Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Some cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have much money to spare you can get an inexpensive car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots typically compromise on strength and can be more heavy and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a the right cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with 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.
While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require an enormous amount of time and effort and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you'll need to 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 cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for back-sleepers.
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 extremely robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be carried in a compact case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for people who want a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room to camp and have additional padding. best cot bed is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important in the event that the cot is placed outside, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. best cot beds are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's essential to consider how often you'll be using it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad included will be the best option. This kind of cot is usually less than three pounds and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and put into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than cots which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, but they can increase the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for the tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but will give you the comfort of an actual mattress. They are a great choice for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper is recommended to select one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.