Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried for backpacking trips.

Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.

Price

For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spend, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that costs you about $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched 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 more comfort, you could spend some extra money on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots could be heavier, bulkier and less strong than low-end models.

For backpackers, who need to carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require a lot of time and effort, and may be difficult for people who are unable to move around to set up. Those who want an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips may require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.

The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot that is light and has a quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.

The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet won't damage the floor of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.

The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who need more space for their legs.

Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot to prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed 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 tired 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 resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial when the cot is placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that may attack or chew it.

Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.

The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For example, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.

When selecting the best cot for you, it's crucial to consider how frequently you will be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits in a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.

When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and put into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who require sleeping equipment on field trips.

Setup

When you are looking for a low-cost cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to put up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they also provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, they can increase the price.

If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and align because they come with so many rings. However, they are nevertheless a great option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.

If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in a backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.

Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will give you an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.

If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.