Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way to rest when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that costs around $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 prevent cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up but others take an enormous amount of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily take for backpacking trips will 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 up off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some 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 more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping and extra padding. cot beds is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the durability of the tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to debris and animals that could chew or claw at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them feel more like beds. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 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 topple over or sink in snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to 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, a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots that fold into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't get the highest ratings for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more parts and a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they can also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these can raise the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot for camping in your car, search for one designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for the tent.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're planning to go on a backpacking trip. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack without too much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.
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 option to choose one that has a built-in pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.