Tips for Shopping for the Ideal Camping Cot

Tips for Shopping for the Ideal Camping Cot

The ideal camping cot depends on where and when you plan to camp as well as your personal needs.

Size

More specifically, consider the length and width of the camping cot. Will it be able to accommodate your height and size? It’s possible for two persons to use a single cot, but again you’ll need to consider the size. Remember: there’s a slight but significant difference between a snug and uncomfortable fit.

Ideally speaking, however, you should purchase a cot that’s taller and wider than you are. This will allow you to stretch fully to your height and toss and turn to your heart’s content without falling out of the cot.

Weight

There are two types of weight to consider. First, you need to consider how much weight the cot’s able to bear. Standard cots can bear a maximum weight of 300 pounds but some can carry more or less than that depending on their design and the materials they’re made of.

So be careful – look at the specs before you buy.  The Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot, for example, can support 300 pounds. But the

Byer of Maine Allagash AL Cot

, on the other hand, is recommended for up to 250 pounds.  Both are great cots – but like any piece of equipment, it comes down to your personal needs.

Second, you need to consider the actual weight of the cot. Is it something you’ll be able to carry on your own without any difficulties? If you have to trek, crawl, and swim just to reach your camp site – having a heavy cot on your back is sure to mess with your balance and stamina.

Portability

The best cots are those designed for portable use with padded or comfortable straps that you can use to secure around your body for hands-free transport.  For example, the

Texsport Folding Jumbo Camp Cot

easily folds and slips in a nylon bag so you can take it with you anywhere.

Features

Once you’ve a selection of camping cots that offer the ideal size and weight as well as durable, high-quality design, you can get to the fun part and consider features that will give you a great night’s sleep under the moon and stars.

Some camping cot designs come with built-in padded mattresses, such as the Coleman Big Sky Folding Cot. Like regular beds, they have their own tension-bearing and coiled systems that allow them to mold themselves according to your body shape instead of sagging in unwanted parts.

Camping on uneven grounds won’t be a problem if you purchase cots that have pivoting and adjustable feet. Some also have adjustable settings to rest your bed at a more reclined or inclined angle, depending on your preferences.

Like camping chairs, a number of cots also come with extra storage space so that you’ll always have your essential belongings within reach. You can use them to store your mobile phone or PDA, your first-aid kit, or even bottled drinks.

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