that suits hammocks
- NEMO Forte Endless Promise 20 (Men's) Synthetic bag for colder nights
- NEMO Forte Endless Promise 20 (Women's) Synthetic warmth, women's fit
- Gear Aid Seam Grip Field Repair Kit Patch fabric and seams in the field
Want to see suspension systems, tarps and underquilts in person? Stop by our Grand Avenue store in Portland's Central Eastside and our staff can help you build a hammock setup.
Hammock hanging FAQ
What angle should hammock straps be?
Aim for about 30 degrees from horizontal. That gives a comfortable sag and keeps the load on your straps and anchor trees reasonable.
How tight should a hammock be?
Not tight. A hammock pulled taut squeezes you like a burrito; a gentle curve lets you lie diagonally and flat.
How do you sleep flat in a hammock?
Lie diagonally, with your head toward one side and your feet toward the other. The fabric flattens out across your body.
Can you use a hammock in cold weather?
Yes, with insulation underneath. Air flowing under the hammock pulls heat away, so add an underquilt or insulating layer below and a quilt or sleeping bag on top.
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