Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to rest when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend you can get a simple car camping cot that will cost you about $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots usually aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come 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.
While some cots are simple to set up but others take an enormous amount of effort and time and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely have to choose a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact 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.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high 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 falling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and could cause you to be tired and aching. This isn't a good reason to rest in the open air. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the user's weight and resist any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more robust than one with slender 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 reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be put into a small bag for backpacking.
Another factor to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold down into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated highly for their durability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag which is great for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require 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. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but they can add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot for camping in your car, search for one designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for tents.
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 most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they provide you with the comfort of mattresses. They are great for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If cot sets plan to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.