10 Things That Your Family Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are 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, whereas others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be carried for backpacking trips.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced 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 cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames and 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. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to keep out cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that provide extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to put together, while others will require much effort and time. They can also be difficult to set up for those who have limited mobility. Those who want an ultralight option that they can easily carry for backpacking trips will need to opt for a tent with integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main concern for cot bed sales purchasers. Cots elevate campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a quick set-up time of around five seconds. The cot has a large sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is quite durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The sale cot has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot beds could be too narrow for those who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots that we reviewed but they have more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding along the side of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. These cots have strong legs constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the quality of the tent cot is a key aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and sore the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to dust and animals that could chew or claw at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance include a built-in mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them more like a bed. Certain cots come with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can offer a greater level of comfort.
The design of a cot may also affect its durability. For example, a cot with solid metal frames 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 just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's also a good idea to consider how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the best one for you. If you're planning to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in will be the best option. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make storage and transportation easier. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more components and require a number of steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those which are less difficult to assemble but they may provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models have a lot of rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't wish to shell out more money for tents.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be lightweight so it can be easily carried in a backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, but they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress than sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who want to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your RV or camper then it's a great option to choose a model that comes with an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.