9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots

Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping

Cots offer an affordable and comfortable way to sleep when camping. Some cots like the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op provide a high level of comfort, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of a loaf.

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

Price

If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want to spend a lot it's possible to get a basic car camping bed for about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground and they prevent cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and organization options. However, these cots typically aren't as strong and may be heavier and bulkier than the lower-end models.

For backpackers, who need to carry their entire gear on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a sleeping cot. They are willing to sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks, and many backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that could otherwise pass through their sleeping bags. Some cots come with sleeping pads that are built into the cot for extra warmth and padding. A few examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.

While some cots are easy to put together however, others require a lot of effort and time and may be difficult for people with limited mobility to put together. People who are looking for an ultralight option that they can easily carry on backpacking trips will likely have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, such as the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.

Comfort

One of the most important considerations for those who purchase cots is comfort. Cots raise campers off of the ground, which makes the bed more comfortable. This also keeps cold from moving from the ground to sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for people who want to stay close to their vehicles.

The most comfortable cot that we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, that is light and has a an easy set-up time of around five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches in width and can hold up to 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide 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 surprisingly robust, and it features soft feet that don't mark the floor of a tent or cabin. It is lightweight and can be easily stored in a carry-on case. It also has an adjustable brace that can be adjusted for different reclining positions when used as an upholstered lounge chair.

The cot isn't just comfortable, but it is also simple to install. It's strong enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it could be too narrow for some users who prefer a little more space for their legs.

The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we looked at but they have more room for camping and come with extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker cushion on the sides of the cot to prevent people from falling over. These cots also have solid legs made of steel and aluminum.

Durability

When shopping for camping gear the durability of the tent cot is an important factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the user's weight and withstand injuries caused by sharp objects. This is especially important if you're planning to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to dust and animals that might bite or scratch at it.

Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Certain cots, like come with a built-in mattress that can be inflated with an air pump. This makes them appear more like a bed. Others have securing systems to keep the sleeping pad from sliding off during the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than standard cots, but they add an extra level of comfort to your camping experience.

The design of a cot may influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than a cot that has thin bars. A cot that has 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than one with only four. This reduces the chances that it could tip over or sink in snow or mud.

It's also a good idea to think about the frequency you'll use the cot prior to deciding on the right one for you. If you're planning on using it for car camping and occasional trips to the backpack, a lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best cot newborn choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into an incredibly compact bag for carrying and is suitable for backpacking.

When selecting a cot you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transportation and storage easier. Some cots can be folded into chairs for easier storage and transport, but are not well-rated for their durability or ease of use. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag to be carried by students or teachers on field trips.

Setup

When buying a cheap cot, make sure to consider how easy it is to set up. Some models require less than a minute to fold and set up, while others are more complicated 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 at camp. Certain cots feature cutting-edge technology which help reduce the number of pieces and steps to set up, however they can increase the cost.

If you intend to use your Baby Cot Bed exclusively for camping in your car, pick one that can slide easily into the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Some models come with many rings that are difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're an excellent choice for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for small cot beds tents.

It's best to get a cot designed for hiking if you're going on a backpacking trip. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without much trouble. They are also comfortable enough to rest on for long distances and will provide you with a great crib night's rest on your backpacking trip.

Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for more comfort. They tend to be heavier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated mattress that feels more like a an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are great for backpackers who want to camp in the car but want to sleep in the wilderness.

If you're going to be using your cot mostly in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots to tots come with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get a comfortable night's rest, no matter where you are staying.