Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep while camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be tucked away to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend a lot it's possible to get a basic camping bed for less than $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others require much effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips may require an outdoor tent that has integrated 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 for an easier night's sleep. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is 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 it features soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too small cot beds for people who need more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots, however, they offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The cots also have sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is especially crucial if the cot will be used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a mattress built-in which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink in snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot beds cot sets for you, it's crucial to consider how often you'll be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for stability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are generally larger and heavier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, but they can add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. They can be a challenge to snap into place and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're going on a backpacking trip. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's able to be carried in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide you with an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are a great option for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose one that has a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.