Best Camping Cot for Comfortable Outdoor Adventures
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
Camping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature. However, sleeping on the hard ground can be uncomfortable and can lead to a less than restful night’s sleep. This is where a camping cot comes in. A camping cot is a portable bed that can be easily set up and taken down, making it a convenient option for those who love to camp.
When it comes to purchasing the best camping cot, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size of the cot. You want to make sure that the cot is big enough to comfortably fit you, but not so big that it takes up too much space in your tent. The second is the weight of the cot. You want to make sure that it is light enough to carry with you on your camping trip, but sturdy enough to support your weight. Finally, you want to consider the material that the cot is made from. You want to make sure that it is durable and able to withstand the elements.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten camping cots to identify the ones that provide the best balance of comfort, portability, and durability.
Best Camping Cots
When it comes to camping, a good night’s sleep is essential. And that’s where camping cots come in. These handy pieces of equipment elevate you off the ground, providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface. Whether you’re car camping or backpacking, there’s a camping cot out there that’s perfect for you. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best camping cots on the market today, so you can choose the one that’s right for your needs.
Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot
If you’re looking for a sturdy and comfortable cot for camping or hosting guests, the Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot is a great choice.
Pros
- Elevated comfort: No more sleeping on rough or cold ground.
- Built to last: Strong cross-bar steel frame.
- Portable: Folds to fit in most car trunks.
Cons
- Heavy: Not ideal for backpackers or hikers.
- Difficult to assemble and break down: Requires some practice and muscle.
- Bulky: Takes up a lot of space when folded.
The Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot is a classic military-style cot that accommodates most people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall. With an extra-sturdy powder-coated steel frame that supports up to 300 pounds, this cot is built to last. The polyester sleeping surface is snug and supportive, ensuring a good night’s sleep whether you’re at the campsite or in the guest room.
When you’re not using the cot, it folds up compactly and stores in the included carrying bag, which includes a shoulder sling for easy transport. Specific construction details include sturdy steel tubing, two snap-on end braces, and three scissor-action folding legs. The cot measures 75 by 17 by 35 inches (W x H x D).
While the Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot is heavy and bulky, it’s perfect for car camping or hosting guests. If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable cot that will last for years, this is a great choice.
Coleman Camping Cot with Sleeping Pad | Folding ComfortSmart Camp Cot with Mattress Pad Deluxe (Big & Tall)
If you’re looking for a comfortable and easy-to-setup camping cot, then the Coleman Camping Cot with Sleeping Pad is a great choice.
Pros
- The ComfortSmart coil suspension system and thick foam mattress pad provide superior support and comfort.
- The strong steel frame supports up to 300 pounds and fits campers up to 6 feet 6 inches.
- It folds to fit into most car trunks and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
Cons
- It’s not the lightest camping cot on the market, weighing in at 19.58 pounds.
- The included battery pump can be loud and take a while to fully inflate the air mattress.
- The side tables can be a bit flimsy and may not hold heavier items securely.
I recently took the Coleman Camping Cot with Sleeping Pad on a weekend camping trip and was impressed with its comfort and ease of use. The ComfortSmart coil suspension system and thick foam mattress pad provided a great night’s sleep, even on uneven ground.
Setting up the cot was a breeze thanks to its simple design and clear instructions. The side tables were a nice touch, providing a convenient place to store items like my phone and water bottle during the night.
The only downsides to this camping cot were its weight and the included battery pump. While it’s not the lightest option on the market, it’s still manageable to carry and transport. The battery pump, however, can be quite loud and take a while to fully inflate the air mattress.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Coleman Camping Cot with Sleeping Pad to anyone in need of a comfortable and convenient camping cot.
Sportneer Camping Cot with Mattress
If you’re looking for a portable and comfortable camping cot, the Sportneer Camping Cot with Mattress is a great choice.
Pros
- The soft pad provides extra comfort, making it easier to sleep while camping.
- The two large pockets on the cot are incredibly convenient for storing items like sunglasses, books, and water bottles.
- The cot is easy to set up and take down, so you can spend more time enjoying your camping trip.
Cons
- The cot is not very wide, so it may not be comfortable for larger individuals.
- The cot is not very tall, so it may be difficult to get in and out of for some people.
- The cot is not very sturdy, so it may not be suitable for heavier individuals.
The Sportneer Camping Cot with Mattress is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and portable camping cot. The soft pad provides extra comfort, making it easier to sleep while camping. The two large pockets on the cot are incredibly convenient for storing items like sunglasses, books, and water bottles. Additionally, the cot is easy to set up and take down, so you can spend more time enjoying your camping trip.
However, the cot is not very wide, so it may not be comfortable for larger individuals. The cot is also not very tall, so it may be difficult to get in and out of for some people. Finally, the cot is not very sturdy, so it may not be suitable for heavier individuals. Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and portable camping cot, the Sportneer Camping Cot with Mattress is a great choice.
EVER ADVANCED Oversized XL Folding Camping Cot
If you’re looking for a comfortable camping cot that can accommodate heavier weight, the EVER ADVANCED Oversized XL Folding Camping Cot is a great option.
Pros
- The reinforced steel X-leg assembly provides stability and can support up to 550lbs.
- The cot is oversized with open dimensions of 84.3″L x41.9”W x19.7″H, making it perfect for personal comfort and for family cuddling.
- The cot is easy to set up and fold into the carry bag, with the only parts you need to put together being the 2 end tension rods.
Cons
- The cot is heavy at 26.6 lbs, which may be inconvenient for backpacking or long-distance hiking.
- The cot is too tall for some tents, which may limit its versatility.
- The cot may not be as comfortable for those who prefer a softer sleeping surface.
In my experience, the EVER ADVANCED Oversized XL Folding Camping Cot is a sturdy and comfortable option for camping trips. The cot was easy to set up and provided a stable sleeping surface throughout the night. However, the cot’s weight may make it difficult to carry on longer trips, and its height may not be suitable for all tents. Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and spacious camping cot, the EVER ADVANCED Oversized XL Folding Camping Cot is definitely worth considering.
Coleman Converta Folding Cot
If you’re looking for a reliable camping cot that is easy to pack and transport, the Coleman Converta Folding Cot is a great option.
Pros
- The cot is adjustable, with four back positions and two foot positions, making it easy to find a comfortable sleeping position.
- The durable powder-coated steel frame can support up to 225 pounds, making it suitable for most people up to 6 feet 6 inches tall.
- The cot can be easily folded and stored in most car trunks, making it a convenient option for camping trips.
Cons
- The cot is quite stiff and taut, which may not be comfortable for everyone. Adding a topper or pad can help alleviate this issue.
- The cot can be noisy, especially when moving around during sleep.
- Some users have found the cot to be slightly overpriced for its quality and features.
Overall, the Coleman Converta Folding Cot is a solid choice for anyone in need of a portable and durable camping cot. Its adjustable design and easy portability make it a convenient option for camping trips, while its sturdy frame ensures a comfortable sleeping experience.
MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed
If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable camping cot that’s easy to set up and comfortable to sleep on, the MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed might be the one for you.
Pros
- Weighs only 4.8 pounds and folds down to a compact size for easy transport
- Simple and quick to assemble and disassemble
- Sturdy enough to support up to 275 pounds and comfortable to sleep on
Cons
- The cot may be a bit narrow for some people
- The legs may sink into soft ground
- The cot may make some noise when you move around on it
This camping cot is ideal for campers, trekkers, hikers, backpackers, adventurers, and anyone who wants to sleep comfortably in the great outdoors. It’s made of ripstop nylon fabric and tent pole style aircraft-grade high strength aluminum legs, which make it sturdy enough to support up to 275 pounds. The cot size is optimal for most people, and the 5 heavy-duty rods strongly support the cot to make the cot surface flat without sag. The 10 anti-skid feet make the bed stable without wobbling, and the off-ground design keeps you away from hard and wet ground.
The MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed is also ultralight and compact, weighing only 4.8 pounds, and folding down to a 16.9 x 5.5 inch stuff sack that can fit into your travel backpack. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble, thanks to its foldable aluminum shock-cord pole structure, which makes for easy assembly. Within minutes, you can finish the assembly process.
This camping cot is also versatile and convenient for overnight hiking, trekking, hunting, road trip, and indoor and office lunch break use. You can throw off the burden of heavy and bulky camping gear and enjoy light travel now.
In summary, if you’re looking for a lightweight, durable, and comfortable camping cot that’s easy to set up and transport, the MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed is a great option.
DRMOIS Camping Cot
If you are looking for a durable and comfortable camping cot, the DRMOIS Camping Cot is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- The unique square high strength 25mm steel tubes and innovative X pattern make it heavy-duty and stable, with a weight capacity of up to 450 lbs.
- The breathable 1680D 3 layers Oxford fabric is not only superior in strength but also water-resistant and environmentally friendly.
- The curved frame is ergonomically designed for headrest position, ensuring you won’t wake up with back, neck, or shoulder aches.
Cons
- The cot weighs 15lbs, which may be too heavy for backpacking.
- The folded dimension of 100 x 28 x 16cm may be too large for some campers.
- The side pocket may not be large enough to store bigger items.
The DRMOIS Camping Cot is incredibly quick and easy to set up and fold down, making it a great option for camping trips. The cot comes with a mesh outer pocket for easy visibility, which is perfect for storing your cell phone, keys, water bottle, and other small items. The cot’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, but its weight may be a concern for backpackers.
The breathable 1680D 3 layers Oxford fabric is not only superior in strength but also environmentally friendly, ensuring you won’t have to worry about dampness. The curved frame is ergonomically designed for headrest position, ensuring you won’t wake up with back, neck, or shoulder aches. The side pocket is perfect for storing your small items, but it may not be large enough to store bigger items.
Overall, if you are looking for a durable and comfortable camping cot, the DRMOIS Camping Cot is definitely worth checking out.
Buying Guide for the Best Camping Cot
When looking for a camping cot, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of the cot is an important consideration, especially if you are a heavier person or plan to use the cot for two people. Look for a cot with a weight capacity that exceeds your body weight or the combined weight of you and your camping partner.
Size
Consider the size of the cot when both folded and unfolded. Ensure that the folded size is compact enough to fit in your vehicle or backpack, and that the unfolded size provides enough space for you to comfortably sleep.
Material
The material of the cot should be durable and able to withstand outdoor elements. Look for a cot made of high-quality materials such as aluminum or steel frames and sturdy fabrics like polyester or nylon.
Comfort
The comfort of the cot is crucial for a good night’s sleep. Look for a cot with a comfortable sleeping surface, such as a padded or quilted top. Additionally, consider the height of the cot and whether it is easy to get in and out of.
Additional Features
Some camping cots come with additional features such as built-in storage pockets, cup holders, or even a built-in pillow. Consider these features and decide if they are important to you.
By considering these factors, you can choose a camping cot that meets your needs and provides a comfortable sleeping experience while camping.
Factor | Considerations |
---|---|
Weight Capacity | Choose a cot with a weight capacity that exceeds your body weight or the combined weight of you and your camping partner. |
Size | Ensure that the folded size is compact enough to fit in your vehicle or backpack, and that the unfolded size provides enough space for you to comfortably sleep. |
Material | Look for a cot made of high-quality materials such as aluminum or steel frames and sturdy fabrics like polyester or nylon. |
Comfort | Look for a cot with a comfortable sleeping surface, such as a padded or quilted top. |
Additional Features | Consider if built-in storage pockets, cup holders, or a built-in pillow are important to you. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Camping Cot
What are some important factors to consider when choosing a camping cot?
When choosing a camping cot, it is important to consider factors such as weight capacity, size, portability, ease of setup, and durability. It is also important to consider the type of camping you will be doing and the weather conditions you may encounter.
Which camping cots are best for side sleepers?
Camping cots with a flat sleeping surface and good support are best for side sleepers. Look for cots with thicker padding or additional support in the hip and shoulder areas to help alleviate pressure points.
What are some of the most comfortable camping cots available?
Camping cots with thicker padding or additional support, such as those with built-in air mattresses, tend to be more comfortable. Look for cots with a sturdy frame and high weight capacity to ensure maximum comfort and support.
What are some good options for camping cots for couples?
Camping cots that are wider and longer than standard cots are good options for couples. Look for cots that have a weight capacity that can support both individuals, and consider cots that have a double-wide design or can be joined together.
Which is the best camping cot that is most suitable for larger adults?
Camping cots with a weight capacity of at least 300 pounds are most suitable for larger adults. Look for cots with a sturdy frame and reinforced support in the center and along the edges.
Can a camping cot be used as a permanent bed option?
While camping cots are designed for temporary use, they can be used as a permanent bed option. However, it is important to choose a cot with a sturdy frame and high weight capacity, and to ensure that the cot is comfortable enough for long-term use.