I agree with you — pads take up a lot of space. Depending on the temperature range, sometimes the pad by itself may be all you need to stay warm. Pads can be pretty light and multi-purpose, but you can get more thermal weight to warmth ratio with an under quilt. In other words, pads are less efficient for the weight and space they take up. Under quilts are better. Pads CAN be a POSITIVE pack item in some conditions to augment an under quilt, like in sub-zero temperatures. In those cases where you do want/need to bring both, you can always roll up and pack the pad on the outside of your pack or in a pulk sled. For me, I rarely bring pads because of the reasons you outlined: taking up too much space in my pack. If you have an under quilt, do you use a separate stuff sack. If so, you can save some space by packing your UQ directly into the bottom of your pack (inside a compactor garbage bag for weather protection).

Josh, thank you for your input. I don’t normally reply to trolling, but I think you missed several key points to stick to facts. First, Hennessy does not sell any 2-person hammocks. Second, I specifically researched hammocks and tents that were comparable in terms of feature set and dimensions to be as fair and balanced as possible. Third, I wrote this article to be honest about the pros and cons about hammocks and tent camping as possible, even admitting that a direct comparison is often misguided and difficult. What you may have missed is that I’m a die-hard hammock aficionado and yet I’m trying to show that I’m not above criticism or even criticizing hammocks, especially to admit (where others may ignore) that yes, hammocks have limits and flaws. However, even in these admissions, there are benefits that may outweigh the challenges. Yes, you can find really lightweight hammocks, but to compare a lightweight tent to a hammock you better make sure you’re accounting for all the pieces required to make it as comparable as possible, which is what this article achieves.

Jeff, thank you for your service and thank you for your comments! Hennessy has been a great partner to service men and women with his hammocks and I’m glad they are working for you.

This is a really good topic and one to do a lot of research and trip planning. Pack touring Europe is common, but you’re right that most folks stay in hostels or “couch surfing” as a way to avoid paying for expensive hotels and lodging. Camping is possible, but it’s not as easy as in the US. When you do your research, if you find that hanging a hammock isn’t possible most of the time, than I wouldn’t plan on it as my primary place to sleep. However, there are plenty of places you can day hang along your trip, including at parks. I’d still bring along a hammock but I may just opt for a simple open hammock that packs down small and is pretty light.

Thank You
-Alvin