Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spend You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that costs around $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can spend more for a model that has more cushioning and storage options. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads that 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 could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. People who are looking for an ultralight option they can easily carry for backpacking trips will require an outdoor tent that has integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, which makes them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to give back sleepers additional support.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who would like a bit 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 they provide more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The cots also have sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is especially crucial when the cot is used outdoors and is exposed to the elements or animals that may bite or scratch it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have a mattress built-in that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from falling off at night. These options are more costly than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For instance, a cot with an iron frame is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you will be using it. If you're planning to use it for car camping or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in is the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Certain cots can fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require a number of steps. These cots are generally larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that can be difficult to align and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.
It is recommended to purchase an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. 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 adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for added comfort. try this website are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of an actual mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who like to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your RV or camper and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to provide maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.