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 provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of a loaf.
Certain cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have much money You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that will run around $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs that are made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dirt and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For Cots For Tots , some cots have a built-in mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Some have securing mechanisms to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may influence its durability. A 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 stable than one that has only four, which reduces the likelihood that it will slide over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best option. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in an incredibly compact bag for carrying which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
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 take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to get into position and line up since they have a lot of rings. But, they're still a great choice for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it can be easily carried in a backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather than sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV is recommended to select one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.