Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot, but don't want spend an excessive amount it's possible to get a simple car camping bed for about $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can invest more for a model that has more cushioning and options for organization. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
Size and weight are essential aspects for backpackers who have to carry their equipment on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to help reduce the cold that can otherwise get through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be simple to set up, others require a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you want a lightweight option that is easy to take for backpacking trips, you should select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. It also prevents cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot that is light and has a a fast set-up time of around five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that's both comfortable and affordable cots. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is quite robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and is sturdy enough for adults. The cot might be too small for people who require more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom cot sales 3 from REI Co-op also scored well for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots that we reviewed, but they offer more room for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom cot bed sales 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of a tent cot is a crucial factor to consider. cheap cots (great post to read) that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the weight of the user and withstand the injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important when the cot is used outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots to tots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using an air pump. This makes them more like beds. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off during the night. These options are more costly than standard cots, but they can offer more comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one with only four. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
When deciding on the ideal cot for you, it's essential to consider how frequently you'll use it. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A cot for sale that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and can fit into a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you must also consider whether it is foldable into a chair to make transportation and storage easier. Some cots that 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, and then carried by teachers or campers 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 require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others have more components and require a number of steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they also provide more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however they can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot for car camping, look for one designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models come with a lot of rings that are difficult to align and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to spend extra money on a tent.
It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're going on a backpacking trip. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can so that they can be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to offer extra comfort. These cots are bulkier than backpacking ones, but will give you an experience that is similar to a mattress. These are good for backpackers who want to camp in the car but need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good option to choose one that has a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.