Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

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

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

Price

If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend much you can buy a basic camping bed for less than $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 prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. You can invest more on a model with more cushioning and storage options. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and may be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.

For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots may be simple to set up however, others require lots of effort and time and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely require a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

One of the biggest concerns for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This stops cold from transferring to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great crib option.

The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot sets, that is light and has a an easy setting time of five seconds. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can hold up 300 pounds. It also features an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.

Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.

In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little more room for their legs.

The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored highly for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to prevent the occupants from rolling over. These cots have strong legs made of stainless and aluminum steel.

Durability

When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of a tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to debris and animals that could attack or chew at it.

Some cots have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Some nursery cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.

The design of a cot may influence its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more robust than one with slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which reduces the possibility that it could fall over or Cot Bed sink into snow or mud.

When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's crucial to consider how frequently you'll use it. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad included is the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.

When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transportation and storage 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 can be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by campers or classroom teachers on field excursions.

Setup

When looking for a budget cot, you should think about the ease with which it is to put up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the amount and complexity of the pieces needed to set them up. However, these may increase the price.

If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up since they have a lot of rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who don't want to shell out more on a tent.

For backpacking adventures it's best cots to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.

Some cots can be used with sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but will provide an experience that is similar to mattresses. They are a great choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.

If you plan to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper, it's best to choose a model with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated prior to going to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.