How to make spike camps more comfortable?

[mad_angler]

At base camp, I had an Argali Yukon (8 person) and a wood stove. I also had a cot and long/wide Exped camping mat. It was a castle for one person.

At spike camp, I had a Big Agnes 2 person Copper Spur and a normal Exped mat. It was decidedly less comfortable. It also sucked getting started in the morning.

Do you guys have any tips to make spike camp more comfortable without adding too much weight?

 

[IdahoBeav]

How much weight are you packing in food?

I prefer to sleep better and hunt hungry, so I pack little food and bring a backpacking cot and a really good pad.

 

[mad_angler]

How much weight are you packing in food?

I prefer to sleep better and hunt hungry, so I pack little food and bring a backpacking cot and a really good pad.

What cot do you like?

 

[justinspicher]

My spike camp, if I spike camp, is a hammock. One of the best decisions I have ever made when staying in the backcountry.

 

[*zap*]

Pillow and a good meal.

 

[ReaptheHeat]

My spike camp, if I spike camp, is a hammock. One of the best decisions I have ever made when staying in the backcountry.

Justin what else is a part of your system. Underquilt, bag, tarp?

Im a hardcore side sleeper so idk if hammock would be my best option but always looked more comfortable.

 

[NEPkaspot]

Pillow and a good meal.

This and I'll bring hot tea or make a hot cup of WA Hydrate and Recover. Upgraded to a Nemo Fillo XL. Along with a good pad, eat a great meal, make a hot cup and hit the hay. I bring a small paperback book (Hunting Muke Deer by Dwight Shuh) to read and help me get to sleep if needed.

 

[IdahoBeav]

What cot do you like?

Helinox Lite

 

[justinspicher]

Justin what else is a part of your system. Underquilt, bag, tarp?

Im a hardcore side sleeper so idk if hammock would be my best option but always looked more comfortable.

I’m also a side sleeper and don’t have any issues in a hammock.

I cut a thermarest foam pad in half and use that in the hammock, it gives it some “structure” as well as an insulation layer.

I use a 30° quilt and as it gets colder I just use my puffy jacket and pants. I’m already carrying them.

I try and put my hammock about an arms length of the ground and my tarp is about an arms length above me.

 

[mad_angler]

I’m also a side sleeper and don’t have any issues in a hammock.

I cut a thermarest foam pad in half and use that in the hammock, it gives it some “structure” as well as an insulation layer.

I use a 30° quilt and as it gets colder I just use my puffy jacket and pants. I’m already carrying them.

I try and put my hammock about an arms length of the ground and my tarp is about an arms length above me.

Interesting...
No underquilt?

 

[justinspicher]

No, they are too bulky. I’m also lazy and don’t like to carry or set up more than I have to.