Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken when backpacking.
Other cots, particularly 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 simple car camping bed for around $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you can spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots could 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 for long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots have insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to put together however, others require lots of time and effort, and may be difficult for people who are unable to move around to set up. If you are looking for a light option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you'll need to select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is light and comes with a a fast set-up time of around five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot might be too small for people who need more space for their legs.
nursery 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 but offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. These cots also have sturdy legs that are made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. 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 must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the any damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example include a built-in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options might cost a bit more than standard cots, but they provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it will tip over or sink in snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to consider how frequently you'll use it. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another thing to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transport, but are not well-rated for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to install. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more components and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than cots which are less difficult to assemble however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for the tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV then you should choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.