Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used on backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that will cost around $100. These cots 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. If Baby Crib looking to increase your comfort, you can spend some extra money on an upgraded model that has options for organization and cushioning. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up, others require an enormous amount of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which 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 surprisingly sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but it is also simple to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and can leave you exhausted and sore. This is not a good thing to sleep in the open air. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if the cot will be placed outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For example some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you plan to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad built in will be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a compact bag that is perfect for campers who travel often or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about how easy it will be to put up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but they can also add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, search for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. They can be a challenge to snap into place and align because they come with so many rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose a model that comes with a built-in pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.