A Positive Rant Concerning Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method of sleeping during camping. Certain cots, such as the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op provide extremely high comfort levels, while others are smaller than the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken when backpacking.
Some cots are more expensive specifically those that are designed for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spare you can get a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. These cots are usually made of steel or aluminum frames, and have fabric strewn over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they stop cold air from stealing warmth from your sleeping bags. If you're looking for more comfort, you can invest an extra bit on an upgraded model that comes with options for organization and cushioning. These cots may be heavier and bulkier than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and size are the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping cot. Many backpacking cots are insulated to reduce the cold that might otherwise leak through sleeping bags. Some cots also come with built-in sleeping pads that give extra warmth and cushioning. Examples include the REI KingCot 3 and Coleman Airbed Twin Cot.
While some cots are simple to set up, others require an enormous amount of effort and time and might be difficult for those with limited mobility to assemble. If you're looking for a lightweight option that is able to be carried for backpacking trips, you will need to choose a tent that has the ability to accommodate cots. Examples include the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top concern for cot purchasers. Cots elevate campers off the ground, which makes an ideal bed for a more comfortable night's sleep. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from below. The cots are heavier and bulkier, making them harder to store and transport. Camping cots are a great alternative for those who wish to stay close to their vehicles.
The most comfortable cot we tried is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot which is lightweight and has quick setup time of about five seconds. The cot features a large sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and is able to accommodate up 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support to back sleepers.
Another cot that is comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an upholstered cot or a lounge chair. Its construction is extremely sturdy, and its soft feet will not scratch the floor of your cabin or tent. It is lightweight and can be stored in an easy-to-carry case. The cot also comes with an adjustable brace that can be adjusted to different reclining positions as an outdoor lounge chair.
The cot is not just comfortable, but also easy to put up. It's sturdy enough for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for people who want a bit more space for their legs.
The ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot and the Kingdom Cot 3 from REI Co-op also scored high for comfort. They are more expensive than some of the other cots we reviewed but they have more space for camping and feature additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 is especially ideal for back and side sleepers because it has an extra layer of padding on the side of the cot that helps keep people from falling off the edge. The cots also have solid legs made of aluminum and steel.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the quality of the tent cot is an important aspect to take into consideration. Cheap cots that aren't sturdy enough could make you feel tired and swollen the next day, which isn't the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to withstand the weight of the person using it and withstand damage caused by sharp objects. This is especially crucial if you plan to use the cot outside in the open, where it could be exposed to debris and animals that might bite or scratch at it.
Some cots are equipped with extra features that make them more comfortable. Some cots, for instance, have a built in mattress that can be filled with a pump. This makes them feel more like beds. Some cots have locking systems that stop the sleeping pad from falling off in the night. These options can cost a bit more expensive than conventional cots, but they provide an additional level of comfort to your camping experience.
The design of a cot can also affect its durability. A frame made of steel is more durable than one with bars that are thin. A cot with 10 points of contact with the ground is more sturdy than one with only four. This decreases the chance that it could tip over or sink in mud or snow.
It's also a good idea to think about the frequency of use of the cot prior to deciding on the one that is right for you. If you intend to use it for car camping or occasionally for backpacking trips, a cot that is lightweight and has a sleeping pad built in will be the best option. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be packed into a compact bag for backpacking.
Another thing to consider when choosing a the cot is whether you'd like it to fold into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Certain cots can fold into chairs for easier storage and transport, however they are not well-rated for their stability or ease of usage. There are cots that fold flat and stuffed 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 you're shopping for a cot at a bargain price take note of the ease of set up. Some models are easy to fold and set up, while others require more parts and multiple steps. These cots are generally heavier and bulkier than those that are easier to assemble however they can provide greater comfort during camping. Certain cots come with cutting-edge technologies that reduce the quantity and complexity of pieces required to put them together. However, these can raise the cost.
If cots4totsuk plan to use your cot primarily for camping in the car, select one that is easy to slide into the rear of your truck or SUV. Some of these models have many rings that are difficult to line up and snap into the right place, but they're a good choice for those who don't wish to shell out more money for a tent.
For backpacking adventures it's better to purchase an cot designed specifically for hiking. The cheapest options, like the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as is possible so that they can be carried in your backpack without too much hassle. They're also comfortable enough to rest on for long periods of time and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking adventure.
Some cots are designed to be used in addition to sleeping pads for more comfort. They are generally heavier than backpacking cots, but they offer an elevated bed that feels more like the traditional mattress rather as opposed to sleeping on the ground. These are a good choice for people who enjoy car camping, but need to sleep in the backcountry during their backpacking adventures.
If you're planning on sleeping in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose a model that comes with a mattress and pillow built-in for maximum comfort. Some cots are equipped with air mattresses that you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure that you get a restful night's sleep, regardless of where you're staying.