You're a smart man. Well done! To help you sleep straight (lengthwise) in a hammock, just put a regular pillow under your knees. It works like a charm and you'll sleep like a bug in a rug. ❤
I can confirm this, works I have a hammock with a bug net so I tuned the hammock round so the net was on the underside and used a space blanket in there then used my sleepin bag (double zipper which opens put into a quilt) I left the bottom unzipped and put it over the hammock just like in this video. And boom! Under quilt/overquilt comfy and cosy
Thanks for posting this video.I had a few extra sleeping bags,and I followed your instructions and made one of these for myself.It works great.I really enjoy your channel...Keep up the good work
This is a good idea I'm going to repurpose one of my PawPaw's old ten pound Coleman down sleeping bags I got 4 of his hunting bags passed down to me since he passed on three years ago. I been looking for a good way to continue the use of his vintage gear, that was one of my favorite things when I was a kid and we'd go deer hunting every year. This is an ingenious idea, I think his bags are double zippered too so I might be able to get by without cutting it, if I can't avoid that I'll stitch it by hand to make the slip through holes for the hammock more presentable. Thanks brother for the help
Excellent idea on using a old bag for a under quilt. I was watching a video (shug) and he did the same thing. His sleeping bag was a western mountaineering sleeping bag. It already had zipper at toe box so he didn't have to cut it. That sleeping bag is over 400 dollars.
Firstly, great video. I have used a similar system here in England, the only difference is that I turned the bad upside down so that the hood was on the top I then pulled the cords tight to get an airtight seal around my neck. Also if you attach a short loop of para cord at the foot end you can stop it from riding down the hammock. I wear a Hat to keep head warm and have been out on my set up when below zero. If really cold you can always use a second sleeping bag inside. Toasty warm then.
Great idea. I'm thinking of taking 2 hammocks and using the second one to contain the liner. The liner being my puffy jacket and clothes. I want to go ultralight and damaging my expensive sleeping bag is not an option. Here's what I'm thinking. 2 hammocks + tarp for rain. The tarp being ultralight too. The 2 hammocks would be an inner and then the outer with my clothes+ reflective emergency blanket to reflect the heat back upwards. Would love to hear your thoughts.
taking 2 hammocks... and using the second one to contain the liner => I am thinking about following: Mil-Tec Mini Nylon Hammock + shock cord through the mesh (one big loop on the circumference & one cord each side with cord tensioners) to hold an old sleeping bag if any have some experience to share on this system,it will be great :-)
I'm guessing you already figured out what to do with the hood, but you could take two pieces of webbing and simply sew in a loop on each side and attach some shock cord to the hammock carabiner. That would also prevent the bag from slipping down. I know it won't be as simple then, but it would be a good addition.
Thanks for the video. VERY informative and well presented. Very helpful to me. I had pretty much the same idea and browsed RUclips for tips before committing to cutting my dossbag. Some GREAT tips here and in the comments. VERY useful to see the idea for real. That's the way to have an office! I'll be cutting a "U" shaped feet end hole and sewing it so that, for non-hammock use, it can be "sealed" using velcro (on the outside - don't want the stuff sticking to my socks!). The theory is for the flap to (at least partially) block the U shape cross section of the hammock as it passes through the dossbag. Tape loop and cord at the feet end to attach to the suspension line to stop it riding too far along the hammock.. Wherever possible, I buy dossbags to be overly long and I use them upside-down so that I can fold the hood into the upper body of the bag, held in position under my head. I'm a bushcrafter who likes ultralight so I often use dossbags that carry well, rather than are warm. In cold weather, I wear quilted overtrousers and my Buffalo Mountain Shirt (or oversized Snugpack "Softie") in the dossbag. I'm really looking forward to trying this. I'm using a naff 1 season bag to trial then, once I'm 100% chuffed with the design function, I'll make another from a decently warm dossbag. Now to watch the field test...
Just came across this researching hammock setups. Love the idea. The Sierra Designs Synthesis sleeping bag is almost purpose built for this with it's convertible footbox!
If the temps were really going to drop I would add my SOL Escape Bivvy. Works just like a space blanket, but it is breathable. I would also possibly add a space blanket underneath my tarp to reflect the heat back down to me. Thanks for watching!
I'm seriously thinking of doing this same idea. Maybe use a rectangular bag instead of a mummybag . tip for the top of your sleeping bag behind your head use a bungle cord with a toggle to get the back of your shoulders & head is not naked to the elements. . for the foot of the sleeping bag where you cut the hole for the hammock you can add a zipper from old pants to make the hole closed when not used as a hammock quilt . I just started useing mule tape of my hammock. So far I Love it increadibly light and I know it's not going to break in the middle of the night.
You may like to try 1/8 foam shipping sheets cut to hammock size and encased in a light nylon. They are sewable but that knocks out the no need to sew option. It's lightweight but bulky ~.7 lbs., the trick is to hedge the point of the hammock to the foam at both ends. Exacto mea.s required.
Great idea. For the markII I would suggest a smaller hole and sewing around where the hole will be first. If you roll the edge and add some 550 cord you can create a cinch and keep your feet warm. Very nice work.
Alternatively, for the sewing challenged, cut the holes in a broadish U shape. This will reduce stress on the bag and leave a flap inside the hammock that might make the hood more useable. we'd still have a draft problem though.
I've used this idea along with a cheap eno under quilt inside of the bag! I even went as far as to sew a line to sinch the opening closed. Awesome idea!
superglue or stitch velcro..to the underside side...then some on quilt....then wrap it around you and hammock. the hood stitch a tiny canvas loop. velcros or clips to end of hammock above head
I did the same thing a while back with two different sleeping bags. One I cut and the other had a draw string at the bottom. It seems like a good idea at first and does actually work. But the problem is that once you get out in the woods and try to sleep you get uncomfortable. That's because you can't move around much or lay diagonal like you should in a hammock. You end up sleeping like a banana. Fifteen minutes in a hammock is fine when your setting it up at home, six hours in the woods and trying to sleep is a nightmare. I would suggest you spend a night in the hammock at home before going out with this system. Trust me I found out the hard way on a backpacking trip. I woke up after hour very sore.
Thanks for the tip! I've spent plenty of nights in the hammock in the woods and sleeping straight actually works for me, IF I have something under my knees. Its great for my back to be bent like that because of my bulging and herniated discs...when I sleep flat is when I have issues. Like I always say though, test it before you trust it...this will be tested in the back yard before it sees service.
If you see 2 lines in the foot then cut between the seams you have a nice neat hole to pass your hammock through and don't lose any insulation. If you really want to make it nice and neat take some wide grosgrain tape and see it folded over on the edges of your cuts. Neatness counts when it comes to making things last.
Maybe just need a cord attached to the zipper to open and close easier. Love the idea. I'm pretty broke myself and always looking for ways to save, going to try this soon as I get a hammock. Would like to try it during the fall
Built one, today out of an old 20* mummy bag and it worked great! A little tight, but I could still move my knees around and sleep like I normally do in a hammock. I think I might leave the bag unzipped a bit and use a bag liner or the SOL emergency bivvy on the inside. You didn't mention that in the video, but I thought a blanket or bag liner inside would really increase the warmth. Of course, I'm in Florida, so I don't need much. Great video and thanks! I've tried many other "sleeping bag into under quilts" and none ever worked like this one and it SO SIMPLE!
Thanks! Glad it worked for you! Ill be bringing mine out for a test this week in the cold weather. I liner or blanket would def work, as well as a sleeping pad.
Oh yeah! I meant to mention a sleeping pad (as if my comment wasn't long enough). I'll be trying mine out at a Boy Scout campout in February. Supposed to be in the 40s-50s at night, which is pretty cool for Florida. :) I look forward to hearing how it works out for you!
I did something similar, just without cutting a hole in my sleeping bag. Instead, i just threaded the rope to the hammock through the bottom of the sleeping bag (it has a small opening where the zipper ends). The sleeping bag is still long enough to reach up to my shoulders. My head is not insulated, so i used a pillow, and slept like a baby tonight..! It makes it really easy to get into the sleeping bag, as i can just sit down in the hammock, and pull the sleeping bag up around me. The only issue i noticed (from just 1 night), was that the zipper opened up during the night, because i had tightened the string to close up the sleeping bag a bit too tight. But as i never really use the zipper, im thinking of just sowing it shut permanently...
You could try to cut a hole under the cordage channel in the hood and just get the draw string on top of the hammock so the hood will stay in place under it.
for the hood I'd attach too loops for guy lines to tension the hood and whole mummy quilt to the line holding the hammock to the tree through a s carabiner.
This will work in a pinch but top and bottom quilts are seperate items for a reason namely as Rev Hiker mentions in that it cramps lying diagonally. This is also known as the Brazilian lay and is the preferred sleeping position for maximum comfort. Generally speaking hammock socks need to be a lot more voluminius to achieve this.
What a genius idea! I too have been looking for an inexpensive solution for some sort of underquilt for winter camping. Thanks for sharing man! God Bless :D -Lochlainn
might try around holes running paracord like in a cinch sack to draw them closed. also from your head to feet sew in little loops every 8"-10" and run a ridge line to keep it off you and then maybe if you sew a little extra material across the opening where your chest and head are exposed across chest stitched and around side of neck and head Velcro so if want to vent you can! atb stay safe and warm. Mark in Texas
new subscriber here, great video. just started getting in to hammock camping for less than a year now & really like your concept. the wheels are turning. thanks for sharing, be safe, God bless, going to browse your videos now 😁👍
For those asking that webbing he used is called "Mule Tape" I have used it to pull cable in conduit. I would love to try this out but my hammock has the integrated bug net. Great idea though
I've had that idea since i started with a hammock. I used to throw a big wool blanket over me and let it hang down and it worked okay but I've always been curious about putting a sleeping bag like this. Definitely let us know how it works out!
I use an old barrel bag with a two-way zipper, just unzip the foot as much as needed. Works great in the cold and there's plenty of room for an over quilt inside the bag when it gets really cold.
Really helpful.. have the same sleeping bag & was trying to figure out a way to not spend any money while converting it into an underquilt for my eno. Nice vid 👍
I thought of this sort of system. Can a person sleep at an angle to create the flat sleep effect with this system? That’s what is troubling me of attempting it. Right now, I sleep on top of a military down bag I used since a kid. I never had compression problems, and I store it compressed to. Ya, I know, a big no no, but hey, I am not cold and I sleep in snow. Down on bottom, another bag on top, with half mattress inside it, a silk liner, and a wool blanket at hand in case.
Looks great for one who can sleep in a constricted space in one position all night, particularly with one's knees forced backward. I assume a guy like me who must lay diagonally in a double hammock would need too large of a bag to make a "pod" practical... or do you have enough room for some diagonal lay?
There isn't much diagonal lay. In my field testing video though, I explain how I take my pack and put it under my knees to make it all work. It worked for me on a single digit night.
Awesome idea! I really like hammock camping but not cold butt syndrome! Ive fashioned a underquilt for my hammock but wouldnt trust it in freezing temps, it did well down to 40 degrees but thats it. This is a really great idea especially for people who dont want to fuss with sewing. Thanks for sharing! Atb, Jenn :)
Years ago i looked into putting a hammock in my room, i was reading the strength that is need is quite a bit, more then i had expected. I cant remember how much but i was surprised. I have a hammock like your but it's double, is that a single looks loads better.
I love this! I don't have a bag that I'd be willing to cut because I still tent when I go with my husband. My bug net is sewn into my hammock, so this wouldn't work, but I'm sure I could find an old sleeping bag in the share shed or a thrift store and make a underquilt out of that. I've been using a windshield reflector screen inside my hammock. It's not the best.
i would consider drawing a circle on the bottom that you intend for the suspension to come through. sew that circle by hand on the line you drew, then cut out the hole on the bottom. this would make things a lot easier come time to tidy up the suspension hole.
i have a heavyweight snugpak bag i purchased from a charity years ago for £5 i'm thinking of doing the same but instead of using duck tape i'm thinking using some copydex fabric glue to seal the ends it might not work with a klymit pad though due to the wings but it's worth a go
I wonder how it would work if you hot glued, sewed, or even just placed some reflective padding like reflextic on the bottom side to reflect even more heat coming through the hammock if you were too cold. The sleeping bag was a great idea and it gives you some room for modifications and tinkering to make it even better! Thanks for the video!
+RevHiker I'm actually watching the field test as we speak and I see that you used some reflextic as a sleeping pad, and I'm glad it worked so well!! Best of luck to you!
I use the Ozark Trail Walmart backpacking 40 degree($30) sleeping bag. the nice thing is it's cinches at the top. That with the grand trunk $20 ultralight hammock from Meijer I good summer and fall.
I use a Ozark Trail sleeping bag liner with it but I haven't been out in anything colder then 50 degrees. I think it can handle colder, perhaps 40 degrees but I will bring some iron oxide hand warmers just in case.
I've used that OT bag (not in a hammock) down to 31 degrees with no issues just by laying a mylar space blanket on top of my sleeping pad, laying the bag on that, and then stuffing a light fleece blanket into the bag with me. Toasty warm. Having the space blanket reflect the heat back up makes more of a difference than I expected. I bet if you stuffed a space blanket into the bottom of the bag under the hammock, you'd get similar results... NOTE: I wasn't expecting it to get down to 31... but I always carry the space blanket since it weighs nothing, and I had the fleece in the car. This was a trip with my son's scout troop.
Michelangelo Ferretti did you have to cut the bag like rev did ? I have both ozark trail 40 degree and 2 grand trunk ultralites Going to try either way tonight
I tried this but cold air kept blowing through the hole at my upper back. Fixed it by replacing the ropes on an old ultralight hammock with bungee cords and stringing it up tight underneath the bag to push the under part up against my back without compressing it and losing the insulation ability. Also if you don't want to cut your sleeping bag, the Kelty Lightyear has a hole with a zipper at the feet so it's perfect for this.
I put a rock at the head area and tired para cord around it and it took coarse of the extra bag dragging the ground. Works really good. Cuts out the draft
So, did you ever use the DIY pod? Did it work as you wanted/expected? Are you still using? If not what are you using as an underquilt and what happened to the bag? I am curious...THANKS
Great minds must think alike, I do this with my sleeping bag which is rectangle and double zippered so I don't need to cut and sew. I am however struggling with the inability of diagonally positioning myself. but it is quite cozy.
I just use that same slip knot without even the lock. The pressure on it locks it pretty well. Trying to research a good way to build a cold weather insulated system. I slept outside last night in maybe 40 fahrenheit (5 celsius) in my huge modular sleeping bag and a sleeping pad, without even a tarp, and was plenty comfy. But here in Finland it regularly gets down to -20 celsius, and I need something for those days. Have you found a good system to allow diagonal hanging?
Hi there, I just watched this video because I was wondering about underquilts. The thing is, my kid and I went hammock camping in the Belgium Ardennes last week and she figured she would do this with her sleeping bag. Since it has a zipper running in two directions we didn't need to cut it. And hers is a blanket style bag, so a bit roomier. She did turn it around though and let the hood cover her face. But since she is a kid, she was covered all around, because her sleeping bag is a grown up size bag. But, I also attached our poncho's underneath, to keep the wind out. What I was wondering is if the dew would not make the sleeping bag moist if we hadn't done that? ( the poncho was underneath the sleeping bag) Since we a,so camped in august and the lowest temp must have been around 10 degrees Celcius, it would not have been as cold as when you tested it. So I am wondering how that worked out for you... Did your sleeping bag get wet at all and did that cool you off? Cool vids, I subbed
Take some shock cord and tie it around the hood of the bag, then attach that to your suspension. Do the same to the other end, and it will suspend your bag like an under quilt. This will keep you from getting an air pocket underneath you, which you DO NOT want. On a cold night, air will leak in and you'll freeze. You want the bag tight against your back and butt. Otherwise, awesome video on a pod system. Only seen one other guy trying it with a sleeping bag.
In regards to your knees bending back while laying, have you tried to tighten your mock so you lay flatter? meaning you have less arch in the overall mock hang. IDK how tall you are and if it would work for you but it works for me.PS I like your tips. I got a few more tools in the toolbox!
Great video, the best I've found on the subject. I'm curious as to where online you found the sleeping bag; I can't find anything remotely close, price-wise.
I have seen the manufacturers copy this through the years as this is an older video from my post Today. They made the hammock cocoon and stole your idea. Very original.
Tarp Clamps are the solution going forward. Set up and get in and have someone apply the tart clamps removing the gaps. It needs to be set for you. Then use a permanent marker to trace where the tarp clamps work best this way you alone can get a good fit yourself when setting up.
Thanks! Quick tip, cut the hole for the feet right where your heels will be...it leaves more room for your toes, and use your pack to support the backs of your knees...
I was thinking not to do anything with the hood if you end up getting cold pull the bag up over your head and grab the drawstring and pull it in with you and the hood will draw up closed to seal yourself in
I would have just rotated the sleeping bag so that the hood was on top and then I would’ve used it to cover my head but still a great idea and thank you for sharing
I have a video planned to test it. However, it has been between -5 and -34 here at night the last couple weeks. Im going to wait till its in the teens hahaha. Thanks for watching
It is a great idea! Which I entertained trying out... briefly. However, down here we need to continue using our bug net while hammock camping even in the Winter. I'm probably going to buy a 2nd hand sleeping bag and DIY an underquilt. You're so right, those things are ridiculously priced. Cheers Subbed ya.
Man this could sound like bullshit but thought the same thing and do it around 8 months ago! Then I found your video, LOL cause actually a had almost the same sleeping bag (mine is a Colleman from wallmart). Had to say it work for me (but I didn't use ducktape; I do sew it and attach some loops so it can be fix it to ends of the hammock) but you may need some other isollation or warming system for colder weather. tumbs up, and keep it up!
Awesome! I discovered that my old sleeping bag has these properties. Did you test it out yet? :) It would be awesome to hear about temperature durability and so forth and so on.
"I don't have the money for it." Isn't that the truth for so many of us? Thanks for your honesty!
Coming here 9 years after the fact. Still a great idea. Legend, thank you, brother. Hope you're out there having fun wherever you are!
Man I'm just about to try it out tomorrow, also adding a space blanket and a tarp above this contraption 😊
Gave this a go recently in some really cold conditions. Works so good. Kept really warm all night
"I'm being an idiot in my house right now" subscribed
lol thanks
”truthfully I just don't have the money for it” subscribed )
Been sleeping in my house on a hammok for 5 years. Best pain free sleep ive ever had.
Hang straps on reinforced hinges on opposing doors
Relatable
"Alls I did!" that's my new favorite quote. In any case, this is a genious solution to a really annoying and expensive conundrum I've had for months.
It's actually a pretty common idiom around here. Sort of like "yall" in the south lol
You're a smart man. Well done! To help you sleep straight (lengthwise) in a hammock, just put a regular pillow under your knees. It works like a charm and you'll sleep like a bug in a rug. ❤
I can confirm this, works I have a hammock with a bug net so I tuned the hammock round so the net was on the underside and used a space blanket in there then used my sleepin bag (double zipper which opens put into a quilt) I left the bottom unzipped and put it over the hammock just like in this video. And boom! Under quilt/overquilt comfy and cosy
Thanks for posting this video.I had a few extra sleeping bags,and I followed your instructions and made one of these for myself.It works great.I really enjoy your channel...Keep up the good work
+Cale Skelton Thanks! Glad it helped
This is a good idea I'm going to repurpose one of my PawPaw's old ten pound Coleman down sleeping bags I got 4 of his hunting bags passed down to me since he passed on three years ago. I been looking for a good way to continue the use of his vintage gear, that was one of my favorite things when I was a kid and we'd go deer hunting every year. This is an ingenious idea, I think his bags are double zippered too so I might be able to get by without cutting it, if I can't avoid that I'll stitch it by hand to make the slip through holes for the hammock more presentable. Thanks brother for the help
What an awesome diy sollution!! I about froze to death a few years ago by not having an under quilt!! Thanks!
Excellent idea on using a old bag for a under quilt. I was watching a video (shug) and he did the same thing. His sleeping bag was a western mountaineering sleeping bag. It already had zipper at toe box so he didn't have to cut it. That sleeping bag is over 400 dollars.
millster101 Ya, I wouldn't be chopping up a $400 bag haha.
Great video! Did you ever make a followup, showing how this performed outdoors?
Firstly, great video. I have used a similar system here in England, the only difference is that I turned the bad upside down so that the hood was on the top I then pulled the cords tight to get an airtight seal around my neck. Also if you attach a short loop of para cord at the foot end you can stop it from riding down the hammock. I wear a Hat to keep head warm and have been out on my set up when below zero. If really cold you can always use a second sleeping bag inside. Toasty warm then.
good idea...thanks for watching!
great idea! I have some old 0 degree bags that I will try this out on. I am going to add a heavy zipper on the hole for non hammock use.
👍 😁!
I suggest ti use the scratch..
the knot is a great idea just dont go camping with some friends who like to play pranks or you can be on the ground in one swift pulling motion.
Great idea. I'm thinking of taking 2 hammocks and using the second one to contain the liner. The liner being my puffy jacket and clothes. I want to go ultralight and damaging my expensive sleeping bag is not an option. Here's what I'm thinking. 2 hammocks + tarp for rain. The tarp being ultralight too. The 2 hammocks would be an inner and then the outer with my clothes+ reflective emergency blanket to reflect the heat back upwards. Would love to hear your thoughts.
taking 2 hammocks... and using the second one to contain the liner
=> I am thinking about following: Mil-Tec Mini Nylon Hammock + shock cord through the mesh (one big loop on the circumference & one cord each side with cord tensioners) to hold an old sleeping bag
if any have some experience to share on this system,it will be great :-)
I'm guessing you already figured out what to do with the hood, but you could take two pieces of webbing and simply sew in a loop on each side and attach some shock cord to the hammock carabiner. That would also prevent the bag from slipping down. I know it won't be as simple then, but it would be a good addition.
Thanks for the video. VERY informative and well presented. Very helpful to me.
I had pretty much the same idea and browsed RUclips for tips before committing to cutting my dossbag. Some GREAT tips here and in the comments. VERY useful to see the idea for real. That's the way to have an office!
I'll be cutting a "U" shaped feet end hole and sewing it so that, for non-hammock use, it can be "sealed" using velcro (on the outside - don't want the stuff sticking to my socks!). The theory is for the flap to (at least partially) block the U shape cross section of the hammock as it passes through the dossbag. Tape loop and cord at the feet end to attach to the suspension line to stop it riding too far along the hammock..
Wherever possible, I buy dossbags to be overly long and I use them upside-down so that I can fold the hood into the upper body of the bag, held in position under my head. I'm a bushcrafter who likes ultralight so I often use dossbags that carry well, rather than are warm. In cold weather, I wear quilted overtrousers and my Buffalo Mountain Shirt (or oversized Snugpack "Softie") in the dossbag.
I'm really looking forward to trying this. I'm using a naff 1 season bag to trial then, once I'm 100% chuffed with the design function, I'll make another from a decently warm dossbag. Now to watch the field test...
Dude you are the man, thanks for saving me a pile of money! Subbed and thumbs up :)
Nice ! what i did with mine is i used the hood to cover the hole underneath the hammock so wind will not penetrate
Just came across this researching hammock setups. Love the idea. The Sierra Designs Synthesis sleeping bag is almost purpose built for this with it's convertible footbox!
great idea i think for the foot part i would have to slice hole lower so more foot room for big feet
I'd also suggest to add a space blanket to help with keeping away the cold.
If the temps were really going to drop I would add my SOL Escape Bivvy. Works just like a space blanket, but it is breathable. I would also possibly add a space blanket underneath my tarp to reflect the heat back down to me. Thanks for watching!
I'm seriously thinking of doing this same idea. Maybe use a rectangular bag instead of a mummybag . tip for the top of your sleeping bag behind your head use a bungle cord with a toggle to get the back of your shoulders & head is not naked to the elements. . for the foot of the sleeping bag where you cut the hole for the hammock you can add a zipper from old pants to make the hole closed when not used as a hammock quilt . I just started useing mule tape of my hammock. So far I Love it increadibly light and I know it's not going to break in the middle of the night.
You may like to try 1/8 foam shipping sheets cut to hammock size and encased in a light nylon. They are sewable but that knocks out the no need to sew option. It's lightweight but bulky ~.7 lbs., the trick is to hedge the point of the hammock to the foam at both ends. Exacto mea.s required.
Absolute legend thank you, this is gonna save me so much money!
Great idea. For the markII I would suggest a smaller hole and sewing around where the hole will be first. If you roll the edge and add some 550 cord you can create a cinch and keep your feet warm. Very nice work.
Eric Payne Thanks, the next one will def have some improvements...thanks for the ideas
Alternatively, for the sewing challenged, cut the holes in a broadish U shape. This will reduce stress on the bag and leave a flap inside the hammock that might make the hood more useable. we'd still have a draft problem though.
I've used this idea along with a cheap eno under quilt inside of the bag! I even went as far as to sew a line to sinch the opening closed. Awesome idea!
nice! Thanks!
superglue or stitch velcro..to the underside side...then some on quilt....then wrap it around you and hammock. the hood stitch a tiny canvas loop. velcros or clips to end of hammock above head
I did the same thing a while back with two different sleeping bags. One I cut and the other had a draw string at the bottom. It seems like a good idea at first and does actually work. But the problem is that once you get out in the woods and try to sleep you get uncomfortable. That's because you can't move around much or lay diagonal like you should in a hammock. You end up sleeping like a banana. Fifteen minutes in a hammock is fine when your setting it up at home, six hours in the woods and trying to sleep is a nightmare. I would suggest you spend a night in the hammock at home before going out with this system. Trust me I found out the hard way on a backpacking trip. I woke up after hour very sore.
Thanks for the tip! I've spent plenty of nights in the hammock in the woods and sleeping straight actually works for me, IF I have something under my knees. Its great for my back to be bent like that because of my bulging and herniated discs...when I sleep flat is when I have issues. Like I always say though, test it before you trust it...this will be tested in the back yard before it sees service.
If you see 2 lines in the foot then cut between the seams you have a nice neat hole to pass your hammock through and don't lose any insulation. If you really want to make it nice and neat take some wide grosgrain tape and see it folded over on the edges of your cuts. Neatness counts when it comes to making things last.
I had actually thought about trying this myself. Anxious to see how this works out in the cold,keep us posted.
thanks, Im working on making some time to make the video now, stay tuned!
Maybe just need a cord attached to the zipper to open and close easier. Love the idea. I'm pretty broke myself and always looking for ways to save, going to try this soon as I get a hammock. Would like to try it during the fall
That is a great idea with an old bag. Great videos too. I am a side sleeper and I am starting to think my cheap 10ft bag is not enough.
Built one, today out of an old 20* mummy bag and it worked great! A little tight, but I could still move my knees around and sleep like I normally do in a hammock. I think I might leave the bag unzipped a bit and use a bag liner or the SOL emergency bivvy on the inside. You didn't mention that in the video, but I thought a blanket or bag liner inside would really increase the warmth. Of course, I'm in Florida, so I don't need much. Great video and thanks! I've tried many other "sleeping bag into under quilts" and none ever worked like this one and it SO SIMPLE!
Thanks! Glad it worked for you! Ill be bringing mine out for a test this week in the cold weather. I liner or blanket would def work, as well as a sleeping pad.
Oh yeah! I meant to mention a sleeping pad (as if my comment wasn't long enough). I'll be trying mine out at a Boy Scout campout in February. Supposed to be in the 40s-50s at night, which is pretty cool for Florida. :) I look forward to hearing how it works out for you!
Ya, let me know how it works out for you too!
What a great Idea Drew. If that sleeping bag works its a genius concept. Can't wait to see the try out video.
There are products out there like it, but I like to re-purpose things. Ill try to have that video out soon. Thanks for watching!
I did something similar, just without cutting a hole in my sleeping bag. Instead, i just threaded the rope to the hammock through the bottom of the sleeping bag (it has a small opening where the zipper ends). The sleeping bag is still long enough to reach up to my shoulders. My head is not insulated, so i used a pillow, and slept like a baby tonight..! It makes it really easy to get into the sleeping bag, as i can just sit down in the hammock, and pull the sleeping bag up around me.
The only issue i noticed (from just 1 night), was that the zipper opened up during the night, because i had tightened the string to close up the sleeping bag a bit too tight. But as i never really use the zipper, im thinking of just sowing it shut permanently...
You could try to cut a hole under the cordage channel in the hood and just get the draw string on top of the hammock so the hood will stay in place under it.
if you paracord both sides of the bag it will keep it from sliding into the middle and make getting in alot easier.
Thanks for sharing brilliant ideas. I can't wait to try my hammock camping in the winter.
for the hood I'd attach too loops for guy lines to tension the hood and whole mummy quilt to the line holding the hammock to the tree through a s carabiner.
Thanks ~ great job of teaching the slip knot and appreciate you sharing what has worked for you and what hasn't! Great idea :)
April Ezell Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
This will work in a pinch but top and bottom quilts are seperate items for a reason namely as Rev Hiker mentions in that it cramps lying diagonally.
This is also known as the Brazilian lay and is the preferred sleeping position for maximum comfort. Generally speaking hammock socks need to be a lot more voluminius to achieve this.
What a genius idea! I too have been looking for an inexpensive solution for some sort of underquilt for winter camping. Thanks for sharing man! God Bless :D -Lochlainn
Moss Stone Woodlore You're welcome!, Thanks for watching, hope it works out for you!
Destruction is often creation's closest bedfellow. I wondered if this would work, and it looks like it does. Sweet!
+Kainius The Great Thanks!
might try around holes running paracord like in a cinch sack to draw them closed. also from your head to feet sew in little loops every 8"-10" and run a ridge line to keep it off you and then maybe if you sew a little extra material across the opening where your chest and head are exposed across chest stitched and around side of neck and head Velcro so if want to vent you can! atb stay safe and warm.
Mark in Texas
lots of good ideas there...thanks!
Thanks for showing this man, real good ideas. I tend to be a side sleeper so, this looks like a really good fit. I look forward to your net video
Thanks for watching!
This video has just bolstered my confidence in using my mummy bag and probably saved me some money!
Good thoughts, decent vid.
thanks
Sew a piece of looped nylon webbing on the hood. From the loop take a piece of 550 cord and tie a large bite so you can hook it to your carabiner.
that would work
new subscriber here, great video. just started getting in to hammock camping for less than a year now & really like your concept. the wheels are turning. thanks for sharing, be safe, God bless, going to browse your videos now 😁👍
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
For those asking that webbing he used is called "Mule Tape" I have used it to pull cable in conduit. I would love to try this out but my hammock has the integrated bug net. Great idea though
No need for the big net while winter camping, I'd get cheap hammock to try a few things. Always oot for comfy over trendy.
I've had that idea since i started with a hammock. I used to throw a big wool blanket over me and let it hang down and it worked okay but I've always been curious about putting a sleeping bag like this. Definitely let us know how it works out!
Sure will! Thanks for watching!
I use an old barrel bag with a two-way zipper, just unzip the foot as much as needed. Works great in the cold and there's plenty of room for an over quilt inside the bag when it gets really cold.
nice!
Really helpful.. have the same sleeping bag & was trying to figure out a way to not spend any money while converting it into an underquilt for my eno. Nice vid 👍
I thought of this sort of system. Can a person sleep at an angle to create the flat sleep effect with this system? That’s what is troubling me of attempting it. Right now, I sleep on top of a military down bag I used since a kid. I never had compression problems, and I store it compressed to. Ya, I know, a big no no, but hey, I am not cold and I sleep in snow. Down on bottom, another bag on top, with half mattress inside it, a silk liner, and a wool blanket at hand in case.
Looks great for one who can sleep in a constricted space in one position all night, particularly with one's knees forced backward. I assume a guy like me who must lay diagonally in a double hammock would need too large of a bag to make a "pod" practical... or do you have enough room for some diagonal lay?
There isn't much diagonal lay. In my field testing video though, I explain how I take my pack and put it under my knees to make it all work. It worked for me on a single digit night.
Awesome idea! I really like hammock camping but not cold butt syndrome!
Ive fashioned a underquilt for my hammock but wouldnt trust it in freezing temps, it did well down to 40 degrees but thats it. This is a really great idea especially for people who dont want to fuss with sewing. Thanks for sharing!
Atb,
Jenn :)
Thanks, hope it works for you when you give it a try!
Cool, always looking for smart DIY solutions - same here: why spending money when the shelves full of stuff......
Years ago i looked into putting a hammock in my room, i was reading the strength that is need is quite a bit, more then i had expected. I cant remember how much but i was surprised. I have a hammock like your but it's double, is that a single looks loads better.
So creative! Thank you so much for sharing this video. You smart!👍😊🙏❤️
I think this is excellent! Yea those under quilts are high dollar. And yip I been down that road with the 550 para cord too.
trooper2221 Thanks for watching...hopefully you werent too high when the 550 let loose haha
I'll definitely be trying this sometime. I will start hammock camping soon, Deo Volente. Good video.
As soon as I got a hammock, I never looked back...so much more comfortable for me...Thanks for watching, God Bless!
I love this! I don't have a bag that I'd be willing to cut because I still tent when I go with my husband. My bug net is sewn into my hammock, so this wouldn't work, but I'm sure I could find an old sleeping bag in the share shed or a thrift store and make a underquilt out of that. I've been using a windshield reflector screen inside my hammock. It's not the best.
nice, and I agree, the reflector screen isnt the best, but its a good cheap alternative.
Your videos are genuinely useful, really appreciate it.
Thanks! Glad you like them.
i would consider drawing a circle on the bottom that you intend for the suspension to come through. sew that circle by hand on the line you drew, then cut out the hole on the bottom. this would make things a lot easier come time to tidy up the suspension hole.
troy stevens oops...somehow I missed your comment...sorry about that! That would def be a good idea to keep things neater, thanks!
i have a heavyweight snugpak bag i purchased from a charity years ago for £5 i'm thinking of doing the same but instead of using duck tape i'm thinking using some copydex fabric glue to seal the ends it might not work with a klymit pad though due to the wings but it's worth a go
Where can you get that type of webbing for hammocking? I'm loving your super easy and ingenious hanging system.
It's called mule tape
I wonder how it would work if you hot glued, sewed, or even just placed some reflective padding like reflextic on the bottom side to reflect even more heat coming through the hammock if you were too cold. The sleeping bag was a great idea and it gives you some room for modifications and tinkering to make it even better! Thanks for the video!
Thanks! There are lots of possibilities with this, and with all gear! Only limited by our creativity
+RevHiker I'm actually watching the field test as we speak and I see that you used some reflextic as a sleeping pad, and I'm glad it worked so well!! Best of luck to you!
+Eric Glidden haha thanks
I use the Ozark Trail Walmart backpacking 40 degree($30) sleeping bag. the nice thing is it's cinches at the top. That with the grand trunk $20 ultralight hammock from Meijer I good summer and fall.
I have almost bought that bag a couple times... maybe Ill have to grab it
Michelangelo Ferretti how cold have you taken that combo down to?
I have both and want to try winter hammock camping this year
I use a Ozark Trail sleeping bag liner with it but I haven't been out in anything colder then 50 degrees. I think it can handle colder, perhaps 40 degrees but I will bring some iron oxide hand warmers just in case.
I've used that OT bag (not in a hammock) down to 31 degrees with no issues just by laying a mylar space blanket on top of my sleeping pad, laying the bag on that, and then stuffing a light fleece blanket into the bag with me. Toasty warm. Having the space blanket reflect the heat back up makes more of a difference than I expected.
I bet if you stuffed a space blanket into the bottom of the bag under the hammock, you'd get similar results...
NOTE: I wasn't expecting it to get down to 31... but I always carry the space blanket since it weighs nothing, and I had the fleece in the car. This was a trip with my son's scout troop.
Michelangelo Ferretti did you have to cut the bag like rev did ?
I have both ozark trail 40 degree and 2 grand trunk ultralites
Going to try either way tonight
I tried this but cold air kept blowing through the hole at my upper back. Fixed it by replacing the ropes on an old ultralight hammock with bungee cords and stringing it up tight underneath the bag to push the under part up against my back without compressing it and losing the insulation ability. Also if you don't want to cut your sleeping bag, the Kelty Lightyear has a hole with a zipper at the feet so it's perfect for this.
Good idea. thanks for watching!
I put a rock at the head area and tired para cord around it and it took coarse of the extra bag dragging the ground. Works really good. Cuts out the draft
So, did you ever use the DIY pod? Did it work as you wanted/expected? Are you still using? If not what are you using as an underquilt and what happened to the bag? I am curious...THANKS
As a guy with little extra money I do lots of DIY builds for gear. I made that exact under quilt and just added a thermarest jic
Nice👍
great idea. Spin the bag around until the hood's on top. Cover your head for warmth flop it back. You could add a short zipper in the foot end.
wdinkins281 never thought of flipping it over...great idea, thanks!
Great minds must think alike, I do this with my sleeping bag which is rectangle and double zippered so I don't need to cut and sew. I am however struggling with the inability of diagonally positioning myself. but it is quite cozy.
If I can bend my knees, I dont need to be diagonal...but it would still be nice
I just use that same slip knot without even the lock. The pressure on it locks it pretty well.
Trying to research a good way to build a cold weather insulated system. I slept outside last night in maybe 40 fahrenheit (5 celsius) in my huge modular sleeping bag and a sleeping pad, without even a tarp, and was plenty comfy. But here in Finland it regularly gets down to -20 celsius, and I need something for those days. Have you found a good system to allow diagonal hanging?
I havent found one yet. I am working on something for this winter though
Hi there,
I just watched this video because I was wondering about underquilts. The thing is, my kid and I went hammock camping in the Belgium Ardennes last week and she figured she would do this with her sleeping bag. Since it has a zipper running in two directions we didn't need to cut it.
And hers is a blanket style bag, so a bit roomier. She did turn it around though and let the hood cover her face. But since she is a kid, she was covered all around, because her sleeping bag is a grown up size bag.
But, I also attached our poncho's underneath, to keep the wind out.
What I was wondering is if the dew would not make the sleeping bag moist if we hadn't done that? ( the poncho was underneath the sleeping bag)
Since we a,so camped in august and the lowest temp must have been around 10 degrees Celcius, it would not have been as cold as when you tested it. So I am wondering how that worked out for you... Did your sleeping bag get wet at all and did that cool you off?
Cool vids, I subbed
+Liesbeth Bos I have used this method for almost two years and that hasn't been a problem. I do always have a tarp over me though.
Liesbeth Bos use some camp dry waterproof spray on it if your concerned about dew
Take some shock cord and tie it around the hood of the bag, then attach that to your suspension. Do the same to the other end, and it will suspend your bag like an under quilt. This will keep you from getting an air pocket underneath you, which you DO NOT want. On a cold night, air will leak in and you'll freeze. You want the bag tight against your back and butt. Otherwise, awesome video on a pod system. Only seen one other guy trying it with a sleeping bag.
You can also take a jacket and wrap that around the foot end of the hammock. Extra insulation for your feet.
+Dylan Childers good ideas...thanks for watching!
In regards to your knees bending back while laying, have you tried to tighten your mock so you lay flatter? meaning you have less arch in the overall mock hang. IDK how tall you are and if it would work for you but it works for me.PS I like your tips. I got a few more tools in the toolbox!
thanks.. and yes, I could hang it a bit flatter to help with that since I have to lay straight with this one
Trying this year. Tired of 3 am freezing up in MT. My shitty sleeping bag will do the trick. Just got to pack another for the inside!
Great video, the best I've found on the subject. I'm curious as to where online you found the sleeping bag; I can't find anything remotely close, price-wise.
+Evan Drake I got that bag at an army navy place. I think Wenzel makes it
Thank you!
Looking forward to the update when you get a chance to test it in the field.
Thanks! Hopefully I will get out this coming week to try it out.
I have seen the manufacturers copy this through the years as this is an older video from my post Today. They made the hammock cocoon and stole your idea. Very original.
Tarp Clamps are the solution going forward. Set up and get in and have someone apply the tart clamps removing the gaps. It needs to be set for you. Then use a permanent marker to trace where the tarp clamps work best this way you alone can get a good fit yourself when setting up.
I have a bag just like that to try out ! Glad you did this! I will have to give it a go as well. Good job!
Thanks! Quick tip, cut the hole for the feet right where your heels will be...it leaves more room for your toes, and use your pack to support the backs of your knees...
I was thinking not to do anything with the hood if you end up getting cold pull the bag up over your head and grab the drawstring and pull it in with you and the hood will draw up closed to seal yourself in
I would have just rotated the sleeping bag so that the hood was on top and then I would’ve used it to cover my head but still a great idea and thank you for sharing
Have you tried this in the cold??? Just wondering if it works??? Sounds like a great Idea!!!!!
I have a video planned to test it. However, it has been between -5 and -34 here at night the last couple weeks. Im going to wait till its in the teens hahaha. Thanks for watching
Yeah... It's really cold here in norther Indiana to! I'm looking forward to seeing the results!
Hopefully in the next couple weeks
tuck the hood inside bag, and use streatchy mini bungi cord to pull the hood/hang part of bag up close to your head.
It is a great idea! Which I entertained trying out... briefly. However, down here we need to continue using our bug net while hammock camping even in the Winter. I'm probably going to buy a 2nd hand sleeping bag and DIY an underquilt. You're so right, those things are ridiculously priced.
Cheers
Subbed ya.
I wish I could hang a hammock in my office...
that would be great lol
Same. I would replace my bed with it
Clip a clothespin to the hood. Then connect the clothespin to the top end of the hammock with a bungee cord.
That's a beautiful beard.
lol thanks
Very envious.
This looks great! I'm off to find your follow up video.
man, this is an awesome idea. thanks for posting.
jared oliver Thanks for watching!
Man this could sound like bullshit but thought the same thing and do it around 8 months ago! Then I found your video, LOL cause actually a had almost the same sleeping bag (mine is a Colleman from wallmart). Had to say it work for me (but I didn't use ducktape; I do sew it and attach some loops so it can be fix it to ends of the hammock) but you may need some other isollation or warming system for colder weather.
tumbs up, and keep it up!
thanks. It must be that great minds think alike lol
Flip it upside down and other way around use the hood over your feet😊
Awesome! I discovered that my old sleeping bag has these properties. Did you test it out yet? :) It would be awesome to hear about temperature durability and so forth and so on.
if you check out my channel, I have a field test with this where I slept in single digit Temps with this
Ah nice. I will have a look at that. TY mate.
Great creativity!
Do people use a sleeping bag in the hammock as well
amazing idea, ¿how did it go in the field?