Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be reduced to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially ones designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount you can buy a basic car camping bed for around $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend some extra money on a model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are essential factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are built inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of this include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others will require much effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for cot buyers is comfort. Cots lift campers up off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This keeps cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are typically heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot we've tested. It's light and can be set up in just five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. The cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to set up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only issue with this cot is that it might be too narrow for some 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 high for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots, but offer more space for www.cots4tots.Co.uk camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The cots also have solid legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that come into contact with them. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to dirt and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a mattress built-in that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options are more costly than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For instance, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with slender bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the likelihood that it will fall over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about the frequency you'll use the cot before 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 cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't have the best scores for stability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers 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 take less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more parts and require a number of steps. These cots are typically larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, but they can also add to the price.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some models come with numerous 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.
It's better to invest in a cot designed for hiking when you're planning to go on an adventure trip with a backpack. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the cheapest options. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress than sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you're planning on using your cot primarily in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to buy a model with a built-in pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.