Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend a lot, you can get a simple car camping bed for around $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you could spend some extra money on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others require much effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you'll need to select a tent that has 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. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is lightweight and has a fast set-up time of around five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot could be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outside, 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. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them more like beds. Others have securing systems to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. For example, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which lowers the possibility that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't get the highest scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in 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're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during 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 will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who want to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose one with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.