Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable method to sleep when camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money you can get a simple car camping cot that costs around $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help 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 baby cots on sale can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others may take much effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily take for backpacking trips will require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
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 extremely sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to set up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more space 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 reviewed, but they offer more room to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may make you exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose for sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand injury from sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off at night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how frequently you will be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't have the best ratings for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that fold flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you are looking for a low-cost cot, think about the ease with which it is to install. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, they can increase the price.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. These models can be difficult to put in place and line up because they come with so many rings. However, they're nevertheless a great option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
It's best to get an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without too much hassle. 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 fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will provide you with the comfort of a mattress. They are a great choice for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking trips.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.