Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely comfortable levels of comfort, whereas others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used when backpacking.
Other cots, especially those designed for backpacking are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend much, you can get a basic car camping bed for less than $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground, and also help keep cold air from sucking heat from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend an extra bit on a higher-end model that has options for organization and cushioning. However, these cots usually trade off in strength and may be heavier and bulkier than the low-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry all their equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and dimensions are important considerations when choosing a cot. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to keep out cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to add extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up however, others require an enormous amount of effort and time and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you're looking for an ultralight option that they can easily take for backpacking trips will require a tent that comes with cot features, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top factor for buyers of best baby cots. Cots lift campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. This prevents the cold from transferring to sleeping bags from below. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots can be a great option.
The most comfortable cot 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 has a huge sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It also features 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 lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet won't scratch the flooring of your tent or cabin. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be put away in a small carry case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, it's also simple to put up. It's sturdy enough for adults. This cot may be too narrow for those who require more space for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and small cot beds (Www.themirch.com) the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are more expensive than other cots, however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a more padded side of the cot, which helps prevent the occupants from rolling over. These cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
The durability of a cot is a major aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could 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 particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outdoors where it will be exposed to dust and animals that could bite or scratch at it.
Some cots offers have additional features that can make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be inflated using pumps. This makes them feel more like a bed. Some have securing mechanisms to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost more than traditional cots, however they can provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can influence its durability. For example, a cot with an iron frame is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four, which lowers the possibility that it could tip over or sink into mud or snow.
It's important to consider the frequency you'll use the cot when choosing the one that is right for you. If you plan to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best cot bed option. This type of cot typically weighs less than 3 pounds and fits in a compact carry bag and is suitable for backpacking.
When selecting a cot you should also think about whether it's possible to fold it into a chair to make transport and storage simpler. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they do not receive the top scores for durability or ease of use. There are also cots that can be folded flat and put into a bag that is small enough to carry which is great for campers who frequently travel or for teachers who require sleeping equipment for 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 are generally heavier and bulkier than cots that are simpler to put together but they may provide more comfort during camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technology that cut down the amount and complexity of pieces required to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to put in place and align because they have a lot of rings. However, they are an excellent option for those who don't want to spend more money on a tent.
It is recommended to purchase an cot that is designed specifically for hiking if you're going on an excursion with backpacks. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable cots options. It's designed to be lightweight so it's easy to carry in the backpack. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you a great night's rest on your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used in conjunction to sleeping pads for more comfort. These cots are more bulky than backpacking ones, yet they provide an experience that is similar to a mattress. They are a great option for those who love car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you're going to be sleeping in your camper or RV then it's a great option to choose one that has a built-in pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep regardless of where you're staying.