9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Cheap Cots
Buying a Cheap Cot For Camping
Cots are an affordable and comfortable method of sleeping during camping. Some cots, such as the Kingdom Baby Cot Bed 3 by REI Co-op, offer extremely high comfort levels, while others pack down to the size of a loaf of bread and can be taken for backpacking trips.
Some cots are more expensive especially those made for backpacking.
Price
For those who want an affordable camping cot but don't have much money to spend you can get a simple car camping cot that costs you about $100. They are typically constructed of aluminum or steel frames and have fabric stretched over them. These models are more comfortable than sleeping directly on the ground, and they keep cold air from taking warmth from your sleeping bags. You can spend more on a model that offers more cushioning and storage options. These cots may be heavier, bulkier and less strong than lower-end models.
For backpackers, who must carry their entire equipment on their backs over long distances, weight and pack size are the most important factors to consider when selecting a the right cot. They will sacrifice comfort in their rucksacks and a majority of backpacking cots come with insulation that blocks cold that would otherwise seep 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 can be easy to set up however, others require lots of effort and time and might be difficult for those who are unable to move around to set up. Those who want an ultralight option that can be easily carried for backpacking trips will require a tent with integrated cot capabilities, like the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot or Helinox Lite Cot.
Comfort
Comfort is a top concern for cot purchasers. Cots raise campers off the ground to provide an easier night's sleep. This prevents the cold from spreading to sleeping bags from the ground. However, cots tend to be heavier and larger than sleeping pads, which can make them difficult to transport and store. If you intend to camp just a few miles from their vehicles, camping cots could be a good option.
The most comfortable cot we tested is the KingCamp Folding Deluxe Cot, which is light and comes with a quick setting time of five seconds. The cot comes with a sleeping surface that measures 27 inches wide and can hold up to 300 pounds. It also has a headrest to provide additional support for back-sleepers.
Another cot that is both comfortable and affordable is the Coleman Converta Cot, which can function as either an cot or lounge chair. Its construction is extremely robust, and its soft feet won't 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 is equipped with an adjustable brace which can be adjusted to various reclining positions if used as a seat.
In addition to being comfortable to sleep on the cot is also easy to set up and is sturdy enough to be suitable for adults. The only downside to this cot is that it may be too narrow for some people who want a bit more room for their legs.
Other cots that scored highly for comfort were the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. Both are pricier than some of the other cots we reviewed however they provide more room to camp and have additional padding. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a thicker padding on the sides of the cot to prevent people from rolling over. The cots also come with solid legs made of steel and aluminum.
Durability
When shopping for camping gear the durability of a tent cot is a crucial aspect to take into consideration. cheap cot beds Cots (delphi.larsbo.org) that aren't sturdy enough could leave you feeling tired and swollen the next day, which defeats the purpose of sleeping outdoors. Cots should be strong enough to support the user's weight and withstand the damage caused by sharp objects. This is particularly important when the mini cot beds is used outdoors and is exposed to debris or animals that could bite or scratch 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 an air pump. This makes them more like an actual bed. Others have securing systems to stop the mattress from sliding off in the night. These options are more expensive than standard cots, but they can offer a greater level of comfort.
A cot's design can also influence its durability. A cot with a solid frame made of metal is more durable than a cot with bars that are thin. A cot that has 10 points of contact with the ground is more stable than one with only four, which reduces the chance that it could tip 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 going to be using it for car camping or occasional trips to the backpack A lightweight cot with an integrated sleeping pad is likely to be the best crib option. This kind of cot is typically less than 3 pounds and can be put in a small bag to carry on backpacking trips.
Another aspect to consider when choosing a cot is whether you want it to fold up into a chair for easy transportation and storage. Some cots that fold into chairs are more straightforward to set up, however they don't get the highest ratings for stability or user-friendliness. Some cots are able to be folded flat to fit into a small bag and transported by students or teachers on field trips.
Setup
When buying a cheap cot take note of the ease of set up. Some models are simple to arrange and unfold, while others require more parts and require multiple steps. These are usually bulkier and heavier than cots that are simpler to set up, but they can also provide more comfort while camping. Some cots are fitted with cutting-edge technology that cut down the quantity and complexity of the pieces needed to set them up. However, these may raise the cost.
If you're planning to use your cot mostly for car camping, look for one that is designed to slide effortlessly into the back of your truck or SUV. Some models come with numerous rings that can be difficult to line up and snap into place, but they're still an excellent option for those who don't wish to shell out extra cash for a tent.
If you're planning to backpack it's better to purchase a cot specifically designed for hiking. The most affordable options, such as the Helinox Lite Cot, are designed to be as light as possible so that they can be carried in your backpack with no trouble. They are comfortable enough to sleep for long distances, and will give you the best night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
Some cots are designed to be used as an alternative to sleeping pads for added comfort. These are usually bulkier than backpacking cots but they will provide you with an elevated bed that feels more like an old-fashioned 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 sleeping in your RV or camper, then it's a good option to choose a model with an integrated pillow and mattress to ensure maximum comfort. Some cots have air mattresses, which you can inflate prior to sleeping. This will ensure you get an enjoyable night's sleep no matter where you are staying.