Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried for backpacking trips.

Other cots, especially 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 spend You can purchase a simple car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. These cots could be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.

For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. 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 may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. People who are looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

One of the most important considerations for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground for a more comfortable night's rest. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.

The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.

Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.

In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who require more space 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 as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots also have sturdy legs that are made of steel and aluminum.

Durability

The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that could bite or scratch it.

Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like an actual bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options might cost a bit more than traditional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.

A cot's design can also influence its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.

It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the best baby cots one for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in is the best cots for newborns option. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.

Another thing to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are simpler to set up, but they do not receive the top scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that fold flat and put into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.

Setup

When you are looking for a low-cost cot you should consider the ease with which it is to install. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more components and multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they can also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.

If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for the tent.

For backpacking trips it's better to buy an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in a backpack. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.

Some cots to tots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking trips.

If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper is recommended cribs to select a model with a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.