9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a cheap cot bed Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable option for sleeping when camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op offer incredibly high comfort levels, while others fold down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be used when backpacking.
Certain cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
If you're looking for a cheap cot for camping but don't have a lot of money to spare you can get a basic car camping cot that will run you about $100. These models are typically made of steel or aluminum frames and have fabric stretched over them. They are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground and keep cold air from sucking the warmth from your sleeping bag. If you're looking to increase your comfort, you can spend a little bit more on a higher-end model that adds organization options and cushioning. These cots can be heavier and bulkier, but they are also less durable than the lower-end models.
Weight and pack size are crucial factors for backpackers who carry their equipment on their backs. They will sacrifice comfort to fit in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots have insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep through their sleeping bags. Some cots are equipped with sleeping pads built into the cot to provide additional warmth and padding. Examples include the REI Kingdom Cot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots can be easy to set up but others take lots of time and effort and could be difficult for those with limited mobility to put together. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is easy to take on backpacking trips, then you'll need to select a tent that has cot-like capabilities. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor for buyers of cots. Cots lift campers off the ground, making an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This also keeps cold from transferring from the ground to the sleeping bags. However, cots are generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. Camping cots are a great option for those looking to camp close to their vehicles.
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot is the most comfortable cot that we've tested. It is lightweight, and it can be set up in only five seconds. The cot is spacious with a sleeping area that is 27 inches wide and can support up 300 pounds. It has a headrest to provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that's comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can be used as a cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is quite durable, and it has soft feet that don't mark up the floor of a cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be carried in a compact case. The cot has an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to different recline positions when it is used as a chair.
The cot isn't just comfortable, but also easy to set up. It's strong enough for adults. This cot may be too small for Best crib people who want more room 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 but offer more space for camping as well as extra padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially good for side and back sleepers due to an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot to keep people from falling off the edge. The legs of these cots are strong made of stainless and aluminum steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear, the durability of the tent cot is a key factor to consider. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of camping. Cots need to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the user and resist damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outside, where it might be exposed to debris and animals that may chew or claw at it.
Some cots come with additional features that make them more comfortable. For example certain cots have an inbuilt mattress that can be inflated with a pump. This makes them feel like a bed. Some have securing mechanisms to keep the mattress from sliding off during the night. These options are more costly than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
The style of a cot could also impact its durability. For instance, a cot that has solid metal frames is more durable than one with thin bars. A cot with 10 points of contact to the ground is more stable than a cot with just four points of contact. This reduces the chances that it will tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's important to consider how often you'll be using the cot before deciding on the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for camping in the car or occasional backpacking trips then a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad built in will be the best baby cots option. This kind of cot is typically less than three pounds in weight and can be packed in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
When you are choosing a cot you should also think about whether it is foldable into a chair, making storage and transportation easier. Some cots that fold up into chairs are easier to set up, however they don't have the best ratings for stability or ease of use. There are also cots that fold flat and packed into a compact bag, which is ideal for campers who travel frequently or for classroom teachers who have to carry sleeping equipment for field trips.
Setup
When looking for a budget cot you should consider how easy it will be to put up. Some models take less than a minute to unfold and set up, while others are more complicated and require multiple steps. They are generally larger and heavier than cots that are less difficult to set up, but they can also provide more comfort at camp. Some cots have state-of-the-art technologies which help reduce the number of pieces and steps needed to set up, however they can also increase the cost.
If you intend to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that will easily slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. These cots can be difficult to snap into place and align because they have so many rings. But, they're an excellent option for those who do not want to spend more money on a tent.
If you're planning to backpack, it's a better idea to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The Helinox Lite Cot is one of the most affordable alternatives. It's designed to be lightweight, so it's able to be carried in the backpack. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you an excellent night's sleep on your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots, however they offer an elevated mattress that feels more like a a traditional mattress as opposed to sleeping on the ground. They are a great choice for those who love car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
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 idea to buy one that has an integrated pillow and mattress to provide maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that can be inflated prior to bed. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, no matter where you are staying.