10 Things That Your Family Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an 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 the bread loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money you can get an inexpensive car camping cot that will run you about $100. They are typically made from aluminum or steel frames that have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and prevent cold air from sapping heat from your sleeping bag. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots may be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are important considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips may require a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. However, cots are typically heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a an easy set-up time of around five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support for back-sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly durable, and it has soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a cabin or tent. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various recline positions when it is used as a chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. The cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling 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 the damage caused by sharp objects that might come into contact with them. This is especially important if the cot will be used outdoors in the elements, where it could be exposed to the elements or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them more like Baby beds. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots however they offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For example, a cot with a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall 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 one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad included is the best option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another factor to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not well-rated for their stability or ease of usage. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
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 require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they may also offer more comfort while camping. Certain cots 4 tots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that is designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have numerous rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't want to spend extra money on a tent.
For backpacking trips it's best to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for additional comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but they provide you with an experience that is similar to an actual mattress. These are good cribs for backpackers who want to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV, it's best to choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure that you have a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.