Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide a comfortable and affordable way to rest when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up an inexpensive car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically made from steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can spend a little bit more on a higher-end model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be more heavy and bulkier than lower-end models.
Size and weight are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others may take a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for those with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you should select an outdoor tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, that is light and has a a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch 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 various reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. cots offers to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some people who want a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots may not be durable enough and could cause you to be tired and sore. This is not a good thing for sleeping in the open air. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that can attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance include a built-in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off at night. These options can cost a bit more than conventional cots, but they give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also impact its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact to 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.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you'll use it. If you intend to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in an incredibly compact bag for carrying, making it suitable for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't get the highest ratings for durability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more components and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, these can increase the price.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily for camping in your car, search for one designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. These models can be difficult to get into position and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather instead of sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to purchase one that has a built-in pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.