NEMO: Deals

What capacity tent do you need?  

• How many are in your group? Tents vary in size from 2- to 8-person. 
• Assume a close fit for the number of people your tent is designed to accommodate. If you need more space for dogs and gear, size up. 

Choose the seasonality 

• 3-season tents are great shelters for most of the year. They have ample mesh for good airflow and can withstand basic downpours. 
• 3+- season tents are a little sturdier, and with less mesh, and are warmer than their 3-season cousins. 
• 4-season tents are engineered to handle high winds and other severe weather. This can make them stuffy in warm weather. 

Decide on key features 

• Peak height: Look for a taller peak height if you want to stand up in the tent.  
• Floor length: Can you fully lie down if you’re tall? Will it fit your cot or air mattress? 
• Doors: If multiple people are sleeping in the tent, you might want more than one door for more convenient access. 

What size hammock is best for you? 

• Single: Lighter for backpacking but less spacious.
• Double: Two people can share or one person to spread out. 
• Length: Look for a hammock that is at least 2 feet longer than your height.
• Weight capacity: Check to make sure it suits your needs.

Consider accessories:

• Underquilts offer great insulation for hammock camping in cooler weather.
• Rain tarps, hung above the hammock, protect you from the elements.  
• Bug nets: Look for models with 360-degree protection and “no-see-um” netting. 

Should you consider a hammock tent? 

• Pros: Generally lighter and more compact than a traditional tent, doesn't require level ground and has less impact on ground vegetation.
• Cons: Won’t work without sturdy trees, colder and less rainproof than a traditional tent, and have minimal interior storage.  

Liner uses

• Backpacking: A mummy-shaped liner can add 5° to 15°F of warmth to your bag. It also helps your bag last longer by protecting it from dirt and body oils.

• Traveling: A rectangular liner separates you from unclean bedding. 

Liner materials

• Silk: Very light, compact and insulates in cold weather. Absorbent and breathable in warm weather. Price: moderate to expensive. 
• Cotton: Strong, durable, absorbent. Not the lightest or most compact. Price: economical. 
• Fleece and microfleece: Warmer, heavier, soft, moisture-wicking, quick-drying. Mid- and heavyweight varieties are bulky. Price: moderate. 
• Synthetics: Moisture-wicking, breathable, stretchy. Price: moderate. 
• Insulated: Adds enough warmth to greatly extend the temp range of a lightweight bag. Price: moderate to expensive.