The 10 Scariest Things About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spend, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will cost you about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and are often more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when choosing a the right cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together, others require lots of time and effort and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry on backpacking trips may require a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in just five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. try this website has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and can leave you exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose to rest in the open air. Cots must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to consider how frequently you will be using it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into a compact carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry which is great for campers who travel frequently or for teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for a tent.
It's best to get a cot specifically designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they provide you with a bed that feels like an actual mattress. They are great for backpackers who want to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on sleeping in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase a model with a built-in pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can have a cozy and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.