Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping during camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of one loaf.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn 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 to increase your comfort, you could spend an extra bit on a model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots often compromise on strength and are often more heavy and bulkier than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are essential aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be simple to set up however, others require lots of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's lightweight and can be put together in less than five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to 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 lounger. Its construction is quite 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 a lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. best crib for newborn may be too narrow for those who require more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost a bit more than conventional cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could also affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has solid metal frames is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot is usually less than three pounds and can be packed into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot you should consider how easy it will be to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort at camp. best crib for newborn are fitted with cutting-edge technology that reduces the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these may increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they provide an experience that is similar to an actual mattress. They are a great choice for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV is recommended to select a model with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.