Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much you can buy a simple car camping bed for less than $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest some extra money on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
Size and weight are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require lots of time and effort 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 take on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can support up 300 pounds. It also features 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 an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions as an upholstered lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users who require more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots, but offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs that are made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that come into contact with them. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors in the open, where it could be exposed to dirt and animals that could chew or claw at it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms which prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These options are more costly than standard cots however they offer a greater level of comfort.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the possibility that it could slide over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in will be the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you must also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs for storage and transportation, but they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more components and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort while camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however these can sometimes increase the cost.
If cots to tots on using your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they provide a bed that feels like a mattress. These are good for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.