Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend much, you can get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model with more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots often aren't as strong and may be more heavy and bulkier than low-end models.
Size and weight are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together but others take lots of effort and time and may be difficult for people who are unable to move around to set up. Those who want an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This keeps cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. However, cots tend to be heavier and bulkier 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 could be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features 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 lounger. Its construction is quite durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, it's also simple to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only issue with 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 high for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed, but they offer more room to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and could leave you tired and aching. This is not a good thing for sleeping in the open air. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and withstand 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 where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like include a built-in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them more like a bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options can cost more than traditional cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. For instance, a cot with a solid metal frame is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you will be using it. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. Baby Cot Bed of cot is typically less than three pounds and can be packed into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not rated well for their 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
When shopping for a cheap cot you should consider the ease with which it is to put up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they can also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, these may increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on a backpacking trip. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to offer additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are great for backpackers who want to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV, then it's a good option to choose a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.