Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially 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 to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that will cost you about $100. These models are usually made from aluminum or steel frames, with 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 can invest an extra bit on a model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when choosing a the right cot. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built into the cot for extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others may take much effort and time. They may also be difficult to put together for those with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry on backpacking trips may require a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping my sources are an excellent option for those looking to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's lightweight, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to support up to 300 pounds. It also features an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet won't damage the floor of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. This cot may be too small for people who require more space 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 other cots but offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. These cots also have sturdy legs that are made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel 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 using them and resist injury from sharp objects that be in contact with it. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside where it will be exposed to debris and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options may cost a bit more than traditional cots, but they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has slim bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's important to consider how often you'll use it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad built in is the best option. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment on 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 require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these may raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be lightweight so it's easy to carry in a backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they give you a bed that feels like a mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your RV or camper, then it's a good idea to purchase a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.