Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want spend a lot it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots often trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when choosing a cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up, others require an enormous amount of time and effort, and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you will need to choose a tent that has cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This stops cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. 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 stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also comes with an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for those 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 pricier than some of the other cots we looked at, but they offer more space to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the durability of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cots that aren't durable enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand injury from sharp objects that come into contact with them. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For example some cots come with a mattress built-in which can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off at night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't have the best scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Baby Cot are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they may also offer more comfort while camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, these may raise the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back 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 an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures 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 can be easily carried in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will provide you with the best night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather instead of sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who want to camp in the car but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your RV or camper then it's a great idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.