Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a comfortable and affordable way to rest when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Some cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spare, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that will run you about $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest some extra money on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when choosing a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to put together but others take lots of effort and time and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. Those who want an ultralight option can be easily carried for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest that provides 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 extremely sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only downside to this Cot Bed is that it could be too narrow for users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well 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 that we reviewed but they have more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. cheap cots (Read the Full Post) that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is particularly important when the cot is used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be filled by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop 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 affect its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more robust than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad built in is the best choice. The mini cot beds usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't have the best scores for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag, and then carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When you are looking for a low-cost cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more components and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that can be difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea 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 they can to be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with the best infant cribs night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV is recommended to select one with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.