Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money to spend You can purchase a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots usually aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
The weight and size of the pack are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up but others take lots of time and effort and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then 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 cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This keeps 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 only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It also comes with an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The cot could be too small for people who require more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at however they provide more room to camp and have extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. These cots also have sturdy legs that are made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may be in contact with it. This is especially important if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to debris or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example include a built-in mattress that can be inflated using pumps. This makes them feel more like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off at night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be put into a small bag for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about how easy it will be to put up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they can also provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for car camping, choose one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These models can be difficult to get into position and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide you with an experience that is similar to a mattress. 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 mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good idea to buy a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.