Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend much, you can get a basic car camping bed for about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
Size and weight are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. best cots for newborns are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot for extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others will require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily take 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 a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we tested. It is lightweight, and it can be put together in less than five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. The cot could be too narrow for those who need more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots that we reviewed but they have more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the durability of the tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and resist injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dust and animals that may bite or scratch at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated using an air pump. This makes them appear more like an actual bed. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which reduces the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in a compact carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't have the best scores for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort during camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your car or SUV. Some models come with many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on the tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. 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 periods of time and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of an actual mattress. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.