Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used when backpacking.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want spend much it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for around $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
cheap cots and size of the pack are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be simple to set up however, others require lots of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you should select a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is light and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but it is also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for people who want a bit more room 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 other cots, but they provide more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and can leave you tired and sore. This isn't a good reason to rest outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to dirt and animals that may attack or chew at it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like beds. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the likelihood that it will fall over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's important to consider how often you'll use it. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds and can be packed in 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 down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
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 are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
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. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up since they come with so many rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
It's best to get a cot specifically designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. 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 are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.