Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be used for backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend a lot you can buy a basic car camping bed for around $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest an extra bit on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and are often more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
Weight and pack size are important factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots have insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others will require much effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips may require a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots raise campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are typically heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight and can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. cribs beds comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to install. cribs beds enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who require more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at however they provide more room for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and may make you tired and sore. This defeats the purpose for sleeping in the open air. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is especially important if the cot will be placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. Others have securing systems to stop the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. For instance, a cot that has an iron frame is more durable than one that has slim bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which reduces the likelihood that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's important to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips A cot that is lightweight and has a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't get the highest ratings for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots which are less difficult to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however these can sometimes add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures it's better to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most inexpensive 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 comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide you with an experience that is similar to a mattress. These are a good choice for those who enjoy camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one that has a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.