Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
For those who want a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up a simple car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend an extra bit on a higher-end model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are easy to set up, others require an enormous amount of time and effort, and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you are looking for a light option that is able to be carried on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select an outdoor tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. They also stop cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. 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've tested. It's light, and it can be set up in only five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too small for people who need more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots but offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to stop people from falling over. These cots also have sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted 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 withstand damage from sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is especially crucial when the cot is placed outside, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For example some cots come with an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These options may cost a bit more than conventional cots, but they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you plan to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad included will be the best Baby cots option. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed into a small bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, but they do not receive the top ratings for durability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel often or for teachers in classrooms who need to bring sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models are easy to set up and unfold, while others require more components and multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of the components required to put them together. However, these may increase the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for car camping, choose one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up since they have so many rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's best to buy 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 to be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide additional comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots but they offer 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 adventures on the trail.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good idea to buy a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to sleep, so that you can have a cozy and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.