Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.

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

Price

If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much, you can get a basic camping bed for about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest a little bit more on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.

For backpackers, who must carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when choosing a the right cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots have sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots are easy to put together but others take an enormous amount of time and effort and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. If you are looking for a light option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select a tent that has the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

Comfort is a top concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.

The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot that is light and has a an easy setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to support up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to 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 quite robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be carried in a compact case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a chair.

Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more room for their legs.

Other cots that scored high 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 that we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.

Durability

When looking for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if the cot will be placed outside, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.

Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be inflated by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.

The design of a cot can affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This reduces the chances that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.

It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before deciding on the best cot bed one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best option. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.

Another factor to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't get the highest scores for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field excursions.

Setup

If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort when camping. Certain nursery cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these can increase the price.

If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more money for tents.

It's Best cot for newborn to get a cot specifically designed for hiking if you're going on an excursion with backpacks. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances, and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.

Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who want to camp in their cars but want to sleep in the wilderness.

If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase a model with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.