10 Best Hammock Bug Nets for Camping & Backpacking Reviewed

Sleeping in the open night air under the stars sounds like a dream come true. You can make your desire come true with a hammock, only to learn that the flip side of your dream is a  terrible nightmare. Mosquitoes, gnats, no-see-ums, ticks, spiders… all of the creepiest crawlers make your sleeping experience a nightmare.

Forget about sleeping in a suffocating cloud of DEET or a haze of mosquito repellent. You want to be able to enjoy your midnight trip, after all. 

A bug net comes in handy in this situation. You can save your skin and preserve your outdoor sleeping experiences for years to come with the best hammock insect net on the market. First, you must determine which bug net is best suited to your requirements. 

The 2 Different Hammock Bug Net Options

As you can see, not all bug nets for hammocks are created equal! The difference between built-in insect nets and separate/individually offered bug nets is one of the most important distinctions you’ll notice. I’ll go over the two categories in detail below:

Built-In Bug Net Hammock

Insect nets are already linked to hammocks with built-in bug nets. They’re essentially cocoons, with a stitched/zippered-on net over the hammock. These are quite convenient and offer excellent protection from the sky.

Mozzies, on the other hand, are known to attack from beneath! They’ll bite through the hammock fabric if there’s no netting on underneath. A hammock with a mosquito net, on the other hand, can be inconvenient if you just want to use it occasionally (without a net above you).

If you want an unobstructed view, you could lay on the netting itself, but you risk destroying it. 

Standalone Hammock Bug Net

Stand-alone/separate budgets for hammocks overcome the aforementioned problems. They’re difficult to use and need more effort to set up. You, on the other hand, are protected from all pests.

These nets completely enclose your hammock, keeping mozzies at bay. When there aren’t any bugs around, you may take advantage of the adaptability of a traditional hammock. If/when they arrive, you can pitch the net to keep them out.

Best Bug Nets for Hammock Camping and Backpacking

Let’s get to the question at hand: the top 10 hammock insect nets we recommend for your camping needs. 

ENO Guardian Bug Net

This 360-degree netting with a 950-square-inch no-see-um netting is the perfect bug net for ENO hammocks. The ultra-fine surrounding netting keeps bugs out from every angle, which is the ultimate goal of any insect net. 

• Perfect for individuals who wish to stay as far away from bugs as possible, including no-see-ums.
• It includes everything you’ll need to have the finest bug hammock net experience possible.

But what makes it stand out and propels it to the top of our list? The bug net is of excellent quality, and hikers say they are prepared to put up with a few additional ounces for the added coverage. 

Wecamture Hammock Bug Mosquito Net

The Wecamture is distinguished by its extra-long length, which is intended to cover you from head to toe, metaphorically speaking.

As a result, it’s suited for the average hammock, which can range in length from 9 to 14 feet, and both single and double hammocks can use its distinctive diagonal lay feature.

It’s made of superfine mesh netting, which is both sturdy and lightweight. It will keep the pests out without making you suffocate. This net’s 360-degree protection means it can shield your complete body and has been jungle-tested for quality and performance.

This means it can keep up with both crawling and flying insects. 

For traveling and hiking, this lightweight mosquito net is extremely lightweight, small, and easy to pack. It’s well-ventilated, and you can see the outside world via the windows.

ENO – Eagles Nest Outfitters Guardian SL Bug Net

Among Eno hammocks, this is the greatest bug mosquito net as it gives you a sense of security while camping, trekking, or backpacking. You may sleep well knowing that your entire body is shielded from annoying insects and that you will not wake up with bug bites.

You may use this net to create your own ‘no-fly zone’ free of all bugs because of the 70D Nylon Taffeta material. Even no-see-ums have been proved to be kept out thanks to the superfine mesh design.

This net is great for travelers and hikers because it weighs only 13 ounces and is so small that it will fit neatly into your rucksack. It’s also simple to set up in a short amount of time, preventing bugs from infiltrating the system while it’s being set up. 

This net is a terrific method to ensure a comfortable camping experience no matter where you are or what activities you have planned, and it also works well as an ENO hammock bug net. 

Outdoor Vitals Ultralight

Outdoor Vitals may not be as specialized as some of its competitors, but that didn’t stop us from selecting it as the finest waterproof mosquito net. The Outdoor Vitals Ultralight does this by using a 15D nylon fabric foundation with a polyurethane DWR waterproof covering. 

Even better, with a mesh net constructed of 20D nylon, this bug net is one of the more durable designs we’ve seen. Outdoor Vitals outdid themselves by producing this model, one of the largest we saw at 11’ or 10’ x 3’6’.

However, the latter half of these metrics indicate a fault, as it has substantially less headroom than some of its competitors. It can also be difficult to set up, as it requires you to close the insect net while inside the netting and in your hammock, which may be problematic for shorter individuals.

Nonetheless, the Outdoor Vitals Ultralight is a more cost-effective alternative on our list, with its overall sturdy construction adding value much beyond the retail price. As if that weren’t enough, it’s extremely lightweight, weighing only 8.2oz or 7.6oz, depending on the model you choose. 

In comparison to its competitors, the Outdoor Vitals Ultralight checks so many boxes in terms of durability, waterproofing, weight, and size that its value is virtually unquestionable. 

Wise Owl Outfitters SnugNet

The Wise Owl Outfitters SnugNet features an earthy style with its two-tone netting, zipper, and trim color scheme that works well for fashionable campers. 

• Color schemes that go well with your hammock. 
• A large 30ft ridgeline and a waterproof stuff sack

On black netting, choose from orange, red, or blue trim. In terms of size, this is one of the largest nets, with lots of headroom. The netting has a 30-foot ridgeline and is 11 feet long, making it wide enough to cover even the largest hammocks.

Foxelli XL

Foxelli, unlike most of its competitors, does not specialize in hammocks or hammock accessories, which is possibly why its XL mosquito netting for hammock use is so inexpensive. This low cost does not appear to impair the total value, as it does with a few other budget-friendly models.

The Foxelli XL, for example, is the largest model in our collection, at 12’ x 4’4 12”. While the size allows for more inner space and headroom, it also means that the Foxelli XL is the only choice we tested that can accommodate a double hammock.

However, with an 11” x 9 45” profile, this hammock insect net suffers from the same size concerns as other larger models, as it does not compact down as well. To make matters worse, the Foxelli XL is one of the heaviest varieties, weighing about 1 pound, making it unsuitable for hiking.

Despite this, the Foxelli XL is fairly sturdy, thanks to its reliable twin zippers and reinforced double-stitched seams. It’s also more user-friendly than others, thanks to knot-free cable locks.

As the widest choice we’ve examined, the Foxelli XL lives up to its name as the only model on our list that can actually offer bug protection in a double hammock.

Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net

The Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net is built of a proprietary material called DragonetTM no-see-um mesh and is one of the more minimalistic nets on the market. The innovative mesh material is both fashionable and functional as an insect deterrent.

For the quality, you’ll have to pay a premium. This material provides strong security while also allowing the insect net to be one of the lightest at 9.8 ounces. The hammock net is white granite in color. Furthermore, this mid-priced hammock insect net will not set you back an excessive amount of money. 

Sea to Summit Hammock Bug Net

This Sea to Summer insect net is another light-colored bug net offered at REI. It weighs slightly over 13 ounces and is constructed of polyester mesh.

Designed to be used in conjunction with Sea to Summit hammocks.

There’s no need for a ridgeline, and the light-colored mesh won’t block your view.

Because of the attached spreader pole, it’s another mid-priced insect net that’s more focused on convenience. The best feature of this insect net, though, has to be the fact that you can see through it.

Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian Base Camp

This is the kingpin for campers that require a lot of space as well as bug protection. With dimensions of 111 inches by 57 inches by 50 inches, the ENO Guardian Base Camp insect net is the largest of the top ten. It’s easy to get in and out of the hammock without having to exit the net.

Due to the additional weight, it is best suited for camping. If you have children or dogs that will be reclining inside, it has plenty of space. Furthermore, it is compatible with all Eagle’s Nest Outfitters hammocks, regardless of size. 

Chill Gorilla Defender Bug Net

The Chill Gorilla Defender is a large bug net system made specifically for large hammocks. The net is 9 to 14 feet long, which is more than enough to cover most hammocks.

The netting is made of superfine no-see-um mesh, which provides the best level of protection against biting insects. 

Hammocks ranging in length from 9 to 14 feet are spacious and friendly. A vertical zipper allows you to get in and out of your hammock quickly.

The Defender hangs from a paracord line with strong plastic clips above your hammock and is adjustable on the ends for a proper fit. It’s as simple as zipping the middle vertical zipper to get in and out of your hammock. On Amazon right now, the Chill Gorilla Defended is the finest affordable hammock insect net.

How to Use Your Bug Net

It’s simple to keep the bugs out of your hammock while you sleep in the summer if you know how to utilize your hammock bug net properly. Away from the water and wet weather, set up camp. Mosquitoes breed everywhere there is water.

Thus, wherever there is water, there are mosquitoes. You’ll be better off if you can stay away from a river, pond, swamp, or damp soil.

Permethrin should be sprayed on your bug net. This is a non-toxic bug repellent that also works on fabrics. By spraying your insect net with this product, you can keep the bugs at bay, which is useful when opening and closing the netting.

After all, you’ll be able to keep them out after the net is closed, but there’s always the possibility they’ll slip in before you close the door.  Then you’re stuck with a noisy flier.

When using your bug net, make sure you secure it properly according to the directions. Ropes are used in certain nets, whereas a spreader pole and carabiners are used in others. Follow the directions and make use of all of the included gadgets and gizmos.

Shake out your insect net after you’ve finished using it to get rid of any lingering offenders. To avoid tears or holes in the netting, roll it up gently, especially if you’re using polyester mesh.

Hammock Bug Net Buyer’s Guide

Every bug net on the market has its own set of features and perks that help it stand out from the crowd. While certain insect nets are better than others in general, you must eventually choose a style that best suits your needs.

Are you a minimalist traveler looking to keep your load as light as possible? Do you prefer to choose the most cost-effective brand? After all, even if you save a lot of money on a hammock insect net, if it doesn’t do the job you need it to do, you’ve wasted your money.

Consider the following important features found in this marketplace to help you decide what you need in a bug net.

Coverage size

The Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian SL 108 inches x 36 inches to the Unigear Insect Net 132 inches x 55 inches are the greatest hammock bug net sizes. That’s the difference between 9 and 11 feet and 3 to 4.5 feet in length. Is it necessary to get a hammock net that precisely fits your hammock? No, but you should make sure it will fit in your hammock and isn’t too small.

One solution is to purchase a bug net that is larger than you require for stretching out in your hammock. Furthermore, if you have a double hammock, you will need a net that is longer in length and width to accommodate two hammocks. 

Mesh vs. no-see-um netting

The mesh is the most important feature of any bug hammock. Mesh or no-see-um netting are two common forms of mesh. Breathability is the difference between mesh and no-see-um netting. A mesh netting, often known as mosquito netting, on the other hand, is very densely woven.

The wind, like the no-see-ums, can’t get through. This means that in warmer settings, you are more likely to become overheated and humidified. 

Of course, this is where you’ll find most of the insects you’re trying to stay away from. If you’re traveling to a place where there are a lot of little biting insects, the choice is between no bugs and no breeze.

One approach is to use no-see-um netting just at night when the temperatures are cooler and mosquito netting during the day when the temperatures are hotter. 

Fabrics

The fabrics for insect nets are comprised of nylon taffeta, polyester, and DragonetTM, a Kammok-exclusive material. The materials come in a variety of price ranges. For example, both the Unigear Bug Net and the Sea to Summit Bug Net are composed of polyester mesh and cost $30 and $70, respectively.

Weight

Bug nets range in weight from 9.8 ounces for the Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net to 2 pounds and 12 ounces for the Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian Base Camp. Backcountry campers and hikers who want to keep their weight and capacity low are concerned about weight.

The lighter the insect net, the better, but you should also consider how compact the net is. Bug nets with a compression bag are a good choice because they conserve space in your pack. 

Weight to strength ratio of bug nets

For campers, hikers, and backpackers alike, size and weight are two of the most important factors to consider. Because of the limited space in your bag, everything must be tiny and light (and highly functional).

This is when your hammock insect nets’ strength and durability are proportional to their weight. In other words, heavier nets tend to weigh more, whereas lighter netting is more likely to break. 

Color choice

The color range of the finest hammock insect net is pretty limited. White, dark gray, or black are the most common color choices. Choose a lighter color because you’re seeking a summertime dozing insect net.

The dark colors just absorb sunlight’s heat. Your hammock and bug net will resemble a toaster oven as a result of this.

Look for the Kammok Dragonfly Hammock Bug Net, Serac Camp Hammock Insect Net, or Sea to Summit Hammock Bug Net if a white bug net is what you prefer. Because the white hammock is not as frequent or as inexpensive to use by businesses, these are your mid-priced bug nets.

As a result, the remaining insect nets on this top ten list are created in darker colors. 

Accessorizing

A hammock insect net can be customized with a variety of accessories to enhance its functionality. Carabiners are used to attach the net without utilizing ropes, and a compression sack is used to reduce the size of the confined netting.

You’ll need a guyline, ridgeline, and rope in addition to your bug net if you’re using ropes to attach it. Collapsible spreader poles are another useful item for making netting installation easier and faster.

Quality & price

The top-rated hammock bug nets are priced between $30 to $125. For some campers and hikers, saving money is the most important factor. Fortunately, there are a number of excellent and reasonably priced insect nets available.

Furthermore, if you have the patience and endurance to wait for a sale, you can discover fantastic deals on select brands at both physical and online camping equipment stores. 

Mosquito netting hammock treatment

Some mosquito nets come pre-treated with permethrin. This is completely harmless for people, but it kills bugs when they come into touch with it. Insects that try to get into your hammock won’t be able to stay for long.

That’s good news if you ever need to get out of your hammock and undo the net’s closure. Insects that are looking for a way in will struggle to do so without incurring the repercussions. 

Net style

Once you’ve decided on the mesh type for your net, it’s important to choose the net style that best suits your needs. There are three sorts of bug nets to consider in general:

• Bug Sock: Bug sock nets are the most basic choice available, and they are lightweight defenses against pesky insects. These nets are simple to use and slide over your sleeping space, encasing it like a sock. On the downside, they’re a pain to get in and out of because you have to deconstruct the netting when you need to use the restroom at night.
• Zippered: As the name implies, zippered nets offer the same level of protection as sock-style ones, but with the added benefit of a huge zipper for simple ingress. Zippered variants provide a decent compromise between convenience and utility, although being a little heavier than their sock-style siblings. 
• Tent: Tent-style nets are made to completely surround your sleeping space, like the Eagles Nest Guardian Base Camp. They’re typically pitched from your ridgeline and come with a floor to provide complete pest protection. The disadvantage is that they are sometimes fairly heavy and thick, making them unsuitable for travel.

Bug net assembly/pitching ease

Finally, consider how simple it would be to pitch the net itself. When you’re surrounded by biting insects, it’s never fun to spend hours putting up a hammock and net. Suspension should be as easy and uncomplicated as possible.

What If I Need to Protect Something Other Than the Hammock? 

Naturally, a hammock mosquito net simply covers the hammock. A separate bug net can be moved and set up in various locations, giving you greater flexibility in terms of what you wish to protect from bugs. A hammock net is placed around the hammock particularly.

The hammock’s underside is frequently left exposed. While it may not appear to be a concern at first glance, pests may bite through the nylon. Nylon is one of the most commonly used fabrics in hammocks, so you can see where the problem lies. As a result, a specialized hammock bug net, which is more frequently constructed of polyester, is a better solution. 

Tips and Tricks

Once you’ve pitched a hammock a few times, you’ll have a decent notion of what to look for in a camping location, but in the meantime, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Always inspect your anchor points for sturdiness and keep an eye out for dead hanging branches, sometimes known as “widow makers,” that could fall on you in the middle of the night.
• Before you go out into the wilderness, learn a few simple knots. 
• To discover an angle that works for you, experiment with different sleeping positions and line tightness.
• The distance between tie-off points will vary depending on the length of your hammock, but remember to add a meter or two on each side for the tree straps. 
• I like my bed to be rather high off the ground, but you may tie your hammock straps anywhere between your waist and shoulder height.
• Your roof can be as high as you want it to be, but I usually knot the ridgeline just above head height or a foot above the hammock. This provides appropriate wind and weather protection while still allowing the hammock netting to hang freely.
• If your hammock’s base is close to the ground, be wary of sharp items that could rip the fabric.
• If you live in a country where the mosquitos look like those in the movie “Jumanji,” you may wish to treat the cloth (not the netting) with bug spray for added mosquito protection.

Is a camping hammock comfortable?

Except for spreader bars, which are formed of a net strung between two horizontal bars and are not particularly comfortable, canvas or nylon hammocks are the finest for sleeping. When you lay down, they encircle you and make you feel like you’re in a cocoon.

Sleeping in a hammock, contrary to popular belief, is not detrimental to your back or neck. In reality, most people believe you can’t sleep flat since there’s an easy way to escape being imprisoned by the hammock’s curvature: simply lie across.

In addition, a study found that the slight swaying motion of the hammock helps people fall into a deep slumber faster (it is related to the time when we were rocked by our mother to fall asleep).

Can mosquitoes bite through hammocks?

Mosquitoes can bite through the fabric of your hammock, even if it has a built-in insect net, so you’ll need something at the bottom to keep them out, such as a self-inflating sleeping pad or your sleeping bag.