Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide 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 pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used on backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount you can buy a basic car camping bed for around $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you can invest some extra money on an upgraded model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and can be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
Size and weight are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot for extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to set up however, others require lots of time and effort and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried 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
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots are larger and heavier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is light and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who need 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 pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to stop people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough could make you feel tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots come with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have a built-in mattress that can be filled by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. tots and cots are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the possibility that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry which is great for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, think about how easy it will be to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger 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 that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but they can add to the price.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to get into position and line up since they come with so many rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they give you an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are great for backpackers who prefer 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 good idea to purchase a model with an integrated pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.