Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, especially ones designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. They are typically made from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest a little bit more on an upgraded model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
Weight and pack size are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to hold up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't damage the floor of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for people who want a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. These cots also have solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cots that aren't durable enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is especially important in the event that the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that can attack or chew it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. For example some cots come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options might cost more than traditional cots, but they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more robust than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it will tip over or sink in snow or mud.
It's important to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. cheap cot beds that fold into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't get the highest scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When you are looking for a low-cost cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more components and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than those that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these may increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on a backpacking trip. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who want to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper is recommended to select one that has a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.