9 . What Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be carried on backpacking trips.
Other cots, especially ones designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for an inexpensive camping cot but don't have much money to spare You can purchase an inexpensive car camping cot that will run you about $100. They 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 keep cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that comes with options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when selecting a cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to assemble, but others will require a lot of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option can be easily carried on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the biggest concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground to provide more comfort during their sleep. This keeps cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a a fast setting time of five minutes. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also features a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a compact carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to various reclining positions when used as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to put up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The cot could be too small for people who need more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored high for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. 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 padding on the sides of the cot to stop people from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of the cot is a crucial aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person using them and resist the damage caused by sharp objects that might come into contact with it. This is especially important if the mini cot beds will be used outdoors and is exposed to the elements or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that can make them more comfortable. For instance some cots come with an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated with a pump, which makes them feel like a real bed. Others have securing systems to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options may cost more than traditional cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one that has only four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink in 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 planning to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then an incredibly light cot with a sleeping pad included will be the best rated cribs option. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transportation, but they are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and packed into a small carrying bag that is perfect for campers who travel frequently or for teachers in classrooms who have to carry sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others have more components and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, however they also provide more comfort at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology that can reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to put up, but they can add to the price.
If you're planning to use your cot for camping in the car, look for one designed to slide easily into the back of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't want to shell out extra cash for a tent.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to buy an mini cot beds designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's easy to carry in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, but will provide you with the comfort of a mattress. They are ideal for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your camper or RV, it's best to choose a model with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are filled before you go to sleep, so that you can have a cozy, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.