Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want spend an excessive amount it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you could spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots may be heavier, bulkier and less strong than the lower-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. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI Kingdom
Mini Cot Bed 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin
infant cot bed.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't scratch up the floor of a cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who require more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. cheap cots (
coach.intraquest.nl) that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling exhausted
tots and cots sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to debris and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options can cost a bit more than conventional cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance 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 one that is right for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be put into a compact bag for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they don't have the
best cots uk scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more parts and a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they may also offer more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the amount and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can raise the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose a model with a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.