How much space do I need for a camping hammock?

I’m thinking about trying a hammock setup inside a cargo trailer. I’ve got 9.5 feet of space to work with between my e-track mounting points.

How much distance is typically needed for mounting a hammock?

Also, are there any important things to consider before setting it up? I’m open to tips and tricks!

The exact distance depends on the hammock model, but generally, you’ll need around 10.5 to 13 feet between mounting points. Keep in mind that the rigging might reduce the effective space, so factor that in.

Make sure your mounting points are well-supported. The force applied can be double your body weight depending on the angle. Most trailer structures are designed to handle vertical loads, not lateral force.

Lastly, don’t rely on just a sleeping bag for warmth in a hammock. Without insulation underneath, you’ll get cold even in mild conditions. A closed-cell foam pad can work in warmer temps, but for anything colder, you’ll need an underquilt. There are some great hammock-specific brands like Warbonnet Outdoors for high-quality gear.

@Dorian
Thanks! This is for a racecar trailer, so I can adjust and add hardware as needed. Everything is bolted to the frame across multiple joists, so I think the structure can handle it.

It’s also heated and ventilated, so I’m not too concerned about extreme weather. Temps stay above 60 degrees inside, even at night.

@Lennox
That sounds like a solid setup! With heating, you probably only need a simple camping pad for insulation. For comfort, I prefer spreader-bar hammocks, as they allow for easier side and back sleeping, but asymmetrical hammocks are another good option.

Most adult hammocks are around 11 feet long, with a ridgeline requiring about 109 inches of space. Add another 6 inches per side for carabiners or loops, and 10.5 feet would be the absolute minimum you need.

@Mackenzie
Thanks for the info!

For sleeping, most people prefer an 11-foot hammock, which typically needs 12 feet between mounting points. Some smaller hammocks, like those from Eno, are around 9 feet long but may not be as comfortable for sleeping since you can’t get a flat lay.

You could try making your own hammock. A gathered-end hammock can be shorter than commercial ones. Most store-bought hammocks are 11–12 feet long, but I’ve used shorter ones comfortably. It might be worth experimenting!

Mounting distances depend on the hammock model. Most have a recommended range, so you don’t need to be super precise. Hammocks are awesome once you get the hang of them!

@Jo
Thankfully, it’s heated, so cold temps aren’t an issue. The biggest challenge has been dealing with heat in the summer and needing fans.

Could you hang the hammock diagonally? If your trailer is 7 feet wide and 9.5 feet long, the diagonal is around 11.8 feet. Otherwise, it might be a tight fit.

Palmer said:
Could you hang the hammock diagonally? If your trailer is 7 feet wide and 9.5 feet long, the diagonal is around 11.8 feet. Otherwise, it might be a tight fit.

Actually, 9.5 feet is the diagonal. It’s an 8-foot-wide trailer with a 5-foot length on the e-track, which is supported horizontally by a tire rack and shelf. I’m looking for alternatives to my air mattress setup since my back doesn’t agree with it after a few days. I might need to install additional e-tracks, but it’s good to know what to plan for.

Plan for 13 to 16 feet if possible.