Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spend You can purchase a simple car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money on a model with more cushioning and storage options. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others may take a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose a tent that has the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, that is light and has a a fast set-up time of around five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support for back-sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot could be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at however they provide more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the durability of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and can cause you to be exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose for sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outside where it will be exposed to dust and animals that could chew or claw at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options may cost a bit more than traditional cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the best one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't get the highest scores for durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry which is great for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
webWhen buying a cheap cot be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they can also provide more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however they can add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to snap into place and line up because they have so many rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's able to be carried in the backpack. 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 added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of mattresses. They are ideal for backpackers who want to camp in their cars but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your camper or RV then it's a great option to choose a model with a built-in pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.