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 incredibly high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have much money You can purchase a simple car camping cot that will cost you about $100. They are typically made of steel or aluminum frames that have 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 to increase your comfort, you could spend some extra money on a higher-end model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. These cots may 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 crucial considerations when choosing a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together, others require lots of time and effort and may be difficult for people who are unable to move around to set up. If you're looking for a lightweight option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you will need to choose the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we tested. It's light, and it can be set up in only five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not only comfortable, but it is also simple to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it may be too narrow for users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots we looked at but they have more space to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that can attack or chew 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 filled with a pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot may influence its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't get the highest ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag, and then carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require a number of steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of the components required to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking if you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you have a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.