Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are 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 are smaller than 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 in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount, you can get a basic camping bed for around $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are essential considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up, others require lots of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips may have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has an easy setting time of five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to 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 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 has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot could be too narrow for those who require more space for their legs.
Other 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 a few of the other cots we looked at, but they offer more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of a tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and may leave you tired and sore. This isn't a good reason for sleeping in the open air. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if the cot will be used outside, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could also affect its durability. Baby Cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's crucial to consider how frequently you'll use it. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad built in is the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not well-rated for their durability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who require sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. These cots can be difficult to snap into place and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they're still a great choice for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking when 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 to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they provide you with an experience that is similar to mattresses. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on sleeping in your RV or camper 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 for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.