How to Set up a Hammock

Choose the right location for setting up your hammock. Having two anchor points (trees or walls) at a reasonable distance from each other is the ideal way to hang a hammock. If you cannot find anchor points, you can make your own by planting posts in the ground or buying your own freestanding stand.

Decide how high you want to set your hammock and then move the marking up about 10 inches. This is to account for the sag that your body weight will produce once you get in the hammock.

Measure the distance between the anchor points, making sure you have at least 12 feet (for a standard-size hammock) to allow for a comfortable sag.

Keep in mind that hammocks may stretch and sag more with time so it is always better to hang them up a little higher to allow for gradual sagging.

Drill holes on the anchor points using an electric drill. Make sure the holes are not larger than the size of the anchors or there is a risk that they will unscrew or fail to support your weight properly.

Secure the hammock to the anchor points using hook screws and a welded-steel chain or a strong rope (thick braided nylon is best). Some hammocks come with kits that allow you to set them up without the need to buy any additional items. Otherwise you will find the right type of chains and rope at an outdoor-supply store.