Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken on backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount, you can get a basic camping bed for about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames with 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 spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than the lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be simple to set up however, others require lots of time and effort, and may be difficult for people who are unable to move around to set up. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you'll need to select a tent that has the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. cots and tots prevents cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely 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 to different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could 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 and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cots that aren't durable enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial in the event that the cot is placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be filled by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The style of a cot could also affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 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 in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. 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 option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transport, but are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and a number of 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 are fitted with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these may raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for the tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV then you should choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so that you can have a cozy and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.