9 Things Your Parents Teach 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, whereas others can be reduced to the size and weight of one loaf.
Other cots, specifically ones designed for backpacking, are on the higher-priced side.
Price
If you're looking for a low-cost camping cot but don't want spend a lot, you can get a simple car camping bed for less than $100. These cots are usually made of aluminum or steel frames with fabric stretched 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. If you're looking for greater comfort, you could spend an extra bit on an upgraded model that has options for organization and additional cushioning. However, these cots usually compromise on strength and are often more heavy and bulkier than ones that are priced lower.
For backpackers who have to carry all their equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads that are integrated inside the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI KingCot 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 may be difficult for people with limited mobility to assemble. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried for backpacking trips will have to choose an outdoor tent that has integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite infant cot bed or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is the main issue for those purchasing cots. Cots lift campers off the ground for more comfort during their sleep. It also prevents cold from spreading from the ground to the sleeping bags. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to store and transport. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be an excellent choice.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is light and comes with a an easy setting time of five minutes. The cot features a huge sleeping area that is 27 inches in width and can support up to 300 pounds. It comes with a headrest that can provide additional support to back sleepers.
The Coleman Converta Cot is another cot that is comfortable and affordable. It can be used as a cot, or as a lounger. Its construction is surprisingly durable, and it has soft feet that won't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It weighs less than 20 pounds and can be stored in a small cot beds carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
Aside from being comfortable to sleep on it is also simple to set up and durable enough to be suitable for adults. The cot could be too small for people who want more room for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. Both are more expensive than other cots, however, they offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the sides of the cot that helps keep people from sliding off the edge. The legs of these cots are sturdy made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When you are shopping for camping equipment, the durability of the tent cot sets is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough can leave you feeling exhausted and sore the next day, which isn't the purpose of camping. Cots should be able to support the weight of the person using them, and withstand damage from sharp objects that may come into contact with it. This is especially important in the event that the cot is used outside, where it may be exposed to dirt or animals that can bite or scratch it.
Some cots have additional features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be filled with an air pump. This makes them feel more like a bed. Others have securing systems to stop the sleeping pad from sliding off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots but can provide a higher level of comfort.
A cot's design can also affect its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of steel is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with just four points of contact, which decreases the chance that it could slide over or sink into mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to consider the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right 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 the best choice. This type of cot typically weighs less than three pounds and fits into a compact carry bag which makes it ideal for backpacking.
When choosing a cot, you should also consider whether it's possible to fold it into a chair, making transport and storage simpler. Some cots fold into chairs to make it easier to store and transport, but are not well-rated for their reliability or ease of use. There are cots that fold flat and stuffed into a small carrying bag which is great for campers who travel often or for classroom teachers who need to bring sleeping equipment on field trips.
Setup
When shopping for a cheap cot, think about the ease with which it is to install. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others have more parts and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than those that are easier to assemble but they may provide more comfort when camping. Some cots are equipped with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these may raise the cost.
If you plan to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, look for one that's designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. They can be a challenge to snap into place and line up because they have a lot of rings. However, they're an excellent option for those who don't need to spend more on a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's best crib newborn to buy a cot specifically designed for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible to be carried in your backpack without too much trouble. They are sufficient to sleep comfortably for long distances and will give you an excellent night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots can be paired with sleeping pads to provide extra comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, but they provide an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned mattress instead of sleeping on the ground. They are ideal for backpackers who want to car camp but also require a bed in the wilderness.
If you intend to use your cot mostly in your RV or camper then you should choose one with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots come with air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.