Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of one loaf.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up an inexpensive car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames that have 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 money for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. These cots may be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots come with insulation that helps to block out cold that could otherwise pass into their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to put together 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 a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This keeps cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide 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 lounger. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that don't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and durable enough for adults. The cot might be too small for people who require more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort were 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 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of the tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is especially crucial if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to the elements or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them feel more like beds. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which reduces the likelihood that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how often you will be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Certain cots can fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not rated highly for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot 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 components and require multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide an experience that is similar to mattresses. These are a good choice for those who love car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking trips.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your camper or RV then you should choose one with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to bed, so you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.