Don't Believe These "Trends" About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way 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 bread loafs and can be carried when backpacking.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend much, you can get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend some extra money on an upgraded model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are important factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots have insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that add extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to put together however, others require lots of effort and time and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's light and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. This cot may be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. These cots have strong legs made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the quality of a tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may leave you tired and aching. This is not a good thing to sleep outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the user's weight and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outside where it will be exposed to debris and animals that may chew or claw at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options might cost more than conventional cots, but they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which reduces the likelihood that it will fall over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. best crib for newborn can be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, you should think about how easy it will be to put up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however they can increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for car camping, choose one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and line up since they have a lot of rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's able to be carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
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 have air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.