Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Some cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount, you can get a basic car camping bed for about $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn 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 more comfort, you can invest a little bit more on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots could be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
Size and weight are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some top rated cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you will need to choose the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a quick set-up time of around five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is light and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, but it is also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it may be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. 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, which helps prevent people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the quality of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. 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 able to support the weight of the person using them and resist damage from sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dirt and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example include a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some baby cots online have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options might cost more than conventional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For example, a cot with a solid metal frame is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or Best crib sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's important to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best cot beds option. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't get the highest ratings for stability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require 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 have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for the tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best to choose a model with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.