Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will run you about $100. They 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 stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can invest more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots may be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others require much effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you should select an outdoor tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. They also stop cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch 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 has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The cot might be too small for people who require more space 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 we looked at, but they offer more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. The nursery cots also come with solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist damage from sharp objects that may be in contact with it. This is especially crucial if the cot will be placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them more like an actual bed. Others have securing systems to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more costly than standard cots however they provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames 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 that has only four, which lowers the possibility that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad included is the best crib choice. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When choosing a mini cot beds, you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and a number of steps. These cots are generally larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these may raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to snap into place and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who want to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good option to choose one that has a built-in pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.