9 . What Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping during camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, especially ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot, you can get a basic car camping bed for about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help stop cold air from stealing heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you could spend a little bit more on a model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots usually aren't as strong and are often heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when choosing a cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide extra warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots may be easy to set up however, others require a lot of effort and time and could be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent that comes with cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots raise campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, which makes them more difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are an excellent alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It's lightweight and can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too small cot beds for people who need 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 a few of the other cots we reviewed but they have more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. cheap cot beds cots (via ars.town) that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the user's weight and resist any damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important when the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to the elements or animals that may chew or claw it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. For instance certain cots have a built-in mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Other cots have locking systems to stop the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These options might cost a bit more than standard cots, but they give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a sale cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping as well as occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is likely to be the best choice. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you should also think about whether it can be folded into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, however they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and stuffed into a compact bag which is great for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment 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 require less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort at camp. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these can raise the cost.
If you intend 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. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up since they come with so many rings. However, they are nevertheless a great option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable options. It's designed to be light so that it can be easily carried in a backpack. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be used with sleeping pads for additional comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, but will provide an experience that is similar to an actual mattress. They are a great option 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 mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good idea to buy a model with an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure 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, no matter where you are staying.