Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spare, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will run around $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you could spend an extra bit on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a the right cot. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together but others take a lot 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 that can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for 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 well for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of the tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. 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. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important in the event that the cot is placed outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad 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.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal 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 that has only four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad included is the best option. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a compact bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Visit Homepage take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more components and require a number of 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 are equipped with cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, however these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for a tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but will provide you with an experience that is similar to a mattress. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV is recommended to select one that has an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.