Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that will cost you about $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest some extra money on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that blocks cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads that are built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others may take much effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry on backpacking trips may require a tent that comes with cot features, 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 for an easier night's sleep. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. Mini Cot Bed comes with an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for 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.
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 but they have more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and resist injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if the cot will be used outside and is exposed to debris or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example include a built-in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like beds. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options are more costly than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has solid metal frames is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't have the best scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot you should consider the ease with which it is to install. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more components and require a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble however they can provide greater comfort during camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for car camping, choose one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they're still a great choice for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's better to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in a backpack. 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 are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they give you an experience that is similar to mattresses. These are a good choice for those who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.