Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that will cost around $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you could spend some extra money on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to put together however, others require lots of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them harder to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. top rated cots is quite robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for people who want a bit 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 has a more padded side of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the quality of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and can leave you exhausted and aching. This defeats the purpose to sleep outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist the damage caused by sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dust and animals that may attack or chew at it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them feel more like an actual bed. top rated cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal 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 a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
Another thing to think about when selecting a cot is whether you want it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag, and then carried by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to install. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort during camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but they can also increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on a tent.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also 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 good option to choose a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.