Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want spend an excessive amount it's possible to get a basic camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest some extra money on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
infant cot bed are easy to assemble, but others may take an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, which makes them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in only five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is light and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some people who want a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots, but they provide more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and could cause you to be tired and aching. This isn't a good reason for sleeping in the open air. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand the injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to debris and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's important to consider how frequently you'll be using it. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad included is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits in an incredibly compact bag for carrying, making it suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not well-rated for their stability or ease of usage. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they may also offer more comfort when camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the amount and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, they can raise the cost.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will provide you with a bed that feels like mattresses. They are a great option for people who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV, it's best to choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you have a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.