Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend you can get a simple car camping cot that will run around $100. They are typically made from 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 taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest an extra bit on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
Weight and pack size are essential considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to put together for those with limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that is able to be carried 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 biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is light and comes with a a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. Baby beds features an adjustable headrest that offers 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 quite sturdy, and its soft feet won't damage the floor of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots also have solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and could cause you to be tired and aching. This is not a good thing to sleep outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist damage from sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is placed outside and is exposed to debris or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a built-in mattress which can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
A cot's design can also 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 with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you'll be using it. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad included will be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs to make it easier to store and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, you should think about how easy it will be to install. Some models are easy to arrange and unfold, while others require more components and multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that reduces the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these may increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for car camping, choose one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up since they have so many rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's best to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who want to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV, it's best to choose one that has a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.