Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be used for backpacking trips.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spare You can purchase a basic car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots usually aren't as strong and may be more heavy and bulkier than lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are essential factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that add extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up, others require lots of effort and time and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you should select a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot that is light and has a quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
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 extremely durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, it's also simple to set up. Cots For Tots enough to be used by adults. The cot could be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well 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 we looked at however they provide more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot, which helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum 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 can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and resist injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dust and animals that may chew or claw at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These are more expensive than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't have the best scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more components and require multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can also increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up because they have so many rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will give you an experience that is similar to an actual mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who like to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.