Description
DD Travel Hammock/Bivi – hammock with waterproof base and mosquito net
The DD Travel Hammock/Bivi is a double-layer hammock with an integrated mosquito net and a waterproof base layer. It has two main uses. You can hang it between trees as a hammock, or use it on the ground as a bivi.
This makes it a practical choice when you do not know if suitable trees will be available. If trees are available, it works as a hammock with insect protection. If there is nowhere to hang it, you can lay it on the ground and pitch a tarp above it.
The hammock measures 2.7 × 1.4 m. According to DD Hammocks, it is suitable for users up to approximately 198 cm tall and 125 kg in weight. It comes with 10 metres of suspension webbing, two elastic cords, two 60 cm spreader poles and a stuff sack.
Hammock and ground bivi in one
When used as a hammock, the mosquito net is lifted with the included spreader poles and elastic cords. Two-way zips make entry and exit easier.
If the mosquito net is not needed, the hammock can be turned over. In that setup, the net stays underneath.
When used on the ground, the waterproof base layer works as the floor of the bivi. The hammock is laid on the ground and pegged out from the corner loops.
In rainy weather, a separate tarp is needed above. The mosquito net does not provide rain protection.
The Travel Hammock/Bivi does not replace a tent or tarp on its own in wet weather. It does, however, give you one shelter that can be used both between trees and on the ground.
Double-layer construction and sleeping pad use
The DD Travel Hammock/Bivi has a double-layer construction. A partially inflated sleeping pad can be placed between the fabric layers.
This is useful in cooler conditions. In a hammock, insulation underneath the body is important.
The insulation in a sleeping bag or quilt is compressed under your body weight. This means it does not provide the same warmth from below. For this reason, hammock users usually need one of the following:
- sleeping pad
- underquilt
- another form of bottom insulation
The double-layer base helps keep a sleeping pad in place. The pad should not usually be inflated too firmly. An overly stiff pad can feel uncomfortable in a hammock.
Insect protection for summer camping
The integrated fine-mesh mosquito net is closed with zips. According to DD Hammocks, the net also protects against smaller insects. In Finnish summer conditions, a mosquito net is an important feature. This is especially true near lakes, wetlands and damp forests. DD Hammocks does not state the exact mesh size. Because of this, we cannot promise protection against the very smallest biting midges. Against mosquitoes and most flying insects, the integrated net makes sleeping much more peaceful.
Waterproof base and condensation
The waterproof base layer is the key difference between the Travel model and many standard hammocks. It makes ground bivi use possible. In hammock use, the waterproof structure is not as breathable as a regular fabric base. DD Hammocks notes that some users may experience slight condensation because of the waterproof base. This is worth considering in damp weather and on warm nights. It can also happen when the tarp is pitched very low and air cannot circulate freely. You can improve ventilation by pitching the tarp a little more openly. Leave enough airflow at the ends or sides. If you do not need the ground bivi function, consider the DD Frontline Hammock instead. It is usually the more comfortable choice if you sleep almost always between trees.
Suspension and tree protection
The hammock comes with 10 metres of suspension webbing. There is 5 metres at each end of the hammock. When hanging from living trees, we recommend using wider tree huggers or tree protection straps. They help prevent damage to the bark. A good basic setup is not pulled tight. The hammock should hang with a clear curve. A hammock that is pitched too tightly can feel uncomfortable. It also increases the load on the suspension points. A suitable sag creates a more relaxed sleeping position. It can also reduce pressure on the shoulders and knees.
Technical details
- Size: 2.7 × 1.4 m
- Maximum user height: approximately 198 cm
- Maximum user weight: 125 kg
- Weight: 930 g, hammock without suspension accessories
- Colours: Olive Green and Coyote Brown
- Construction: double-layer
- Base: waterproof base layer for ground use
- Insect protection: integrated mosquito net
- Zips: two-way zips
- Interior: 4 small storage pockets
- Internal loops: 2 hanging loops for lightweight accessories
- Corner loops: 4 loops for pegging out, gear attachment or DD Underblanket use
- Suspension: pre-installed 10 m webbing, 5 m at each end
- Included: 2 elastic cords, 2 spreader poles and stuff sack
Included in delivery
- DD Travel Hammock/Bivi
- 10 m suspension webbing
- 2 × elastic cord
- 2 × 60 cm spreader pole for the mosquito net
- Stuff sack
Who is the DD Travel Hammock/Bivi suitable for?
The DD Travel Hammock/Bivi is suitable for campers who want one shelter for two uses:
- hammock camping
- ground sleeping
It is a useful choice on routes with varied terrain. On those trips, suitable hammock trees cannot always be guaranteed.
It is also suitable for users who want:
- integrated mosquito protection
- a double-layer base
- space for a sleeping pad between the layers
- the option to sleep on the ground if needed
Who is this not the best choice for?
The DD Travel Hammock/Bivi is not the best choice if you want the most breathable hammock possible.
The waterproof base is useful on the ground. In hammock use, it can increase the risk of condensation.
This model may not be the best choice for:
- users who always sleep between trees
- hikers who do not need the bivi function
- ultralight hikers who want to minimise weight
- users who prefer the most breathable hammock base
If you almost always sleep between trees, the DD Frontline Hammock is usually a better option. Its base structure is more breathable.
Frequently asked questions
Can the DD Travel Hammock/Bivi be used on the ground?
Yes. The waterproof base layer allows it to be used on the ground as a bivi.
In rainy weather, a separate tarp is needed above. The mosquito net does not protect against rain.
Why can the DD Frontline be better for hammock-only use?
The DD Frontline is a similar hammock with an integrated mosquito net. Its base structure is more breathable.
The waterproof base of the Travel model is useful on the ground. In hammock use, however, it can increase condensation.
Are separate tree huggers needed?
They are recommended if the hammock is attached to living trees.
A wider tree hugger or tree protection strap distributes the load. It also reduces the risk of damaging the bark.
Can a sleeping pad be placed between the base layers?
Yes. A partially inflated sleeping pad can be placed between the double base layers. This adds insulation in cooler weather.
The pad should not usually be inflated too firmly. It should be able to follow the shape of the hammock.
Our thoughts
The DD Travel Hammock/Bivi is worth choosing when ground sleeping is genuinely useful. Its strength is versatility. The same shelter can be used both between trees and on the ground. If you use your hammock almost always as a hammock, the DD Frontline is often more comfortable. The Travel/Bivi is at its best on trips where conditions vary. It is also useful when having a ground-sleeping backup is important. With the Travel, it is worth pitching the tarp slightly more openly than usual. This helps air circulate and reduces condensation. This way, you benefit from the waterproof base without compromising breathability too much.
