The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken when backpacking.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend much it's possible to get a basic camping bed for around $100. These models are usually made of steel or aluminum frames, with fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can spend a little bit more on an upgraded model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots often compromise on strength and may be more heavy and bulkier than low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping cot beds. They are willing to sacrifice comfort in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots have insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built into the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be simple to set up but others take lots of time and effort, and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. If you are looking for a light option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you will need to choose the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be larger and heavier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides 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 lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and its soft feet will not scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions if used as a seat.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. These cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When looking for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots must be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important when the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that could chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated using a pump. This makes them appear more like a bed. Others have securing systems to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the possibility that it could slide over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to think about the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This kind of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another factor to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into an armchair for easy transport and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for durability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and put into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price, make sure to consider the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more components and Baby Cot require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they can also provide more comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in the car, select one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and align because they have so many rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who do not need to spend more on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots 4 tots can be used with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their backpacking adventures.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV is recommended to select a model with an integrated mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to sleep, so you can enjoy a comfortable and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.