Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable method to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will run you about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest some extra money on a model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots often aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when choosing a cot. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to put together, others require a lot of time and effort, and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. They also stop cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's light and can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot could be too narrow for those who need more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more space to camp and have additional 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, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When looking for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and can leave you exhausted and aching. This isn't a good reason to rest in the open air. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that may bite or scratch at it.
Some cots come with extra features that make them more comfortable. For cot beds come with an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options may cost more than traditional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad will be the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't have the best scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they may also offer more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that reduces the amount and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These models can be difficult to get into position and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's best to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of a mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who like to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase a model with a built-in pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.