Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend much it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots often aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up however, others require lots of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. cots offers raise campers off of the ground, making the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them difficult to store and transport. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for 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. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for people who want a bit 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 more expensive than a few of the other cots that we reviewed 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 along the side of the cot that helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that can attack or chew it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated with a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For instance, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
cots offers to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be put in a small bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they do not receive the top scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that fold flat and stuffed into a compact bag which is great for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the amount and complexity of the pieces needed to set them up. However, these may increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. These models can be difficult to get into position and align because they have so many rings. However, they're still a great choice for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's better to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV then you should choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.