A Buyer’s Guide – In-Line vs Spreader Bar Hammocks

A hammock can be a quite a useful addition to your camping must-haves. It’s light, portable and easy to set up. Plus, depending on the kind of hammock that you’ll be using, you can change your entire camping experience. Take a tree tent, for example. Instead of camping using the traditional tent, use a tree tent and enjoy sleeping right under the stars.

Hammocks come in various shapes, sizes and purpose. You might ask yourself whether you should get an in-line hammock or a spreader bar hammock. First things first, let’s define what an in-line hammock is and how is it different from the spreader bar type.

 
WHAT IS AN IN-LINE HAMMOCK?

An in-line hammock is exactly as the name suggests: it’s a hammock that’s hung on a line. Instead of having to hang a hammock between a couple trees as you do with the traditional hammock, you can put up one cable up and hang a few hammocks from it. Ideally, the cable should be suspended around 6 to 7 feet off the ground, and the suspension points should be at least 10 to 15 feet apart, but there’s no real limit here.

Look at this image of adventurous campers in Monte Piana, Italy.

(photo grabbed from Mirror.co.uk)

As long as you follow all the safety precautions and make sure that the equipment is in peak condition, you should be able to hang the cable up however you’d like. You may have seen it on a camping page where people sleep in their own in-line hammocks, suspended off a body of water or a cliff. That’s completely possible and safe if you know what you’re doing, and it’s one of the most exciting ways to spend your camping trip.

ADVANTAGES OF IN-LINE HAMMOCKS

• Enjoy raw camping experience - Camping using an in-line hammock can be the most rewarding experience you can have. Imagine sleeping above a beautiful lake, with nothing but the clear skies and the bright stars above you. It’s a scenario that no real camper can say no to. What’s more is that there are all sorts of in-line hammock types that cater to every camper’s needs. These come with different aesthetic styles and intended purposes.

• Excellent back support - Additionally, with the right model for your body type and size, an in-line hammock offers a sufficient level of back support. If you’re a frequent camper, you know that sleeping on the ground in a regular tent can give you a bad case of back sore afterward, but that won’t be a problem if you choose the right hammock for your body. Plus, they also come in all sizes, so whether you’re looking to enjoy a trip with the entire family, with your partner, or by yourself, there’s an in-line hammock model that can satisfy all of your camping needs.

Here is another image of daredevils camping in Bismantova, Italy.

(photo grabbed from ticketothemoon.com)

WHAT IS A SPREADER BAR HAMMOCK?

The spreader bar hammock is the usual kind that most people would think of whenever one would mention a hammock. This type is usually made of cotton, nylon, and even wool, and it is practically a rectangle-shaped piece of woven fabric that can be strung up between two suspension points.

ADVANTAGES OF SPREADER BAR HAMMOCKS

• Simple, Convenient and User-Friendly - These hammocks are simple, functional, comfortable, and easy to set up.

• Highly Versatile and Portable. All you need to carry with you are the hooks or suspenders and the actual hammock, and you’re all set. If you’re worried about not finding the optimal suspension points at your campsite, you can also bring a hammock stand with you to ensure that you can put it up anywhere. A hammock stand is usually a set of poles that you can hook your hammock onto. No matter what type of campground you’re going to, you can be sure that you can put up a spreader bar hammock without any issue. Plus, you won’t have to be restricted by the cramped space of the tent, as you can simply put a cover onto the hammock and create a perfect little room for you to sleep in.

SO, WHICH ONE IS THE BEST TYPE FOR ME?

IT DEPENDS. There are different things that one should consider before they choose to buy an in-line or a spreader bar hammock. In general, these two possess the same versatility, comfort, style, and benefit of the usual hammocks. But, if you’re looking for one that’s easiest and simplest to use, then go for the spreader bar hammocks. They don’t require a lot of space, and they’re much more practical to set up. All you have to do is connect the hammock to the hooks or suspensions and attach it to the hammock stand or a tree, and you’re all set.

Compared to the in-line hammock, you will have to make sure that the equipment is in peak quality and the installation process is correct to ensure you and your companion’s safety. Simply put, if you’re a novice camper, get the spreader bar hammock. Else, for experienced and adventure seeking campers, get the in-line hammocks.

In the end, it all comes down to how you’re planning to use the hammock. If you want an easy and comfortable addition to your camping trip, a spreader bar hammock is the best way to go. On the other hand, if you’re down for an extra bit of hard work that will pay off in a unique and memorable camping adventure, then an in-line hammock is your best bet.

Where else can you get the best, high-quality hammocks in town? WeDoHammocks offer numerous options when it comes to hammock of all shapes and sizes. We have regular hammocks, hammock stands, hammock stand sets, hammock tents, and hammock chairs. Check out our store or send us a message and let us help you choose the right hammock for you.