Nine Things That Your Parent Taught You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are a cost-effective and comfortable method of sleeping while camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide extremely high levels of comfort, while others can be packed down to the size and weight of one loaf.

Other cots, particularly those designed for backpacking are on the pricey side.

Price

For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will cost around $100. These models are usually constructed from steel or aluminum frames with fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for greater comfort, you could spend some extra money on a model that has options for organization and cushioning. These cots could be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.

Size and weight are essential factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. A majority of backpacking cots come with insulation to help reduce the cold that could otherwise seep through sleeping bags. Some cots are also equipped with sleeping pads built-in to provide extra warmth and padding. Examples of these include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

Some cots are easy to assemble, but others may take an enormous amount of effort and time. They may also be difficult to assemble for those with limited mobility. If you are looking for a light option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you'll need to select an outdoor tent with cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

One of the biggest concerns for buyers of cots is comfort. Cots lift campers off the ground for an easier night's sleep. This also keeps cold from spreading from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are typically heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which could make them difficult to transport and store. For people who plan to camp only a few minutes from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.

The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot we've tested. It is lightweight and can be put together in less than five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that is 27 inches in width and can accommodate up 300 pounds. It also features 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 cot or lounge chair. Its construction is quite sturdy, and it comes with soft feet that won't mark the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as a lounge chair.

Aside from being comfortable to sleep on, the cot is easy to set up and durable enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more space for their legs.

Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed, but they offer more room 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 sturdy made of aluminum and stainless steel.

Durability

The durability of a cot is a major consideration when shopping for 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 camping. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important if you're planning to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that may chew or claw at it.

Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some online cots, cribs beds for instance come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with pumps. This makes them appear more like a bed. Others have securing systems to keep the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options may cost more than standard cots, but they can add an extra level 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 that has thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which reduces the chance that it could fall over or sink into snow or mud.

It's also a good idea to consider the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, an incredibly light cot with an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed in a small bag for backpacking.

Another thing to think about when selecting a crib is whether you would like it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for storage and transport, however they are not rated highly for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that can be folded flat and put into a compact bag which is great for campers who travel often or for tots And cots classroom teachers who have to carry 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 easy to fold and set up, while others require more components and a number of 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. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of the pieces required to set them up. However, these can increase the cost.

If you intend to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some models come with numerous 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 more money for tents.

For backpacking trips it's better to buy a cot that's designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time 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 extra comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots, however they provide an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress than sleeping on the ground. These are good for backpackers who prefer to camp in the car but need to sleep in the wilderness.

If you plan to use your cot exclusively in your RV or camper, it's best to choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.