Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of a loaf.
Some cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spend, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that will run you about $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched 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 money for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots often trade off in strength and are often heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
Size and weight are important factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 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 might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you want a lightweight option that can be easily taken on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select the right tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a quick set-up time of around five seconds. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. cot for sale are more expensive than a few of the other cots we looked at but they have more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to debris and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options might cost a bit more than standard cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which lowers the possibility that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's important to think about how often you will be using it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more components and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but they can add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, search for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up since they have so many rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances, and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose a model with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.