13 Things About Cheap Cots You May Not Have Known
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep during 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 the bread 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 spend an excessive amount you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest some extra money on a model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others may take a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily take for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent with integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This keeps cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a a fast set-up time of around five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. cribs beds has a headrest to 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 quite robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The cot could be too narrow for those 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 a few of the other cots we looked at, but they offer more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dust and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them more like an actual bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. For example, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's important to think about how often you will be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not rated highly for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, they can increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to snap into place and align because they have so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping but need 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 a model with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.