The Warbonnet Blackbird XLC is one of the most comfortable backpacking hammocks on the market, and it’s particularly popular with thru-hikers because of its ultralight design. Some of the details that make the Blackbird our go-to include the asymmetrical cut, the large shelf panel for gear storage, and the ability to zip in a top cover for cold weather. When you order yours, you’ll have the option of a single layer or double layer Blackbird. The double-layer design increases the max weight capacity and allows you to use a sleeping pad with your hammock. We use the single-layer because it weighs less, and we prefer to use an underquilt instead of a pad when hammocking. If you’re looking for a top-quality ultralight hammock for backpacking, the Blackbird is your guy.

The extra-wide ENO DoubleNest is roomy and tough enough to fit two people comfortably, so it’s awesome for lounging around camp with a pal. It comes in a bunch of fun color combinations for showing off your personal style, and it’s incredibly easy to set up using the included carabiners. Straps aren’t included, though, so be sure to pick up some Atlas Straps (or Atlas XL Straps for extra length) if you’re planning to string it up between trees instead of on a hammock stand. We recommend the Doublenest for those who want the option to pair up while relaxing in a casual setting like the park, the beach, or on car camping trips. For solo hammockers, check out the Eno Singlenest or the ultralight ENO Sub6.

The Hummingbird Single is incredibly lightweight and compact, so you can take it pretty much anywhere. We like bringing the Single (and Hummingbird’s Ultralight Tree Straps) along with us as a luxury item on backpacking trips, so we have a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the views. It’s not as wide as some other hammocks, so it’s not our first choice to sleep in. But if you just need something simple for relaxing on a trail break, you’ll love the Hummingbird Single. If you want a little extra room for integrating into a complete overnight kit, check out the Hummingbird Single+ (116 x 63 in) or the Hummingbird Double (116 x 85 in). Check out our full review of the Hummingbird Single and Tree Straps here.

Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced hammock backpacker, you’ll appreciate that the Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker Asym Zip comes complete with everything you need to hit the trail. Setting up the Backpacker requires some knowledge of simple knots, but once you get the hang of it the whole system goes up in a matter of minutes. The asymmetrical shape allows you to easily lay flat, and the bug mesh can be conveniently clipped back for stargazing. Overall, the Ultralight Backpacker hammock is an excellent value since you’re getting everything you need for overnighting, and it’s been a favorite with thru-hikers and casual backpackers alike for many years.

The Skeeter Beeter Pro is a good budget buy for people looking to dip a toe into hammock camping without spending a large chunk of change. It’s designed with a built-in no-see-um mesh canopy to protect against insects, and you can flip the whole hammock over to use it without the canopy if bugs aren’t a problem. The weight is also relatively low – especially for the price – but you’ll need to add a tarp and a suspension system to make it backpacking ready. The Skeeter Beeter Pro is an excellent choice whether you’re looking for a starter camping hammock or you need a comfy retreat in a buggy backyard.

The ENO Skyloft is perfect for those wanting a backyard lounger or a luxurious place to snooze on car camping trips. It’s designed with spreader bars at the head and foot to give you plenty of room to sprawl without the sides closing in on you. This unique hammock also allows you to switch between two modes: relax and sleep. Sleep mode gives you the perfect flat lay for napping, and pulling the cords at the head raises you up into the more upright relax mode for enjoying conversation or reading a book. The Skyloft is the créme de la créme if you’re looking for an ultra comfy place to hang around camp.

The Sea to Summit Pro Hammock is an excellent value since it packs down super small in its included compression sack, it’s lightweight, and it comes with straps. On top of that, it’s incredibly strong with a high max weight capacity of 400 lbs. – pretty impressive for such a lightweight piece of gear. The included buckle suspension system takes some getting used to, but it’s simple to set up once you get the hang of it and very durable. The Pro Hammock is great for park hangs and car camping, but it’s also light and compact enough for backpacking if you pick up a tarp and bug net to complete the kit.

The Dutchware Chameleon is very appropriately named, because it can adapt to so many different situations. The innovative design allows you to transform this hammock from a bugproof summer haven to a toasty cold-weather shell in a matter of minutes by zipping in different accessories. The Chameleon has a ton of options for customization as well, like adding a shelf or a gear sling on the side. And while the custom process can be a little complex, Dutchware provides helpful descriptions and videos to walk you through the selection process. The Chameleon is the ultimate versatile system for serious hammock backpackers who hang no matter the trail conditions.

Have you ever been in the backcountry and had to hike extra miles after a long day just to find a flat place to set up camp? Well, the Lawson Blue Ridge solves this common problem since it can be hung between trees or used on the ground like a large bivy. And while it does have a low peak height in bivy mode, the versatility is a huge plus in areas where your route alternates between thick forest and mountain ridges above treeline. The Blue Ridge is a little heavier and bulkier than some of our favorite backpacking hammocks, but the value is hard to beat since you’re getting two different shelter options for the price of one.

If you’re wanting a truly unique camping experience, look no further than the Tentsile Connect 3.0. The Connect is a tent that you hang like a hammock, which gives you a great vantage point for epic views and provides some really nice airflow to keep you cool on hot nights. You’ll need a large area and three well-positioned trees to string this baby up, so it can be a little more difficult to use. But once you’ve found the ideal spot, the ratchet strap system is easy to get the hang of. There are a lot of details that make the Connect super comfortable to spend time in, like a hanging tablet pouch for watching movies during rain and a divider with six pockets at the head to keep your space tidy. While the Tentsile is spendy, it’s worth the cost for the one-of-a-kind camping experience it provides.