Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot sale for camping but don't have a lot of money to spare you can get an inexpensive car camping cot that will cost you about $100. These models are usually made from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest a little bit more on a higher-end model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to put together but others take lots of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with Baby Cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has an easy set-up time of around five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to 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 it comes with soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, it's also simple to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who would like a bit more space 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 more expensive than other cots, but offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that come into contact with them. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to debris or animals that could attack or chew it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options 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 with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which lowers the likelihood that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad will be the best cots option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require a number of steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots that are easier to assemble, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they are nevertheless a great option for those who do not need to spend more on a tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're going on a backpacking trip. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on 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 are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking trips.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one that has an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you have a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.