9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cots camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for about $100. These cots are usually 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 to increase your comfort, you can invest some extra money on a higher-end model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots typically compromise on strength and may be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
Size and weight are important considerations for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads that add 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 set up for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may need to opt for 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 raise campers off the ground for a more comfortable night's rest. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots offers are heavier and bulkier, which makes them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also features an adjustable headrest that offers 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 surprisingly sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be carried in a compact case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but it is also simple to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The Baby Cot might be too small for people who want more room 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. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more room to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy 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 resist injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is especially important if the cot will be used outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have a mattress built-in which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options may cost a bit more than conventional cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. For example, a cot with a solid metal frame is more robust than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't get the highest scores for durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel often or for teachers who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, these may increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one that's designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but they give you an experience that is similar to mattresses. They are ideal for backpackers who want to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper is recommended to select one that has a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.