Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that will cost around $100. These models are usually constructed 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 more comfort, you can spend a little bit more on an upgraded model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, cheap cot beds weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads that add extra 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 may take a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips may have to choose a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground for a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small cot beds carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot could be too narrow for users who want more room 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 more expensive than a few of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. cheap cots (new content from www.google.fm) 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 important if the cot will be used outside and is exposed to dirt or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like an actual bed. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off at night. These options may cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, but they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't have the best scores for stability or ease of use. There are top rated cots that can be folded flat and packed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot you should consider the ease with which it is to install. Some models are easy to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler 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 pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase 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 truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and align because they come with so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
It's better to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will give you the comfort of mattresses. They are a great option for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper then you should choose a model with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.