There’s nothing better than pitching a tent and spending time in the Great Outdoors; that is, until you have to sleep on the hard ground. Add in the potential for moisture from rain and bugs creeping beside you and camping can turn into a really uncomfortable and unpleasant experience. Fortunately, there is a way to forego the discomfort and displeasure. How? – By investing in a camping cot.
A camping cot is a lightweight, portable bed that is designed to be used as a sleeping surface when a regular bed cannot be used. Because they’re portable and lightweight, these cots are ideal for camping. The benefit of using a camping cot is that it lifts you off the ground and provides a stable surface to sleep on. Sleeping on a camping cot is far more comfortable than sleeping on the ground.
These cots can also be used outside of camping; for example, when guests are sleeping over, a camping cot can be used as a “pop-up” bed, of sorts, to sleep on. A camping cot can be used pretty as a sleeping surface in any situation where a traditional bed isn’t available.
Camping cots are hugely popular, which means that there are a lot of options available.
We’ve put this guide together to provide you with some of the best camping cots currently on the market. We also offer a buyer’s guide, which includes a list of factors to consider that will help you decide which camping cot is right for you, as well as some of the most frequently asked questions that consumers have regarding these portable beds.
Our Top Picks
Contents
- 1 Our Top Picks
- 2 Camping Cot Reviews
- 2.1 Colman ComfortSmart Cot
- 2.2 Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo
- 2.3 Coleman Trailhead II Cot
- 2.4 Zone Tech Folding Outdoor Travel Cot
- 2.5 Coleman Camping Cot with Side Table
- 2.6 Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot Folding Outdoor Camping Hiking Sleeping Bed
- 2.7 Disc-O-Bed Large Cam-O-Bunk Bunked Double Camping Cot
- 3 Other Best Selling Options
- 4 Camping Cot Buyer’s Guide
- 5 Camping Cot FAQs
Below, we offer an overview of our top three picks for camping cots, including our choice for the best, premium, and budget options.
- The Best Pick: Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
Coleman is one of the most trusted names in the camping supply industry, and their ComfortSmart Cot proves why the manufacturer is so reputable. We chose this cot as our top pick for several reasons. First, it features a durable steel frame, which can support up to 300 pounds. It can also accommodate individuals who stand up to 6 feet, 6 inches, so if you’re tall, you’ll have plenty of space to sleep. This cot also features a thick foam sleeping pad for support and comfort. - The Premium Pick: Colman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo
If you’re looking for something that’s even more like a traditional bed, than this option, also from Coleman, is definitely worth considering. It comes with three separate pieces: a cot, complete with side tales, an air mattress, and a battery-operated pump. The frame is constructed of steel for superior durability and can support up to 600 pounds and has enough space for two people. - The Budget Pick: Coleman Trailhead II Cot
If you’re on a budget and are looking for a cot that won’t break the bank, yet is durable, reliable, and supportive, than the Coleman Trailhead II Cot may be the right choice for you. It’s a no-frills camping cot in that it doesn’t come with a sleeping pad or mattress; however, you can easily put a sleeping bag or your own sleeping pad on top of the surface of the cot.
Camping Cot Reviews
Colman ComfortSmart Cot
We chose the Colman ComfortSmart Cot as our best pick for camping cots for several reasons. As we mentioned, Colman is one of the most trusted names in the camping product industry. Their products are high-quality and thoughtfully designed, and the ComfortSmart Cot is the personification of these qualities.
The steel frame construction is exceptionally durable and can support up to 300 pounds and 6 feet, 6 inches of length, so if you’re tall, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out. Weighing just 19.62 pounds and easy to set up and fold up, this camping cot is very easy to transport and can fit in most car trunks.
- Superior support thanks to ComfortSmart coil suspension system and thick foam mattress pad
- Comfortsmart coil suspension offers a bed-like feel
- Strong folding steel frame
- Designed for people up to 6 ft. 6 in. tall
- Supports up to 300 lbs.
The feature that really makes this camping cot such a great choice is the coil suspension design and the sleeping pad, which is made of thick foam, which provides extreme comfort and will allow you to get a really comfortable night of sleep.
It’s also backed by a 1 year limited warranty, so if there are any defects or you experience any issues within the first year of purchasing, the manufacturer will replace the camping cot. This durable, lightweight, and comfortable camping cot is also pretty affordably priced.
Overall, we are very impressed with the Coleman ComfortSmarrt Cot is an excellent camping cot. It’s very durable, very comfortable, and can support campers of all sizes. Additionally, because it’s relatively affordably priced and backed by a 1 year limited warranty further adds to the appeal of this camping cot.
- Durable steel frame construction
- Coil suspension provides superior support
- Thick foam sleeping bad offers exceptional comfort
- Can accommodate up to 300 pounds
- Offers enough space for a maximum height of 6 feet, 6 inches
- Easy to set up and fold down
- Fits in most trunks
- Affordably priced
- Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
- While it is lightweight and does fold down easily, it doesn’t fold down small enough for backpackers
- Some users reported that the shipping was questionable and that the box was damaged
- Others said that they believe the cot they received was used, not used
Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo
Our premium pick for the best camping cot is the Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo. If you need a portable sleeping surface for two or if you’re a solo sleeper and you just want to spread out AND you’re looking for superior comfort, then this camping cot is a great choice for you.
It comes complete with a durable steel frame, an air bed, and a battery-operated pump. The frame measures 78 inches by 59 inches by 22 inches and can support up to 600 pounds and a maximum height of 6 feet, 2 inches, making it similar to a traditional double bed.
The air mattress features coil construction, so it contours to the body and provides excellent support.
- Country Of Origin : China
- The Package Height Of The Product Is 7.1 Inches
- The Package Length Of The Product Is 37 Inches
- The Package Width Of The Product Is 10.23 Inches
It’s also undergone rigorous testing to ensure that it is leak-proof and remains firm all night. A sewn-in cover prevents the mattress from slipping off of the cot itself and it inflates and deflates in no time at all.
As an added bonus, this cot features dual-side tables, complete with built-in cup holders, and can be tucked away when they aren’t in use and allows for easy storage. It even comes with a carry bag, so you can slip it away and keep it protected when not in use. All of these perks do come at a price, though, as the Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo is a bit costly.
However, if you have room in your budget and you want to be as comfortable as possible while you’re camping, this cot is definitely a great choice.
If you’re looking for a camping cot that is extremely comfortable and spacious, than the Coleman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, Pump Combo is a great choice. Do keep in mind, however, that because of its size, it isn’t really compact, and it does have a pretty high price tag, as compared to other camping cots.
- Steel frame construction for extreme durability
- Comes with a leak-proof inflatable air mattress with coli construction that conforms to the body and features a sewn-in cover to prevent slippage
- Can support up to 600 pounds and a maximum height of 6 feet, 2 inches
- Comes with a battery-operated pump to inflate the mattress
- Dual side tables feature built-in cup holders and can be tucked in for easy storage
- Easy to set up
- Comes with a storage/carrying bag
- Offers enough space for two sleepers
- The price is a bit high and may be restrictive for some shoppers
- Some users said that they were not happy with the construction and found that it wasn’t supportive; however, the cot may have had a manufacturer defect and bear in mind, comfort is subjective, as the overwhelming majority of users said that it is comfortable
Coleman Trailhead II Cot
For shoppers who are looking for a reliable, supportive, and durable camping cot that won’t break the bank, the Colman Trailhead II Cot is definitely worth considering. It’s a no-frills camping cot, but it certainly does what it is intended to do.
The frame is constructed of steel and features a cross-bar, which makes it extremely durable, and can support up to 300 pounds and a maximum height of 6 feet, 2 inches. The sleeping surface is made of breathable fabric, so you shouldn’t have to worry about moisture buildup.
- ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold ground.ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold groundBUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frameSUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.Portable: Folds to fit in most car trunksMilitary-style camping cot ; Extra wide design for more sleeping roomCan accommodate most people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall 1-year limited warranty
- BUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frame
- SUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.
- MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.
- DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.
Unlike the other cots that we have previously mentioned, this one doesn’t come with a sleeping mat or mattress; however, you can easily put your own on top or you can just use a sleeping bag. Folding it down and setting it up is a breeze, and it does get compact enough so that it can be stowed inside most trunks or tucked away in a closet when it isn’t in use. It’s backed by a 1 year limited warranty, too, so if anything goes wrong within one year of purchasing, the manufacturer will replace it.
Of course, it’s also very affordably priced, which is why it’s our best budget pick camping cot.
If you are looking for a reliable camping cot that will get you up off the ground while you’re camping but you don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of money, the Coleman Camping Cot Trailhead II folding cot would be a good option for you. While it doesn’t have any bells and whistles, like other cots do, it does exactly what it’s intended to do: provide an elevated and sturdy sleeping surface.
- Cross-bar steel frame construction for extreme durability
- Can support up to 300 pounds
- Maximum height is 6 feet, 2 inches
- Lightweight, compact design for easy portability
- The sleeping surface is made of breathable fabric and can be easily wiped down
- It’s backed by a 1 year limited warranty
- Very affordably priced
- Some users said that their cot was damaged when they received it
- Others said that they had issues with shipping
Zone Tech Folding Outdoor Travel Cot
Another great choice for a camping cot is the Zone Tech Folding Outdoor Travel Cot. Its lightweight design, yet heavy-duty construction make it perfect for camping or traveling of any type.
This cot has steel legs with thick elliptical shape tubes on the legs, which provide increased stability, and the aluminum frame construction is lightweight and exceptionally durable. It can support up to 300 pounds and a maximum height of 6 feet, 2 inches.
The sleeping surface is made of 600D polyester, which is highly resistant to all types of moisture, yet is breathable and can be easily wiped down. There’s a large pocked attached to the side, which is perfect for storing maps, reading materials, glasses, a phone, or any other personal items.
- ► HEAVY DUTY- The Zone Tech travel cot is smartly designed to withstand weight capacity of 300lbs. Structured with thicker elliptical shape tubes on its legs for stability.
- ► BIG SIZE - The Zone Tech travel cot is big enough for a single adult person to move freely when using or 2 small children similar to a twin size bunk bed.
- ► TRAVEL COMPANION - The Zone Tech travel cot is best for outdoor activities such as camping, relaxing on the beach, or even plain road trips when you want to relax for a moment before continuing your journey.
- ► PREMIUM QUALITY - The Zone Tech travel cot is constructed in a double Layer of 600D Polyester for durability and high resistance to any liquid. Built with large pocket on the side for storing your phone and any handy items. Also comes with matching pillow to cradle your head and neck.
- ► PORTABLE - The Zone Tech travel cot is fold-able and can be easily set up in seconds. Comes with travel bag for easy storage and carrying. Convenient for rest and transport.
This cot even comes with a matching pillow, which gently cradles the neck and head and provides increased comfort while sleeping. The top of the cot is slightly elevated, too, for even more head and neck support. This cot can be set up and folded down in a matter of seconds and comes with a storage bag that allows for easy transport and keeps it clean when not in use. It’s also pretty affordably priced.
The Zone Tech Folding Outdoor Travel Cot is pretty basic, yet it does offer some additional features that are very useful; a pillow and an elevated head area, for example. Thanks to the lightweight construction and the waterproof sleeping surface, this cot can be used virtually anywhere with ease. It’s also affordably priced, so it won’t take a huge chunk out of your budget.
- Steel legs that are designed as elliptical tubes provide excellent stability
- Aluminum frame is lightweight, yet durable
- Can support up to 300 pounds
- The sleeping surface is waterproof, breathable, and easy to clean
- The head area is slightly elevated for increased head and neck support while sleeping
- Comes with a matching pillow to support the head and neck
- Features a large pocket that can be used to stow personal items and keep them close at hand
- Easy to set up and fold up
- Affordably priced
- While it does fold down to a smaller size, it may not be compact enough for backpackers who are trekking for long periods of time
Coleman Camping Cot with Side Table
Another camping cot from Coleman, this one is pretty simplistic, but it does offer an additional feature that can certainly come in handy: a removable side table that features a built-in cup holder.
The table pops off for easy storage and transport and can be easily attached when you need a surface to place your personal items, and of course, somewhere to put your drink. The steel frame construction provides superior durability and can accommodate up to 300 pounds with ease.
- Adjustable camping cot offers an ideal place for sitting, reclining, and sleeping
- Removable side table with drink holder provides space for snacks and personal items
- Durable steel frame can support up to 300 pounds; can accommodate most people up to 6 feet 6 inches tall
- Foldable design fits in most car trunks; carrying bag for easy transport
- Measures 80 x 44 x 17 inches when unfolded. Sleeping Area: 80 x 32 inches.
The dimensions are 80 inches by 32 inches, which provides plenty of room to spread out; it can comfortably fit campers who measure up to 6 feet, 6 inches tall. The sleeping surface is made of durable fabric and can be wiped down with ease.
The cot is easy to set up and easy to take down, and it comes complete with a carry bag, which allows for easy storage. Like most Coleman products, this camping cot is also backed by a 1 year limited warranty. And, it has an attractive price tag, too.
Overall, the Coleman Camping Cot with Side Table is definitely a well-designed, easy to use, and portable camping cot. The addition of the attachable side table with a built-in cup holder is a nice feature to have. Easy to set up and take down and offering enough room to accommodate tall campers, if you’re looking for a basic camping cot, this is a good option to consider.
- Durable steel frame construction
- Features a removable side table with a built-in cup holder
- Offers enough space to comfortable fit campers who measure up to 6 feet, 6 inches
- Can accommodate up to 300 pounds
- Easy to set up and easy to take down
- Comes with a storage bag
- Backed by a 1 year limited warranty
- Affordably priced
- A few buyers said that it fell apart after a few uses, but that could be due to inappropriate use or a defective in the design of the particular cots they received
- Others noted that it wasn’t as comfortable as they hoped it would be, but it is a basic cot, so it isn’t intended for extreme comfort, but rather it is meant to provide a stable and elevated sleeping surface
Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot Folding Outdoor Camping Hiking Sleeping Bed
With this camping cot from Kamp-Rite, you don’t need to have a tent at all because it serves as both a tent and a cot in one. It offers plenty of room to spread out and features a heavy duty 190T, waterproof nylon tent-like cover, complete with four “no-see-um” mesh-covered windows.
There are flaps that can be zippered up over the windows, too, for privacy; similar to the zipper flaps that a standard tent features. The frame is made of powder-coated aluminum steel, which is exceptionally durable and provides great stability.
- One person sleeping cot with zip-off tent sets up quickly; Bed size (L x W): 84 x 33 inches
- Powder-coated steel frame and corrosion-resistant zippers; weatherproof 190T polyester fabric
- Compact folded size plus bag; Weight: 28 pounds; Collapsed size (L x W x H): 8 x 9 x 42 inches
- Ventilated mesh doors, zippered privacy windows, interior storage pouch, and exterior storage net
- Rainfly keeps rain and snow out and warm air in; Full setup size (L x W x H): 84 x 33 x 61 inches
This tent camping cot is easy to set up and can be converted into a lounge chair or a standard camping cot, as well. It also comes with a carry bag for easy storage and easy transport. It is a bit pricey, however, but given the fact that it doubles as a tent, the higher price tag does pay off (especially when you consider the price of a well-constructed tent).
With the Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot Folding Outdoor Camping Hiking Sleeping Bed, you don’t need a tent, because this serves as an all-in-one tent and sleeping surface. It can be used as a lounger or a traditional camping cot, too. The heavy-duty, waterproof nylon cover will protect you from the elements and the four mesh windows provide great air flow and breathability.
- Serves as a camping cot, tent, and lounger
- Features heavy-duty, waterproof nylon for protection from the elements
- Elevates sleepers 11 inches off the ground
- Steel aluminum frame is durable, yet lightweight
- Easy to set up and take down
- Can be converted into a lounger or a standard camping cot
- Comes with a carrying back
- Features four mesh-covered windows with zipper flaps for privacy
- The price is pretty high and may be cost-prohibitive for some shoppers
- Some users said that they had a hard time setting it up
Disc-O-Bed Large Cam-O-Bunk Bunked Double Camping Cot
This is a truly unique camping cot that is a great choice for two people. It’s designed as a bunk bed, so there’s enough space to accommodate two sleepers; one on the top and one down below!
The frame is constructed of heavy-duty, yet lightweight aluminum steel and is rounded, so it won’t sink into the ground when both bunks are in use. The cot is elevated 11 inches off the ground and the bottom bunk offers 21 inches of overhead room. The sleeping surfaces are designed so that the naturally contour to the curves of the body and provide superior support and comfort.
- Compact and comfortable large bunked camping cots provide versatile convenience and comfort as you can use them as 2 separate cots, a bench, or bunked beds
- Round steel frame of camping cot does not sink to the ground and offers a sturdy, level sleeping surface even on uneven terrain while supporting up to 500 pounds per cot
- Each bunk includes side organizers that hang from the side of the cot to hold gear or other personal items; Also comes with 2 storage carry bags, a set of stack adapters, and 2 locking straps
- Built for indoor and outdoor use with powder-coated, anti-trust steel frame and PVC-coated 600D polyester fabric that resists water and is easy to clean during camping or adventures
- Sleeping area measures 79 inches long 28 inches wide with a comfortable polyester sleeping deck that conforms to your body shape and has no middle brace for added comfort
Both the top and bottom bunks feature storage flaps with pockets that can be used to store personal items and keep them close at hand. It’s a no-tool assembly and is very easy to set up and take down. The sleeping surfaces are breathable, yet durable, and can be easily wiped down.
If you’re looking for a cot for two people, the Disc-O-Bed Large Cam-O-Bunk camping cot is a unique option. The bunk bed design features two separate sleeping surfaces and plenty of room for both sleepers. It’s easy to set up and take down and there are even attached pockets on each bunk for storage.
- Unique bunk-bed style design
- Lightweight, yet durable construction
- Easy to set up and take down
- Contours to the body for increased comfort
- Storage pockets on both bunks
- Offers plenty of space to spread out
- High price tag, which may be too expensive for some shoppers
- A few users noted that the cot was damaged when they received it
Other Best Selling Options
- 🍁【3-in-1 Lounge Chair Cot】 This foldable bed combines the functions of reclining, sleeping, and sitting into one. It can be used as a comfortable chair during the day, suitable for work, reading, or relaxation. At night, it can be easily transformed into a bed, providing a cozy sleeping space for guests. Compared to purchasing separate cots, beds and chairs, opting for a 3-in-1 camping cots could be more cost-effective.
- 🍁【5-Position Adjustable Backrest】 Folding cot bed are typically designed for exceptional comfort, offering a pleasant seating and sleeping experience. The backrest can be adjusted to 5 different positions, ensuring optimal comfort and support. Equipped with soft cushions and pillows, the cushions weigh 4.44lbs and have a thickness of 3.9 inches. Cushions can be easily detached, guaranteeing that users can enjoy a comfortable experience in various use scenarios.
- 🍁【Space-Saving & Portable】The 3-in-1 camp cot chair is a versatile piece of furniture suitable for compact living spaces, such as small apartments, bedrooms, or studies. It can transform into a bed, chair, or recliner as needed, saving a significant amount of space. With its three-fold storage design, it folds down to a small thickness. It comes with a 600*300D Oxford cloth storage bag, making transportation and storage convenient.
- 🍁【Durable Structure】 Our folding cot bed adopts a full-square tube frame with support from four legs, one more than typical beds of its kind. The U-shaped support legs distribute pressure evenly, with an inner wall thickness of 1mm. The material is robust, and the design enhances stability, providing strong support with a weight-bearing capacity of up to 500 pounds.
- 🍁【Adaptable to Varied Needs】 Camping beds for adults boast a modern or stylish appearance and design, adding a touch of distinctive decor to indoor spaces. Whether accommodating changing needs among family members or unexpected guests, it effortlessly meets seating and sleeping demands across various scenarios. Moreover, it serves as an excellent choice for relaxation during road trips, by the swimming pool, lakeside, in RVs, camping sites, on terraces, decks, in tents, or cabins.
- ✅【Folding Camping Cot】The folding cot for adults measures 74"x28"x15" when open, pack size 41"x9"x7". Cot weights 13.7 pounds,can be easily folded up, becoming very compact, making them convenient for carrying and storage. The cots leg tubes measures 1.1"x1.5". The thicker sleeping cot bed ensures single person freedom movement in using.
- ✅【Heavy-Duty & Stable】The portable cot legs feature a tubular iron leg design, upgraded to 10 legs with 25mm thick flat round pipes, made from durable materials and a stable structure, enhancing the optimal stability and weight-bearing capacity of the travel crib. It can support a maximum weight of up to 600 pounds, making it perfect for tall and heavy individuals.
- ✅【Removable Mattress】The camp cot surface is upgraded 600D double-layer Oxford material, offering exceptional strength, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. It comes with a thick mattress that is soft, breathable, and measures 73.6" x 24.4" x 2.75", weighing 3.33 pounds. Easy to install and dismantle, you can decide whether to install the mattress based on your needs and comfort. The mattress is vacuum-sealed, so please release it 1-2 days before use.
- ✅【Good Insulation and Cleanliness】Outdoor cot beds require no tools for assembly, making them suitable for quickly setting up camp. In cold weather, camp bed can enhance insulation beneath sleeping bags, helping to maintain warmth. Elevating the bed off the ground can reduce contact with dust and moisture, thereby improving sleep hygiene.
- ✅【Wide Application】 The gentle incline ensures no morning back, neck, or shoulder pain, providing you with a better sleep and lounging experience. The organizer pocket is perfect for storing your phone, keys, water bottle, toys, earplugs, and more. It's ideal for camping, backpacking, the beach, backyard, hiking, office, and more. It's an excellent choice for your next road trip, home, office, pool, fishing, hiking, patio, tent relaxation.
- ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold ground.ELEVATED COMFORT: Eliminates the discomfort of sleeping on rough or cold groundBUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frameSUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.Portable: Folds to fit in most car trunksMilitary-style camping cot ; Extra wide design for more sleeping roomCan accommodate most people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall 1-year limited warranty
- BUILT TO LAST: Strong cross-bar steel frame
- SUPPORTS: Up to 300 lb.
- MAX HEIGHT: 6 ft. 2 in.
- DIMENSIONS: 73 x 35 x 17 in.
Camping Cot Buyer’s Guide
If you’re on the market for a camping cot, it goes without saying that you want to purchase something that best meets your needs. Since there are so many different camping cots on the market, taking some key factors into consideration will help you narrow down the options so that you can choose the right cot for you. Whether you’re purchasing one of the cots listed in our review or another design, here’s a look at some important factors to consider when you’re shopping.
Height and Weight
Obviously, you want a camping cot that offers enough space so that you can comfortably sleep. When determining what size you need, consider your height and weight and choose a cot that can accommodate both. If you’re purchasing a cot for two people, consider both sleepers height and combined weight. Generally, single-person cots have a max height of 6 feet or greater and the max weight is 300 pounds, while cots that are designed for two sleepers usually can accommodate up to 600 pounds with a max height of 6 feet or greater.
Comfort
Comfort is pretty important. If you want maximum comfort, consider investing in a camping cot that comes equipped with a sleeping pad or its own inflatable mattress. You can also purchase a standard cot and buy a separate sleeping pad to put on the surface of the cot.
Portability
If your primary use is camping, look for a cot that is portable, lightweight, and can be folded down. You may also want to consider one that comes with a carrying bag so you can easily store it.
Set Up
The best camping cots are easy to set up; no tools required are ideal because the last thing you want to do is fumble around with tools when you’re trying to set up your bed.
Additional Features
Some cots are no-frills, while others offer some additional features for added convenience. Side tables, cup holders, elevated head areas, pillows, and storage pouches are just some of the additional features that are available.
Cost
Lastly, you’ll want to consider the price of the camping cot. Prices vary widely; some are under $100, while others can cost a few hundred dollars. Generally speaking, the most basic cots fall in the $100 or below category, while those that offer more bells and whistles (mattresses, sleeping pads, tables, etc.) are more costly. Consider how much you are willing to spend on a camping cot before you start shopping so that you can avoid over-extending your budget.
Camping Cot FAQs
In this section, we provide answers to some of the most common questions consumers have about camping cots.
Will a camping cot damage the floor of a tent?
It depends on the type you choose. Most have feet that are specifically designed to prevent damaging the floor of a tent; they’re rounded or have pads, for example. If damaging the floor is a concern, you might want to consider placing a pad or tarp underneath the cot.
Do I really need a camping cot?
No, you don’t really need one; however, if you want to be as comfortable as possible while you’re camping, then you should definitely consider investing in one. They keep you up off the ground, provide a stable surface to sleep on, and many feature sleeping pads and mattresses for even more support.
Should I invest in a camping cot that has additional features?
It depends on your specific needs. There are various features available, such as built-in tables and cup holders, storage pouches, pillows, air mattresses, sleeping pads, etc. If you want to maximize your comfort, then additional features may be worth your while.
Do I still need a sleeping bag?
Again, it depends. You can certainly use a sleeping bag on top of a camping cot; however, a lot of people use standard pillows and blankets. It really depends on your particular preference.
Conclusion
To maximize your comfort while camping, a cot is definitely a worthwhile investment. There are plenty of options on the market to choose from. The best camping cots are durably constructed, lightweight, portable, and easy to set up. However, you can also invest in cots that offer additional features, outside of an elevated, stable sleeping surface. When you’re shopping, consider what matters most to you and choose a cot that will best meet your needs.
Here’s our top picks again …
- The Best Pick: Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
Coleman is one of the most trusted names in the camping supply industry, and their ComfortSmart Cot proves why the manufacturer is so reputable. We chose this cot as our top pick for several reasons. First, it features a durable steel frame, which can support up to 300 pounds. It can also accommodate individuals who stand up to 6 feet, 6 inches, so if you’re tall, you’ll have plenty of space to sleep. This cot also features a thick foam sleeping pad for support and comfort. - The Premium Pick: Colman Camping Cot, Air Mattress, and Pump Combo
If you’re looking for something that’s even more like a traditional bed, than this option, also from Coleman, is definitely worth considering. It comes with three separate pieces: a cot, complete with side tales, an air mattress, and a battery-operated pump. The frame is constructed of steel for superior durability and can support up to 600 pounds and has enough space for two people. - The Budget Pick: Coleman Trailhead II Cot
If you’re on a budget and are looking for a cot that won’t break the bank, yet is durable, reliable, and supportive, than the Coleman Trailhead II Cot may be the right choice for you. It’s a no-frills camping cot in that it doesn’t come with a sleeping pad or mattress; however, you can easily put a sleeping bag or your own sleeping pad on top of the surface of the cot.
