Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend an excessive amount you can buy a basic camping bed for around $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up but others take an enormous amount of time and effort, and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. People who are looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is lightweight and has a fast setting time of five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. Baby Cot Bed features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is quite robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who prefer a little 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 reviewed however they provide more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots have strong legs constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially important in the event that the cot is placed outside, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options may cost a bit more than traditional cots, but they provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, but they don't have the best scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag, and then carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot you should consider how easy it will be to set up. Some models are easy to set up and unfold, while others require more components and multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that can reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can also increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for car camping, choose one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and align because they have so many rings. However, they are still a great choice for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will give you a great night's rest during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they give you a bed that feels like an actual mattress. They are a great choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper is recommended to select one with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can have a cozy and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.