Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you can spend some extra money on an upgraded model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots often trade off in strength and are often more heavy and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option can be easily carried for backpacking trips will require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you intend to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be a good option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, that is light and has a an easy set-up time of around five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with extra 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
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and can cause you to be tired and aching. This defeats the purpose to rest in the open air. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the user and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important in the event that the cot is used outside, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that could chew or claw it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to prevent the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. For example, a cot with a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one that has only four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's important to consider how frequently you'll use it. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not well-rated for cots4tots.co.uk their stability or ease of usage. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort during camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out more money for the tent.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most inexpensive 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 too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide a bed that feels like mattresses. They are great for backpackers who want to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper then you should choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.