What does a hammock camper and a Hot Pocket have in common?
They are both filled with organ meat and frozen in the center.
At least, unless the hammock camper has discovered the wonders of a hammock top quilt. Either by itself or being used on top of a sleeping bag.
Sleeping bags are a bit restrictive for some hammock campers. So an increasing number are making the switch to top quilts for hammock camping. This compact and lightweight sleeping gear are the perfect solution to cut weight and bulk, making it more comfortable for campers to go on long hikes.
One of the best things campers like about top quilts is the freedom of movement it provides. It gives more space, allowing you to move as much as you like — just like you can in a real bed.
If you are looking for the best quilts for hammock camping, we’ve listed some products you should check out:
Our Top 3 Recommendations:
All of these that we list below are strong contenders for the best hammock top quilt. But only one stood above the rest.
1 Go Outfitters Adventure Top Quilt
Take your camping comfort to a new level with this hammock top quilt from Go Outfitters. This large top quilt provides head-to-toe coverage, allowing you to change positions at any time during the night. Its design will keep you comfortable when you’re hammock camping.
It also boasts a “2-in-1” style. It can be used instead of a sleeping bag, or as an additional layer on those super cold nights.
With its 20°F temperature rating and its water-resistant and windproof outer shell, this top quilt is set to take on just about the worst conditions mother nature can throw at it.
Except for bears.
Temperature Rating: 20°F
Weight: 2 lbs
Size: 84” x 53”
Material: 210T Ripstop polyester
Weather Proofing: Water and wind-resistant
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Not stated
Wearable: No
Pros
- Can be washed and dried quickly
- Comes with a water-resistant compression bag
- Comes with a built-in foot box
Cons
- Can only fit a single person
2 Onewind Premium Hammock Top Quilt w/ Footbox
This quilt from Onewind is made from high-quality materials and insulating fillings. It’s then finished with water-repellent materials, shielding users against wind and rain. Because of its components, this makes it an ideal option when hammock camping in a palace with unpredictable weather.
Maybe the best part is the fact that it is wearable. That’s right, it has arm holes so you can roll right out of the hammock in the morning and wear it until it’s warm enough to get dressed. Or all day. We’re not judging.
Temperature Rating: 35°- 50°F
Weight: 2 lbs
Size: 87” x 54”
Material: 20D Ultralight Nylon
Weather Proofing: Water and wind repellant
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Not Stated
Wearable: Yes
Pros
- Comes with a cozy footbed
- Easy to wash
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- May be too tight for some
3 Outdoor Vitals Down TopQuilt
This innovative down quilt from Outdoor Vitals uses lightweight materials. This gives you a product that takes up less space in your backpack. With its hybrid baffling system, you can remain warm anywhere, and it also has pad straps if you tend to move around a lot at night.
A top quilt is the one thing that the Outdoor Vitals Aerie didn’t claim to be in our Hammock Underquilt Comparison. So, this would be the perfect complement.
Temperature Rating: 30°F
Weight: 1.1 lbs
Size: 75” x 31”
Material: 10D Ripstop Nylon
Weather Proofing: Water-resistant shell and filling
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Has a tapered bottom foot box that is shaped to match the contours of your feet
- Has a top cinch cord that seals in body heat
- Comes with included clips and pad straps
Cons
- Some buyers claim that the manufacturer’s temp rating of 30°F was not achieved.
4 OneTigris Featherlite Ultralight Sleeping Quilt
Made with quality and comfortable materials, this sleeping quilt from OneTigris is what you need for high-quality sleep. It weighs only 35oz (1000g), making it easy to put into your backpack. But even though it’s lightweight, it gives you plenty of sleeping space.
But with a temperature rating of 41°, it is better designed in conjunction with other hammock camping components like a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and/ or an underquilt.
Otherwise, it is best to only use this by itself in warm weather.
Temperature Rating: 41°F
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Size: 77” x 33”
Material: 20D Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: Windproof
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Folds up really small (about the size of a gallon jug)
- Hollowed back design, making it an ideal option for people who feel claustrophobic in a traditional sleeping bag
Cons
- There may be issues with the compression bag
- May not be warm enough for colder temperatures
5 ENO Vesta TopQuilt Water
Eno is known to make some of the best quality hammocks and accessories. With its water-repellent shell, Primaloft synthetic insulation, and a special coating, ENO’s Vesta Topquilt aims to provide users with the ultimate relaxing and comfortable sleeping experience while hammock camping. Plus, it’s easy to toss in a bag thanks to the included mesh bag.
Temperature Rating: 30°- 50°F
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Size: 78” x 53”
Material: 20D Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: Wind and water resistance
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Comes with a large mesh bag for easy storage
- Has quilted insulation that eliminates cold spots
- Comes with a zippered foot box and an adjustable draft collar
Cons
- Back may be a bit cold due to the hollowed back design
6 Ayamaya Hammock Top Quilt
Some people may find it difficult to get in and out of a hammock. If you’re experiencing the same problem, then this quilt is perfect for you! Not only does it boast ease of use, but it also comes with a convertible foot box and a hollow back design.
Temperature Rating: 35°- 50°F
Weight: 3.3 lbs
Size: 78” x 33”
Material: 20D Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: DWR water-resistant coating
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Lightweight and packable, making it great option for outdoor travel
- Made of 20D ripstop nylon shell with a DWR coating
Cons
- The temperature rating could be improved
7 SnugPak Hammock Quilt
SnugPak’s hammock quilt has insulated flaps that help campers properly secure the quilt in place. Not only is a secure quilt needed for safety, but it’ll help prevent any drafts. Also, with its super-fine filaments, users will definitely feel warm and cozy as they rest at their camping site.
Temperature Rating:
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Size: 71” x 43”
Material: Micro diamond w/ Paratex antibacterial treatment
Weather Proofing: Wind and water repellant
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Not stated
Wearable: No
Pros
- Comes with a compression stuff sack
- Has a special integrated pocket that keeps your feet warm at night
Cons
- May not be wide enough for larger campers
8 Go Outfitters Stratus Top Quilt
As the lightweight version of Stratus’ Adventure top quilt, the Stratus is a great way for ultralight backpackers to get into the hammock camping game.
Its 410T nylon feels silky smooth for a luxurious night under the stars. It also comes with a compression bag to save space in your pack.
Since it is only rated to 40°F, we recommend combining this with a sleeping pad or an underquilt. We actually rated the matching Stratus Under Quilt at #14 on our best hammock underquilts for camping review.
Temperature Rating: 40°F
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Size: 82” x 52”
Material: 15D 410T Ripstop Nylon
Weather Proofing: Not Stated
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Not stated
Wearable: No
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Comes with a built-in foot pocket that keeps your feet warm
- Includes a water-resistant compression bag
- Features an oversized design that makes it great for people of all sizes.
Cons
- The batting may be bunched up easily
- Not as much insulation as others on this list
- Needs a sleeping pad or under quilt to be warm enough for low temperatures
9 ENO – Eagles Nest Outfitters Vesta TopQuilt
In addition to being light, this quilt from ENO also comes with a shock-cord suspension rail, making it easy to set up. With its water-repellent coating, this quilt is also perfect if you’re planning to camp in wet environments.
There isn’t that much information in the description. I suspect that this is one of their older models and lacked some specific details when they first started selling it in 2014.
In fact, there are only 2 left in stock so if you like this one you better be quick. We’ll keep an eye on the inventory and find alternatives as they become available.
Temperature Rating: 35°- 45°F
Weight: 1.2 lbs
Size: 74” x 48”
Material: Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: Water repellant coating
Footbox: Not stated
Camping Pad Compatible: Not stated
Wearable: No
Pros
- Lightweight and easily packable
- Quick and easy setup
Cons
- May not achieve the claimed low-temperature rating of 35-45 ºF
10 Big Agnes Kings Canyon UL
If you love to camp in any weather, then this quilt from Big Agnes is perfect! You can easily convert it from a top quilt to a mummy bag if you get too cold. Plus, it’s compatible with many different pads, so you shouldn’t have to buy a new one.
Big Agnes could do a much better job of laying out their specs. This top quilt could has ranked higher if we had some more information to compare it.
Until we can get to a store and take some measurements, this is the best we can do.
Temperature Rating:
Weight: 1.2 lbs
Size: Not stated
Material: Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: Water-resistant coating
Footbox: Not stated
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and packs down small
- Has an integrated snap system that you can use to create a simplified mummy bag for colder nights
- Boasts a stitch-free shell construction for maximum thermal efficiency
Cons
- Shorter than most
11 Therm-a-Rest Corus Backpacking Quilt
With its high-quality materials and design elements, the Corus is perfect for any type of outdoor adventure. It is comfortable and light, making it one of the best backpacking quilts.
It’s also made with SynergyLink Connectors, allowing users to integrate the quilt with a mattress of their choice, promoting optimal comfort.
The Eraloft synthetic insulation isn’t as susceptible to moisture as traditional down filling.
Temperature Rating: 20°F
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Size: 82” x 56”
Material: 20D Polyester
Weather Proofing: DWR coating
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Can fit a person that is up to 6 feet 6 inches tall
- Comes with a storage sack and stuff sack
- Absorbs 90% less water and dries 3 times faster compared to other Therm-a-Rest products
Cons
- This quilt is not as big as some others from this brand
12 Snugpak Hammock Cocoon
Update 6/19/22: Currently Unavailable. We will let you know when it is back in stock.
As the name suggests, Snugpak’s hammock is designed to envelop a single person from the outside, allowing a more efficient way to retain heat. And, being compatible with most hammocks, this hammock cocoon can fit snugly to retain heat and keep you warm.
The full-length zipper allows for total closure, just like a real cocoon. And after a good night’s sleep, you’ll wake up as a brand new butterfly.
Temperature Rating: 30°F (approx)
Weight: 4.3 lbs
Size: 118” x 33”
Material: Micro diamond ripstop
Weather Proofing: Wind and water-resistant
Footbox: No
Camping Pad Compatible:
Wearable: No
Pros
- Features Travelsoft filling, offering superior heat retention
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Has water repellent and insulated shell that shields you from cold weather
- Comes with an included compression stuff sack
Cons
- The zipper is on the small side
- Currently Unavailable
13 ENO Ignitor TopQuilt
If you’re environmentally friendly, then this quilt from ENO is the perfect quilt to bring when hammock camping. Since it’s made with sustainable insulation materials, users will enjoy their hammock camping trip despite the wind and weather.
Temperature Rating: 30°F
Weight: 1 lb
Size: 72” x 48”
Material: Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: DWR coating
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Comfortably fits users up to 6 feet 2 inches
- Comes with a mesh storage bag
- Tapered pattern with sewn foot box
- Has an adjustable draft collar
Cons
- Very thin
14 Therm-a-Rest Vesper 32F/0C Backpacking Quilt
If you love backcountry adventures and packing light, this quilt is perfect for you! In addition to being convenient, this quilt also gives users the much-needed warmth when camping. It also has features, like mesh walls and a storage sack, that is seen on its expensive counterparts.
Temperature Rating: 32°F
Weight: 1 lb
Size: 58” x 75”
Material: 10D Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: DWR coating
Footbox: Yes
Camping Pad Compatible: Yes
Wearable: No
Pros
- Can fit someone up to 6 feet 6 inches tall
- Comes with a storage sack and compression stuff sack
- Uses mesh walls to maximize loft and minimize cold spots
Cons
- Can only fit a single person
15 ENO Spark Camping Quilt/Hammock Blanket/Sleeping Bag
This amazing product from ENO boasts a convertible design, keeping you warm anywhere you camp. It is such a versatile quilt, you can use it in three ways: as a hammock quilt, a blanket, or a sleeping bag. It uses lightweight recycled polyester that is a great choice for camping in the spring or fall.
The Spark has the highest strength-to-weight ratio on this list. In fact, the 40D outer shell is the toughest we could find.
Temperature Rating: 40°- 60°F
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Size: 78” x 53”
Material: 40D Ripstop nylon
Weather Proofing: Water and windproof coating
Footbox: No
Camping Pad Compatible:
Wearable: No
Pros
- Convertible design
- Comes with stuff sack for easy travel
- Fits users up to 6 feet 2 inches.
- Made with recycled synthetic materials
Cons
- Light insulation
In Summary
All totaled, here are the 15 top quilts we listed side by side for an easy comparison:
6 Things to Consider When Buying a Hammock Top Quilt
When looking for a hammock camping top quilt, there are certain factors you need to consider. This allows you to find the sleeping gear that will efficiently suit your camping adventure needs.
Here are some of the factors you need to consider before deciding which top quilt you should choose:
Temperature Rating
Temperature ratings refer to the lowest temperature at which the hammock top quilt will keep the average sleeper warm. A top quilt that can handle lower temperatures can keep you warm during colder nights. Ideally, you should choose a top quilt that has a temperature rating lower than the nighttime temperature of the place where you are planning to camp.
Fill Weight
When it comes to hammock top quilts, fill weight refers to the actual weight of filling used in a quilt. It is a primary factor in determining the warmth of a quilt. The more filling used in the hammock top quilt, the warmer it will be. So if you want a quilt that can provide you extra warmth, make sure to choose one that has a higher fill weight.
Material Quality
The quality of materials used is a crucial factor to assess when searching for hammock top quilts. You are going to use them outdoors to protect you from cold, rain, and other elements. Make sure that you only purchase one that is made with top-quality materials and offer insulation adequate to provide you substantial warmth at night. Check all the other features and determine how they will be able to benefit you.
Camping Pad Compatibility
One of the key features that distinguish a camping top quilt from a sleeping bag is that top quilts are often designed to be used with a sleeping pad.
Many of the ones listed have an included pocket or open back with ties, clips, or snaps to lock the camping pad and the top quilt together. This keeps the sleeping pad under you all night. Sleeping bags notoriously let them slide on their watch.
Included Footbox
This may seem like a small thing, but if you can keep your feet warm you are way ahead of the game. Most of the top quilts on this list include a footbox with extra insulation to keep your toes as warm as toast. “Mmmm…toasty toes…I mean Tostitos.” – Bears
Wearable
Some of these hammock top quilts are designed with arm holes and openings at the feet to make them into a sort of parka/camping bathrobe with a hoodie type of thing.
This is definitely a luxury feature, but may be the only thing that will get you out of your hammock on a frosty morning. Well, besides a full bladder.
Top Quilt Vs Camping Blanket
Camping blankets are more like regular comforters since they aren’t enclosed anywhere. They allow you to move more freely, but they may not keep you warm enough.
Top quilts are enclosed at the bottom but open at the top, so they keep you warm and you can move around more than you can in a sleeping bag.
Some of these that we listed can be used as both so if you can’t decide, choose a versatile one like the Eno Spark.
Wrap Up – Best Top Quilt for Hammock Camping
Getting a good night’s sleep is important. However, it might be difficult to get it with just any old blanket. You need the right sleeping gear that will allow you to get a good night’s sleep no matter where you decide to camp out.
With top quilts, you will have ultralight sleeping gear in a compact sie. That can give you the level of warmth your body needs, even on colder nights. That’s why many hammock campers swear by top quilts.
If you want to cut a few ounces from your pack, we suggest that you do the same thing. Check out the list above to find the best top quilt for hammock camping.
