Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of one loaf.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that costs you about $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 heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots could be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to support up to 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. nursery cots enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who need more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots but they provide more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot, which helps keep people from sliding off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is especially important when the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to debris or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they provide a higher level of comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. 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 take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can add to the price.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more money for the tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to buy an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without too 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.
cots to tots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV is recommended to select one that has an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.