I have been using a SOL space blanket as an underquilt and I have found that an AIR GAP is required between the space blanket and the hammock. I accomplish this with a torso sized Klymit inflatable pad. I have also used a trash bag with leaves in it to create the air gap. The air gap provides the still air to retain the heat. Also, there is condensation forming on the space blanket and without an air gap, the condensation soaks up through the hammock.
You are a genius, not only for the idea but the video and comments. All together I have finally come up with my own brilliant idea. Thank you, thank you, thank you. By the way I am a survivalist looking to save weight and money.
So..I tried it out last night. Prob about 57 degrees Fahrenheit here in East tenn ( I lived in South Florida for 40 years so that has to be taken into account). I didn't use anything btwn me and the hammock and I was a little cold. Fortunately, I had brought a big blanket out ( tried it in my yard) and found it much warmer with something btwn me and he hammock. The hammock material got chilly. Also i woke up to a lot of fog so may have been part of it. First night using my hammock. I took your bug net suggestion too as mosquitos love me! Didn't want to get bit through the bottom. So .this vid combo really helped!
I have been using one of these for a couple years now. I have taken this type of solar blanket underquilt in combination with my zlite pad down to just below freezing. At that point it started to get cold, but I was very impressed with how well it worked.
I like that idea! I made one out of a down quilt from goodwill for $20. The paricord I kept in one piece and brought the loops out of the corners. On hook on each end for hook and adjustment. Real cozy. The reflective should bring down the rating for me and water resist it! I've often wondered why they don't weave Mylar into sleeping bag material. Lite, warm, reliable, and cheap. That's the catch they don't want it cheap!
I did the same with the SOL Sport Utility Blanket, I made a PLUQ I use for my under Quilt and used the SUB as a outer shell. It did a great job blocking the wind and reflecting the heat back into the PLUQ. I'll have to try yours sometime.
Hey just new to hammocking. What's a PLUQ. I was looking at the SOL utility blanket as well as it seems more durable and has the grommets already installed
Thanks for sharing this! I'm thinking of doing the same with just one blanket. Most UQs are 48" wide, so I don't think I need it to be 6' wide. Also, I think 1 blanket will be nearly as effective as two, since these work on reflection, not insulation.
I did a similar video on my channel, except I used a UST Survival Blanket 2.0. Your version would certainly be lighter and take up less space though. Love it!
Vaulting Gamer ... It's been working fine for me. And I'm all about keeping the cash outlay as low as I can, but still have a quality product/performance!!
Hey bud great job, and outstanding idea, simple easy and affordable, I bet it would work down in upper 20's with proper sleeping bag! Great job thanks!
I sleep pretty cool, so I'm confident I could make it at least down to 30. But this one is mainly for those days I'm expecting to be 40 or above. So much lighter!!!
Windsock might keep you warm initially, but I think it would give you tons of condensation unless vented properly. And once you are wet, you get cold!!😎😎
Nice summer underblanket. I was considering making something light to block the breeze for summer trips, this looks to be much cheaper than what I was considering.
I taped one up last night using approximately the dimensions of the ripstopbytheroll 3/4 underquilt kits - which happens to be about half a 2 person heatsheats emergency blanket.... have not hung it yet though.
Could you use a blanket like the Costco diamond black blanket($30) and then apply the reflectix to the blanket to make an underquilt and use at colder temps? ATM I'm using a cellfoam pad with reflectix glued to the bottom, but looking for a cheap underquilt option
It sounds like its a good idea. However, reflectics sometimes cause condensation which might get trapped in the quilt. A better plan might be to make a diy Costco quilt, then take one like mine, and then use them in tandem. Use quilt next to hammock, then there is an air gap, then the reflectics or space blanket.
Chris Brown I used and SOL space blanket...got it at Field and Stream. Here's a link to Wal-Mart ://www.walmart.com/ip/Adventure-Medical-0140-1222-SOL-Emergency-Blanket/26970895?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222228018415995&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=51809177111&wl4=aud-310687322322:pla-83210689631&wl5=9014986&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=26970895&wl13=&veh=sem
I use the solar blanket underquilt so that I dont have to use a pad. I gind pads take away some of the comfort for me. If I used the pad, I probably wouldn't use the underquilt. If you use them both, you could stay warm down to much lower temps.
Got down to 36 one night and i was still good! But that was pushing it for most folks. I've used it in the mid to upper 40s alot and it has been fine. I like it due to the light weight!! Thanks for watching and the comment!!
@@freddonelson5505 I wonder how good this would work with a Costco down underquilt mod and again thank you so much I just got into hammock backpacking and I'm coming from the ground so I have all the gear for the ground and I don't have the money for all the gear for the air yet LOL
@@onetimeoutdoorsdj1394 I understand about that money thing!! I think adding a Costco to this would probably take it down into the upper 20s ... and is definitely cheaper. I would put the quilt inside the space blanket ... blanket will give some water splatter protection and allow space inside to breathe so you dont get much condensation. Any reflectics doesn't breath, so I try to not lay right on it. The uq will wrap up around you, but leaves some room underneath to breathe. The Costco will fill in that space, but still be able to breathe. I just started hanging about 3 years ago, and just love it. You will too!! Keep in touch!
@@freddonelson5505 Placing the down in-between the hammock and Mylar space blanket will wreck the down. The condensation captured will wet the down. Down should go on the outside of the space blanket, which is a vapour barrier. BUT, I suppose you could wash the down in Nikwax down wash and that may the be doable after its treated.
@@mlomax8040 Probably 3 ft on each end. Just long enough to tie a loop to hook onto some stretchy bungie cords which I hook onto my hammie loop at the gathered end. 😎😎
You would probably build up a lot of condensation and then you would get damp and cold. You need some space between you and the solar blanket so moisture from your body can wick away from you and condensation doesnt build up.
I'm curious how bad the moisture build up is? I know that one issue with space blankets is that they are not designed to be breathable. Of course with the blanket underneath you and the little bit of air flow that can happen with a hanging setup, I could see that issue being mitigated?
Mark, I have had no problem with condensation build up. I think that is because I usually use my BearButt Bugnet with it and put my space blanket outside of the net. BearButt's net hangs significantly lower than the hammock, so insects can't bite through the hammock. I think this creates some "airspace" so humidity doesnt just get reflected back quickly and that space allows the hammie to breathe.
captmoa ...the net has a zipper the length of the hammock. I just unzip, and crawl in like a normal hammock. No problem. Having the buggy cords help the UQ to stretch down when I get in, yet remain snug after I get situated.
Brian Huddleston that’s what I’m curious about. I’ve made similar things out of emergency blankets and moisture was a bitch. But then again he hasn’t taken it to the temperature where I start to want an under quilt. I’m fine at 40 degrees in just a wool blanket or sleeping bag.
Haven't had condensation issues. I think it's partly due to the fact it's outside my bug net, which hangs several inches below the hammie. I think it gives more room to breathe. When I cinch it up, it tightens the ends, but still hangs pretty low underneath.
I have been using a SOL space blanket as an underquilt and I have found that an AIR GAP is required between the space blanket and the hammock. I accomplish this with a torso sized Klymit inflatable pad. I have also used a trash bag with leaves in it to create the air gap. The air gap provides the still air to retain the heat. Also, there is condensation forming on the space blanket and without an air gap, the condensation soaks up through the hammock.
You are a genius, not only for the idea but the video and comments. All together I have finally come up with my own brilliant idea. Thank you, thank you, thank you. By the way I am a survivalist looking to save weight and money.
Glad we could help!
When the student is ready, the teacher appears! Thanks very much! Great idea and good video!
Glad it helped! Have a great week!!
So..I tried it out last night. Prob about 57 degrees Fahrenheit here in East tenn ( I lived in South Florida for 40 years so that has to be taken into account). I didn't use anything btwn me and the hammock and I was a little cold. Fortunately, I had brought a big blanket out ( tried it in my yard) and found it much warmer with something btwn me and he hammock. The hammock material got chilly. Also i woke up to a lot of fog so may have been part of it. First night using my hammock. I took your bug net suggestion too as mosquitos love me! Didn't want to get bit through the bottom. So .this vid combo really helped!
love the fact that it is water proof, light, small,... cheap,...
I have been using one of these for a couple years now. I have taken this type of solar blanket underquilt in combination with my zlite pad down to just below freezing. At that point it started to get cold, but I was very impressed with how well it worked.
I made one tonight according to your design. Looking forward to testing it out next weekend.
what kind of tape did you use to tape it all together? I was thinking of using packing tape but I'm not sure if the glue will hold up over time
I like that idea! I made one out of a down quilt from goodwill for $20. The paricord I kept in one piece and brought the loops out of the corners. On hook on each end for hook and adjustment. Real cozy. The reflective should bring down the rating for me and water resist it! I've often wondered why they don't weave Mylar into sleeping bag material. Lite, warm, reliable, and cheap. That's the catch they don't want it cheap!
You have definitely given me something to think about. I love how light this is, yet durable and easy to make.
We will have to get together some day and talk about camping and kids over a coffee or a beer!
I did the same with the SOL Sport Utility Blanket, I made a PLUQ I use for my under Quilt and used the SUB as a outer shell. It did a great job blocking the wind and reflecting the heat back into the PLUQ. I'll have to try yours sometime.
Hey just new to hammocking. What's a PLUQ. I was looking at the SOL utility blanket as well as it seems more durable and has the grommets already installed
this is great. I had an idea to try this a while ago, but it helps to know someone has tried it and it works! I will probably give it a shot.
macdougallrob
I will be using it again this weekend. Love it. I highly recommend it! 😊
Thank you so much! I made one for a buddy and me. They turned out great and work very well! Thanks again :)
looks awesome. I have to try this. Thank you.
Please do!
Your homemade underquilt creation is AWESOME. SO WARM AND EASY TO SETVUP. I LOOOOOOVE IT
Glad its working out for you. I use it all the time and love it as well! 😎
Fred Donelson and you are funny as well as a genius. And adorable as hell
Thanks for sharing this! I'm thinking of doing the same with just one blanket. Most UQs are 48" wide, so I don't think I need it to be 6' wide. Also, I think 1 blanket will be nearly as effective as two, since these work on reflection, not insulation.
I did a similar video on my channel, except I used a UST Survival Blanket 2.0. Your version would certainly be lighter and take up less space though. Love it!
I've been seeing those... However, I don't have a Costco near me. If I did I would absolutely try that approach. Please do let me know how it works!
Fred Donelson Thanks!
Fred Donelson Thanks! I might just have to get those and turn at least one into an underquilt.
Very cool idea man never thought of using them for that purpose
Thank you ! Fred, this' help~
It seems really nice. I've been looking for a decent 3 season under quilt without breaking the bank.
Vaulting Gamer ... It's been working fine for me. And I'm all about keeping the cash outlay as low as I can, but still have a quality product/performance!!
@@mrdonelsonglhs are u still using it? I use a down blanket for my underquilt..it weighs 850gram id rather take an 8 oz underquilt
I love it! I'm definitely doing this. Great idea! 😁😎
It's worked great for me! 😎😎
Hey bud great job, and outstanding idea, simple easy and affordable, I bet it would work down in upper 20's with proper sleeping bag! Great job thanks!
I sleep pretty cool, so I'm confident I could make it at least down to 30. But this one is mainly for those days I'm expecting to be 40 or above. So much lighter!!!
I had this idea but a windsock with the same material. I'll be doing it your way for sure. Thanks
Windsock might keep you warm initially, but I think it would give you tons of condensation unless vented properly. And once you are wet, you get cold!!😎😎
@@freddonelson5505 agreed.
Nice summer underblanket. I was considering making something light to block the breeze for summer trips, this looks to be much cheaper than what I was considering.
Trent Whaley ...It's working great for me so far and holding up well ... no rips or tears yet!
I taped one up last night using approximately the dimensions of the ripstopbytheroll 3/4 underquilt kits - which happens to be about half a 2 person heatsheats emergency blanket.... have not hung it yet though.
Nice !! Great idea i will have to give that a go and see how it works out ..
Bill Morgan ... Thanks. Let me know how it goes!
Could you use a blanket like the Costco diamond black blanket($30) and then apply the reflectix to the blanket to make an underquilt and use at colder temps? ATM I'm using a cellfoam pad with reflectix glued to the bottom, but looking for a cheap underquilt option
It sounds like its a good idea. However, reflectics sometimes cause condensation which might get trapped in the quilt. A better plan might be to make a diy Costco quilt, then take one like mine, and then use them in tandem. Use quilt next to hammock, then there is an air gap, then the reflectics or space blanket.
Genius, sir!
Still using it unless it gets really cold. Definitely cheaper than UQs!!
what blanket are you using here? I like that it has less crinkle sound than other blankets have.
Chris Brown I used and SOL space blanket...got it at Field and Stream. Here's a link to Wal-Mart
://www.walmart.com/ip/Adventure-Medical-0140-1222-SOL-Emergency-Blanket/26970895?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222228018415995&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=51809177111&wl4=aud-310687322322:pla-83210689631&wl5=9014986&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=26970895&wl13=&veh=sem
Brilliant Sir, Thank You.!
Tye Seeley You are very welcome Tye... Happy Holidays!😎😎
Very interesting video
Thanks Dave!!
Good hammocks, i prefer them to the henessey, and snugpak hammocks.
fantastic idea"
Kodo's to you.
Thank you for sharing a great vid"
Rudy O
Thanks Rudy! Still using it ... no rips yet!! :)
How about having one reflective tarp under the hammock and another one under your sleeping mattress or sleeping bag??
Sometimes you get condensation if you have a quilt right underneath you. It helps if there is some space to allow moisture to escape.
Is this effective if you are using a foam sleeping pad Inside the hammock as well as the under quilt on the outside
I use the solar blanket underquilt so that I dont have to use a pad. I gind pads take away some of the comfort for me. If I used the pad, I probably wouldn't use the underquilt. If you use them both, you could stay warm down to much lower temps.
Billy Joel camping tips !
Thank you for this video what's the lowest temperature you used it in
Got down to 36 one night and i was still good! But that was pushing it for most folks. I've used it in the mid to upper 40s alot and it has been fine. I like it due to the light weight!! Thanks for watching and the comment!!
@@freddonelson5505 I wonder how good this would work with a Costco down underquilt mod and again thank you so much I just got into hammock backpacking and I'm coming from the ground so I have all the gear for the ground and I don't have the money for all the gear for the air yet LOL
@@onetimeoutdoorsdj1394 I understand about that money thing!! I think adding a Costco to this would probably take it down into the upper 20s ... and is definitely cheaper. I would put the quilt inside the space blanket ... blanket will give some water splatter protection and allow space inside to breathe so you dont get much condensation. Any reflectics doesn't breath, so I try to not lay right on it. The uq will wrap up around you, but leaves some room underneath to breathe. The Costco will fill in that space, but still be able to breathe.
I just started hanging about 3 years ago, and just love it. You will too!! Keep in touch!
@@freddonelson5505 Placing the down in-between the hammock and Mylar space blanket will wreck the down. The condensation captured will wet the down. Down should go on the outside of the space blanket, which is a vapour barrier. BUT, I suppose you could wash the down in Nikwax down wash and that may the be doable after its treated.
@@nojaysimpson Brian, you are probably correct, especially on a Costco blanket. Better to put on outside. Thanks for the correction/insight.
How did this work out for you? Did you eliminate the cold draught from underneath?
It has worked well and continues to do so. I use it down to 45 or 50 and it keeps me warm.
@@freddonelson5505 Hi Fred,
I assume 45 - 50F = 7C!
Do you need an under blanket at all?
I guess the foil emergency blanket is wind proof also?
Sounds like a great idea. What is the length of cord that you use?
Ha ha ... I just eye-balled it, and can't really remember how long it is. Next time I'm out, I will try to remember to measure it!! 😋😋
Thanks. Do you think a few feet on either side
@@mlomax8040 Probably 3 ft on each end. Just long enough to tie a loop to hook onto some stretchy bungie cords which I hook onto my hammie loop at the gathered end. 😎😎
Fred Donelson
Thanks. Going to try it for next weekend. It will probably be in the 30-40 degrees
@@mlomax8040 Let me know how it works out ... take some pics too! Good luck!!!😎😎
Soo cool and awesome
I like it!! 😋😋😋
Me too
Nice job. What video editing program did you use?
Rich Gran
Hi Rich ... just used Windows Movie Maker. It's free! 😎😎
I like it.
Its even better with stretchy cords
Yep ... I use stretchy cords on both ends. They work great!
does it work if i put it in the inside of a sleeping bag?
You would probably build up a lot of condensation and then you would get damp and cold. You need some space between you and the solar blanket so moisture from your body can wick away from you and condensation doesnt build up.
@@freddonelson5505 thanks :D
You are soo cool too
I'm curious how bad the moisture build up is? I know that one issue with space blankets is that they are not designed to be breathable. Of course with the blanket underneath you and the little bit of air flow that can happen with a hanging setup, I could see that issue being mitigated?
Mark, I have had no problem with condensation build up. I think that is because I usually use my BearButt Bugnet with it and put my space blanket outside of the net. BearButt's net hangs significantly lower than the hammock, so insects can't bite through the hammock. I think this creates some "airspace" so humidity doesnt just get reflected back quickly and that space allows the hammie to breathe.
How to get in and out of hammock with the slip over mosquito net and under quilt?
captmoa ...the net has a zipper the length of the hammock. I just unzip, and crawl in like a normal hammock. No problem. Having the buggy cords help the UQ to stretch down when I get in, yet remain snug after I get situated.
Any issues with condensation?
Brian Huddleston that’s what I’m curious about. I’ve made similar things out of emergency blankets and moisture was a bitch. But then again he hasn’t taken it to the temperature where I start to want an under quilt. I’m fine at 40 degrees in just a wool blanket or sleeping bag.
Haven't had condensation issues. I think it's partly due to the fact it's outside my bug net, which hangs several inches below the hammie. I think it gives more room to breathe. When I cinch it up, it tightens the ends, but still hangs pretty low underneath.
I thought I was the only one smart enough for this. I am glad that I am not!
Well, I'm not sure I'm that smart, but it did seem like it was worth a try!😎😎
Did you fart at 9:05 :-)