Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be used when backpacking.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that will run around $100. They are typically made of steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial factors for Mini Cot Bed backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require an enormous amount of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you want a lightweight option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose the right tent with Cot Bed-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers up off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This keeps cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has quick set-up time of around five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who need more space for best crib (ae-Pro.Ru) their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. 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 more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the user's weight and withstand the any damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's important to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best option. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying, making it suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models are easy to arrange and unfold, while others require more components and multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots offers that are easier to set up, but they can also provide more comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, these may raise the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out more money for a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in a backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather than sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who want to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.