Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you can spend an extra bit on a model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots could be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others will require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to put together for those with limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you will need to choose a tent that has cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top rated cots concern for cot purchasers. baby cots online lift campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making 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 most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has a fast setup time of about five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as a lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and durable enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who need more space 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, but they offer more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outside where it will be exposed to debris and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Certain cots offers come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the possibility that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included is the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a compact bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, think about the ease with which it is to put up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more components and a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they can also provide more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however these can sometimes add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some models come with numerous 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 more money for the tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most inexpensive 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 a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer additional comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who like to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one that has an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.