Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried when backpacking.
Some cots are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend You can purchase a simple car camping cot that will cost around $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched 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. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
The weight and size of the pack are important factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is 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 up the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little 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 more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with additional features that make them more comfortable. For example, some cots have an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag and transported by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, think about how easy it will be to put up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they may also offer more comfort at camp. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, they can raise the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
It is recommended to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on sleeping in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.