Under Quilts or Sleeping Pads - Which is Better?

Imagine you're out camping in the middle of nowhere. You've hiked for miles and finally, find the perfect spot to set up camp and relax for the evening. You pull out your hammock, string it up between two trees, and lay down... only to find that you're immediately cold! The air is chilly and the ground is even colder, seeping up through the hammock and making your backside feel like ice. In that moment, you wished you had remembered to pack some sort of insulation for your hammock!

There are two main types of insulation for hammocks - under quilts and sleeping pads. Both serve the same purpose, which is to keep you warm while you're sleeping in your hammock, but they work in slightly different ways.

In this blog, we will go over the pros and cons of both under quilts and sleeping pads, so you can stay warm on your next camping trip!

Under quilts

Under quilts are exactly what they sound like - a blanket that goes underneath your hammock. They are typically hung from the hammock itself, using either hooks or straps, and provide insulation by trapping heat close to your body.

Under quilts come in a variety of different materials, including down and synthetic. Down is a great insulator because it is lightweight and compressible, making it easy to pack. Synthetic under quilts is a great alternative for those who are allergic to down or want a more budget-friendly option.

One of the main benefits of under quilts is that they are very easy to set up and take down. Most under quilts come with straps that attach directly to your hammock, so all you have to do is hang the quilt and you're good to go!

Another benefit of under quilts is that they provide a barrier between you and the cold ground, which can make a big difference in how warm you stay during the night.

The downside of under quilts is that they can be expensive, and they are not always necessary. If you are camping in warmer weather or if you have a sleeping bag that is rated for cold weather, an under quilt may not be necessary.

Sleeping pads

Sleeping pads are another type of insulation for hammocks. Unlike under quilts, they are not hung from the hammock and instead go on top of the hammock itself.

Sleeping pads are typically made from closed-cell foam, which is a great insulator because it does not allow heat to escape. Sleeping pads come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your hammock perfectly.

One of the benefits of sleeping pads is that they are very versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways. For example, you can use a sleeping pad as insulation for your hammock, but you can also use it as a seat cushion or a ground mat.

Another benefit of sleeping pads is that they are relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for those on a budget.

The downside of sleeping pads is that sleeping pads can shift around during the night, which can be annoying and make it difficult to stay warm.

So, which is better?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the weather, your budget, and your personal preferences.

If you are camping in warm weather, a sleeping pad may be all you need to stay comfortable during the night. Sleeping pads are also a great option for those on a budget.

If you are camping in cold weather, an under quilt may be a better option. Under quilts provide a barrier between you and the cold ground, which can make a big difference in how warm you stay during the night.

At the end of the day, it is important to choose the option that is best for you and your situation.