9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount, you can get a simple car camping bed for about $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more money on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to put together but others take a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. People who are looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried for backpacking trips will have to choose an outdoor tent that has 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 lift campers up off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's lightweight, and it can be set up in only five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a best cot newborn or as a lounger. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight 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.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to set up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who need more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot, which helps keep people from sliding off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the quality of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel 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 resist the damage caused by sharp objects that come into contact with them. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options might cost more than standard cots, but they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can affect its durability. For instance, a cot with solid metal frames is more robust than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable 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 also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad included is the best cot beds option. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and can fit into the size of a small carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold down into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models are simple to fold and set up, while others require more components and a number of steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't want to shell out more money for tents.
For backpacking trips it's better to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite mini cot beds, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide additional 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. They are ideal for backpackers who like to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on sleeping in your camper or RV then it's a great option to choose a model with a built-in pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.