Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend a lot it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and storage options. These cots may be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together, others require an enormous amount of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then 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 most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly sturdy, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might 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. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is especially important if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example some cots come with a mattress built-in which can be inflated with a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These are more expensive than standard cots but 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 with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea 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 is possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will provide you with a bed that feels like an actual mattress. These are good for backpackers who like to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great idea to purchase a model with an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can have a cozy and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.