Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of a loaf.
Some cots are more costly, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot, you can get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those who have limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you will need to choose an outdoor tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a a fast setting time of five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for 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 surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when it is used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling over. 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 aren't durable enough and could leave you exhausted and sore. This is not a good thing for sleeping outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy 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 placed outside and is exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they provide a higher level of comfort.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. For example, a cot with an iron frame is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If cot bed sales planning to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad will be the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be put into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another factor to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't have the best scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they can also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but they can add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up because they have so many rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without too much hassle. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for people who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you're going to be sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose a model with a built-in pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.