Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used when backpacking.
Some cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want spend a lot it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel 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 invest more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than the lower-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. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads that are built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those with limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips may have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Best cot for newborn is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and its soft feet won't damage the floor of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to set up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the quality of a tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and can cause you to be exhausted and aching. This defeats the purpose to sleep outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand injury from sharp objects that come into contact with it. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to dust and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Some cots come with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them feel more like beds. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots however they provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one with slim bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold up into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot for car camping, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're going on an excursion with backpacks. 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 trouble. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV then you should choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.