Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up an inexpensive car camping cot that costs around $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. If go now looking for more comfort, you can invest an extra bit on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
Size and weight are essential factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you will need to choose the right tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This stops 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. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It's light and can be set up in just five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can 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 extremely 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 compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed, but they offer more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop people from rolling over. These cots have strong legs constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand the injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important in the event that the cot is used outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them more like a bed. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots, but they can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink in snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how often you will be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of how easy it is to set up. cot bed sales require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, these may increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on the tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight so it can be easily carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your RV or camper and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to buy one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.