Do you sometimes dream of falling asleep under the stars? A hammock makes it possible - and not just when camping! More and more people are discovering the hammock as an alternative to the classic bed. No wonder, because the gentle rocking helps you fall asleep and can even alleviate back problems. This guide will tell you everything you need to know for a restful night's sleep in a hammock.
Table of contents
Why is the hammock so popular as a place to sleep?
How do I choose the right hammock for sleeping?
How do I hang my hammock correctly?
What do I need for a night in the hammock?
How do I find the right lying position?
Is sleeping in a hammock healthy?
Conclusion
Why is the hammock so popular as a place to sleep?
What sailors and indigenous peoples have known for a long time is now also confirmed by science: you sleep better in a hammock! The even rocking puts us into a deep sleep more quickly. The hammock adapts perfectly to your body and supports a natural sleeping position.
The results of scientific studies on sleeping behavior in hammocks are particularly exciting. They clearly show that the gentle rocking supports our natural sleep rhythm. The even movement has a calming effect on our nervous system and can help us fall asleep more quickly and sleep more deeply. Incidentally, this is the same effect that we use when we gently rock babies to help them fall asleep!
How do I choose the right hammock for sleeping?
For restful nights, you need the right sleeping hammock. There are various models to choose from, all of which have their own advantages:
Net hammocks:
Net hammocks are particularly suitable for warm summer nights as they offer optimum ventilation. They are also very light and can be transported in a space-saving manner - perfect for traveling and camping. However, you should think about additional insulation in cooler temperatures.
- Perfect for warm nights thanks to optimum ventilation
- Very light and space-saving
- Ideal for traveling and camping
- Disadvantage: you need additional insulation in cooler temperatures
Cloth hammocks:
Cloth hammocks, on the other hand, offer you more comfort and wind protection. The dense material protects you well from cooling down and is particularly robust and durable. Thanks to the large selection of colors and patterns, you are guaranteed to find a model that suits you.
- Pleasantly cozy and protected from the wind
- Good protection from cooling down
- Wide range of colors
- Robust and durable
Pole hammocks:
If you are looking for extra stability, pole hammocks are a good choice. They retain their shape and are particularly easy to get in and out of. This makes them the ideal solution for permanent installation. The only disadvantage: they are somewhat heavier and bulkier than their relatives without poles.
- Particularly stable and dimensionally stable
- Easy to get on and off
- Ideal for permanent installation
- Disadvantage: Heavier and bulkier than other models
Pay particular attention to the following points when buying your hammock:
- A width of at least 140 cm for comfortable lying
- High-quality, tear-resistant materials and reinforced seams
- Sufficient length (at least 2.5 meters) for the important diagonal lying position
- A maximum load capacity appropriate to the body weight (it is better to plan a little more reserve)
How do I hang my hammock correctly?
The key to a comfortable night's sleep lies in the correct hanging technique. The hanging angle plays a decisive role here - around 30 degrees is ideal. The tension should be balanced: Not too tight, but not too loose either. The most important thing, however, is the fixing points. They must be absolutely stable and able to withstand at least twice your body weight.
There are a few important details to consider when installing your hammock. It should sag in the middle at around seat height. The distance between the suspension points must match the length of your hammock - too far apart is just as unfavorable as too close. Only use suitable materials such as tensioning straps or special hammock ropes for fastening.
Everything you need to know about hanging your hammock:
- The hammock should sag in the middle at about seat height
- The distance between the suspension points must match the length of the hammock
- Always use suitable fastening material such as tensioning straps or special hammock ropes
What do I need for a night in the hammock?
The right equipment is crucial for a comfortable night's sleep in the hammock. As a basis, you need a sleeping bag suitable for the season. Protection from the cold below is particularly important. Here you can choose between a sleeping pad and an underquilt. The underquilt has a decisive advantage: it fits perfectly around the hammock and thus prevents cold bridges from forming. If you are sleeping outside, you should definitely plan a sufficiently large tarp as weather protection.
A small neck pillow is recommended for additional comfort. On warm days, a light blanket is often sufficient. In the insect season, a mosquito net will be your best friend:
Basic equipment:
- A suitable sleeping bag that suits the season
- A sleeping mat or, even better, an underquilt to protect you from the cold underneath
- A sufficiently large tarp as weather protection when sleeping outdoors
Additional comfort:
- A small pillow for the neck
- A light blanket for warm nights
- Mosquito net in the insect season
Proper ventilation is particularly important - sufficient air should also be able to circulate under the tarp. The underquilt is often the better choice than a sleeping mat as it fits perfectly around the hammock and prevents cold spots.
How do I find the right lying position?
The best way to lie comfortably in a hammock is to lie diagonally. Instead of lying lengthways, position your body at a slight angle. This magically makes the lying surface flatter and wider.
Finding the perfect position is very simple: first sit in the middle of the hammock. Then turn your upper body about 30 degrees to the side and lean back. Stretch your legs out in the opposite direction and experiment a little with the position until you have found your ideal position. Many people find the side position particularly comfortable. This diagonal alignment allows your body and spine to adopt a natural and relaxed posture.
Instructions for the perfect lying position:
- Sit in the middle of the hammock
- Turn your upper body about 30 degrees to the side
- Lie back and stretch your legs in the opposite direction
- Find your most comfortable position - the side position is particularly comfortable
Is sleeping in a hammock healthy?
Good news for all hammock fans: sleeping regularly in a hammock can be really healthy! The positive effects of sleeping in a hammock have even been scientifically proven. The gentle rocking motion has been proven to lead to deeper and more restful sleep. As the hammock adapts perfectly to your body shape, there are no unpleasant pressure points and your muscles can relax optimally. This is particularly interesting for people with back problems - many report a significant improvement in their complaints.
A fascinating look at other cultures underpins these positive effects: In regions where sleeping in hammocks is firmly rooted in tradition, back problems occur much less frequently than in societies that predominantly sleep in conventional beds. The reason for this lies in the perfect adaptability of the hammock to the body, which prevents unfavorable pressure points from developing in the first place.
Conclusion: A new sleeping experience awaits you!
A hammock offers you much more than just an alternative to a conventional camping tent. With the right technique and equipment, it transforms into a fully-fledged option to a classic bed - and not just outdoors. The unique combination of gentle movement, ergonomic positioning and the special feeling of security makes sleeping in a hammock a very special experience.
Tip for beginners: It's best to start with an afternoon nap. This way you can slowly get used to the new sleeping environment. With a little practice, you won't want to miss your nights in the hammock!
Want more ideas for relaxing moments in nature? Take a look at our other articles and discover the best tips for your outdoor time-out!
Hanging a hammock correctly - how to create the perfect relaxation spot
Camping as natural medicine: Why the outdoor life is so good for us
Wild camping in Germany: What is allowed and where are there penalties?
