Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots provide a comfortable and affordable way to rest when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot Bed 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used for backpacking trips.

Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the more expensive side.

Price

If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want spend a lot you can buy a basic car camping bed for about $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.

For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a sleeping cot. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

Some cots are easy to assemble, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option can be easily carried for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent with integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

Comfort is a top concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, which makes them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.

The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping area 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 comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a chair.

Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who would like a bit more room for their legs.

Other cots that scored highly 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 we reviewed but they have more room for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.

Durability

When you are shopping for camping equipment, the quality of a tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats 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 if the cot will be used outside and is exposed to dirt or animals that can chew or claw it.

Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain online cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off at night. These options can cost a bit more than standard cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.

The design of a cot can influence its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.

When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to think about how often you'll use it. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. The cot usually weighs less than three pounds and fits into the size of a small carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.

When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Certain cots can fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not well-rated for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.

Setup

When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price be sure to think about how easy it is to 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 those that are easier to assemble however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.

If you plan to use your cot primarily for car camping, look for one designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for tents.

It's best cot bed to get an cot that is designed specifically for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will provide you with the best night's sleep on your backpacking trip.

Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.

If you plan to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper then you should choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate before sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.