Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.
Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot you can buy a basic car camping bed for around $100. They are typically made from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. Cots For Tots can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are essential factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others may take much effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose an outdoor tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots elevate campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
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 quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots, however, they offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and may make you exhausted and aching. This is not a good thing to rest in the open air. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These options might cost more than standard cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best option. This kind of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold down into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a compact bag which is great for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment 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 require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, these may increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't wish to spend extra money on the tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of a mattress. They are a great choice for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on sleeping in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.