Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable method to sleep while camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend some extra money on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others will require much effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you should select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. infant cot bed raise campers off of the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we tested. It's light and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it may 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 well for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots, however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the quality of a tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and could cause you to be tired and sore. This isn't a good reason to rest outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist the damage caused by sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is particularly important if you intend to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to debris and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Some cots come with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options might cost a bit more than standard cots, but they provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also impact 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 more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's important to consider how frequently you will be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another factor to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and put into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult 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 needed to set up, however they can also add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot for car camping, look for one that's designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on a tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who like to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.