Hammocks are great! They really are.
But only when there are trees around to hang it from! Two trees, in fact, and they need to be at the perfect distance from each other in order to hang it perfectly.
Not a scenario that you’ll find very often on a campsite.
Solution?
Lightweight portable hammock stands that you can easily pack and carry them on whatever campsite you choose.
Unless, of course, you enjoy spending time looking for those perfectly aligned trees, and eventually find them “miles” away from everybody.
Therefore, if you’ve carried your hammock around for at least 2 times without getting a chance to use, have a look below at some cheap and effective stands.
Make sure you also check the buyer’s guide further below. It really helps to choose a quality one.
| Image | Product | Sturdiness | Max
Weight |
Portability | Vendor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Vivere Double Cotton Hammock Stand | Strong | 450 pounds | Yes | Check offers |
 |
Brazilian-Style Stand | Medium | 450 pounds | Yes/Bag included | Check offers |
 |
Sorbus Hammock with Stand | Strong | 450 pounds | Yes | Check offers |
 |
Huacmoet Hammock with Portable Stand | Strong | 450 pounds | Yes | Check offers |
 |
AmazonBasics Portable Hammock Stand | Heavy Duty | 400 pounds | Yes. Bag included | Check offers |
 |
Vivere UHS9 Steel Hammock Stand | Heavy Duty | 450 pounds | Yes | Check offers |
Tree hanging vs using a stand
You can have your hammock set up and ready in 5 minutes if you’re using a portable stand.
The only concern that you’ll have is the flat ground. You need a relatively flat area to install it safely.
How fast is this compared to a tree-hanged hammock?
Well, as I said before, if you can’t find those perfectly distanced trees, the difference is 5 minutes compared to never.
But let’s be generous and say that you’re in the ideal woodlands and there are plenty of spots to hang it.
I’m sure that you’re going to spend at least half an hour with tying and testing out.
Hammock stand installation guide
Having only a few nuts and bolts, they’re very easy to put together. And the process doesn’t differ too much no matter what brand you choose.
And to make it even easier, some models use spring pins, which means no bolt, no nuts, and you can have it up and ready in no time.
I’m sure you don’t need it, but there’s a video below on how to install one.
Buyer’s guide
I’m sure you’ve realized by now the benefits of using a portable stand.
And if you’re decided to purchase one today, let’s clarify what you need to look after:
Weight capacity
Although every single hammock stand out there will most likely support your own weight, you still need to consider the “unforeseeable” scenarios.
What could that be? Having 2-3 kids who decide, at once, that it would be great to jump on top of mommy or daddy while they’re in the middle of enjoying the new hammock.
It might not be your case, but if it is, make sure you plan for it when you’re deciding on the weight capacity.
Sturdiness
You might think that is the same thing as weight capacity, but it’s totally different.
I’m talking about the sturdiness of the components.
Spring pins, for example, don’t have a lifetime guarantee to work. You might want to consider nuts and bolts fixings as they can be easily replaced.
Joining parts together with spring pins is not always a tight solution. They might move slightly and you’ll feel that.
Portability
The more it separates in multiple parts, the easiest it will be to carry or store.
Those two extra minutes spent on installing it won’t make a difference.
Also, you can try to choose one that comes with a carrying bag.
It will also help with storage on the campsite/home.
Waterproofing
Here you need to look at the coating on the frame.
If it’s not properly coated or zinced, overtime, it will rust from the contact with moisture.
Don’t rely solely on you keeping it out of the rain.
Water is everywhere. Excessive moisture or condensation in the air could damage it.
You can learn more about waterproofing here.
Installation speed
This is an easy one.
From what I’ve seen so far, not a single portable hammock stand will take more than 5 minutes to install. Sprig pin fitted or bolted.
Price
And finally, the thing that matters. How much should you pay for one?
Straightforward answer: whatever it costs. Why? Well, I doubt that you’ll find one that’s more than $150. (with fabric included)
Myths and FAQ’s
Environmentally friendly
People are talking about traditional hammocks damaging the trees and that using a hammock stand would be more environmentally friendly.
Although being considerate towards nature should be your number one priority, I highly doubt that a properly hanged hammock will damage a sturdy and healthy tree.
That unless, of course, you tie that hammock and leave like that for years, which will disturb the growth of the tree.
Or if you start chopping off branches like crazy.
That being said, as long as you don’t bring your elephant to relax on your hammock, the trees should be fine.
National Parks ban the use of hanging hammocks
For a while, I believed this to be a myth, but after some research, I can see that this is really happening in places.
One more reason to go for a stand.
But in case you still want to stick to the traditional method, here’s a link to a list of places in the US where tree hanging is still allowed.
What size do you need?
If you are buying only the hammock stand, and already own a hammock, make sure the stand is approximately 2 feet longer than the total length of the fabric.
It can be slightly longer, but not shorter than that.
What are the usual sizes that you can find?
On average, you’ll find hammock stands to be between 9 and 10 feet long. However, you should be able to find some with adjustable length that stretches up to 12 feet.
Do you need a different frame design for use on the beach?
On sandy soils, it is very difficult to set up a very thin stand frame. There are semicircle frame designs that claim to be stable on the beach, however, they are generally not that portable.
An alternative would be to make a small platform (plywood, cardboard) for the legs to sit on.
Some people are also having success by burying the frame just until they reach a much stable sand layer.
Can you build a DIY stand?
If you have access to welding equipment, grinders, and other tools, I can’t see why you can’t do it.
After all, it’s not a complicated design.
Although the timber frame is a much more DIY friendly option, especially if you’re not that much into building things from scratch.
Here’s a video to inspire you:
The Vivere Double Cotton Hammock with Space Saving Steel Stand
If you’re looking for portability and comfort, with several choices of color, this hammock has many options you’re looking for. With many quick assembly features, taking this hammock with you makes the perfect excuse to take it everywhere you want.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
Constructed of lightweight heavy-duty tube steel, this hammock is well-developed with a special angled stand that holds-up surprisingly well. It resists twisting and folding through the angled stand at all times.
Weight capacity
Easily holding up to 450 pounds between these two steel legs, it can withstand heavy weight limits. More than one person can comfortably fit onto this hanging hammock.
Assembly Process
You’ll be pleased to know this hammock can assemble together in just a few minutes. The best part is that it doesn’t require any tools. This makes all your set-ups quick and easy for on-the-go fun and games.
Portability
Are you looking to take your hammock on the go? Taking it with you to go camping or on the beach? This portable hammock stand comes with a carry case sleeve, so you can take it anywhere you wish.
Weight
In all, can you imagine that this complete kit weighs a little over 31 pounds! It’s practical enough to carry around without feeling like this hammock is heavy at all.
Waterproofing
The steel tubing stand is a heavy gauge steel that’s coated with water-proof enamel and has end caps that keep water out of the tubes. The fabric is also water-proof since it is partially polyester fabric fiber.
Design Specifications
The total dimensions for this hammock are 94 x 63 x 130 inches. It spans a total of 9 feet and can be placed on an outdoor deck or indoor room easily.
Fabric
This is a combination fabric that includes 100% cotton fiber mixed with polyester thread, making it incredibly strong and waterproof. It uses polyester thread also resists fading and mildew for years.
Best Choice Products 2-Person Brazilian-style Cotton Double Hammock
Designed for the easy of use anywhere you go, this double person hammock is ready for set-up at all times. If you’re looking for comfort and easy-to-assemble parts, this hammock has both. Designed for those who like to get out and relax in remote places.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
Constructed from special round steel tubing, the entire hammock frame has a pleasant design that can hold more weight than you expected it to. It even holds two people (or more) without a problem.
Weight capacity
Expect that this hammock is well-designed to hold up to 450 pounds without stress or frame deformation. The angled tubing is perfectly suited for you and a friend to relax all day long.
Assembly Process
Using a few wing nuts and some minor of labor to put it all together, it doesn’t take much to assemble the first time around. The base is the only part that needs screwing, so the rest is sliding-in poles.
Portability
This hammock has a neat carry case complete with a shoulder strap. You can take it on vacation or store it easily in the car for trips to the beach. But to be fair, wherever you decide to set-up your hammock, it goes with you just as easy.
Weight
In total, you can expect that 32 pounds are not much to lug around your shoulder when carrying in its’ portable sack. It’s not very heavy, but more like an average ice chest filled with soft drinks and ice.
Waterproofing
While you don’t want to leave this hammock outside on rainy days, the steel tubing is coated with water-resistant paint enamel. The fabric is water-resistant but not totally waterproof.
Design Specifications
The total dimensions in this hammock are 115 x 45 x 43 inches. The assembled bed length is 76 inches and offers 57 inches of width for you or a friend to share.
Fabric
This is a double cotton fabric weave and doesn’t contain synthetic fibers. Whenever washing this fabric it’s best to air dry on cool to prevent shrinking. Be aware that cotton is a natural fiber and can snag or tear if mishandled.
Sorbus Hammock with Stand and Spreader Bars and Detachable Pillow
If you’re looking for a hammock design that’s already spread out, you’ll enjoy this 2-person design that comes with a pillow and assembles anywhere for on-the-go fun and relaxing. With a spreader bar added it makes laying on a flat hammock surface more exciting.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
Perfect for placing on a flat lawn or wooden deck, this pitched hammock design is excellent for lounging anywhere with up to two people holding-up this easy-to-assemble frame.
Weight capacity
It’s able to handle up to 450 pounds without much trouble. The spreader bars distribute the weight from the center going outward, so some care must be observed getting onto this hammock.
Assembly Process
There are only a few parts that need assembly and it takes just a few minutes to put together. The hanging hammock and spreader bars are already assembled, so hanging that is a cinch.
Portability
This comfy portable hammock stand can be assembled anywhere a flat surface is found. While it doesn’t come with a carry case, it can be wrapped up neatly inside a long duffel bag or beach towel for transport.
Weight
Weighing in at just 45 pounds, the wooden spreader bars do have more weight than other hammocks. Aside from that, it can be lifted in two pieces under each arm for easier transport.
Waterproofing
This steel frame is powder-coated to ensure that water will not rust the tubular steel easily. The heavy-duty cotton fabric is not waterproof but the spreader frame is sealed with lacquer.
Design Specifications
The overall dimensions are 147 x 47 x 47 inches in all. The total length of the bed will span 9.8 feet but it also fits other portable hammocks up to 12 feet
Fabric
This is a double cotton fabric and has a built-in UV resistant rye that’s used. This hammock is machine washable but needs to be removed from the spreader bars beforehand.
Huacmoet Hammock with Portable Stand
Here’s a fine-designed portable hammock design with very few parts to assemble. This carry-anywhere hammock comes complete with a carry sleeve, and supports heavy-duty weight up to 550 pounds! When you need extra support, this frame can hold-up its’ promise.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
For those who are looking for comfort and sturdy design, this smartly designed hammock is meant to hold-up impressively under two or more people. It’s also built for style and weight capacity considerations with tube steel that’s 2mm thick.
Weight capacity
With as much as 550 pounds to support, you and your friends can relax in this tube steel design. It’s ideal for camping where you want to store your bags and supplies inside the hammock.
Assembly Process
This design uses screw pins to affix the tube steel frame parts in minutes. The hammock is then slung over the frame with a secure anti-shedding hook in seconds. The tightly woven cotton cords resist shredding with this sling design.
Portability
It comes with a convenient carry bag that carries all the parts you need. Thus making it easy to take it anywhere you want to rest and relax for hours at a time.
Weight
At only 30 pounds this lightweight frame is perfect for taking along on weekend trips. This hammock sack stores easily in the trunk of a car or over your shoulder.
Waterproofing
The tube steel is sealed with a protective waterproof coating. Convenient end caps are included as well so the tube doesn’t get water inside. The fabric is not waterproof.
Design Specifications
78.74 x 59.06 x 2.35 inches by the total part dimensions. The total length when assembled is 9 feet long and measures 114 x 43 x 46 inches in a total hammock set-up.
Fabric
This is a tightly woven blend of cotton and linen fabric. It’s comfortable and sturdy but needs to be hand washed and air dried due to the nature of natural cotton blends.
AmazonBasics Fabric Hammock with Stand
Another neat and tidy portable hammock that you can pack-up to take anywhere you want to lounge. This fast assembly design includes all-weather fabrics and a wrap-around hammock flap. It’s a great choice for little kids and overnight camping.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
Not especially meant for heavy loads for perfect for relaxing days with little time spent to put together. This hammock features space-saving tube steel that holds-up exceptionally well.
Weight capacity
This hammock will handle the maximum of 400 pounds of weight, or up to two adults with no problem. The angled steel frame is designed so you lay closer to the ground than other hammocks.
Assembly Process
The first assembly will take a little time to put together but not more than 10 minutes altogether. After that, each re-assembly will be 5 minutes or less in most cases.
Portability
The nature of this design allows you to break all the pieces down in minutes and store them in the travel bag. It’s perfect for sleep-over parties and kids will love the overlapping edges.
Weight
This hammock weighs only a total of 30 pounds with all the fabric and parts together. They all fit together in a neat travel bag for storage or transporting over your shoulder too.
Waterproofing
The fabric of this hammock is especially tough and has polyester, rayon, and nylon is woven through a cotton fabric base. It resists water very well. The tube steel is powder coated and has plastic end caps.
Design Specifications
A look at the total measurements includes 118 x 41 x 46.7 inches of actual unassembled parts. The hammock measures a length of 9 feet and can fit into any bedroom or outdoor deck area.
Fabric
This is a cotton and synthetic fiber blend that provides comfort and stretch. It can be machine washed but only air-dried. It will last for several years because of the material used.
Vivere UHS9 Space-Saving Steel Hammock Stand
You heard it correct, this is only a hammock stand that requires a fabric hammock sling. Those who want to add a sling to this frame will find this portable frame is made of high-quality material for a stand-alone hammock stand.
Check offers and further reviews
Sturdiness
This carry-anywhere assembly frame is built to handle the daily weight it’s designed to hold. Made of well-angled tubular steel that’s Zinc coated, you’ll enjoy years from this portable hammock stand frame.
Weight capacity
This will handle up to 450 pounds of weight for two adults or three kids. It’s great for supporting a sitting position or if you lay inside the hammock for lazy afternoons.
Assembly Process
This frame is especially simple to assemble and has just a few parts. This hammock frame uses knob screws to attach the feet and tube channels for the supports arms to fit inside. It takes only 5 minutes tops to put together.
Portability
Vivire has its own custom carry bag for all the parts to fit inside. When you decide to take a trip, this bag makes carrying your hammock frame stylish. It has a hand grip handle. Your hammock sling will fit inside too.
Weight
The total weight for this frame is 30 pounds and is heavy-duty steel tubing that is 2mm thick. If you add your hammock sling the total carry bag will be 31-32 pounds total.
Waterproofing
Since this is zinc coated, it will withstand the elements quite well. But for the sake of being conservative, it’s best to store your hammock inside when it rains out of precaution.
Design Specifications
This is best used for a 9-foot hammock, so nothing larger sling should be used. You might need to double-wrap a 10-foot sling with the extra-wide hanging hooks included.
Fabric
This hammock doesn’t come with any fabric sling though for the best fabric to use on this frame should be a mix. It’s always best to use a cotton, polyester, and nylon fabric for your hammock.
Conclusion
For just a couple of dollars, one portable hammock stand will only bring you benefits.
It will save you from the misery of getting to the campsite and finding no place to hang the hammock.
To be honest, do you know a reason not to buy one?
Let me know down below!
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