To get a good night’s rest while camping, you need the best possible camping cot. You don’t want to toss and turn the night before a big adventure. If you do, you’ll be yawning your way through the day and have less energy. We’ve compiled a list of the five best camping cots so you can get a good night’s sleep. Let’s take a look.
Why Would You Want to Sleep on a Camping Cot?
In our experience, a cot helps to ensure you don’t find yourself sleeping on rocks or tree roots. Sleeping on hard or uneven grounds can lead to a lot of tossing and turning throughout the night. A camping cot lifts you off the ground, which can be helpful in cold or rainy conditions.
Getting the best possible night’s sleep is essential, especially if you have a big adventure the next day. You want to be in the best mental and physical shape before heading out for an excursion. Being tired makes it difficult to think straight and limits your ability to enjoy the experience fully.
➡ Did you know camping may help reduce anxiety, which can help you sleep better too? Find out how camping might improve your mental health.
Camping Cots Pros and Cons
A camping cot provides a flat and sturdy surface for sleeping. You won’t have to worry about rocks or roots poking into your back. Sleeping in the wild doesn’t typically mean comfort, but a cot can change that. While you may not feel like you’re glamping, but you’ll stay warmer and sleep more soundly.
However, it can also add another item to an already lengthy packing list. Because many camping cots are relatively large, they may take up valuable space in an already small tent. Make sure you have room in both your tent and vehicle to bring them.
If you’re planning on hiking into a camp spot, the added weight of a cot might not make sense. In those cases, you may want to look at a more packable sleeping pad.
Do You Need a Mattress for a Cot?
Some cots will come with a mattress, but others might not. Depending on your desired comfort level and which cot you select, you may still benefit from adding a mattress. If you like memory foam padding, you can easily lay down a foam pad on the top of your camping cot.
However, some cots can be used on their own with just a sleeping bag. The fact that you’re not sleeping on uneven ground may be enough to give you a great night’s sleep.
How To Choose A Camping Cot
There are several important measurements you should look for to make sure the cot you purchase is going to work for you. First, note the length and width of the cot to ensure the person sleeping on it will fit.
Next, you will need to know the size of the tent that the cot will be in to make sure it fits. Also note the angle that the tent sides slope, as a cot that stands several inches or more off the ground may run into it.
The camping cot’s height may also be an important factor to consider in how easy it will be to get in and out of bed. However, generally the taller the cot, the more material is used to construct it and therefore it may be heavier and more clunky to move around.
The 5 Best Camping Cots for a Good Night’s Sleep
There’s no shortage when it comes to camping cot options. We’ve done the work, so you don’t have to. Here are the five best cots for better sleep.
1. Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot
About: Coleman is no stranger when it comes to camping gear. This camping cot has a durable steel frame and can stand the test of time. It can support up to 300 pounds and has a maximum height of 6′ 6″. The cot also comes with a thick foam sleeping pad.
- Superior support thanks to ComfortSmart coil suspension system...
- Strong steel frame supports up to 300 pounds
- Fits campers up to 6 feet 6 inches
As with many Coleman products, they made it with camping in mind. The portable design can fit into most car trunks, and it only weighs 21.5 pounds. When you pick the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe cot, you don’t have to worry about it taking up a massive amount of room while packing.
MSRP: About $200
Sleep-Centered Features: The removable sleeping pad is so comfortable you’ll likely forget you’re camping. With a durable steel frame, it can support a wide range of campers.
2. TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
About: The TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot is as strong and sturdy as they come. It uses a reinforced steel S-leg to provide optimal support and stability.
- PIVOT ARM REVOLUTION: Cot setup just became child’s play; The...
- STRONG AND STURDY: Reinforced steel S-leg assembly strengthens...
- GET OFF THE GROUND: Take the comfort of a bed to the outdoors;...
This design allows the cot to support up to 600 pounds and the aluminum frame makes it lightweight. Despite its massive strength, the cot weighs only 26 pounds and is compact for easy storage. Setting up the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL is quick and easy.
MSRP: About $150
Sleep-Centered Features: Say goodbye to the days of sleeping on rocks and other uneven surfaces. The TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot will leave you waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
➡ Want to elevate your camping experience even more? Trailer tents provide a sturdy base for your camping cot. Learn more here: What Is a Trailer Tent, and Is It Better Than Tent Camping?
3. FE Active Folding Camping Cot
About: The FE Active Folding Camping Cot allows you to add a mattress pad or inflatable mattress on top for optimal comfort. The aluminum construction makes it lightweight (4.6 pounds) but strong enough to hold a maximum of 250 pounds.
- SUPERIOR DESIGN: Strong enough to support a mattress, the Jasper...
- STURDY CONSTRUCTION: This cot bed is trusted by members of the...
- IDEAL SIZE: This camping bed's dimensions are 75 x 27.5in and...
This cot is made for modern-day camping with a side pocket to hold your electronic gadgets and other accessories. It also includes a compact travel bag for storage and transport.
MSRP: About $70
Sleep-Centered Features: The FE Folding Camping Cot keeps comfort in mind and is easy to set up. If you enjoy sleeping with your phone or other electronics nearby, you’ll love the side pocket to store your gadgets.
4. REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot
About: The REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot is 28″ wide and uses a steel tubing construction to support up to 500 pounds.
- 【STURDY & HEAVY DUTY】Finished with updated and thicker...
- 【LARGER SIZE】The folding cot for adults measures 75"x28"x15"...
- 【EASY to SET UP and CARRY】No assembly required. The sleeping...
Despite the massive strength of this cot, it weighs only 14.7 pounds and is easy to carry and store. The cot unfolds and sets up in a measly 10 seconds. With seven different color options, you’ll find a color scheme to meet your needs.
MSRP: About $85
Sleep-Centered Features: You get the perfect solution for sleeping while camping when you combine the mattress pad and camping cot. You’ll get a restful night’s sleep and be ready for the day.
5. REI Kingdom Cot 3
About: REI is another familiar name when it comes to camping gear. Their Kingdom Cot 3 uses three sets of legs to provide support and holds up to 300 pounds. The plush padded top is a water-resistant fabric made for quick drying. It’s not only functional but comfortable as well.
This cot weighs only 20 pounds. When folded, this unit is 33″ x 32″ x 8.5″, making it easy to fit in the trunk of a car. You won’t have to worry about storing your cot or getting a good night’s sleep any longer.
MSRP: About $160
Sleep-Centered Features: The plush padded sleeping pad is made from polyester fabric and is water-resistant. You’ll get a great night’s rest when you choose this cot for your next adventure.
Are Cots Good For Winter Camping?
Cots can be great for winter camping if used correctly. The cold air space underneath you can prove to be colder than sleeping on the ground if you don’t properly insulate it and reflect the heat back to you.
We recommend using an insulated sleeping pad, additional blankets, and even a thermal pad for your cot to help retain warmth.
Is a Camping Cot Worth It?
Depending on how often you plan to sleep outdoors, investing in a quality cot can be a great option. It only takes one night of sleeping on the hard ground to convince you to invest in a quality camping cot. When it comes to your sleep, it’s always worth spending the money.
If you’re an RVer and you’re tired of sleeping on a hard, factory-installed mattress, consider investing in an RV Mattress Topper: Your Easy Solution for a Comfier RV Bed.
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