Top Rated Cots
Our top-rated cots are easily packed away and are light which makes them perfect for backpacking trips. They are extremely durable and provide a comfortable sleep on uneven terrain.
This premium cot is perfect for babies and toddlers and can be expanded as your child develops. It's costly, but it has a great look and feel.
Easy to Assemble
A cot that's simple to set up and take down will make your life much simpler if you plan on camping frequently. A good cot will fold into an easy-to-carry format with a handle that makes it simple to transport and store. It will also be comfortable to lie in so that you will be able to get a good night's sleep.
Some cots are equipped with state-of-the art technologies which make them easy to assemble. For instance, a cot with push-down joints can be snapped in position in a matter of seconds, which is convenient. A lock mechanism is another great feature that prevents joints from falling loose. This is particularly beneficial for families traveling with children.
Another great camping cot is the Kingdom Cot 3. It comes with an easy-to-assemble design, and is one of the most comfortable models we tested. It's a bit bigger than the other cots that we reviewed and may not be suitable for smaller tents. It also comes with a base frame with puck legs that help it stay flat on the ground and keep it from squeezing into the floor of your tent. The Kingdom Cot 3 has a comfortable, soft mattress that helps lift you off the ground. It is more comfortable than any other cot we've tested.
If you're a backpacker and need a cot to sleep in, consider the Helinox Lite Cot or ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. These cots can be used as wall tents, and are lightweight enough to be carried in a backpack. They're a great option for remote hunting outposts that can only be reached by ATV, truck, or pack animal.
If Full File looking for a cot that has an integrated bed, but no bars at the head or feet, then look for a model that has both. These kinds of cots tend to be a bit bulkier than other cots, but they can be transported in the back of your vehicle and put together with other equipment. Full File for short hikes where you require a quick and comfortable bed.
Confortable
The most comfortable camping cots are comfortable enough to offer you a peaceful night's rest. They are a better alternative to sleeping pads, which can be hard and lumpy and difficult to install. They also expose you to cold ground, which may be transferred to your sleeping bag. Cots with integrated pads or pockets for pads tend to be softer and warmer than those without.
Some cots feature an air mattress, such as the Coleman Airbed Twin Cot. This makes it one of most comfortable camping cots. It's also large enough to accommodate two people on it, if they're not too tall and makes it a great option for camping trips with the family or tents shared.
If you're backpacking, the comfort level of your cot is extremely important. Backpackers are often focused on reducing weight in their packs and as such, they may be willing to sacrifice certain comfort features to lighten the weight of their equipment. Cots like the Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot are ideal for backpackers since they can be easily moved and put in a backpack, while still offering stability and support.
If you are camping near your car, and you do not have to worry about carrying your gear around with you, consider buying a camping cot that gives more comfort. The REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 is a great example of a camping cot that's constructed with extra padding that makes it appear as similar to a bed as possible. It's a little bulkier than the other options, but still lightweight and compact enough for backpackers to carry. It's among the most comfortable cots you could buy for less than $200. The only downside is that it's narrow for those who prefer more surface area to sleep on.
Durable
A good camping cot needs to be durable enough for long-term use. It must be also resistant to elements, like rust or corrosion. The majority of cots are made of steel or aluminum and the most durable ones are coated with a substance that blocks water. You can shield your cot by covering it with either a tent or tarp in order to prevent exposure to rain.
The frame of your cot will also affect how well it will stand against wear and tear. While aluminum frames are lightweight, they can bend easily and aren't as strong as steel-framed models. If you're planning to rough it, a more robust Coleman Trailhead II Cot may be the best option. It can withstand more weight and is built to last.
Cots are a great choice for comfort compared to sleeping bags. They offer a bit more stability and tend to be less spongy than sleeping pads. Some cots have additional features like built-in storage compartments, or side tables to increase functionality and make it easier to get into and out of the bed.
Cots are available in a variety of designs and materials, however they typically have similar constructions. The heavier fabrics such as cotton or canvas are usually more comfortable to sleep on than nylon or polyester that is lighter. Lightweight cots are more prone to tear. It is best to choose an item that is durable.
When deciding which cot to buy, you should also think about the ease of putting up and disassembling a cot. Certain models require a bit of assembly, while other are as simple as unfolding and locking them in their place. The best cots will prioritize your preferences for ease of installation and will still offer the level of comfort and durability you need.
We've reviewed the top-rated cots in our thorough review, so that you can choose the ideal model for your next camping trip. We have reviews and suggestions that will help you find the perfect cot, whether you are looking for a lightweight option for backpacking or a cot with a lot of strength for car camping.
Lightweight
There are lightweight cots available for those who wish to camp comfortably without having to carry around a lot of equipment. They offer a good night's rest. They have frames made of steel alloy or aluminum, which are more durable and able to support heavier weights than thinner models. They can also come with an nylon or polyester sleeping surface that is comfortable to lay on and won't hold onto sand like traditional tent mattresses do.
The OEX Ultralite is a good example of a cot that is light and that is designed to be used for backpacking. At just 2 pounds 13 ounces, it's light to carry and simple to set up. It's too short and narrow for people with larger frames, and it doesn't provide enough cushioning or support.
There are also lightweight cots that are designed for car or tent camp like the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 The cot provides plenty of space for most campers, and also a comfortable bed area. The maze of poles may be intimidating at first, but once you get used to it, it's easy to assemble.
Backpackers must find a cot designed for backpacking, such as the Helinox Lite Cot and the ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot. These Cots weigh less than standard cots, and are therefore ideal for hunting in the backcountry. They can be easily transported in backpacks, and make remote hunting outposts more livable.
Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot is a different option for hunting in the backcountry. It's compact and light, which means it can easily fit into most backpacks. It's not quite as comfortable as the other cots we tested, but it is still an excellent choice for backpackers.
Consider the features you want most when you're choosing the right cot for you to sleep comfortably on an adventure. There are cots that have luxurious padding, a pillowtop and other features that will make camping feel as luxurious as a hotel suite.