The 9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used when backpacking.
Other cots, Affordable Cots specifically 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 it's possible to get a basic car camping bed for about $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help prevent cold air from sapping heat from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and options for organization. These cots could be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to help reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, while others require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for those with limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots can be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It is 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 reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for those who require more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Baby Cot Bed 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots, but they provide more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have sturdy legs that are constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outside, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using an air pump. This makes them appear more like a bed. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options may cost a bit more than standard cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For instance, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one that has slim bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best baby cots option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not well-rated for their durability or ease of use. There are also baby cots on sale that can be folded flat and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who frequently travel or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot you should consider how easy it will be to put up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those which are less difficult to assemble but they may provide more comfort during camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, search for one designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you the best cot bed night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will give you a bed that feels like an actual mattress. These are good for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot primarily in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.