Free template · updated November 3, 2026

Hammock instructions for guests (template)

A hammock is one of the simplest pleasures at a cottage, and one of the easiest ways to get a sore back from a fall. Most injuries come from frayed ropes, a hammock strung too high, kids swinging each other wildly or a weak branch overhead.

This template tells guests how to check it, get in and out, how many people it holds, the rules for children and babies, and what to do in bad weather. Fill in your hammock type, weight limit and where it's hung.

The template

Replace anything in [brackets] with your own details.

Where it is

Our hammock is [Hammock location], on [Supports, e.g. a metal stand / two strong trees with wide straps].

Before you get in

Take a quick look at the ropes, straps and hooks. If anything is frayed, cracked or loose, please don't use it and let us know.
Look up. If there are dead branches overhead, please don't use it.

Getting in and out

Stand with your back to the middle of the hammock, sit down in the centre, then swing your legs in.
[Hammock type note, e.g. In a hammock without bars, lie at a slight angle; it's flatter and more comfortable.]
If it has wooden bars at the ends, get in slowly and stay centred, because these can flip.
To get out, sit up in the middle and put both feet on the ground first.

How many people

Weight limit: [Weight limit]. That's [Number] adults at a time.
Please don't stand, jump or flip in the hammock.

Children

Children are welcome with an adult nearby. Please no big swinging or spinning each other.
Babies should never sleep in a hammock; please use the crib or travel cot instead.

Weather

Please get out when it's windy or a storm is coming.
[Rain note, e.g. If rain is on the way, you're welcome to unhook it and hang it in the shed, but you don't have to.]

Please

Please don't move the hammock to other trees or hang anything else from it. We've chosen spots that are strong enough.

Anything wrong? Text [Host name] at [Host phone].

Tips

Hang the hammock low, about the height of a chair seat, so a fall is a short one.
Use wide tree straps rather than rope or screws, and only on healthy, solid trees.
Check ropes, straps and stands at the start of each season and replace anything worn.
Bring fabric hammocks in for the winter so they don't rot outdoors.
If you use a spreader-bar hammock, mention that it can flip so guests get in carefully.

Put it on one guest page instead of a binder

Keegix turns your welcome book into one link and a QR sign by the door. Upload the binder you already have and AI drafts the page in about a minute, or paste this template in. Free forever for one property.

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Questions

How high should a hammock be hung?

Low enough that the bottom sits about at chair height when someone is in it. Higher hammocks lead to worse falls.

Is it safe for a baby to sleep in a hammock?

No. Safe sleep advice is a firm, flat surface on the back, so babies should sleep in a crib or travel cot, not a hammock.

How many people can use a hammock at once?

Check the maker's weight limit and put it in your instructions. Most single hammocks are for one adult at a time.

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