The Best Cots For Hiking and Hunting
If you're hiking or hunting, a good night's sleep is vital. Cots are a great option to ensure you're comfortable and off the ground. However they can be heavy and challenging to pack when you're on the go.
We tested 10 of the best co-teaching cots and scored them on comfort, accessibility, ease of setting up and durability.
Comfort
A good night's rest is vital to fully enjoy your camping trip. Instead of sleeping on the ground, you can sleep comfortably in a sleeping cot. Choose an cot that is not heavy but also offers an adequate amount of support. This will guarantee a good night's sleep. Cots with a mattress-like top are the most sought-after. They are usually designed to be used with an air mattress or sleeping pad, or any other forms of insulation.
Whether you're backpacking or car camping, finding the right cot for your needs is crucial. For those who are predominantly backpackers, think about lightweight options like the Helinox Lite Cot or ALPS Mountaineering ReadyLite Cot, which provide a very portable sleeping solution that is easily transported in your bag. If you combine car camping and backpacking, consider something heavier and larger, such as the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe or REI Kingdom Cot 3.
If you want a more luxurious option, all of the cots featured on this list are designed to be as similar as they can to a traditional mattress. While they're more bulky than their ultra-light counterparts, they're still relatively simple to transport and set up on the trail.
When choosing a cot, it is also important to think about the materials and construction. Fabrics that are thin are more prone to rips and tears so look for an cot that is made of top-quality fabrics that are designed to stand up to regular use. To ensure that your cot will last for many years, look for details like a 600D poly material and reinforced seams.
A cot should also provide a decent amount of cushioning to protect you from the hard, uncomfortable ground. Some models, like the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe are quilted and padded, whereas others, such as REI Kingdom Cot 3 have baffles to prevent you from sinking into the cot. Lastly, a cot should be long enough to meet your height and wide enough for you to comfortably lay down in. You should choose a cot with an adequate weight capacity, especially if traveling with a friend or pet.
Portability
The best camping cots fold down compactly and take up a small amount of space in your backpack, allowing you to fit more sleeping gear into your backpack. They are less heavy than other options for camp bedding, which can be a big advantage on long hikes and longer backcountry trips. Considering the amount of time you're spending packing and unpacking your gear, the ability to move a cot around is a significant aspect in the overall rating.
Depending on the model that you select, it may take a few minutes to unroll and put up the cot. More complicated models require greater assembly, and some have parts that are difficult to locate or connect. Some cots come with built-in storage or other features to help reduce the time to set up your bed.
The most versatile cots come with legs that can be adjusted, allowing you to adjust them for different terrain conditions. Some come with a tether to keep them stable during storms or windy weather. They're particularly ideal for backpacking, where the stability of your shelter can be weakened due to uneven or unstable ground.
When you're choosing a cot take into consideration how often you'll be using it, as well as the place you'd like to set up camp. Cots with a light design and compact fold are ideal for backpacking, whereas cots with a heavy-duty construction and larger sleeping area are ideal for basecamps or car camping. If you intend to use your cot exclusively at home, it's worth investing in a set bedding that is specifically made for the type of cot you own. This includes fitted and flat sheets, as well as a matching pillowcase.
If you're in search of a comfortable, easy-to-set-up cot that's suitable for all types of camping The Byer of Maine Easy Cot is a great choice. It folds down into a case that resembles a camping chair, and is equipped with straps for easy transportation. The cot doesn't have the biggest sleeping platform among the top choices, but its sturdy materials and sturdy frame make it a solid choice for most camping trips.
Installation is simple
Cots are often required when camping but they also tend to be more difficult to put up than other kinds of sleeping equipment. This is due to the fact that they require you to set them up on an even surface, which can be difficult to find in the wilderness. Some of them have bars over their foot and head areas that you may need to be careful not to hit while you sleep.
Fortunately, the top cots that we tested are easy to install. Some are self-standing and are a massive relief since they don't require you to figure out how to secure them and others feature a simple foldout design and a couple of clicks to set them in the right position. Traditional cots are a different story. They require you to put together the frame by yourself and then tie the fabric, which takes an enormous amount of energy and time.
The Alps Mountaineering Double Kwik cot is among the simplest to set-up, so it can be used both for camping in the car and tent camping. It can also be used on backpacking trips. It's heavier than the typical cot, but it folds down to a size about similar to the carry case of a fold-down camping chair. It's also extremely durable, being made from a tough and comfortable 600D polyester and a sturdy aluminum frame.
Another option we suggest is the Coleman Pack-Away Cot, which is another cinch to set up. It also has a unique construction that eliminates any bars across your feet and head, making it perfect for sleepers who are back or side. The cot folds down to a compact size, which is about the same size as the bag that you use to store your backpack of choice. It's heavier than other cots that we've tested, but it feels very solid and is suitable for adults who weigh up to 225lbs.
We were also awestruck by the Helinox Lite Cot, which is a very light cot that's extremely easy to install. It takes only two seconds to unfold and snap back into place. It only requires a few pulls to disassemble for storage. The legs are locked using a lever lock system that is extremely secure and provides an excellent base for your sleeping bag.
Durability
The best camping cots are made to withstand the rigors of abuse and use. They feature durable components like aluminum frames and sturdy fabrics. Fabric must be tightly woven to ensure that it will not tear under the weight of an individual sleeping. cots to tots -quality cot is constructed of 600D polyester, which is strong and able to withstand wear and tear. The most durable cots have double stitching and reinforced seams in high-stress areas like pole sleeves.
They are perfect for camping because they will keep you warm and away from any bugs or other creatures that might be lurking in the night. They are also a great alternative to sleeping bags and foam pads if you're backpacking or hiking. However, not all cots are made equal, and some require you to pair them with an additional sleeping pad to ensure optimal comfort. This can be a big hassle, especially for backpackers who are already carrying a large backpack.
Some cots, for instance the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3, use an air mattress to make them more comfortable which means you can enjoy a good night's sleep and not need to bring a sleeping pad with you. The cot is huge and heavy, so it could be difficult to fit into a tent even if it's spacious.
The Helinox Lite Cot is another great option that doesn't require an additional sleeping pad to be comfortable. Its aluminum frame is lightweight and provides great support and is comfortable to sleep on. Our testers who used it on hikes in the mountains say they felt more comfortable than using an air or foam pad.
They're ideal for guests who are who are staying in your home and you don't want to have them sleep on the floor. They're also a great addition to a camper or RV because they are more comfortable than inflatable mattress. Plus, they're more stable than a tent or air mattress, so you don't have to fret about them bouncing around or blowing up during the night.