You don't really need a tree stand. I now have two set up and there are some advantages. I hunted 15 years without them. But instead of just setting on the ground I either used a 5 gallon bucket with a lid, good to carry a few extra thing with you. Later I made me a "tree seat" tha attaches the the tree with a ractchet strap. These keeps your rear end dry if the ground is wet.