Taking your dog hammock camping can be an amazing way to bond and share outdoor adventures. But it does come with unique challenges that both you and your dog need to prepare for. Let’s dive into some key tips to make sure your next hammock camping trip with your furry friend is safe, warm, and fun!
​
1. Prepare the Right Gear for Your Dog - To ensure your dog is comfortable, consider bringing along the right gear. If your dog will be sleeping under your hammock, pack a warm blanket, a sleeping pad, and perhaps a bug net or tarp to protect them from rain and insects. If your dog prefers to sleep in the hammock with you, make sure their nails are trimmed to avoid damaging the fabric. Arrowhead Equipment offers durable hammock underquilts that will keep both of you warm during colder nights, ideal for sharing cozy hammock space.

2. Keeping Your Dog Warm at Night - Even during warmer seasons, temperatures can drop at night, especially if you’re in the mountains or camping during spring and fall. For this reason, having an underquilt from Arrowhead Equipment is crucial for insulation. You can also wrap your dog in a wind-resistant blanket or use a separate small hammock for them. Remember to pack plenty of blankets or an extra quilt to ensure they stay warm.

3. Safety First: Keeping Your Dog Secure - Safety should be your top priority when hammock camping with your dog. Bring along a leash and always secure your dog, especially at night. Hammock camping often takes place in more remote locations where wildlife might be present. A leash can prevent your dog from chasing after animals or wandering into potentially dangerous areas. Make sure they are also up-to-date on vaccines and flea/tick treatments before your trip.

4. Hydration and Food Supplies - Active dogs need plenty of water, especially when hiking during the day. Pack enough water and food to keep them hydrated and fueled for adventure. A good rule of thumb is to bring at least one liter of water per day for large dogs. Portable water bowls and collapsible food containers are great tools to make sure your dog stays nourished throughout your journey.

5. Fun and Relaxation with Your Dog - Don’t forget that camping is also about having fun! Engage your dog in hiking, fetch, and swimming (if you’re near a lake or river). Make sure to take breaks during hikes to avoid overexertion, especially if your dog isn’t used to long distances. Keep an eye on their energy levels, and when it’s time to relax, they can curl up with you in the hammock or enjoy the comfort of a warm sleeping pad beneath.

​Hammock camping with your dog can enhance your outdoor experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. By preparing the right gear, ensuring their safety, and keeping them comfortable, you’ll both have an unforgettable adventure. For all your camping needs, including the perfect underquilt to keep you and your dog warm, visit ArrowheadEquipment.

By following these simple tips, you’ll ensure your next trip is enjoyable and safe for both you and your loyal companion. Happy hammock camping!

When it comes to hammock camping, the Whoopie Sling suspension system stands as a game-changing innovation, and at Arrowhead Equipment, we are proud to have pioneered the commercial introduction of Whoopie slings over 15 years ago. If you're looking to reduce weight, simplify setup, and maximize your hammock experience, Whoopie slings are the ideal solution for hammock enthusiasts at all levels.
What is a Whoopie Sling?A Whoopie Sling is an adjustable suspension system that uses a "sliding constrictor" mechanism, much like a Chinese finger trap, allowing for easy length adjustments without the need for bulky hardware or complicated knots. The design consists of a loop at one end and an adjustable section, which tightens under load, providing secure support for your hammock setup.
​
How to Set Up a Whoopie SlingSetting up your Whoopie Sling is straightforward:

1. Attach the fixed loop to your hammock’s continuous loop or through its sewn channel.
2. Adjust the bury section by sliding the sling to your desired length, allowing you to control the tension and height of your hammock.
3. Pair with tree straps: It’s important to use tree straps to protect the tree and distribute weight evenly. Clip the Whoopie Sling to your straps using carabiners, and you’re ready to relax!

At Arrowhead Equipment, we offer Whoopie Sling 7/64" Individual, which are lightweight but strong enough to support over 1600 lbs. If you're an ultralight camper, our Dynaglide Whoopie Sling provide an even lighter option, with a capacity of 1000 lbs, perfect for thru-hikers and long-distance backpackers

Why Choose Whoopie Slings for Your Hammock Suspension?

• Lightweight & Compact: Each Whoopie Sling weighs just 20 grams (for the 7/64" Amsteel version), making it a go-to choice for minimalist campers.
• Highly Adjustable: Easily adjust the sling to get the perfect hammock hang without retying or complicated setups.
• No Hardware Needed: The simple, knot-free design reduces bulk, keeping your gear streamlined.
• Weather-Resistant: Made from Amsteel Blue, a high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE), these slings are resistant to water, UV, and harsh weather, ensuring durability across seasons.

Why Buy from Arrowhead Equipment?We were the first shop to introduce Whoopie Slings for hammock suspension over 15 years ago, and we’ve fine-tuned our designs to ensure they are user-friendly, durable, and ultralight. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hammock camper, our wide range of slings— from standard Amsteel models to ultralight Dynaglide slings— has something for every adventurer.
Pair your Whoopie Slings with our Ready Made Straps for a complete suspension system that’s safe for trees and keeps your setup secure​.For more details on our Whoopie Sling options, visit our Hammock Suspension and explore the various sizes and weights available!

When it comes to staying warm during hammock camping or backpacking, choosing the right insulation can make or break your trip. While down quilts have traditionally been the go-to option for their lightweight and packability, synthetic quilts have surged in popularity due to their versatility, durability, and performance in wet conditions. Here, we break down why a synthetic quilt might just be your best camping companion.

1. Exceptional Performance in Wet ConditionsOne of the major advantages of synthetic insulation is its ability to retain warmth, even when wet. Down insulation clumps together when exposed to moisture, losing its ability to trap heat. For outdoor adventurers, this can spell disaster during a rainy night or an unexpected dip in a river.

With synthetic quilts like the Jarbidge Underquilt, you don’t have to worry about losing insulation when things get damp. This makes synthetic insulation ideal for rainy or humid conditions, giving you peace of mind no matter the weather.

2. Durable and Low-MaintenanceAnother often-overlooked benefit of synthetic quilts is their durability. Synthetic fibers are more resistant to compression and repeated use, meaning your quilt will last longer and hold its shape better over time. They also tend to be easier to clean and care for, compared to their delicate down counterparts.

For example, the RidgeCreek Underquilt offers a tough, long-lasting synthetic fill designed to stand up to years of use in the backcountry. Plus, caring for a synthetic quilt is easy—just toss it in the wash without worrying about losing its loft.

3. Affordable and AccessibleSynthetic quilts are generally more affordable than down quilts, which makes them a great option for campers on a budget. If you’re just getting into hammock camping, opting for an affordable yet high-quality synthetic underquilt, such as our Jarbidge Underquilt, is a great way to stay warm without breaking the bank.

Since synthetic insulation is more readily available, you’re likely to find a wider variety of options at different price points, making it easier to find the perfect quilt for your needs.

4. Ideal for Ultralight BackpackingWhile down insulation is generally praised for its superior warmth-to-weight ratio, synthetic quilts have become lighter and more compressible with advances in technology. For ultralight backpackers, synthetic quilts now provide a competitive balance between weight and durability. Synthetic quilts, like the RidgeCreek Underquilt, pack down easily and are ideal for lightweight setups where every ounce counts.

5. Versatile for All SeasonsA synthetic quilt can adapt to a wide range of temperatures and conditions, making it a versatile addition to your gear. Whether you're out in the summer or braving the fall and winter, you’ll find that a synthetic underquilt performs well in all seasons. Its breathability makes it ideal for summer trips, while its warmth retention makes it perfect for cold-weather adventures.

Check out our full range of camping quilts to find the perfect match for your camping style.

ConclusionIn summary, synthetic quilts offer a variety of benefits for outdoor enthusiasts, including better performance in wet conditions, superior durability, and affordability. Whether you're a beginner looking for budget-friendly gear or an experienced backpacker in need of reliable, lightweight insulation, synthetic quilts are a worthy investment.
For more on ultralight camping gear, check out our hammock tarps and suspension systems to complete your backcountry setup.