Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend much, you can get a simple car camping bed for around $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that has options for organization and cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others may take a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite cot bed sales.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable mini cot beds that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a quick setup time of about five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's 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 don't scratch up the floor of a tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand the any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important in the event that the cot is used outdoors and is exposed to debris or animals that can attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them appear more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their stability or ease of usage. There are also cots that fold flat and packed into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more parts and a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these may increase the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that are 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 a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in a backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you a great crib night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who like to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.