Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a comfortable and affordable way to sleep while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spare you can get an inexpensive car camping cot that costs you about $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 also help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots often trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others will require 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 that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also comes with an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, 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 small carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots 4 tots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed, but they offer more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good cribs for side and back sleepers due to an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots have strong legs constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for 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 camping. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is especially crucial if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to the elements or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a built-in mattress that can be filled by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer more comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's important to consider how often you'll be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the Best cot for newborn option. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot you should consider how easy it will be to put up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble however they can provide greater comfort when camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to put up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to snap into place and line up because they have a lot of 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 a better idea to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but will provide you with the comfort of mattresses. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV, it's best to choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.