Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to sleep while camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be used for backpacking trips.
Other cots, specifically those designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money you can get a simple car camping cot that costs around $100. They are typically constructed of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and help prevent cold air from sapping the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you could spend an extra bit on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. Many backpacking cots have insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, while others require much effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for people with limited mobility. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry on backpacking trips will likely require a tent that comes with cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing online cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is the most comfortable cot that we have tested. It's lightweight, and it can be put together in less than five minutes. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to support up to 300 pounds. It also features an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is both comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet won't damage the flooring of your cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for various reclining positions when used as a lounge chair.
Apart from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for users 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 pricier than some of the other nursery cots we looked at but they have more space for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially suitable for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. These cots have strong legs made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment the quality of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots 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 weight of the user and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial in the event that the cot is used outdoors, where it may be exposed to debris or animals that may attack or chew it.
Certain cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like include a built-in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them more like beds. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that stop the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options might cost a bit more than conventional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to think about how often you'll be using the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you're going to be using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad will probably be the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits in the size of a small carry bag, making it suitable for backpacking.
Another factor to think about when selecting a Baby Crib is whether you would like it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't get the highest scores for stability or user-friendliness. There are cots that can be folded flat and packed into a compact bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cots cot be sure to think about how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to set up and unfold, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that reduces the number and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these may raise the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for camping in the car, look for one that is designed to easily slide into the back of your car or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. They are heavier than backpacking ones, yet they provide the comfort of mattresses. They are a great option for people who enjoy car camping but need to sleep in the backcountry on their adventures on the trail.
If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your camper or RV then you should choose one that has an integrated mattress and pillow to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.