Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up an inexpensive car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are usually made from aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched 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 on a model with more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and may be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots have insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be simple to set up but others take a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will need to opt for a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's light and can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. best cot newborn is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored well 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 they provide more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers because it has an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cots that aren't durable enough can leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them and resist injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially important if the cot will be placed outside and is exposed to debris or animals that may chew or claw it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in which can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. best cots for newborns have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the right one for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits in an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for durability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more components and require a number of steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they can also provide more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can also add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will provide the comfort of a mattress. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper then you should choose one that has a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.