Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend much, you can get a basic camping bed for less than $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up, others require lots of effort and time and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you will need to choose an outdoor tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
sale cot Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
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 robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some people who want a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and resist the damage caused by sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is especially crucial in the event that the cot is placed outside and is exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options might cost more than standard cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has just four points of contact, which decreases the likelihood that it will slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included is the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When you are looking for a low-cost cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to put up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can also add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and line up because they come with so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
It's best to get an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress than sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV is recommended to select one with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.