Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be used when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend you can get an inexpensive car camping cot that will run around $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be simple to set up however, others require an enormous amount of effort and time and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you'll need to select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This stops cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, that is light and has a quick set-up time of around five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who need more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots we looked at but they have more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot, which helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of the tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may cause you to be exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose to rest outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outside, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them more like beds. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included is the best option. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it 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 into a compact bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to install. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are generally larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble but they may provide more comfort during camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, these may increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some models come with many rings that can be difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for tents.
For backpacking adventures it's better to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will provide you with a great night's rest during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. cot bed sales are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they provide you with a bed that feels like a mattress. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase a model with a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.