By: Hugh Stapleton | hugh.stapleton@activecities.com

Hammocks, the ultimate tool of sleep-craft and relaxation since ancient times, have found a reawakening in the modern age. Today hammocks can be found in the backpacks and bags of all types of active and outdoor enthusiasts, from hardcore hikers to fun-seeking festival goers. With new fabrics that allow for improved compact designs, more and more people are purchasing portable hammocks and taking them on the go, paving the way for “mobile hammocking” to become the next great recreational activity.

Due to the versatility of portable hammocks, people have found very creative ways (and places) to use them. As hammocking has grown in popularity, more young, ingenious, and sometimes reckless hammockers are unlocking the potential of this simple device. Here are some fun ways you can be active with your hammock and enjoy everything this growing trend has to offer.

HIKE TO A SERENE DESTINATION

Hiking is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore nature, as a social activity or a way to clear the mind. Turn your hiking trip into a hunt for the perfect view to enjoy. Pack light and allow yourself to take in nature at its fullest by focusing on the essentials. Whether you are camping, hiking using the Best Brightest Headlamps  is always an essential travel item. What better way to top off a great hike than strapping up your hammock and enjoying some amazing scenes provided by Mother Nature?

TAKE THEM TO A CONCERT OR FESTIVAL

Festival hammocking has erupted in popularity, with show goers young and old ditching tents that heat up in the morning hours in favor of the more comfortable shade between two trees. Building a web of hammocks with your friends creates an exciting alternative base camp. The mobility of these hammocks also allows festival goers to move right up to the edge of stages and enjoy the music in maximum comfort.

PAIR UP WITH A CLOSE FRIEND OR COMPANION

Portable hammocks come in sizes meant for one as well as two. Grab your best friend or companion and hike up to a secluded spot to watch the sunset in cozy comfort.

STACK ‘EM

Stringing them up one right on top of another can turn hammocking into a social event. Weaving a web with your friends provides an easy way to get close enough to share snacks or a conversation, or a fun way to cool down after an adventurous day. Pack a pair of portable speakers and you’ve got a nature party in the makings!

STACK ‘EM HIGH

REAL HIGH

Hammockers are active people at their core, and despite it being a relatively stationary hobby, things can get pretty crazy if you put your mind to it. Build it up, get extreme and see how many people you can stack at once!

PUT THEM ON A SLACKLINE

Slack-lining is the more active cousin to hammocking. It involves balancing on and walking across a thin strip of nylon, usually slung low across the ground between two trees, in a show of agility and prowess. Fixing your hammock to a slack-line gives you the ability to anchor at two points that are further away than normal straps can reach, giving you the ability to set up over a stream, ravine or trees that are spread far apart.

OR TOTALLY LOSE YOUR MIND

Some adrenaline junkies have pushed the limits with their hammocks, doing unthinkable things such as suspending between two massive cliffs. Definitely not recommended for the faint-hearted.

Portable hammocks have garnered an expanding following of people who want a comfortable way to enjoy some of their favorite outdoor activities. Whether it be with a group of friends, by yourself or with your significant other, get your hands on a hammock and join the growing craze!