The Complete Guide To Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer a comfortable and affordable way to rest when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others are smaller than the size of bread loafs and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Certain cots are more expensive, particularly those designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much you can buy a basic car camping bed for less than $100. These models are usually constructed of steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they keep cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest some extra money on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots often aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
Size and cots to tots are important aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot for additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be simple to set up but others take lots of time and effort, and might 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 on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select an outdoor tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also comes with an adjustable headrest that offers 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 quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't scratch the floor of your tent or cabin. It is light and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some people who want a bit 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 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 on the sides of the cot that helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and can leave you tired and aching. This defeats the purpose for sleeping outdoors. Cots must be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that might chew or claw at it.
Some cots come with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated using pumps. 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 are more expensive than standard cots however they offer more comfort.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the possibility that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how often you'll be using it. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This type of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another thing to think about when selecting a cot is whether you want it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs are easier to set up, but they don't have the best scores for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive take note of how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more components and multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to put up, but these can sometimes add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that can be difficult to align and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for tents.
For backpacking trips it's better to invest in a cot that's designed for hiking. The most inexpensive 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 too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances, and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will give you a bed that feels like a mattress. These are good for backpackers who want to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your camper or RV, then it's a good idea to purchase one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be filled before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.