Will Cheap Cots Ever Rule The World?
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to rest when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're in search of a cheap camping cot but don't want spend a lot it's possible to get a basic car camping bed for about $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they stop cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend a little bit more on an upgraded model that adds organization options and additional cushioning. However, these cots typically compromise on strength and can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.
The weight and size of the pack are crucial aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that reduces the cold that could otherwise pass into their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in 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 require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for people with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely require a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This stops cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. If you plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot was the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight and can be set up in only five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't damage the floor of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it could be too narrow for users who prefer a little more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots are not sturdy enough and could cause you to be exhausted and aching. This is not a good thing to rest in the open air. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist injury from sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is particularly important if you intend to use the cot outside where it will be exposed to dirt and animals that might attack or chew at it.
Certain cots have extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them appear more like beds. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off during the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can provide a higher level of comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has a solid metal frame is more durable than one that has slender bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which reduces the likelihood that it will tip over or sink into mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's important to consider how frequently you will be using it. If you're planning on using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This kind of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in a compact carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they do not receive the top ratings for durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag, and then carried by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price take note of the ease of set up. Some models require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technology that reduces the amount and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, linked resource site can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, pick one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with many rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out more money for a tent.
For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to buy an cot designed specifically for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, yet they give you the comfort of mattresses. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to camp in their cars but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot primarily in your camper or RV, then it's a good option to choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.