Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep when 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 one loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend an excessive amount you can buy a simple car camping bed for about $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. You can spend more for a model that has more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots often compromise on strength and are often heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you should select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. They also stop cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and cots4Tots store. If you intend to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we have tested. It's light, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that won'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 has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it may be too narrow for people who want a bit more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at, but they offer more room for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and may cause you to be exhausted and sore. This defeats the purpose to sleep in the open air. Cots must be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if the cot will be placed outside and is exposed to the elements or animals that could attack or chew it.
Certain cots come with additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than traditional cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best option. This type of cot is typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be put 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, making transportation and storage easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not rated well for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, you should think about how easy it will be to install. Some models are easy to set up and unfold, while others require more components and a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they also provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, these may increase the price.
If you're planning to use your cot for camping in your car, search for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that are difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to buy an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight so it's able to be carried in a backpack. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV is recommended to select one that has a built-in mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you have a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.
