Oh, the hammock. The epitome of comfort and relaxation when it comes to the outdoors. Nothing beats hanging out with friends, reading a book or just listening to music in a comfy hammock. But what about hammock camping? Is sleeping in a hammock really the best way to go? Let's discuss the pros and cons.

1. Less to setup and tear down

No matter how experienced you are at setting up and taking down tents, it can still feel pretty tedious. There's always a pole that doesn't want to connect, or a stake that can't stay in the ground. With hammock camping, having a comfy place to sleep is as easy as slinging your straps around a tree and hopping in.

2. Easy access to a beautiful view 

Sleeping in a hammock means you're immersed in the trees, stars and nature around you. Just stick out your head to see your beautiful surroundings and the view.

3. Avoid any wet or uneven ground

You have a thin layer of protection from the ground in a tent, but in a hammock, you have a foot or two of separation. With your body off the ground, you'll be more comfortable while sleeping and less stiff the next day.

1. You may be a little too close to nature

Yes- it's awesome to be up close and personal with Mother Earth while hanging in a hammock. But without a tent, you lose a layer of protection from bugs, rain, wind, etc. 

2. Your essentials may not be easily accessible 

In a tent, it's easy to keep track of your phone, a water bottle, keys, a book, etc. In a hammock, however, these items usually loosely float around or end up on the ground.

3. You might not want to get up

We'll say it one more time: hammocks are super comfortable and relaxing. When morning rolls around, you might want to forget that 10-mile hike you had planned and just stay in your hammock all day.

Well- there you have it. Some positives and negatives when it comes to hammock camping. Is it the best way to camp? We'll let you determine that for yourselves, and let us know what you think in the comments!