9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op offer extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be packed down to the size and weight of the bread loaf.
Some cots are more costly, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spare, you can pick up an inexpensive car camping cot that will cost around $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames, and have 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. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and options for organization. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that would otherwise seep into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others may take much effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips may need to opt for an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent option for people who want to camp close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable Baby Cot Bed we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a quick set-up time of around five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another infant cot bed that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small cot beds carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who require more space 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 other cots however, they offer more space for camping and extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers as it has an additional layer of padding along the side of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless 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 could make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand injury from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that can attack or chew it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them appear like a real bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options are more costly than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. For instance, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to 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 into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best option. This type of cot is typically less than 3 pounds in weight and can be packed in a small cot beds bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold down into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by teachers or campers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort during camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can raise the cost.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to invest in a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you a great crib night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but they provide the comfort of mattresses. They are great for backpackers who like to camp in the car but require a bed in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot primarily in your RV or camper, then it's a good idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to bed, so you can have a cozy and comfy night's sleep no matter where you're staying.