Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have much money to spend You can purchase a basic car camping cot that will run around $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest an extra bit on a model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry on backpacking trips will likely require a tent that comes with cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. They also stop cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is lightweight and has an easy set-up time of around five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. cribs beds is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor 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 for different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The cot could be too small for people who require more space 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 a few of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also have solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and could leave you exhausted and aching. This isn't a good reason for sleeping outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the user and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. For example 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 in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to consider how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be put in a small bag for backpacking.
Another thing to think about when selecting a cot is whether you want it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and packed into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for car camping, choose one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up since they come with so many rings. However, they're still a great choice for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with a great night's rest during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who like to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.