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Here at Hammock Life, we know that hammocks provide a unique and refreshing way to enjoy nature and relax.

Many images of people relaxing a hammock are set to a beautiful backdrop of sun and glorious nature. Not many show a hammock in a cold environment.

But if you’re a fan of sleeping in a hammock outside, even here in the UK, you may experience temperatures well into the minuses, which is pretty blooming cold!

When the temperatures drop, things can start to feel a little bit chilly in a hammock, and therefore it’s essential to take precautions to stay warm and comfortable.

We want you to enjoy your stay in a hammock no matter where you are, and that’s why we’ve compiled this list of hints and tips to help keep you warm.

So wrap up, cradle that coffee like it’s gold elixir, and let’s take a look.

How cold is too cold to sleep in a hammock?

Let’s start with the big question.

How cold is too cold to sleep in a hammock?

Well, this is down to personal preference, and some people may be comfortable in frostier weather than others.

If it was up to me, I would draw the line at freezing temperature (and so would some experts) but for the Wim Hof’s of this world, you may want to chance your arm at staying out colder.

While this may seem like an adventure, it could get dangerous, so look after yourself and if you’re well wrapped up and still feeling the chill, try and head for somewhere warmer.

How to Stay Warm in a Hammock

Pick the Right Hammock

When it comes to staying warm in a hammock during cold weather, selecting the appropriate hammock is crucial.

What you need to look for is a hammock armed with insulation features, such as an integrated underquilt or a double-layer design, such as the OneTigris Hideout Hammock.

These hammocks are ideal at keeping your body warm and are designed to trap that precious body heat inside where it can circulate and provide you with some respite from the cold.

But it’s not just frosty temperatures that can give you the chills. The wind is also a major culprit!

If you can get a hammock that provides a tarp or something else for wind protection, then this can leave you feeling a lot more comfortable and much more protected.

Insulate That Hammock

Insulating your hammock is a key factor in staying warm.

We’ve touched on this in the point above, but if you can’t find a hammock with all the accessories needed to keep you feeling toasty, then you may need to find them yourself.

Start by using an underquilt, which is a specialized blanket-like accessory that hangs beneath the hammock, providing insulation from below.

All that warm air that’s about to seep out turns around and head right back at you, which is always a welcome relief on a chilly night.

You can also use a sleeping pad which offers good insulation as well to keep you warm.

If you can squeeze this inbetween you and your sleeping bag, you’re adding another layer to keep the bitter cold away, and on a frosty night, every layer counts!

Dress for the Weather

On the topic of layers, with every layer of clothing you add, you’re sure to find yourself feeling a little warmer.

This starts right from the bottom, with your socks, and ends right at the top with a hat to keep your head warm.

The last thing you want to be in cold weather is wet, as that is when it gets really dangerous, so make sure you are wearing clothes that are moisture resitant and more importantly, dry.

If you do get wet and don’t have a spare change of clothes, your hammocking adventure is over.

Cover up areas prone to heat loss such as your head and hands, and try and purchase some insulating clothing to keep you nice and toasty.

Have the Right Sleeping Gear

We’ve not really touched on the sleeping bag yet, but this is one of the most important aspects of your cold weather hammocking session.

A good sleeping bag is the difference between sulking off inside with your shivering body, and having a warm and cosy night, so it’ can’t be understated.

Something like this mummy shaped bag is ideal as it provides all round protection and even offers a hood to keep your head warm.

It is definitely a good investment to get a high quality bag, as the amount of protection you get from the cold will be multiplied, so don’t scrimp with this one, and look after yourself!

Still feeling cold? Then why not consider using a sleeping bag liner to add extra warmth. Fleece or thermal liners can provide an additional layer of insulation and improve the overall comfort of your sleep despite the icy conditions.

Warm Yourself Up With Water

Believe me, if you don’t prepare a flask for your cold weather hammocking adventure, you will absolutely regret it.

As you’re drifting off to sleep with a chill in your bones, the first thing you will dream of is a warm cup of coffee sliding down your throat and filling you up from within.

Drinking a hot beverage can increase body temperature by over 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a big jump in cold conditions.

Another way to use hot water is inside hot water bottles and hand warmers, so try and prepare some of these to give you some relief during the colder times of your stay. Just be careful with these though, as you don’t want to scold yourself.

Stay Warm Hammock Lovers

My advice is if things get too cold, and you’re done swallowing your coffee, then next on the menu to swallow is your pride.

Cold weather can cause illness, so if you start to feel uncomfortable, do the right thing and get somewhere warm.

If you do want to hammock in cold weather, stick to the guidelines above and you’re sure to be prepared and more importantly safe.

As temperatures drop, have your insulation, clothing, coffees and more at the ready and you’re sure to be able to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors from your canvas at any time of the year.

Want to know more? Then check out our blog.