Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep during camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount, you can get a simple car camping bed for about $100. These models are usually constructed from aluminum or steel frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
Weight and pack size are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their gear on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping recommended cribs are a great option for those looking to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot that is light and has a a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
The cot is not only comfortable, but also easy to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot might be too narrow for those 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 they provide more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and could make you exhausted and aching. This isn't a good reason to rest outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to dirt and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like, have a built in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options might cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will topple over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad will be the best option. The cot usually weighs less than 3 pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
Another thing to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These cots are typically heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together, but may offer greater comfort at camp. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these can raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one that's designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more money for the tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's best to invest in 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 easy to carry in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather than 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 going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV then it's a great idea to buy a model with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you have a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.