Sleeping under the stars in the open night air sounds like a dream come true. With a hammock you get to make that dream happen, only to discover the flip side of your dream is a real nightmare. Your sleeping experience gets buggy, literally, with mosquitoes, gnats, no-see-ums, ticks, spiders…all of the creepiest crawlers. Forget about sleeping in a sea of DEET or in a smog of bug killer. After all, you want to be able to enjoy your nighttime adventure.
This is where a bug net serves a perfect purpose. With the best hammock bug net on the market, you can save your skin and secure your outdoor sleeping memories for years to come. First, you need to decide on which bug net works best for your particular needs.
Quick Picks – Best Hammock Bug Net
You can see the top 5 bug nets in this comparison chart. It’s helpful to see the sizes and weights side by side before moving onto the reviews.
![Serac [#1 Hammock Mosquito Net] Camping Hammock Bug Net - Perfect for Backpacking, Camp and Travel](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51mkOFpMoiL.jpg)
- Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian Bug Net – Editor’s Choice: Best overall best bug net hammock camping. This bug net is moderately priced and available by the reputable seller REI.
- Unigear Hammock Bug Net – Great for someone on a budget who has a midsize hammock measuring 11 feet including double hammock setups. Made from polyester and comes with a lifetime, no questions asked, money back guarantee.
- Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian SL — One of the lighter weight options at only 13 ounces perfect for minimalist packers. By the highly respected Eagle’s Nest Outfitters brand, and designed using nylon for durability.
- Chill Gorilla Hammock Bug Net — Perfect for individuals with multiple hammocks and family members, as it fits all sizes and shapes of hammocks. Comes at one of the more affordable prices. Chill Gorilla is a US-based company for those who prefer to buy locally.
- Serac Camping Hammock Bug Net — Backpackers hoping to minimize space will appreciate the compression sack for carrying this mid-priced mosquito net. Features a carabiner clip for attaching to a cable over the hammock.
Best Bug Nets for Hammock Camping and Backpacking
Now let’s move on to the key details—the top 10 hammock bug nets that we recommend for your camping needs.
1. ENO Guardian Bug Net
The best bug net for ENO hammocks, this 360-degree netting features a 950-square-inch no-see-um netting. The superfine surrounding netting keeps the bugs out at all angles, which is the ultimate goal for any bug net.
- Perfect for those who want to avoid bugs including no-see-ums at all costs.
- Comes with everything needed for the best bug hammock net experience.
But what sets it apart and puts this bug net at the top of our list? The quality of the bug net is top of the line, and in fact, hikers say they are willing to deal with the extra few ounces just for the coverage. The Guardian only weighs 1 pound and comes with a stuff bag, while attaching to a ridgeline. It is on the smaller size at only 9.4 feet in length, but it matches the ENO Hammock perfectly.
2. Unigear Bug Net
This bug net is made from the lesser costly fabric of 100 percent polyester no-see-um netting, which keeps out everything. It can be used for single and double hammocks thanks to its expansive size.
- One of the largest bug nets for hammocks.
- 100 percent lifetime guarantee.
The Unigear comes with a compression stuff sack that holds the hammock and its light weight of just over 21 ounces. One of the coolest features is the zipper on both sides, which makes it easy for you to get in and out of this hammock.
3. Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian SL
This is the only bug net on our list that is made using nylon taffeta for a unique approach. If you are allergic to polyester, this is a good mid-range option. The material is a superfine no-see-um netting and it comes with the full cocooning shape to keep out bugs from all entry points.
- Lighter weight option is perfect for minimalist hikers and campers.
- Features a sleeve-like design that is sleek and attractive.
The biggest attraction to the ENO Guardian SL is the lightweight at only 13 ounces. It is the second lightest bug net we have among the top 10. Keep in mind the size dimensions are also at the lower end of the scale, so if you need more than 9 by 3 feet of space, or are a double hammock type of person, this one won’t do the trick.
In addition to coming with its own compression sack, this hammock bug net features a ridgeline connector for easy mounting.
4. Chill Gorilla Defender Bug Net
The Chill Gorilla Defender is a spacious bug net system designed for big hammocks. The net stretches from 9 up to 14 feet in length, more than enough to cover most hammocks. The netting is super fine no-see-um mesh, the best level of protection from biting insects.
- Roomy, accommodating hammocks from 9 to 14 feet long.
- Vertical zipper for easy in, easy out access to your hammock.
The Defender rides above your hammock on a paracord line using secure plastic clips and is adjustable on the ends for a good fit. Getting in and out of your hammock is as easy as zipping the central vertical zipper. The Chill Gorilla Defended is the best cheap hammock bug net on Amazon right now.
5. Serac Camp Hammock Bug Net
Another of the no-see-um nets, this Serac Camp Hammock Bug Net goes all in with full hammock protection and a super lightweight at only 15 ounces. The real draw to this bug net is the light white color that will detract the sun and help you sleep without sweating to death in the summer air.
- Comes in a stylish white mesh.
- Features a five-year warranty.
This mosquito net pairs well with the Serac hammock, but any 10-foot hammock is protected with this bug net. It is attachable using carabiners for clipping to your hammock without the use of ropes. You also get a ridgeline along with some mini carabiners for a complete setup.
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6. Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian Base Camp
For campers who need plenty of space with bug protection, this is the kingpin. The ENO Guardian Base Camp bug net is the largest of the top 10 at 111 inches x 57 inches x 50 inches.
- Spacious, easy to maneuver in and out of the hammock without exiting the net.
- Best suited for camping due to the extra weight.
It offers plenty of room if you have children or pets who will be lounging inside. Plus, it fits all of the Eagle’s Nest Outfitters hammocks regardless of their size.
If you are an ENO fan then you need to add this bug net to your collection. Yes, it weighs the most at nearly 3 pounds, but as long as you aren’t backpacking in, you should be good to go.
7. Wise Owl Outfitters SnugNet
With its unique two-tone netting, zipper, and trim color scheme, the Wise Owl Outfitters SnugNet has an earthy look that works well for stylish campers.
- Stylish color schemes to match your hammock.
- Waterproof stuff sack, and huge 30ft ridgeline.
Choose from orange, red, or blue trim on black netting. As for space, this is one of the larger nets and it offers plenty of headroom. The netting has a 30-foot ridgeline, and 11 feet long to cover even the largest hammocks.
As a result of the generous size, it is also one of the heaviest nets at 23 ounces, nearly double that of more minimalist nets.
8. Nature’s Hangout Bug Net
The more sporty looking Nature’s Hangout Bug Net offers all of the best features from a double zipper to 10 feet in length.
- Fully covers the hammock, bugs cannot bite through the back of the hammock.
- Lightweight considering the large size.
It also has an attached sack that is used to hold the bug net when in storage. However, you can use this when in your hammock as a helpful holding pouch for your sunglasses, keys, or other items. Nature’s Hangout is available with a 100 percent money back guarantee.
9. Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net
One of the more minimalistic nets on the market, the Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net is made from a proprietary material called Dragonet™ no-see-um mesh.
- Innovative mesh material is stylish and effective bug deterrent.
- You’ll pay a premium price for the quality.
This stuff is powerfully secure and also helps the bug net be one of the lightest in weight at 9.8 ounces. The color of the hammock net is white granite. Plus, you won’t be paying an excessive amount for this mid-priced hammock bug net.
10. Sea to Summit Hammock Bug Net
Another light colored bug net, this Sea to Summit bug net is available at REI. It is made using polyester mesh for a weight of just over 13 ounces.
- Designed to work in tandem perfectly with Sea to Summit hammocks.
- No ridgeline required, light-colored mesh won’t detract from your views.
It is another mid-priced bug net that is more focused on convenience thanks to the included spreader pole. The coolest thing about this bug net, though, has to be that you can see through the net.
If you want a more breathable bug net that allows you to take daytime summer naps, this is the way to go. Of course, you won’t be able to block out the no-see-ums, so it is a consideration you’ll need to make before investing in this bug net option.
How to Use Your Bug Net
Keeping the bugs out of your hammock while you slumber in the summertime is simple—if you know how to use your hammock bug net correctly. Camp away from water or moist conditions. Wherever there is water, there’s a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The farther you can get from a river, pond, swamp, or soaked soil, the better you’ll be for it.
Spray your bug net with permethrin. This is a safe bug repellent that works well on fabric. By coating your bug net with this spray you help keep the bugs away, which is handy when opening and closing your netting. After all, you will be able to keep them out when the net is secured, but there is always the chance they’ll sneak in before you zip up. Then, there you are trapped with a frisky flier.
When you use your bug net, secure it in place according to the instructions. Some nets use ropes, others use a spreader pole and carabiners. Follow the instructions and use all accompanying gadgets and gizmos.
After you have finished using your bug net, shake it out to remove any lingering offenders. Roll it up gently to avoid getting tears or holes in the netting, particularly if you are using polyester mesh.
Hammock Bug Net Buyer’s Guide
Every bug net on the market has its own features and benefits that help it hold its own against the competition. While certain bug nets rank supreme overall, you ultimately need to find a style that fits your specific needs.
Are you a minimalist backpacker who wants to keep your pack feather-light? Do you prefer to go with the most economical brand? After all, even if you can save a great deal of money on a hammock bug net if it doesn’t do the job you need it to do your money is down the drain.
To help you decide what you need in a bug net, consider these popular features you will find in this marketplace.
Coverage Size – The best hammock bug net sizes range from the Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian SL 108 inches x 36 inches to the Unigear Bug Net 132 inches x 55 inches. That is the difference between 9 and 11 feet in length and 3 to 4.5 feet. Do you need to buy a hammock net that fits your hammock exactly? No, but you do want to make sure it will fit and is not too small for your hammock. One option is to get a larger bug net than you need to accommodate for stretching out in your hammock. In addition, if you have a double hammock, you need to get a net that is at the larger length and width to fit two hammocks.
Mesh vs No-See-Um Netting – The primary selling point for any bug hammock is the mesh. Common types of mesh include mesh or no-see-um netting. The difference between mesh and no-see-um netting is breathability. According to the Hammock Forums, a mesh netting, which is also known as mosquito netting, lets the breeze blow through the hammock. Meanwhile, no-see-um netting is very tightly woven. No-see-ums can’t get through, but neither can the wind. What this means is you are more likely to get too hot and humid in warm climates.
Of course, this is where you have the greatest occurrence of the types of insects you are trying to avoid. If you are going to an area that has a high percentage of tiny biting insects, it comes down to which you want more—no bugs or no breeze. An option is to use the no-see-um netting only at night when the temperatures cool down and use mosquito netting for the hottest time of the day.
Fabrics – The fabrics for bug nets are made out of nylon taffeta, polyester, and one innovative material that is proprietary to the Kammok brand called Dragonet™. The price range of the materials varies. For example, you can get a budget-friendly Unigear Bug Net for $30, as well as a Sea to Summit Bug Net for $70; both are made using polyester mesh.
Weight – The weight of a bug net varies from the super lightweight Kammok Dragonfly Bug Net at 9.8 ounces to the Eagle’s Nest Outfitters Guardian Base Camp at 2 pounds and 12 ounces. Weight is a big deal for backcountry campers and hikers who want to keep their weight and capacity down. The lighter the bug net, the better, but you also have to look at how well the net compacts. Bug nets that come with a compression bag are a great choice because they help you save space in your pack.
Color Choice – You’ll find that the best hammock bug net color range is quite small. Basic color options are white, dark gray, or black. Since you are looking for a summertime snoozing bug net, go with a lighter color. The dark colors only absorb heat from the sunlight. This tends to turn your hammock and bug net into a toaster oven. If you want a white bug net, check out the Serac Camp Hammock Bug Net, Sea to Summit Hammock Bug Net, or Kammok Dragonfly Hammock Bug Net. These are your mid-range priced bug nets as the white hammock is not as common or cheap to utilize by companies. As a result, the rest of the bug nets on this list of the top 10 are designed using darker hues.
Accessorizing – A hammock bug net can come with a number of accessories to increase the bug net’s abilities. Typical accessories include carabiners to help attach the net without using ropes, as well as a compression sack to shrink the size of the contained netting. For those using ropes to attach the bug net, you’ll want to get a guyline, ridgeline, and rope along with your bug net. Collapsable spreader poles are another handy accessory that helps you mount your netting easier and faster.
Price & Quality – The top-rated hammock bug nets range in price point from approximately $30 to $125. Saving money is the primary factor for some campers and hikers. Fortunately, there are several excellent and affordable bug nets out there. In addition, if you have the time and energy to wait out a purchase, you can find great sales on certain brands at bricks-and-mortar and online camping supply stores.
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