Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method of sleeping during camping. Some cots, like 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.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount you can buy a simple car camping bed for about $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots often aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to set up but others take a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you will need to choose a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots raise campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight and can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to support up to 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is extremely robust, and it features soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for those who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop people from falling over. The cots also come with sturdy legs that are made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and can leave you exhausted and sore. This is not a good thing to sleep in the open air. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the user and withstand any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dirt and animals that may chew or claw at it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a built-in mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad included is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and can fit into a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are cheap cot bed that fold flat and packed into a compact bag which is great for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, think about how easy it will be to install. Some models take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require a number of steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble however they can provide greater comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the quantity and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, they can increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot for car camping, look for one that's designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's able to be carried in a backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for added comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather instead of sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV then you should choose a model with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can have a cozy and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.
