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 offer extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of a loaf.

Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.

Price

If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend a lot you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend a little bit more on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.

For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots are easy to set up however, others require an enormous amount of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry on backpacking trips may require a tent that comes with cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.

The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in just five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.

Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.

In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.

Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of aluminum and steel.

Durability

The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. cheap cots (writes in the official Cots 4tots blog) that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted 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 the injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors, where it might be exposed to dust and animals that might bite or scratch at it.

Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using pumps. This makes them feel more like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they offer more comfort.

The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one with thin bars. 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 into mud or snow.

It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you plan to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This type of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.

Another aspect to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by teachers or campers on field trips.

Setup

If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more components and a number of steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however these can sometimes 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 effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on tents.

If you're planning to backpack it's best to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.

Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to offer additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they provide the comfort of mattresses. These are a good choice for those who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.

If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV, then it's a good option to choose a model with a built-in pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.