Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend much you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots often compromise on strength and may be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
Size and weight are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those who have limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you'll need to select a tent that has 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 the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. They also stop cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. 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 that we have tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in just five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users 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 more expensive than other cots but they provide more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand 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 could chew or claw at it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off at night. These options can cost a bit more than standard cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink in snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best option. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When selecting cot beds should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require a number of steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they give you an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are a great option for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV then you should choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.