Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly high comfort levels, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be used when backpacking.
Certain cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend a lot you can buy a basic car camping bed for less than $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can invest more on a model that offers more cushioning and storage options. However, these nursery cots often aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots have insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads that add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 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 can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you will need to choose an outdoor tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support to 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 quite durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. This cot may be too small for people who need more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. These cots also have sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking 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 make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and resist damage from sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is especially important in the event that the cot is placed outside and is exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them appear more like an actual bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot you should consider the ease with which it is to put up. Some models take less than a minute to fold 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 but they may provide more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and line up because they come with so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best infant cribs to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with the best cot bed night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide you with the comfort of an actual mattress. These are good for backpackers who like to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose a model with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.