Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Certain cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount it's possible to get a basic car camping bed for about $100. They are typically made of 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 spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that could otherwise pass into their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to add extra 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 a lot of effort and time and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you want a lightweight option that can be easily taken on backpacking trips, then you should select a tent that has the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major issue for those purchasing cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to 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 surprisingly sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't scratch up 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 comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an upholstered lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who want more room 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 offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also come with solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outdoors, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance include a built-in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like an actual bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost more than standard cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For example, a cot with a solid metal frame is more robust than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be packed in a small bag for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, but they do not receive the top ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about how easy it will be to install. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they can also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. These models can be difficult to get into position and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they give you the comfort of an actual mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who like to camp in their cars but require a bed in the wilderness.
If tots and cots on using your cot mostly in your RV or camper and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.