Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to rest when 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.
Certain cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spend you can get a basic car camping cot that will cost 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 stop cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots may be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are crucial considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
great crib are easy to assemble, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those with limited mobility. If good cribs want a lightweight option that can be easily taken on backpacking trips, then you should select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for cot buyers is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide 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 durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly 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, but they offer more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may leave you tired and sore. This defeats the purpose to rest outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly crucial if you plan to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that could attack or chew at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be filled with pumps. This makes them more like an actual bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to think about how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the right one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their stability or ease of usage. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models take 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 less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who love 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 RV or camper and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to buy a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.