Hammocks can offer an awesome way of relaxing outdoors especially during the summer months. Whenever you want to relax, you need to know just how many people your hammock can hold. On average, it can hold up to four people, but some larger models can hold six people.Â
There are four factors that are fundamental and they must be considered or else the hammock will break or tear. These fundamental factors are; the size of a hammock, the material used to make a hammock, age/weight of the user, and the usage position.
I am going to give you an overview of these four factors and at the end you will understand how they influence the number of people that can fit on a hammock.
- Size of the hammock
Here we look at both the length and width of the hammock. The width is the main measurement because it determines the type of hammock. Generally, the length of hammocks are the same. There are two types of hammocks that are derived from the size of the width. These are;
- Single hammocks
Single hammocks have a width range of between four feet to five feet. And they have an ability to carry 150kgs to 200kgs. A single hammock is made to be used by one adult person or two children who are below sixteen years.
- Double hammocks
Double hammocks have a width range of between five feet to six feet. These double hammocks can carry weights that range between 200kgs to 250kgs. They are made to be used by two adults or three children under the age of sixteen.
Double hammocks are much more comfortable compared to single hammocks.
- Material used to make the hammock
A hammock can be called a double hammock but if it is manufactured with a light fabric it will not be able to handle two or more people. There are several materials that are used to make hammocks, and each material has different durability strength. These materials are;
- Cotton fabric
Most hammocks worldwide are made with cotton fabric. This is because cotton is soft, hence more comfortable.
Cotton is also a breathable fabric that allows good circulation of air hence you will be comfortable on a hot day. The best thing about cotton is that it is washable and can absorb moisture. The down side with cotton is that it is not weather resistant and mold/mildew can attack it easily.
Cotton made into light cords can be used to manufacture single hammocks. When it is made into thick cord it is used to manufacture double hammocks.
- Polyester fabric
Polyester is a weather resistant fabric which can be left outdoors for all seasons. Polyester is stronger than cotton that is why it is preferred for double hammocks.
Polyester can dry up quicker than thick cords of cotton and it is resistant to molds and mildew.
- Nylon fabric
Nylon is in between cotton and polyester when it comes to weather resistance and durability. When thick cords of nylon are made then it can be used to make a double hammock and the thin cords are used to make a single hammock.
- Age/weight of the hammock user
According to hammocks categorization, an adult starts from the age of 17 years. 16 years and below are categorized as children. A single hammock can carry one adult person or two children who are below 16 years.
A double hammock can carry two adults and three children below 16 years. Also, a double hammock can also carry one adult and two children.
- Usage position
Although hammocks are made for people to sleep on, they can carry more people if they sit on them in a row.
A single hammock is made with light material hence it can carry three adults or four children seated in a row. A double hammock is made with strong durable material that can carry four adults or five children seated in a row.
Factors to Consider When/Before Buying a Hammock
- Weight of the hammock
If you are a camper or a trekker, the weight of the hammock is an important consideration. Choose a hammock that is lightweight so that you do not carry a heavy bag on your back. You can also choose a bigger hammock that can fit two people instead of carrying two heavy hammocks.
- Durability of the hammock
A hammock that is made with low-quality material is very dangerous because it can snap any time and you might injure your back.Â
The best material for hammocks are polyester or nylon which are durable and weather resistant. Cotton fabric can easily rot and tear at any time, but it is known for being very comfortable.
- Cost of hammocks
Hammocks are pocket-friendly and it is not a must you buy a new one each time you are travelling or camping. When you check online or in leading retail stores, you will find that the prices of hammocks are related. In summary, choose a hammock that is durable with an affordable price.Â
On the other hand, most expensive hammocks are made with durable material that can stay for many years. This is why economists advise you to make a one-time investment rather than buying a new hammock after a few years.Â
- Capacity of a hammock
Find out if you want a hammock for you alone or one that can fit another person. A double hammock is very comfortable if used by one person, but it is heavy on long trips.
Always check the weight limit of the hammock you want to buy. When you want a hammock that fits your whole family buy a family-sized hammock.Â
- Accessories of a hammock
Hammock accessories are the extras that add comfort to the user. They include the straps, tarps, and nets. Choose a hammock that has high quality accessories, especially the straps that are used to suspend the hammock.
Nowadays you can find straps being sold separately with the hammock. Also get a hammock that comes with tarps to prevent rain water from collecting and nets, which prevent bugs and mosquitos.
Conclusion
The number of people who can fit on a hammock depends on the size of the hammock, material used to make the hammock, the age/weight of the users, and the usage position. These factors are interdependent, for example if a double hammock is not made with strong fabric it will not be able to carry two people. There are family size hammocks that can fit six people.