Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Some baby cots online are more costly, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don’t have much money to spend, you can pick up a simple car camping sale cot that will run you about $100. They are typically made from aluminum or steel frames that 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. You can spend more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots typically aren’t as strong and may be heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up however, others require a lot of effort and time and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you’re looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent with integrated cot features, 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 an ideal bed for a more comfortable night’s sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most recommended cribs comfortable cot we’ve tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that’s comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. 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 a lounge chair.
The Baby Cot Bed is not only comfortable, it’s also simple to install. It’s sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who require more space 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 more expensive than a few of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have sturdy legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren’t sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn’t the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is particularly important when the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them feel more like an actual bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options may cost more than conventional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the likelihood that it will fall over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it’s essential to think about how often you’ll be using it. If you plan to use it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it can be folded 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 scores for stability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a compact bag which is great for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you’re shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they also provide more comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that can reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, but they can also add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots offers can be difficult to put in place and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they’re still a great choice for those who do not need to spend more on a tent.
It’s best to get an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you’re planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will give you a great night’s rest during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you’re going to be using your cot primarily in your RV or camper and you’re planning to travel with it, it’s a good option to choose a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night’s sleep regardless of where you’re staying.
