Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot, you can get a basic car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you can invest some extra money on a higher-end model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when choosing a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots come with insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass into their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to put together however, others require a lot of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily take on backpacking trips may have to choose a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This stops cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for users who prefer a little more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at, but they offer more room to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling over. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may cause you to be exhausted and aching. This is not a good thing for sleeping in the open air. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and resist injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outside, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost a bit more expensive than traditional cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to consider how often you will be using it. If you plan to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included is the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be put into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would 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 transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a compact bag that is perfect for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however these can sometimes add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up since they have a lot of rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like 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 sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will provide the comfort of an actual mattress. They are a great option for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If recommended you read intend to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV is recommended to select one with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.