Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be taken when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money you can get a basic car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames with 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 for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots often trade off in strength and may be more heavy and bulkier than lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are essential aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require lots of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you should select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. They also stop cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has quick set-up time of around five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional 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 surprisingly sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who require more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots but they provide more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots also have sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of a tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and may make you exhausted and aching. This defeats the purpose to rest outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to dust and animals that might chew or claw at it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost a bit more than standard cots, but they provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which reduces the possibility that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's essential to consider how frequently you'll be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying, making it suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transport, but are not rated highly for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag, and then carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these can increase the cost.
If cots to tots plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up since they have so many rings. However, they're still a great choice for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they provide the comfort of an actual mattress. They are a great choice for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.