Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Some cots, like 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 used for backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much, you can get a simple car camping bed for around $100. They are typically made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. These cots can be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be simple to set up, others require an enormous amount of effort and time and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. Those who want an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from moving 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. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who need more space 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 more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. affordable cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to debris or animals that may attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like beds. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options can cost more than conventional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the likelihood that it will slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the best one for you. 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 type of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't get the highest ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When you are looking for a low-cost cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models are easy to arrange and unfold, while others require more components and require multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are easier to assemble however they can provide greater comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, they can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
It is recommended to purchase 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 options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances, and will provide you with a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will give you the comfort of mattresses. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV then you should choose a model with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.