9 . What Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend much you can buy a simple car camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn 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. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest a little bit more on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than lower-end models.
Size and weight are essential considerations for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots 4 tots are easy to put together, while others may take a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to put together for people with limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily take for backpacking trips will have to choose a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the most important considerations for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide a more comfortable night's rest. This keeps 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 can be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a a fast setup time of about five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can give back sleepers additional support.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite robust, and its soft feet won't damage the flooring of your tent or cabin. It's lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only issue with this sale cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little 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 pricier than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the any 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 could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated by a pump, which makes them feel like a bed. Others have securing systems to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, but they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames is more robust than one with slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink in snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they do not receive the top ranked cribs scores for durability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to fold tots and cots set up, while others require more components and multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, however they also provide more comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, they can raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, select one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in a backpack. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for those who love car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you intend to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose one that has an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.