9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken on backpacking trips.
Some best cots for newborns are more costly especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for an affordable camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will run you about $100. They are typically constructed 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 taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can invest more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots usually aren't as strong and can be heavier and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up but others take an enormous amount of time and effort and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. It also prevents cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we tested. It's light, and it can be set up in just five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional 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 extremely robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some people who want a bit 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, however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to stop people from rolling over. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the durability of the tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important when the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to debris or animals that can chew or claw it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like include a built-in mattress that can be inflated using pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Other cots have locking systems to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options may cost more than traditional cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four. This lowers the likelihood that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how often you'll be using it. If you plan to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best cot newborn option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
When you are choosing a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transportation, but they are not rated well for their durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
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 are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more components and a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they can also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that cut down the number and complexity of pieces needed to set them up. However, they can increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for car camping, look for one that's designed to slide easily into the back of your car 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 choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to buy an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much hassle. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will provide you with an experience that is similar to mattresses. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best cot bed to choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, regardless of where you're staying.