The Biggest Problem With Cheap Cots, And How You Can Solve It
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of bread loafs and can be used when backpacking.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the more expensive side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot, but don't want spend a lot it's possible to get a basic camping bed for less than $100. They are typically constructed 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 taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you can invest an extra bit on an upgraded model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and are often more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers, who must carry all their gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are crucial considerations when selecting a cot. They will sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks and a lot of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with sleeping pads built-in to add extra warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others require an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to put together for those who have limited mobility. If you're looking for a lightweight option that can be easily taken for backpacking trips, you'll need to select the right tent with cot capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for cot purchasers. Cots lift campers off the ground, making for a softer night's sleep. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. If you intend to camp only a few minutes 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 setup time of about five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest which provides additional support for back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot or as a lounger. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It's lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as a lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's sturdy enough to be used by adults. The only downside to this cot is that it might be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more room 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 other cots, but offer more space for camping and additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from falling over. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.
Durability
The durability of a cot is an important consideration when shopping for this piece of camping gear. Cheap cots aren't durable enough and may make you exhausted and aching. This isn't a good reason for sleeping outdoors. Cots must be able to support the weight of the person who is using them and resist the damage caused by sharp objects that may come into contact with them. This is especially important if the cot will be placed outside in the elements, where it could be exposed to dirt or animals that could attack or chew it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated using an air pump. This makes them more like an actual bed. Some cots have locking systems that prevent the sleeping pad from slipping off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is also more stable than one with only four, which lowers the chance that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.
When choosing the right cot for you, it's important to think about how often you will be using it. 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 included will be the best option. This kind of cot weighs usually less than three pounds in weight and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
best crib newborn to consider when choosing a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't get the highest ratings for durability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and packed into a bag that is small enough to carry, which is ideal for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
If you are buying a cot that isn't expensive 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 components and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they can also provide more comfort while camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the number and complexity of the components needed to set them up. However, these may raise the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These models can be difficult to snap into place and line up since they have so many rings. But, they're still a great choice for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're going on an adventure trip with a backpack. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will give you an excellent 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, yet they provide you with an experience that is similar to mattresses. These are good for backpackers who prefer to car camp but also need to sleep in the wilderness.
If you plan to use your cot primarily in your RV or camper then you should choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are even made with air mattresses that are inflated before you go to sleep, so that you can have a cozy and comfortable night's rest regardless of where you're staying.