Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried 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 basic car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others may take 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 they can easily take for backpacking trips will need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot isn't just comfortable, it's also simple to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for people who want a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. cribs are more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
cribs
When looking for camping gear the quality of the tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and could make you exhausted and aching. This isn't a good reason for sleeping in the open air. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is particularly important if you intend to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dirt and animals that could chew or claw at it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Others have securing systems to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink in snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you plan to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has 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 for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more components and a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but they can also increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. They can be a challenge to get into position and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who do not need to spend more on a tent.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper is recommended to select a model with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.