Frequent adventurer or not, you will need good sleeping equipment in the wilderness. Due to the sudden drop in temperature at night, it is necessary to equip yourself with the proper insulation.
And what better option if you have a hammock with a sleeping pad or an underquilt. Though it may sound the same, the sleeping pad and an underquilt are different. Both of them do the same thing, but one is better than the other one.
We are going to bring in the difference between them in this hammock sleeping pad vs underquilt article. So you don’t confuse yourself over buying the wrong one in your next adventure.
What Is a Hammock Sleeping Pad?
As the name suggests, the sleeping pad is identical to any camping sleeping pad. The difference here is that it is integrated with the hammock itself. As hammocks are built differently, the sleeping pads are aligned with their structure to ensure a snuggly and comfy fit.
It can be made out of foam, inflatable material and have the option to be closed. You can also take it apart when it is necessary from your hammock.
The best thing about a sleeping pad is that it is lightweight. So it is easy to carry and store. Especially in the wilderness, you don’t want something heavy. The sleeping pad is the perfect equipment to carry along with your hammock and can give you the proper warmth when needed.
What Is an Underquilt?
The underquilt is insulation made out of lightweight fiber that is suspended under and around the hammock. This ensures the warmth inside the hammock cannot escape. Also, the feeling of a warm cozy blanket is mimicked with an underquilt.
The underquilt comes with the option of being removed and fixed with modern-day hammocks. They are efficient and provide a greater amount of warmth in freezing temperatures.
But as they are made out of fiber, they are a bit heavier. So be ready to carry some extra weight.
One thing the underquilt is superior to a sleeping pad is there is no shifting or moving while you are sleeping. As most underquilts are integrated with a hammock, there is no worry about it moving around when you are moving inside the hammock.
Hammock Sleeping Pad vs Underquilt, Which One Is Better?
Although the sleeping pad and the underquilt provide the same support, they are very different from a lot of points. We are going to go through the details about both of them and in the end, will decide which is the better option for your hammock.
The Pros and Cons of a Hammock Sleeping Pad
Here are the pros about a hammock sleeping pad
- They are lightweight and easy to carry.
- Integrated with the hammock, so no slipping out.
- Inexpensive and affordable.
- Option to get it on foam, inflatable and closed cell.
The cons of a sleeping pod
- A bit narrow, so sleeping on it might be frustrating.
- Won’t give you enough warmth in the freezing temperatures.
- Has the tendency to shift, causing a disturbance in sleep.
The Pros and Cons of a Hammock Underquilt
Here are the pros of having a hammock underquilt
- An underquilt is a light fiber material that gives a blanket-like feeling.
- It is much warmer than a sleeping pad.
- As it is integrated into the hammock, there is no chance of it slipping or popping out with movement.
- Works brilliantly in freezing temperatures.
There are some cons for a hammock underquilt too.
- As it is made of fiber, it is heavier than any sleeping pad.
- A bit expensive in terms of a budget-friendly sleeping pad.
So Which One Do You Get? Hammock Sleeping Pad or Underquilt
It all comes down to two things. One is the budget and then is the warmth. In the wilderness, the weather is unpredictable. Without the proper insulation, you might get sick or worse. So if you are planning on a trip in the winter or cold weather, it is better to go for an underquilt. Although they are more expensive than a sleeping pad, it is ideal for a hammock. And needless to say, more comfortable than it.
If your trip is a short one and you don’t want to spend too much, and the weather is friendly enough, then you can go for a sleeping pad for your hammock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a sleeping pad instead of an underquilt?
Yes, you can. If your hammock comes with a sleeping pad, you can use the sleeping pad as it is aligned with your hammock. But if your hammock does not come with a sleeping pad, and you have to use a separate one, chances are it will pop out during your sleep.
Can I use a sleeping pad in a hammock?
Yes, you can use a sleeping pad in a hammock. It provides you with the needed warmth and comfort in the outdoors. But it is better to get a hammock that has a sleeping pad integrated into it rather than attach a different one. As they are made of foam, inflatable material, they move around in the hammock if not secured properly.
Do you need a hammock underquilt?
If you are going on an adventure, especially in the wintertime, an underquilt will do you wonders. It will not only provide you with insulation but also comfort and the best fit. Unlike a sleeping pad, an underquilt has less chance of popping out of your hammock.
Do you need an underquilt in the summer?
No. the Underquilt is made out of fiber material that insulates heat. With an underquilt in the summer, you might start sweating. Especially if you are surrounded by trees. The humidity and the underquilt will make you feel comfortable for a while until you start sweating.
Conclusion
Although a sleeping pad and an underquilt seem to be surviving the same purpose, they are different in perspective. While a sleeping pad is good for the budget, it is not as warm as an underquilt. Especially when you are in a hammock, the breeze and wind can be a real problem. So it is better to go for an underquilt rather than a sleeping pad.
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