Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable method to rest when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used on backpacking trips.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot, you can get a basic camping bed for less than $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots often aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a cot. 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 to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others will require an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has a fast setup time of about five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate 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 both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. similar web page is quite sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your 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 different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it could be too narrow for people who want a bit more room 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 a few of the other cots we looked at however they provide more space to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and could cause you to be tired and aching. This isn't a good reason for sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important when the cot is placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to debris or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These options may cost a bit more than traditional cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A 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 a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the best one for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying, making it suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for stability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a small carrying bag which is great for campers who travel frequently or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and require multiple 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 come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the amount and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous 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 the tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking if you're going on a backpacking trip. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who like to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper then you should choose one with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.