Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried when backpacking.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spare you can get a basic car camping cot that will cost you about $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more money for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. These cots may be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots have insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together, others require lots of time and effort, and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you will need to choose an outdoor tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. The cots are larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet will not scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for people who want a bit more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at however they provide more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the quality of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and can leave you tired and sore. This isn't a good reason to sleep in the open air. cheap cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is especially important when the cot is used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that may bite or scratch 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 inflated with an air pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options may cost more than traditional cots, but they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you'll use it. If best rated cribs going to be using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not rated well for 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 looking for a budget cot you should consider the ease with which it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others are more complicated and require a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. These models can be difficult to put in place and align because they come with so many rings. However, they are nevertheless a great option for those who do not need to spend more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. 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 hassle. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but they provide an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV then you should choose a model with an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.