The 9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are affordable and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots such as the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, whereas others can be tucked away to the size and weight of a loaf.
Other cots, particularly ones designed for backpacking, are on the pricey side.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap camping cot but don't want to spend a lot you can buy a basic car camping bed for around $100. These models are typically made of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you could spend 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 heavier and bulkier than the ones that are priced lower.
Size and weight are important considerations for backpackers who carry their gear on their backs. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
Some cots are easy to put together, while others will require a lot of effort and time. They can 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 on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select the right tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, making the bed more comfortable. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots are generally heavier and heavier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a great option.
The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a an easy setting time of five seconds. The cot features a huge sleeping space that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a compact carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various recline positions when used as a seat.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot might be too narrow for users who want more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort included the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. They are more expensive than some of the other cots that we reviewed however they provide more space for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers as it has an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot, which helps prevent people from rolling off the edge. The cots also come with sturdy legs constructed of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of the tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important in the event that the cot is used outdoors and is exposed to debris or animals that may chew or claw it.
Certain cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for example, have a built in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them more like beds. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options might cost more than standard cots, however they can give an extra degree of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot may also affect 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 more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will topple over or sink into snow or mud.
When selecting the best cot for you, it's essential to think about how often you'll use it. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad will be the best option. This kind of cot is usually less than three pounds in weight and can be packed into a compact bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't have the best cots for newborns ratings for durability or ease of use. Some cots can be folded flat into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field excursions.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot be sure to think about the ease of set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more components tots and cots require multiple steps. These nursery cots are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together however they can provide greater comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that help to reduce the number of pieces and steps to put up, but they can also add to the price.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to get into position and line up because they have so many rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to shell out more on a tent.
It's better to invest in an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're planning to go on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be light so that it's able to be carried in the backpack. They are also comfortable enough to sleep on for long distances and will provide you with an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for extra comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are ideal 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 RV or camper then it's a great idea to buy a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.