Share this article:
Share this article: Bugoutbill.com is independent – we research, test, and rate the top products to help you make the right buying choice. We sometimes use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on your purchase. Learn more…
Elevate your camping game with these must-have camp beds!
Camping is an outdoor activity that is all fun and games until you realize how uncomfortable sleeping on cold ground is.
Sure, there are several other sleeping systems available out there, such as an air mattress, sleeping bag, and hammock, but none of them are as durable and heavy-duty as a camping cot is.
For this article, we scoured the market to find the best camping cots for your next outdoor adventure.
We’re also going to cover:
- The most comfortable camping cots;
- The best backpacking cots for your next backpacking trip;
- The most lightweight cots and ultralight backpacking cots;
- Budget-friendly options;
- Important features to look for when purchasing a camping cot;
- Tips on handling your camping cot;
- And plenty more…
So without further ado…
Let’s get this out of the way.
Introduction
Getting a good night’s sleep is important to have for you to be able to fully enjoy your camping trips. After all, how can you appreciate the beautiful nature view and the great outdoors, then have any energy to do fun outdoor activities if you don’t want to do anything but go back to sleep?
If you find yourself waking up often with neck pains and backaches, maybe it’s time to switch to using comfortable camping cots.
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
Best Camping Cot
Recent posts
Categories
1 - Best Heavy-Duty Camp Cot - Editor’s Choice Award
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Limited Edition with Patented Pivot Arm Camping Cots for Adults, Black
- Manufacturer: TETON Sports
- Material: 600D Oxford, aluminum, steel
- Weight: 26 pounds/11.8 kg
- Size: 85 x 40 x 19 inches
- Capacity: 600 pounds/272 kg
Bottom Line: Extremely heavy-duty and high-capacity, the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Limited Edition Camping Cot for Adults is a must when it comes to comfortable camping with a companion.
Pros
- Heavy-duty
- High-capacity (600 pound-capacity)
- Can fit up to two people
- XXL size
- Perfect for very tall and broad-shouldered people
- Incredibly durable and comfortable 600D Oxford canvas
- Strong S-shaped steel legs with rubber bushings
- Lightweight aluminum frame with spring-loaded pins for added support
- Pivot arm for easy set up
- Easy to take down
- Easy to store (folds down to a compact rectangular shape)
- Comes with a tote carry bag and an instruction manual
Cons
- Can take up plenty of tent space
- On the pricey side
SUMMARY:
When it comes to heavy-duty, high-capacity camping cots that will fit even very tall and broad-shouldered people comfortably, the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults is pretty much unbeatable.
This powerful XXL-sized camping cot is made with exceptionally durable 600D Oxford fabric material and unique S-shaped steel legs that are built for maximum stability, with rubber bushings at the feet that increase the legs’ strength while also absorbing shock.
It features a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame with spring-loaded connecting pins for added support, as well. It may look intimidating at first because of its size, but it’s actually so easy to set up that even one person can do it; the patented pivot arm ensures a hassle-free set up and a high level of comfort that’s comparable to that of a traditional bed.
Beyond that…
This camping cot can hold up a whopping 600 pounds of weight and offers lots of room to move around, even for tall people— its extra-large design means no more dangling legs off the cot.
And yes, it can fit even two people comfortably. Whether you’re camping with your buddy or having a cozy night with your kid or loved one, this high-capacity and spacious camping cot will give you a peaceful night under the stars without worrying about anyone falling off the cot.
After your night of fun, this camping cot still gives you a stress-free experience, as it’s very easy to take down as well. It folds into a compact rectangular shape that makes it easy to store.
Our Editor’s Choice comes with a tote storage bag and an instruction manual.
However…
With an overall dimension of 85 x 40 x 19 inches, this camping cot is definitely true to its name; we’d say it’s about the size of, or actually, even bigger than a twin bed. While it’s a great thing, the only downside is that it will take up a lot of space in your tent, so we recommend getting a large-sized camping tent if you’re going to use this one.
Related: Best Survival Food
2 - Best Budget Sleeping Cot - Best Value Award
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
- Manufacturer: Redneck Convent
- Material: 600D Oxford, metal
- Weight: 6.17 kilograms
- Size: 74 x 28.5 x 16.5 inches
- Capacity: 250 pounds/113.4 kg
Bottom Line: The Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed offers a comfortable experience wherever you are for a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Great value for money
- Sturdy and breathable
- Resistant to tear and sag
- X-shaped reinforced legs for excellent stability
- Rust-resistant lightweight aluminum frame for extra support
- Plastic feet to protect the tent floor from scratches
- Tension rods for easy folding and storage
- Plenty of storage space underneath the cot
- Includes a canvas storage bag with shoulder strap and drawstring closure
Cons
- Not completely quiet
- The included storage bag could be sturdier
SUMMARY:
Need an affordable camping cot that doesn’t skimp on quality and important features? You’ll love the Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed.
This budget-friendly cot features a sturdy and breathable canvas made from 600D Oxford fabric material that guarantees resistance to tear and sag even when holding heavy weight. The reinforced X-shaped legs have the capacity to carry up to 250 pounds of weight, and their plastic feet protect your tent’s floor from scratches.
Moreover…
Adding extra stability to our Best Value awardee is the lightweight aluminum frame that’s also rust-resistant, ensuring longevity. This camping cot stands 16.5 inches from the ground, resulting in an ample storage space underneath, where you can store clothes, supplies, and other valuables.
With a folding size of 39 x 7 x 5 inches and featuring tension rods that make it even easier to fold down, it can easily fit in your truck or in the back of your car. It includes a canvas storage bag with a shoulder strap and drawstring closure for security.
The catch is…
This camping cot makes a bit of noise when you move around a lot, but it’s not extremely so that it’s a deal-breaker, especially when considering the fantastic price to quality ratio of this camping cot.
Related: Best Hatchet Under $50
3 - Best Quality Camping Cot - Top Pick Award
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
- Manufacturer: OSAGE RIVER
- Material: 600D PVC-coated polyester, mesh, carbon steel
- Weight: 12.45 Pounds
- Size: 75 x 28 x 18.5 inches
- Capacity: 300 pounds
Bottom Line: Extremely durable, lightweight, and versatile, with added useful features, the OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot is an excellent option for anyone who needs a high-quality camping cot, whether for outdoor activities or for home use as a guest bed.
Pros
- Extremely durable
- Versatile
- Waterproof
- Long and wide design
- Capacity of 300 pounds
- Sturdy and stable legs
- Plastic feet for further stability
- Lightweight
- Very easy to set up and take down
- Portable
- Built-in elevated headrest
- 3-in-1 side pocket for valuables
- Comes with a carry bag for portability and easy storage
Cons
- Not the softest camping cot we’ve tried
- A bit tricky to fold up at first
SUMMARY:
Sit back, relax, and don’t worry about anything while lying down in the OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot.
This camping cot is constructed from durable 600 Denier PVC-coated polyester that is designed to withstand rainy days and other harsh weather conditions. With an overall dimension of 75 x 28 x 18.5 inches, its wide and long design is capable of fitting in a wide range of body types.
And yes, even if you’re 6-feet and above tall, you’ll still get plenty of legroom with this cot— you can sleep comfortably at night in whatever position you prefer, without worrying about falling down the cot.
The camping cot’s tubular carbon steel legs with powder coating are strong enough to accommodate up to 300 pounds of body weight. The flat plastic feet add to the legs’ sturdiness and keep them from sinking into the ground, especially if the ground is wet or soft.
No pillow with you? No problem, this camping cot features a built-in elevated headrest, which allows your head to relax even without a pillow. If you’re like us and you love reading at night with your head propped up before going to sleep, this is a really nice feature.
This camping cot is very portable as well; folded up, it’s only about the same size as a camp chair, so it’s easy to store in the back of your SUV.
As if that’s not enough…
Our Top Pick has a 3-in-1 pocket that has a large compartment for books and other reading materials, a mesh compartment for your wallet, flashlight, tablet, chargers, and other gadget accessories, and a smaller one for your mobile phone, keys, and smaller valuables. It also comes with a carrying bag for easy portability.
Admittedly…
It’s not the softest camping cot out there, so we recommend using some sort of padding, but if you want something that’s fairly affordable, durable, and you can be sure is safe and won’t give out, with added features too, then this is the camping cot for you.
Related: Best Camo Tent
4 - Best Comfortable Sleeping Cot
Byer of Maine Easy Cot, Extra Large, 78L X 31W X 18, Heavy Duty, Holds 330 Pounds, Folding Cot, Cot for Sleeping
- Manufacturer: Byer of Maine
- Material: 600 Denier Polyester, Welded steel
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Size: 78 x 31 x 18 inches
- Capacity: 330 pounds
Bottom Line: Built for maximum comfort, the Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot is guaranteed to give you the most comfortable night’s sleep.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Durable 600 Denier polyester canvas with 5 reinforced panels
- Welded steel legs with tent-friendly plastic feet
- Extra-wide design
- Capacity of 330 pounds
- Well-constructed steel frame for added stability
- No middle bar that can cause discomfort
- No end rail (great for tall people)
- Takes less than a minute to set up
- Includes a high-quality carry bag with straps
Cons
- Not lightweight
- Quite pricey
SUMMARY:
If comfort is your top consideration when choosing a camp cot for your next camping trip, then we highly recommend that you check out the Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot.
Probably the most comfortable camping cot we’ve ever tried, this camping cot makes it easy for you to have a comfortable night’s sleep thanks to its 600 Denier polyester canvas with five reinforced panels for enhanced durability, and legs made from welded steel, which ensure steadiness.
Unlike most folding cots, this one has an extra-wide design, with a width of 31 inches and a length of 78 inches, and doesn’t have an end rail, making it a good choice for very tall users. Living up to the “Easy” in its name, it takes only less than a minute to set this up.
You can now say goodbye to the discomfort that a lot of camping cots in the market give— this camping cot doesn’t have a middle bar that will dig into your back as you sleep.
Instead…
Increasing the cot’s stability and support are the well-constructed all-steel frame, the reinforced nylon hinge points that handle increased weight, and the plastic feet that won’t scratch the tent floor. This camping cot has the capacity to hold up to 330 pounds of weight.
Side sleepers will be glad to know that this camping cot has no elevated headrest either and is completely flat. Each camping cot includes an equally high-quality carry bag with straps for easy storage and transport, as well.
Now…
Weighing 21 pounds, this is not a lightweight cot by any means. However, we understand that a little lightweightness has to be sacrificed for durability and stability.
5 - Best Lightweight Camping Cot
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
- Manufacturer: YUYU
- Material: Oxford, 7001 aviation aluminum
- Weight: 2.86 pounds
- Size: 72.8 x 23.6 x 5.9 inches
- Capacity: 440 pounds
Bottom Line: The lightweight and portable DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot is easy to bring anywhere and thus will ensure a great sleeping experience wherever you are.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Rugged Oxford material
- Strong 7001 aviation aluminum rods for added support
- Very easy to install
- Capacity of 440 pounds
- Portable and compact enough for backpacks
Cons
- A bit too narrow for our liking
- Lacks softness
SUMMARY:
If you’re looking for a lightweight camping cot that’s easy to bring anywhere, you can’t go wrong with anything from DESERT WALKER, a reliable brand when it comes to portable and lightweight outdoor equipment.
In particular, the DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot is a great option.
Weighing a mere 2.86 pounds, this camping cot is light as a feather and is definitely a stand-out even amongst other lightweight camping cots.
Despite it being extremely light weight, its durability has not been compromised. The bed surface is made from a special type of Oxford fabric material that is rugged and tear-resistant, and supporting it are the tough 7001 aviation aluminum rods. These heavy-duty rods also make the process of installing and disassembling the camping cot a breeze.
Additionally…
This camping cot has a dimension of 72.8 x 23.6 x 5.9 inches and is capable of handling 440 pounds. It is foldable to a packing size of just 19.86 x 4.72 inches, making it easy to hold in one hand and stow away in a backpack.
Accompanying it is a storage bag that is also made from Oxford fabric material.
The only complaint we have regarding this camping cot is that it’s on the narrow side. If you have very broad shoulders, we suggest that you look for something else instead.
6 - Best Design Camping Cot
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
- Manufacturer: Byer of Maine
- Material: 600 Denier polyester, North American Hardwood
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Size: 84 x 30 x 18 inches
- Capacity: 375 pounds
Bottom Line: Beautiful and sturdy with a great design, the BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot is something that’s guaranteed to last a few generations, making it worthy of investment.
Pros
- Well-designed and constructed
- Premium-quality materials
- Cozy and comfortable
- Tight and firm sleeping surface made from durable 600 Denier polyester
- Sturdy wooden legs with tent-friendly plastic feet
- Heat-treated embossed hinges for enhanced durability
- Hook and loop adjustment system for easy set up
- Folds into a carrying case for easy travel
- Clean, aesthetically pleasing look
Cons
- No thermal insulation
- Squeaks a little when getting in and out of the cot
SUMMARY:
Another camping cot from BYER OF MAINE made it to the list; this time, the BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot.
While we were using this cot, it has become obvious to us that BYER OF MAINE really knows what they’re doing when it comes to producing high-quality sleeping cots— they’ve been in the business since 1880, after all, and it shows.
Don’t let the soft, cozy look of this cot fool you— this one is built like a tank and can withstand harsh conditions. Its canvas is manufactured from 600 Denier polyester fabric, and its robust wooden legs have tent-friendly plastic feet. The heat-treated embossed hinges enhance the cot’s durability.
In addition to that…
The frame of this cot is made from premium kiln-dried North American White Ash wood; this, combined with the cot’s soft, muted color, gives it a minimalist, aesthetically pleasing look. With its beautiful, clean look and vintage feel, this camping cot is something you’d be proud to show off to your house guests.
Because it sits high off the ground with its 18 inches of height, you’ll have lots of storage space underneath the cot when camping. Aside from camping, it’s also ideal for car camping, sleepovers, and would look absolutely lovely in the lounge area of your house.
This camping cot features a unique hook and loop adjustment system that makes assembling it a piece of cake. It is easy to travel with as well, as it folds into a portable and compact carry bag with straps.
While it costs a bit more than the other camping cots listed above, this one will last generations, so we can say that it’s definitely a worthwhile investment.
Just a note, though…
This camping cot has no thermal insulation property, which is a good thing during warm weather but can be a bummer on colder nights. In that case, a thick foam mattress on top of this cot would be a good idea.
7 - Best Easy to Assemble Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
- Manufacturer: Helinox
- Material: 600 Denier rip-stop polyester, aluminum alloy
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Size: 73 x 23.5 x 5 inches
- Capacity: 265 pounds
Bottom Line: The Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot is a great option for camping beginners and anyone who needs something that’s easy to assemble, set up, and use.
Pros
- Incredibly easy to assemble and set up
- Ultra-light and compact
- Great for beginners
- Ideal for side sleepers and cold weather use
- Canvas made from rip-stop, sun- and harsh weather-resistant material
- Heavy-duty yet lightweight aluminum alloy frame and legs
- Includes a carrying case
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Not for people who are 6 feet and 4 inches and above
- Costs a lot
SUMMARY:
The Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot is a simple yet strong and easy-to-use camping cot.
Just as its name suggests, this camping cot is extremely lightweight, owing to its 600 Denier rip-stop polyester canvas and the aluminum alloy legs and frame that are both capable of holding considerable weight while still maintaining lightweightness.
This camping cot has an overall size of 73 x 23.5 x 5 inches and has a capacity of 265 pounds. Setting it up is a walk in the park as well, which makes it ideal for camping beginners. To start off, simply assemble the side and lower frames, then insert them inside the cover. After that, connect the side frames to the lower frames, and your camping cot is ready.
This camping cot sits only 5 inches off the ground, making it an ideal choice for side sleepers and for cold weather too. Just make sure that there are no large rocks or anything sharp underneath the cot that can possibly puncture it.
Each camping cot comes with a burrito-shaped carrying case which is made from the same harsh weather-resistant 600-weave rip-stop polyester material as the cot’s canvas.
Just a heads up!
Because this camping cot is only 73 inches long, it won’t be able to accommodate very tall people. If you’re 6 feet and 4 inches and above, this is not the cot for you.
8 - Best Folding Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
- Manufacturer: KingCamp
- Material: 1000 Denier Polyester, steel
- Weight: 12 pounds
- Size: 75 x 26 x 15 inches
- Capacity: 265 pounds
Bottom Line: The KingCamp Folding Camping Cot is a good choice for any camper who’s looking for a simple, fuss-free folding cot that serves its purpose of making camping easier and stress-free.
Pros
- Ergonomic design with a gentle incline, great for people prone to neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Made from tear-resistant and breathable 1000 Denier polyester material
- Anti-corrosion frame and collapsible steel legs
- Non-slip rubber feet for stability
- Large side pocket with three compartments for a variety of things
- Affordable
- No assembly needed
- Comes with a drawstring storage bag
Cons
- Runs a bit narrow
- Doesn’t have the strongest legs
SUMMARY:
The KingCamp Folding Camping Cot is a well-made portable folding cot that perfectly balances softness with firmness and is packed with added features to keep your camping trip stress-free.
This camping cot has an ergonomic design that allows you to relax comfortably, with the gently sloping incline helping in reducing stress and muscle tension— no more ache in your neck, shoulder, or back after waking up in the morning.
It is made durable by its top-grade materials: the canvas is made up of a double layer of premium-quality, soft, breathable, and tear-resistant 1000 Denier Polyester fabric material that is also water-resistant and easy to clean, with a collapsible high-strength steel pipe frame that has been treated with anti-corrosion spray to protect it from elements that cause rust over time. The anti-slip rubber feet provide awesome stability.
Even better…
The side pocket enables you to have the things you need within an arm’s reach. It has different compartments so that your things can stay organized; the biggest section is for books and magazines, the high-visibility mesh compartment is for things that you need to be able to access quickly, such as water bottles, flashlights, and other emergency supplies, and the small one is for your mobile phone, chargers, keys, and other small valuables.
And for those of you who hate long assembly time (who doesn’t?), we’ve got good news for you; this camping cot doesn’t need to be assembled. Just take it out of the included storage bag, unfold it, and you’re good to go. It can hold up to 265 pounds of weight.
Even so…
Like the DESERT WALKER Camping Cot above, this one runs a bit narrow as well, so your elbows will most likely hit the sides. The good thing is, it doesn’t have any metal side rail that your elbows could hit, so it’s still plenty comfortable.
9 - Best Survival Camping Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
- Manufacturer: Tough Outdoors
- Material: 600D Oxford, aluminum, steel
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Size: 75 x 25 x 16 inches
- Capacity: 300 pounds
Bottom Line: The Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults is something you can’t miss if you’re on the hunt for a cot that’s as tough as a traditional military cot, only bigger and more versatile.
Pros
- Military-grade
- Extraordinarily sturdy and rugged
- Robust construction of 600D Polyester canvas, aluminum frame, and steel legs
- Lots of storage space underneath
- Doesn’t sway or make squeaking noises
- Comes with a free universal organizer pouch and a durable bag
Cons
- Can be a little tough to set up at first (needs a little break-in period)
- Quite heavy and bulky
SUMMARY:
Now, if you want some seriously sturdy camping cot, the Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults is the way to go.
Designed like a military cot, this bad boy is built to survive even the toughest conditions, with its extremely rugged construction of 600D Oxford canvas, oversized aluminum frame, and robust steel legs.
Its large and wide frame is designed to accommodate up to 300 pounds of weight and up to 6 feet and 6 inches of height. This camping cot is perfect for light sleepers as well, as it doesn’t squeak every time you move around in it.
This military-grade camping cot lifts you 16 inches off the ground, so you can sleep soundly at night, knowing nothing below can disturb you. Bonus point that you’re also getting extra storage space underneath for your gear and supplies without taking up more tent space.
The fun doesn’t stop there…
It comes with a hanging universal organizer pouch as well, which you can attach to any type of cot for easy access to your essentials such as snacks, water bottles, keys, mobile phones, and other little gear.
Because it folds away easily, it’s very convenient to store as well; just throw it inside the equally rugged bag that comes with it, and you’re done.
Just something you have to know…
Setting this up can be a little difficult at first, especially for newbies, because of the tightness of the canvas. The tight canvas is actually a good thing because in our experience, the fabric has remained taut and firm even after repeated use.
But of course, no one wants to deal with a tough set-up process, so the best thing to do is to leave it alone for at least 24-48 hours after the initial set-up, which allows the canvas to have a little break-in period. Doing this will make setting it up way easier the next time you will have to use it.
10 - Best Luxury Camping Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
- Manufacturer: Coleman
- Material: PVC, steel
- Weight: 22.5 pounds
- Size: 78 x 59 x 22 inches
- Capacity: 600 pounds
Bottom Line: Featuring loads of special features and incredible comfort, the Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size is any glamping enthusiast’s dream cot.
Pros
- Perfect for glamping
- Comes with an air mattress and a battery-powered 4D air pump
- Leak-proof AirTight® system
- Dual-sealed Double Lock™ valve
- Integrated sewn-in cover to keep the mattress in place
- Strong folding steel frame and ComfortStrong™ coil system providing support
- Features convenient side tables with cup holders
- Includes a wheeled carrying case with handles for easy transport
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Doesn’t accommodate people over 6 feet in height
- Batteries for the air pump are sold separately
SUMMARY:
For glamping enthusiasts, the Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size sure is a fantastic option.
Measuring 78 x 59 x 22 inches, this cot is good for two people as long as the combined weight doesn’t exceed 600 pounds. This is neat when you want to have a romantic night with your partner or some bonding time with your kid.
Combining luxury and convenience effortlessly, this cot comes with an air mattress that utilizes the leak-free AirTight® system and the dual-sealed Double Lock™ valve, which ensure that the mattress is going to be inflated all night long. The included battery-powered 4D air pump makes inflating and deflating super easy.
What makes this cot different from other camping cots that also include an air mattress is that a sewn-in cover prevents the mattress from sliding off. Providing further support and stability are the strong folding steel frame and the ComfortStrong™ coil system for a worry-free night.
But wait, there’s more…
This cot also comes with side tables with cup holders on both sides of the cot, where you can place your water bottle or any beverage of your choice, for a comfy and cozy experience that will make you feel like you’re at home at the comfort of your bed.
Keeping the cot protected when stored is the included carrying case that has handles and wheels for easier transport. Coleman also provides a 1-year warranty for this cot.
But…
If you or your companion is over 6 feet in height, though, it’s best to look elsewhere.
Buyer's Guide:
How To Choose The Best Camping Cots
What are the different types of camping cots?
Bunk bed cot
Bunk bed cots are ideal for anyone who is camping with a buddy or a loved one. It’s great if both of you prefer to sleep on two separate cots without taking up too much tent space. It’s practical; just make sure that your tent can accommodate the height of a bunk bed.
Ultralight cots
These are incredibly lightweight camping cots that are perfect for beginners because they’re easy to set up and take down. The downside is that most of these aren’t as sturdy and heavy-duty as camping cots that weigh more.
Foldable or collapsible cots
Folding camping cots are very common and are a popular choice because they often don’t require any complicated assembly— simply get the cot out of the bag, unfold it, and you can now lie down and relax.
Features to look out for
High comfort level
First and foremost, you should choose a camping cot that is very comfortable to sleep in. You shouldn’t have to put sleeping pads on top of it before it becomes comfortable. Uncomfortable camping cots just defeat the purpose of sleeping in a cot in the first place.
Vast sleeping space
We highly recommend that you pick a cot with lots of room to move around. Camping cots with extra-long and wide designs are great for maximum comfort, and they can also accommodate tall people and a wide variety of body sizes.
Carrying bag
A carrying bag makes it very easy for you to store and transport the cot. Yes, you can buy a random bag if the camping cot you bought doesn’t come with one, but it’s still better to choose a camping cot with an included storage bag because then you can be sure that your cot will fit perfectly inside.
Top Tips
- Consider the size of your tent when purchasing a camping cot. There should still be room left for your gear and important things even when the cot is inside your tent.
- Even if your cot is comfortable, it’s always a good idea to bring some blankets and an insulated pad with you just in case the weather gets too cold.
- When cleaning your cot, avoid very harsh cleaning products, especially ones with ammonia or bleach in their ingredients. Instead, opt for mild detergent or dish soap.
- Make sure that you’re shopping for your body type and size. If you’re extremely tall, for example, cots with an extra-long design will ensure that your feet won’t be dangling uncomfortably when you’re lying in the cot.
- Star-gazing while lying down in the cot outside the tent is personally one of our favorite activities in the world, but we also know how annoying it is when bugs start attacking you out of nowhere. For this reason, we strongly suggest that you invest in a mosquito net or some sort of protective tarp if you’re planning to use the cot outside the tent to protect you from those pesky bugs and mosquitoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: How do I choose a camping cot?
A - To make sure that you get the perfect camping cot for you, consider the following: What is your body type, size, and weight? How tall are you? Are you going solo camping, or are you going to bring a companion with you? After you’ve answered all these questions, you can now filter out which ones you think won’t be suitable for you and then choose based on durability, longevity, and of course, your budget. If your budget is limited, you may have to sacrifice some features that you like but aren’t really essential. Ultimately, you want to choose the best you can get within your budget.
Question 2: What are the most comfortable cots?
A - The most comfortable cots are the ones that will be able to accommodate your body weight and size while still giving you lots of room to move around comfortably. They also feature soft canvas and sturdy frames and legs that provide plenty of support so that you won’t have to worry about rolling off the cot.
Question 3: Is a camping cot worth it?
A - In our opinion, camping cots are absolutely worth it, as long as you get a good-quality one that’s perfect for your weight and size, that is. In testing different camping cots, we also found that even the most affordable ones offer excellent protection and support. Sure beats sleeping on the rough and rocky ground!
Our Analysis, Comparisons & Test Results
Best Value For Money
Value for Money Rating
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Best Versatility
Versatility Rating
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Best Strength & Durability
Strength & Durability Rating
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
Best Comfortability
Comfortability Rating
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
Best Ease of Set-Up
Ease of Set-Up Rating
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
Our Final Verdict: Best Camping Cot
Best Camping Cot Rating
TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults
BYER OF MAINE, Maine Heritage Extra Large Folding Camping Cot
Byer of Maine Extra-Large Easy Cot
Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults
OSAGE RIVER Comfortable and Lightweight Standard Folding Camping Cot
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo with Battery Pump & Side Tables, Queen Size
Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed
Helinox Lite Cot Ultra-Light, Compact, Collapsible, Portable Camping Cot
DESERT WALKER Camping Cot, Outdoor Bed Ultra Lightweight Bed Folding Camping Cot
KingCamp Folding Camping Cot
Conclusion: Best Camping Cots
And we’ve reached the end of the article.
With numerous choices in the market, it sure can be very confusing to choose the perfect camping cot for you. But keeping in mind the most important factors that you have to consider when selecting one will make the process much easier.
Of course, it helps when you have a guide to help you. And that’s why we decided to create this guide and best list.
In a nutshell…
All camping cots featured in this article are all terrific choices, but if we’re going to recommend only three, it would be:
Our Editor’s Choice, the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot for Adults, is best for anyone needing a heavy-duty, high-capacity, and spacious cot. Although it will surely take up quite a lot of space in your tent, we guarantee that it would be a great addition to your camping gear.
Proving that a product can be high-quality while still being very affordable is our Best Value awardee, the Redneck Convent RC Lightweight Portable Foldable Camping Cot Adult Folding Bed. It has its downsides, such as not being completely noise-free and the flimsy storage bag, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a cot that has the same quality to price ratio.
And our Top Pick, the Tough Outdoors Portable & Heavy-Duty Military/Army Fold-Up Camping Cot for Adults, is something we’d always be happy to recommend for its overall great quality and features.
We hope that this Guide has been helpful to you.
As we always say…
Have a fun and safe camping trip!
Similiar Posts
Community Cuisine: MREs and Grassroots Food Movement Engagement
Interested in the connection between community cuisine, MREs, and the grassroots food movement? This article
The Future of Food: MREs and Their Contribution to Systemic Change
Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) is a convenient and portable food option that has been gaining popularity
On the Frontlines of Food Change: MREs in Food System Transformation
In a context where food system transformation is a prominent topic of discussion concerning sustainability
About Author
Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.
Author Name -
