Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to rest when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Some cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have much money, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that costs you about $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots often trade off in strength and are often heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when choosing a cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others require much effort and time. They may also be difficult to put together for those with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground for a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. However, cots tend to be heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to 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 quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more space for mini cot beds (www.peoples.Ru) their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom cot sales 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots but they provide more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to stop people from falling over. The cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
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 tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is particularly important if you intend to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dust and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be filled by a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than traditional cots, but they give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has a solid metal frame is more robust than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the likelihood that it will slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included is the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be put in a small bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not rated highly for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot you should consider how easy it will be to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts 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 at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures it's best to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with the best rated cribs night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots 4 tots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they provide an experience that is similar to mattresses. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best to choose a model with a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.