9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are an affordable and comfortable method to sleep while camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely comfortable levels of comfort, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used on backpacking trips.

Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the more expensive side.

Price

For those who want an inexpensive camping cot but don't have a lot of money to spend you can get a basic car camping cot that will cost around $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking heat from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you could spend a little bit more on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and can be heavier and bulkier than low-end models.

The weight and size of the pack are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate into their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Some examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

Some cots are simple to assemble, while others may take an enormous amount of effort and time. They can also be difficult to assemble for those with limited mobility. If you're looking for an ultralight option they can easily take on backpacking trips will likely need to opt for a tent with integrated cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

Comfort is the main factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are an excellent option for those looking to camp close to their vehicles.

The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has an easy setup time of about five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping area that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up 300 pounds. It also comes with an adjustable headrest that offers support for back sleepers.

Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the flooring of your cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot beds comes with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a seat.

In addition to being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some people who want a bit 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 a few of the other cots that we reviewed but they have more space for camping and feature extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to stop the occupants from rolling over. The legs of these cots are strong constructed of aluminum and stainless steel.

Durability

When looking for camping gear the durability of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person who is using them, and withstand injury from sharp objects that come into contact with it. This is particularly important if the cot will be used outdoors and is exposed to dirt 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 an inbuilt mattress that can be filled with a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some cots are equipped with locking mechanisms that prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots however they offer a greater level of comfort.

The design of a cot may influence its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a cot with just four points of contact. This lowers the likelihood that it will tip over or sink in snow or mud.

It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping or occasional backpacking trips A lightweight cot with a built-in sleeping pad is the best cot newborn option. This type of cot is usually less than three pounds and can be packed in a small bag for backpacking.

When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not top rated cots highly for their reliability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat into a compact bag to be carried by students or teachers 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 require less than a minute to unfold and put up, whereas others are more complicated and require multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are easier to assemble, but may offer greater comfort when camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the amount and complexity of the pieces required to put them together. However, these can raise the cost.

If you plan to use your cot for camping in your car, search for one designed to slide easily into the back of your car or SUV. Some of these models come with numerous rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're an excellent option for those who don't wish to spend extra money on tents.

For backpacking adventures, it's a better idea to buy a cot specifically designed 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 on for long distances, and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.

Some cots can be used with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated bed that feels more like a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who love camping in their cars but want to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.

If you plan to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper, it's best crib to choose one with a built-in mattress and pillow for maximum comfort. Some cots are made with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to going to bed, so you can enjoy a comfortable, comfy night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.