Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a comfortable and affordable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend much, you can get a basic car camping bed for around $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically compromise on strength and may be more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
Weight and pack size are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others may take an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Mini Cot Bed.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five seconds. The Baby Cot is spacious with a sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's 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 soft feet won't scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included 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 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 come with sturdy legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and resist any damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important when the cot is placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a mattress built-in which can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off at night. These are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For instance, a cot that has solid metal frames is more durable than one with slim bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you will be using it. If you're planning to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad built in is the best rated cribs option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in a compact carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot sets you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs for easier storage and transportation, but they are not rated highly for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to put up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.
If you plan 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. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up because they have so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's better to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack without too much hassle. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to offer additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide the comfort of an actual mattress. They are a great option for those who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If you're going to be using your cot primarily in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to buy one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.