Ive been debating whether to take a tent or a hammock for my thru-hike attempt. Ive come up with the following pro/con list but I have some questions that I hope experienced hammock users can shed light on. I did purchase a Hennessy Ultralite Backpacker Asym Classic with the Supershelter Insulation System from a friend but Ive only used it once so far (due to full-time school and work schedules).
Hammock Pros
- Lighter than tent
- More comfortable
- Cooler in summer months
- Can set sup anywhere, just need two trees
- Breaking camp is faster
Hammock Cons
- Can be heavier than tent when prepared for cold temps (UQ, insulation system, heavier sleeping bag, rainfly, wear more layers)
- Sleep colder than in tent
- Easier to get soaked in bad weather (winds/torrential downpour)
Tent Pros
- Always used it so its what Im familiar with
- Protection from the elements (downpours, winds)
- Warmer in cold temps
- Less need for a lower rated sleeping bag
Tent Cons
- More stuff to carry thus heavier than hammock (tent, footprint, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, stakes)
- Must be on level or near level ground
- Breaking camp is slower
- More uncomfortable than hammock
Questions:
1. If you decided to hammock on the AT, why did you choose to do so? And would you do it again?
2. How did you deal with the colder temps at night or high elevations?
3. What did you do with your pack? Bring it in the hammock with you or leave it outside? What if it rains that night? (Sorry, silly question I know but I always wondered)
4. Did you experience really bad weather and how did the hammock & yourself hold up? (Rain, wind)
5. Did you bring a sleeping pad anyway? I debating whether I should in case I need/want to sleep in a shelter one night.
6. Did you send your cold weather items home when it got warmer and picked them up again up north or did you carry everything until the end just in case? Which is the wiser option?
6. Am I overthinking this? haha