Nine Things That Your Parent Teach You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots are affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely 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 higher-priced side.

Price

If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money, you can pick up a basic car camping cot that will cost around $100. These models are usually made from aluminum or steel frames that have 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 could spend a little bit more on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots typically trade off in strength and can be more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.

For backpackers, who need to carry their entire equipment on their backs for long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort for space in their backpacks and a majority of backpacking cots are designed with insulation that helps to block out cold that would otherwise penetrate through their sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads to give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots are easy to put together however, others require a lot of time and effort and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. 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 top factor for buyers of cots. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes for a softer night's sleep. This prevents the cold from getting into sleeping bags from below. The cots can be heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. Camping cots are a great alternative for those who wish to camp close to their vehicles.

The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot, which is lightweight and has a fast setup time of about five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also comes with a headrest which provides additional support for 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 extremely sturdy, and its cushioned feet will not scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. 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 various reclining positions if it is used as a chair.

The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only issue with this cot is that it may be too narrow for users who would like a bit more space 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, however, they 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 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 an important aspect to consider when buying this piece of camping equipment. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you intend to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that could chew or claw at it.

Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For instance, some cots have an inbuilt mattress which can be inflated by a pump, which makes them appear like a real bed. Some have securing mechanisms to prevent the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.

The style of a cot could also impact its durability. A frame made of metal is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than a Cot Bed with just four points of contact. This decreases the chance that it will tip over or sink into snow or mud.

It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you're planning to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has an integrated sleeping pad is the best choice. This kind of cot weighs typically less than three pounds and can be put into a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.

Another thing to think about when selecting a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold up into chairs for easy transportation and storage. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not rated highly for their stability or ease of usage. There are also cots that fold flat and packed into a compact bag which is great for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.

Setup

When you're shopping for a cot sales at a bargain price, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and multiple steps. They tend to be larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, however they may also offer more comfort when camping. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps required to set up, however they can also add to the price.

If you plan to use your cot exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. These cots can be difficult to put in place and line up since they have so many rings. However, they're still a great crib choice for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.

For backpacking trips it's better to purchase a cot that's designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as they can to be carried in your backpack with no hassle. They're also comfortable enough to sleep on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.

Some cots can be fitted with sleeping pads for extra comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a the traditional mattress rather than sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for those who love car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their adventures on the trail.

If you're planning on using your cot mostly in your camper or RV and you're planning to travel with it, it's a good option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you have an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.