Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried for backpacking trips.

Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.

Price

If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend a lot, you can get a basic camping bed for less than $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.

For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots may be easy to put together however, others require a lot of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. affordable cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.

The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in just five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.

Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.

Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who need more space for their legs.

The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to stop people from falling over. The cots also have sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.

Durability

The durability of a cot is an important factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may leave you exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose to rest in the open air. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial in the event that the cot is placed outside and is exposed to debris or animals that could chew or claw it.

Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them more like a bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, but they 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 a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in snow or mud.

When selecting the best cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you'll be using it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be put into a compact bag for backpacking.

Another factor to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.

Setup


When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can also add to the price.

If you plan to use your cot primarily for car camping, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.

If you're planning to backpack it's better to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most inexpensive 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 without too much trouble. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.

Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they give you an experience that is similar to a mattress. These are good for backpackers who like to car camp but also require a bed in the wilderness.

If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper is recommended to select one with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.