Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken when backpacking.
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 to spend much you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically made from aluminum or steel frames with 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. If you're looking for more comfort, you can invest a little bit more on an upgraded model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
Size and weight are essential considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment 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 sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may have to choose a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in only five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more space to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots also have solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and may cause you to be tired and aching. This defeats the purpose to sleep in the open air. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that come into contact with it. This is especially important when the cot is placed outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more robust than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to 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 snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're planning to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included will be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. cots to tots require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of the components required to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. Some models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures it's best to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you're going to be sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great idea to purchase a model with a built-in pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.