How to Avoid Bugs with a Camping Hammock Bug Net

Have you ever been out, hanging with the setting sun, and suddenly been attacked? Everything is peaceful until you hear that unbearable buzzing. Feel the sting of needles in your skin. Feel the pang of tiny teeth sinking into your arms and legs. Well, fear not! With the right hammock bug net, you will be hanging under the open sky without nuisance in no time.

There are several available options, and in the next few paragraphs, we’ll cover how to rid ourselves of those nasty little nobody’s while enjoying the peace of the outdoors. 

Fixed Bug Nets

Fixed bug nets are attached permanently to the hammock. They can either be strung on a ridge line over top of the hammock or be a structural part of the hammock tethers themselves. Either way, you will always have a bug net with you. 

This could be unnecessary, even inconvenient (by weight standards), but if you’re not restricted by the amount of weight on your back, it can be a great option. If you are in a bug free environment, simply flip the hammock bug net to the bottom, and you have an “open air” hammock. 

But make sure to pay attention to the terrain below your hammock. Brush or rock can easily tear your sweet, sweet bug net.

Modular Hammock Bug Nets

Modular bug nets are a great option, specifically if you already have a hammock. They are usable with any type, be it camping, single, double, fabric, canvas, or seated. This netting drapes completely around the hammock and can be used or not depending on the situation.

These can be a pricey option, oftentimes costing more than the hammock itself, but if you invest in this option, it will be with you for many years to come. AND, you can upgrade your hammock without having to buy a new modular bug net! A great low cost option is the Montem Swatter Mosquito Net. At under 13oz in weight, it’s a great option for through hikers. Even if you’re not hitting the PCT this weekend, it’s still a great buy coming in at under $30. No matter your use, a bug free hang is within your reach.

Hammock Bug Net Chemicals

Chemical additions are an option, although… not our favorite. If possible, it’s always best for the health of the individual and the environment to use a physical barrier to ward off the creepy crawlies. But, if you do find yourself in a situation that is beyond a normal bug net’s capability, there are products such a Permethrin that will deter bugs, Mosquitos specifically, from attacking. 

DO NOT APPLY TO SKIN. These chemicals are for use on fabrics, and once dry pose no harm to people. You can soak the hammock and bug net in Permethrin and let in dry completely before use. Permethrin can also stand up to many washes before needing re-application.

FAQ’s

Check out the Hammock Bliss Net Cocoon Ultralight. At 15oz, it’s lightweight, and super easy to use!

Find more info in our Hammock Camping Guide. We also recommend ‘The Ultimate Hang‘ by Derek Hansen.