Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots, such as 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 carried when backpacking.
Some cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap baby cots cot for camping but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. These cots could be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others require much effort and time. They can also be difficult to put together for those with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option they can easily carry on backpacking trips may have to choose a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This stops cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to put up. It's sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for those 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 as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop 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 a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. 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 to support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that may bite or scratch at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them more like an actual bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options might cost a bit more than traditional online cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a mini cot beds that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a small bag for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cot bed sales is whether you want it to fold into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up 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 small bag, and then carried by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price take note of the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more components and require a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they may also offer more comfort while camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that reduces the quantity and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for car camping, choose one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out more money for tents.
For backpacking adventures it's better to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most recommended cribs affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it can be easily carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide you with the comfort of a mattress. These are a good choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose a model with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.