Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as 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 used on backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend much, you can get a simple car camping bed for around $100. They are typically made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend a little bit more on a higher-end model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and are often heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are essential factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots have insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass into their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together however, others require lots of effort and time and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you'll need to select an outdoor tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can support up to 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some people who want a bit 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 a few of the other cots we looked at but they have more room for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop people from falling over. These cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and could leave you exhausted and sore. This isn't a good reason to rest in the open air. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to the elements or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them more like beds. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot may affect 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 stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's crucial to consider how often you will be using it. If you plan to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has 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 and is suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are cot beds that can be folded flat and put into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models are easy to arrange and unfold, while others require more components and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of pieces required to set them up. 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 vehicle or SUV. They can be a challenge to get into position and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on a backpacking trip. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Baby beds are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they give you a bed that feels like mattresses. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to buy one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.