Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money to spend You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that will cost around $100. These models are usually made from steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you can invest an extra bit on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when choosing a cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up, others require lots of time and effort and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will 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 biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground for a more comfortable night's rest. This stops cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 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 sturdy, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your cabin or tent. recommended cribs weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at however they provide more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and can cause you to be exhausted and sore. This is not a good thing for sleeping in the open air. Cots must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important when the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, but they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could 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 with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad built in is the best choice. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more parts and multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they also provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for car camping, choose one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for the tent.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who like to camp in the car but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV, it's best to choose one with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.