Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Some cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually made from aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you could spend a little bit more on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to put together but others take lots of time and mini Cot Bed effort, and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This stops 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. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's light and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for back-sleepers.
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 quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't damage the floor of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more room for cribs camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dirt and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad built in is the best cot bed option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold into chairs are easier to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more components and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however they can also increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to line up and Cheap baby cots snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on tents.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're going on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide a bed that feels like mattresses. These are good for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.