Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spare, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots often aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others may take an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to put together for those who have limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that can be easily taken on backpacking trips, then you should select a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. They also stop cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. For people who plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has a fast set-up time of around five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 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 extremely sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is 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 an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to put up. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included 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 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and may make you tired and aching. This is not a good thing for sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial when the cot is used outdoors and is exposed to dirt or animals that may attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example include a built-in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them feel more like beds. Other cots have locking systems to keep the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options can cost a bit more than conventional cots, but they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with 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 prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another factor to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transport, but are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. There are also cots that small cot beds and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry which is great for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models are easy to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, they can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for the tent.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will give you a bed that feels like mattresses. They are a great choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper then you should choose one that has a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.