Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to rest when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be taken when backpacking.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount you can buy a basic camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames that have 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 for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and can be heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more space for their legs.
cots to tots and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots, but offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. These cots also have sturdy legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is particularly important when the cot is used outside and is exposed to debris or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them more like beds. Other cots have locking systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots but can offer more 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 thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they may also offer more comfort while camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to get into position and line up because they come with so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on a backpacking trip. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in a backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time 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 added comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will give you a bed that feels like an actual mattress. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your RV or camper and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to buy a model that comes with a built-in pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.