Inflatable Hammock Safety Tips for Relaxation

Last Updated: 08/2025 by Sage Brooks

There’s nothing more peaceful than drifting on water in a floating hammock. Whether you’re hanging poolside, floating off a dock, or relaxing on a lake with friends, inflatable hammocks are an easy, low-maintenance way to turn any sunny day into a laid-back escape.

Still, safety matters—even when you’re taking it slow. Here are the top inflatable hammock safety tips for first-time users, along with gear recommendations from retrospec to help you relax with confidence and comfort.

Choose the Right Inflatable Hammock

Before hitting the water, pick a hammock that matches your float style. Siesta Hammock and Siesta Hammock XL are both designed for ease, comfort, and durability.

Features to love:

Puncture-resistant PVC with AerGlide-Lite technology
Quick-inflate valves
Cooling mesh center
Weight capacity up to 660 lbs (Regular) or 1150 lbs (XL)
Lightweight and travel-ready with carry bag included

If you're taller or like more space, Siesta Hammock XL provides a wider lounging area. Both are great picks for those looking for the best inflatable hammock for beginners and families.

Use in Calm Water Only

Floating hammocks are best used in still water like pools, lakes, and sheltered coves. Avoid fast-moving rivers, surf zones, or boating lanes. Inflatable hammocks are designed for relaxed floating, not high-performance paddling.

Pro tip: Want to expand your setup? Use an inflatable dock or inflatable platform like Siesta Dock as a home base for gear, snacks, or multiple loungers.

Always Wear a Life Vest When Necessary

If you're floating in open water, especially away from shore or with kids, wear a properly fitted life vest. Bobbin' Life Vests come in sizes for adults, youth, children, and infants and are Coast Guard-approved for recreational use.

Available sizes:

Infant (up to 33 lbs)
Child (33-55 lbs)
Youth (55–88 lbs)
Adult (90+ lbs)

Water sports safety isn’t just about high-adrenaline activities—it's a good habit for every type of water outing.

Inflate Properly

Overinflating your hammock can stress seams and reduce comfort. Use a standard pump to inflate each end until firm with a slight give. Underinflated floats tend to sag and can make you tip more easily.

Inflation tips:

Inflate in the shade to prevent air expansion
Always close the valve tightly
Check for small leaks before using

Anchor or Tether for Stability

Use Tether connection straps (sold separately) to link your Siesta Hammock to Siesta Dock or another hammock. This is especially helpful when floating with others, as it prevents drifting apart and adds stability.

Pets joining the fun? Pair your hammock with Siesta Pup, an inflatable pet ramp that gives dogs a stable entry and rest platform on the water.

Don’t Leave Children or Pets Unsupervised

Even on calm water, never leave kids or pets unattended. Always supervise children while they’re using a floating hammock or inflatable platform. Make sure pets are wearing a flotation device and can easily exit the water with help from Siesta Pup or a dock ladder.

Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected

You’ll be surprised how fast the sun drains your energy while lounging. Bring water, SPF, and a hat—and reapply sunscreen every hour. Use a dry bag to store your phone and personal items on nearby docks or platforms.

Keep an Eye on Weather and Water Conditions

Check the forecast before you float. Avoid high-wind days or impending storms. If conditions change quickly, deflate your hammock, get to shore, and pack it up before things turn rough.

Deflate and Store with Care

After each use:

Rinse off salt, sand, or chlorine
Let the hammock dry fully
Deflate gently without pressing too hard
Fold loosely and store out of direct sunlight

Proper storage extends the life of your inflatable hammock and keeps it clean for your next outing.

Why Relaxing Doesn’t Mean Forgetting Safety

Floating hammocks are designed for fun—but every water activity benefits from good planning. These inflatable hammock safety tips aren’t about rules—they’re about making sure you can truly unwind, knowing you’ve set yourself up right.

Looking for how to choose a inflatable hammock for summer adventures? Start with comfort, add durable construction, and finish with smart, safety-first accessories.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re solo-floating in a hammock or building a full floating lounge with Siesta Dock and Siesta Pup, safety is part of the relaxation equation. With simple setup, easy add-ons, and protective gear like Bobbin' Life Vests, retrospec makes it easy to float smarter—and softer.

Browse our inflatable hammock buying guide for 2025 to find the right setup for your next float and take your chill to the next level.

Article FAQ

Is it safe to use an inflatable hammock in open water?
Yes, as long as conditions are calm and you wear a life vest. Avoid currents, strong winds, or busy boat traffic areas.

What’s the best inflatable hammock for beginners?
Siesta Hammock offers the perfect balance of comfort and simplicity. Siesta Hammock XL provides extra room for longer floats.

Do I need to wear a life vest in a floating hammock?
In pools or shallow lakes, not always—but for lakes or deeper water, especially with kids, it’s highly recommended. Bobbin' Life Vests cover every size from infant to adult.

Can I connect multiple Siesta products?
Yes! Use Tether connection straps to attach hammocks, docks, or pet platforms for a customizable float zone.

Where can I find safe, easy-to-use float gear?
Explore all Siesta water products and safety accessories at the retrospec water collection.