Solutions To The Problems Of Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots provide a comfortable and affordable way to sleep when camping. Some cots, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others fold down to the size of bread loafs and can be taken on backpacking trips.
Some cots are more costly specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have much money you can get a basic car camping cot that costs you about $100. These models are usually made from steel or aluminum frames that have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they prevent cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can invest an extra bit on a model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. These cots may be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than low-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks, and many backpacking cots are designed with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are simple to assemble, but others will require a lot of effort and time. They may also be difficult to set up for those who have limited mobility. If you want a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you will need to choose the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
One of the main concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. The cots are larger and heavier, making them harder to store and transport. If you plan to camp a short distance from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a quick setup time of about five minutes. The cot has a large sleeping space that measures 27 inches wide and can support up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest that provides additional support for back sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't scratch the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different recline positions when used as a seat.
The cot is not only comfortable, it's also simple to set up. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only drawback to this cot is that it might be too narrow for users who prefer a little more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored well for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than a few of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room for camping and come with additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an additional layer of padding on the side of the cot, which helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major factor to consider when purchasing this piece of camping gear. Poor quality cots that aren't strong enough can leave you feeling tired and sore 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 withstand the damage caused by sharp objects that might be in contact with it. This is especially important when the cot is used outside and is exposed to the elements or animals that could bite or scratch it.
Certain 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. Some cots have locking systems which prevent the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, however they can add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also impact its durability. cot beds with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could slide over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot when choosing the best one for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or for occasional trips to the backcountry, a lightweight cot that has a sleeping pad built in will be the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When selecting a cot you must also consider whether it can be folded into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold up into chairs are simpler to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or user-friendliness. There are also cots that fold flat and stuffed into a bag that is small enough to carry that is perfect for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who require sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models take less than a minute to fold and put up, whereas others have more parts and require a number of steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are easier to set up, but they may also offer more comfort when camping. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to put up, but these can sometimes increase the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot primarily for camping in your car, search for one that is designed to easily slide into the back of your truck or SUV. Some models come with many rings that are 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 tents.
For backpacking trips, it's a better idea to invest in an cot designed specifically for hiking. The most inexpensive options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can 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 the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads for extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.
If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good idea to purchase one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that can be inflated before you go to sleep, so that you can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable night's rest no matter where you're staying.