Do Not Buy Into These "Trends" Concerning Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend much you can buy a basic camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can spend some extra money on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and are often heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a the right cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to help reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While best cot beds Cots 4 Tots may be simple to set up however, others require a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. They also stop cold from spreading from the ground to 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 a good option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight and can be put together in less than five seconds. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to support up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. This cot may be too narrow for those who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots also have solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and resist damage from sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that may bite or scratch at it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the mattress from sliding off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has just four points of contact, which decreases the likelihood that it will slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad will be the best option. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed 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 looking for a budget cot you should consider how easy it will be to set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more components and multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble however they can provide greater comfort during camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the amount and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase the price.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will give you a bed that feels like mattresses. These are a good choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.