Nothing beats a good night’s sleep in the wilderness – and that’s where a camping cot comes in handy. Not only does it provide a comfortable place to rest your weary head, but it also elevates you off the ground, providing warmth and protection from the elements. In comparison to other alternatives, such as sleeping on the ground or in a hammock, a best camping cot offers several distinct advantages. First, its innovative design provides superior comfort, thanks to its padded surface and adjustable headrest. Second, it is highly portable, thanks to its lightweight construction. And finally, it offers an exclusive night’s sleep, free from the worries of being eaten alive by insects or waking up with a crick in your neck.
With so many different camping cots on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best camping cots available and help you choose the one that’s perfect for your needs.
Editor Picks: Camping Cots
- Best Overall Camping Cot: Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot
- Best Queen Size Camping Cot: Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed
- Best Overall Camping Cot For Two: Disc-O-Bed with Organizers
- Most Comfortable Camping Cot: Coleman Trailhead II Cot
Best Overall Camping Cot
1. Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot
- Item weight: 7 lbs
- Supporting weight: 300 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Steel
The Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot is a great option for those who want a versatile and comfortable way to sleep while camping. The cot has a durable steel frame that can support up to 250 pounds, and it features a removable side table that is perfect for holding a lamp or snacks. The cot also has a foldable design that makes it easy to transport and store. Additionally, the cot is available in three different sizes, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
Furthermore, this cot is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, lightweight, and functional cot. The cot is also very sturdy, making it ideal for car camping as well. It folds up easily, making it great for storage and transport. There is no assembly required, which makes it even more convenient. This cot is also a good choice for larger individuals, as it can accommodate up to 250 pounds.
Pros
- Best for sleeping and reclined sitting
- The foldable design fits in most circumstances
- Comes with carrying or storage bag
- Comes with nice table
- Cots are spacious and comfortable for people of all sizes
- Setup is quick and easy, no tools required
- Cots fold up into a compact carrying case for easy transport
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- The cot is spacious and comfortable
- You can sleep in any position
Cons
- Do not have secure leg locks
Best For Big Guys
2. TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot
- Item weight: 26 lbs
- Supporting weight: 600 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Aluminium
This cot is incredibly easy to set up and take down, and can be easily transported thanks to its compact, folding design. The Outfitter XXL Cot is also extremely sturdy and can support up to 600 pounds, making it perfect for larger campers. But what really sets this cot apart is its comfort, you’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a real bed thanks to the Outfitter’s soft, padded surface.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot on a camping trip, and we were very impressed. The cot is extremely sturdy and well-constructed, and it was very comfortable to sleep on. We were also impressed with how easy it was to set up and take down. Overall, we thought it was an excellent value for the price. The only downside is that the cot is quite large, so it takes up a lot of space in a tent. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable, durable, and easy-to-use cot, the TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot is a great option.
Pros
- Quick and easy pivot arm setup
- Wider than twin bed
- S-leg design offers more strength
- Rubber bushings absorb shocks
- Cot is rock solid, preventing any noise or movement
- Provides more space for sleepers
- This cot is perfect for anyone who wants a comfortable night’s sleep while camping
- Great for camping, hunting, or fishing trips
- Easily maneuverable with no rails to bump into
- The cot is made from durable materials, so it can withstand the wear and tear of outdoor use
Cons
- Rivets are flimsy
Most Comfortable Camping Cot
3. Coleman Trailhead II Cot
- Item weight: 20.9 lbs
- Supporting weight: 300 lbs
- Design: Folding X-frame
- Frame: Steel
The Coleman trailhead II cot is a great choice for anyone who wants to be comfortable while sleeping on gravel or cold surfaces. With its strong cross-bar steel frame, you can rest assured that it will last you a long time, even with intense use. Additionally, the wider unfold space and sturdy construction make it perfect for supporting up to 300 lbs of weight. And if you want even more comfort, you can always top it off with an air mattress.
The Coleman trailhead II cot is a great option for anyone in need of a reliable and comfortable sleeping surface. This cot is super easy to set up, even for one person, and does not require any inflation or assembly. Simply unfold the cot and it is ready to use. The cot is also extremely comfortable and supportive, providing a good night’s sleep. Additionally, the cot is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for camping or other outdoor activities. It is also durable and long lasting, ensuring that it will provide years of use.
Pros
- Strong cross-bar steel frame
- Elevated 6 ft. height
- Well-made and sturdy cot
- Folds up quickly and easily into a small carrying bag
- Comfortable
- The Trailhead II cot is easy to set up
- It is long and wide enough for a big guy
Cons
- Cross-bars are difficult to lock in place
Queen Size Camping Cot
4. Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed
- Item weight: 22.5 lbs
- Supporting weight: 600 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Steel
The Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed is a great choice for those who need a little extra support and comfort when camping. The cot is constructed of ComfortStrong coils, and the robust steel structure can accommodate up to 600 pounds of weight. This queen size camping cot and mattress combination provide additional comfort on the go. With or without the mattress you are elevated from the ground, which keeps you warm. This cot also features a memory foam mattress that is comfortable and supportive.
The double camping cot also comes with two cup holders that can be attached to the sides of the bed. Moreover, it also has a small storage compartment that give additional benefit.
Pros
- Side tables offer versatility
- Battery operated pump included
- ComfortStrong™ coil system air bed
- Sewing in covers keep the mattress in place
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- Easily folds up for storage
- Zips in mattress for secure sleeping surface
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Accordion-style frame makes it easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Discomforting bar in the center
- The frame does not lock in place
- Plastic feet do not set on the surface
Best For Backpacking
5. MARCHWAY Folding Tent Cot
- Item weight: 4.8 lbs
- Supporting weight: 275 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Aircraft-grade Aluminium
If you’re looking for an ultralight and compact camping cot, the MARCHWAY Folding Camping Cot is a great choice. It weighs only 4.8 pounds, and folds down to 16.9 x 5.5 inches, making it easy to pack and transport. The simple setup makes it quick and easy to set up, so you can get started enjoying your camp site right away. The sturdy construction can support up to 275 pounds, making it ideal for campers, trekkers, hikers, backpackers, and adventurers of all sizes.
Additionally, This is a great option for anyone looking for an easy to set up and comfortable camping cot. It’s large enough to accommodate most adults, and can be used by either a back sleeper or a side sleeper. The cot is also very quiet to sleep on, with no creaking or uncomfortable pressure points. Perhaps best of all, it actually collapses and fits back into its own carrying bag, making it an ideal for backpacking.
Pros
- Simple folding set up
- Anti-skid feet offer the best stability
- Comes with a bed cloth and pillowcase
- Shock cord assembling poles
- Comfortable and quiet
- Light and portable
- Made of durable, water-resistant materials
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport
Cons
- Side rails collapse with turning over
Best Low Profile Cot
6. ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Cot
- Item weight: 9 lbs
- Supporting weight: 250 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Steel
ALPS mountaineering cot is perfect for those who want an ultra-durable and sturdy cot. With a weight capacity of 250 lbs, it can easily accommodate most people. The 600D polyester fabric provides maximum comfort and stability, while the storage bag allows easy transportation. With dimensions of 74″ L x 30″ W x 7.5″ H and a weight of only 9 lbs, it is perfect for use in small spaces.
The Alps Mountaineering cot is a great choice for those who need a reasonably compact and comfortable cot that is also very strong and well-built. It takes some strength and coordination to attach the base poles to the cot poles, but once you get the hang of it, it’s not difficult. The cot is also quite comfortable, although it is more expensive than some of its competitors. One downside, however, is that it requires constant assembly and disassembly, which can be a bit of a pain.
Pros
- Variable colour options
- 600D comfortable polyester fabric
- Very light in weight
- Carrying bag offers easy storage and transportation
Cons
- Not light enough to backpack
- Set up is tricky
Camping Cot For Two
7. Kamp-Rite Compact Double Tent Cot
- Item weight: 43.5 lbs
- Supporting weight: 550 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Aluminium
The Kamp-Rite Compact Double Tent Cot is a great option for those who are looking for a big cot with tent. This particular model can accommodate up to two people, making it ideal for couples or small families. The cot is made from heavy-duty materials, so it is best suited for use in trailers or RVs. However, due to its weight, the Kamp-Rite Compact Double Tent Cot is not particularly portable. Additionally, the rain fly is designed to handle some wet weather conditions.
This tent cot sets up in seconds. It features a comfortable and spacious 85” x 55” sleeping area, two zippered entries for easy access, and dual overhead zippered windows for air flow on warm nights. The tent top can also be used separately as a standard tent.
Pros
- Elevated sleeping height
- Heavy-duty 210D construction
- Inside organizing pockets inside the tent
- Storage and carrying bag
- Set up in seconds
- The upper coat can be used separately as a tent
Cons
- Centre supporting bar is uncomfortable
Best Value For The Money
8. Helinox Cot One
- Item weight: 6.3 lbs
- Supporting weight: 320 lbs
- Design: Collapsible
- Legs: Steel
- Frame: Aluminium Alloy
The Helinox Cot One is an ultralight camping cot that packs down to a fraction of its size when not in use. Ideal for backpackers and minimalist campers, the Cot One still offers all the comfort and support of a traditional camping cot thanks to its internal bungee cord self-assembly system. The Cot One has a maximum weight capacity of 320 pounds and sets up in seconds, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. With a height of 6.5 inches, the Cot One is ideal for cold weather camping and side sleepers, and the included leg extenders raise the cot to 15 inches for even more comfort.
Helinox Cot One Plus is a lightweight, small, and portable traveling cot that is 7.5 inches longer in comparison to other alternatives. Its patented aluminium alloy legs and structure support up to 320 pounds of weight. The cot cover and zipped carrying case are constructed of 600-weave rip-stop polyester. Moreover, you can quickly assemble it with a single internal bungee rope that self-assembles the poles. To increase the height of the cot, you also get separate rods. This sleeper is suspended 6.5 inches off the ground, which is great for cold weather and peace of mind.
Pros
- Zipper carrying cover
- 5 years warranty
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable and sturdy construction
- Super comfortable, perfect for sleeping on the go.
- Easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Expensive in comparison to others
Best Overall For 2 Persons
9. Disc-O-Bed with Organizers
- Item weight: lbs
- Supporting weight:500 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Aluminium
The Disc-O-Bed Large Cot is a versatile and durable piece of furniture that can be used in a variety of ways. As a bunk, it can accommodate two people, or it can be used as a sitting bench or two single cots. The modular design makes it easy to transport and set up, and the ultra-strong construction can support up to 500lbs. It is also perfect for use both indoors and outdoors, as it does not require a mattress.
The no-tool assembly makes it quick and easy to put together, and the compact design means that it takes up less space than a traditional bed frame. I have a large family, so when we go camping, space is always an issue. That’s why I decided to invest in a pair of disc-o-beds. These beds are sturdy and well-constructed, and they provide a comfortable sleeping surface for extended camping trips.
The Disc-O-Bed is a great way to have more space for sleeping in your campervan. The system comes with an option of stacking one cot on top another, so you can use it as both extra seating or simply create two single beds at once. You’ll also get hook and loop side organizers that provide storage inside the bed frame when not being used, perfect if carrying around any personal belongings while traveling across country by RV.
Pros
- Internal zipper pockets for easy storage
- Round frame do not sink in the ground
- Versatile use; bunk bed, bench, cot
- No tools assembling
- No centre beam offer ultimate comfort
Cons
- Set up takes time
- Higher price tag
Most Durable Option
10. ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
- Item weight: 5 lbs
- Supporting weight: 300 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Aluminium
The ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot is perfect for your next adventure. This cot is made of sturdy Ripstop fabric, minimizing carry weight without sacrificing long term durability. The aluminum frame is extremely lightweight and will be sure to provide a long lasting use. This cot also has a compact foldable design with included shoulder carry bag, making transporting and storing a breeze. The ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot is perfect for backpacking trips. It is quick and easy to set up, and very portable. The cot has five legs for stability, and is designed for use without an additional pad. It is very comfortable and perfect for a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors.
This cot is one of the best pieces of gear I have used. It is pricey, but it is worth every penny if it is what you need. The cot is easy to assemble and is very sturdy and comfortable. It is also great for travel, camping, and sleepovers. The cot has a great design and is very easy to use
Pros
- Lightweight Ripstop fabric
- Comes with carry bag
- Packs small and is light
- No special tools required for assembly
- Fits in a variety of tents
- Very comfortable
- Extra money spent is a good investment
- Compact size and light weight
Cons
- Tricky first time assembly
Heavy Duty Cot
11. Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
- Item weight: 19.5 lbs
- Supporting weight: 300 lbs
- Design: Folding
- Frame: Steel
Coleman ComfortSmart Cot cot comes with a thick foam mattress that will keep you comfortable all night long, and can support up to 275 pounds. It’s perfect for car camping and features a nice closure system that keeps it sturdy and stable. This cot is a great choice for camping trips or overnight guests. It is super comfortable and spacious, even for large persons. The cot is also sturdy and durable, making it a great investment. Additionally, the Coleman ComfortSmart Camping Cot is easy to open and close, and it fits in a small storage bag. Plus, the cot provides extra storage space underneath, perfect for storing blankets or pillows.
Furthermore, the cot is elevated off the ground, so you can avoid insects and other pests. Additionally, the cot comes with a 1-year warranty, so you can be confident in its quality.
Pros
- 1 year warranty
- Superior support
- Stable grip on ground
- Best for oversized people
Cons
- None to be found
Comparison Table: Camping Cots
| Name | Price | Weight | Capacity | Size | Material | Style |
| Coleman Pack-Away Cot | $56.78 – $89.99 | 23 Pounds | Up to 300 Pounds | One Size | Steel | Single |
| TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Cot | $160 | 26 Pounds | Up to 600 Pounds | Outfitter LE – 85″ x 40″ x 19″ | Heavy-duty 600D Poly Caves Frame: Aluminum Legs: Steel | Outfitter XXL |
| Coleman Trailhead II Cot | $46.74 | 20.9 Pounds | Up to 300 Pounds | Single | Steel | Military Camping Cot |
| Coleman Folding Camp Cot and Air Bed | $137.99 | 41.9 Pounds | Up to 600 Pounds | Queen | Steel | Queen |
| MARCHWAY Folding Tent Cot | $70.99 | 4.65 Pounds | Up to 275 Pounds | One Size | Almunium | Single |
| ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Cot | $72.99 | 9.3 Pounds | Up to 250 Pounds | One Size | Polyester | Clay/Apricot |
| Kamp-Rite Compact Double Tent Cot | $340 | 43.5 Pounds | Up to 550 Pounds | Double Size | Aluminum | Vehicle Mounted Tent |
| Helinox Cot One | $349.95 | 4.8 Pounds | Up to 320 Pounds | Regular | Aluminum | Regular |
| Disc-O-Bed with Organizers | $379 | 60 Pounds | Up to 500 Pounds | Twin | Anti Rust Steel | Modular |
| ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot | $299.99 | 4.8 Pounds | Up to 300 Pounds | One Size | Polyester, Fabric | Regular |
| Coleman Comfort Smart Cot | $46.97 | 21.5 Pounds | Up to 300 Pounds | One Size | Aluminum | Regular |
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose the Best Camping Cot
A bad camping cot can be extremely uncomfortable and make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. It can also be hard to set up and take down, which can waste valuable time that could be spent enjoying the outdoors. When choosing a camping cot, keep the following factors in mind.
Size
After you have decided tent camping is for you, one of the most significant elements to consider is the size of your camping cot. Camping cots are typically built to fit one person; however, there are several variations. For instance, some models are larger or longer to accommodate two people, while others have side and end rails specifically designed for toddlers.
With all the different options available, it is important to choose the right size cot for your needs and requirements. Consider how many people will be using the cot and if you need additional features such as storage pockets or built-in pillows. Once you have found the camping cot, all that’s left is to enjoy a good night’s sleep under the stars.
Portability And Weight
When choosing a cot, weight is an important consideration. The cot should be light enough to be carried easily, but also sturdy enough to support a good amount of weight. Backpacking cots, such as MARCHWAY Folding Tent Cot, are a good option for campers who need to transport their cot a long distance, as they are typically lightweight and easy to carry. However, backpacking cots may not be as sturdy as other types of cots, so it is important to consider how much weight the cot will need to support before making a purchase. Ultimately, the best camping cot is the one that strikes the perfect balance between weight and durability. Below is the camping cots comparison based on the weight.
However, the weight holding capacity depend on various factors. For instance;
- Length and size of the cot
- Construction material
- Size; king, queen, or twin
Comfort
When choosing a camping cot, comfort is an important factor to consider. Some feature thicker padding than others, which can make a big difference when trying to get a good night’s sleep while camping. Coleman Trailhead II Cot is a nice comfortable option. You might also want to consider whether or not the cot includes an air mattress or if you need to purchase one separately. Another thing to keep in mind is the size of the cot. Some are larger than others, which can be helpful if you want extra room to move around or store belongings.
Durability
When you are purchasing a camping cot, durability is an important factor to keep in mind. The frame of the cot should be made of high-quality materials that will not break or bend easily. The fabric that covers the cot should also be durable and able to withstand repeated use. If you are planning on using your cot frequently, it is worth investing in a higher-quality model that will last longer. Additionally, pay attention to the warranty that is offered with the cot. This will give you some peace of mind in knowing that you can get a replacement if anything does happen to break.
Moreover, the two most common materials used to make camping cots are;
Aluminum
- It is light in weight
- Aluminum is rust-resistant
- Offer robust construction
Stainless Steel
- Steel is slightly heavier than aluminum
- More durable in comparison to aluminum
Speaking of fabric, nylon and polyester are the most popular because they’re abrasion-resistant and simple to clean. Another alternative is canvas fabric, which is also quite durable. However, cleaning it can be more challenging.
Set up & Installation
One of the most important factors is the assembly instructions. Each cot is different, and some can be quite complicated to put together. If you have any physical limitations, it’s best to choose a cot that is easy to assemble. Folding cots, such as Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot, are a good option for those who don’t want to spend too much time setting up their camp site. On the other hand, roll-up camping cots are more lightweight and portable, making them ideal for backpack camping. However, they can take longer to put together.
Price
When it comes to choosing the right camping cot, price is certainly an important factor to consider. However, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. In other words, the most expensive option isn’t necessarily the best option. Instead, it’s important to strike a balance between price and quality. For instance, you’ll want to make sure that the cot is made from durable materials that can withstand repeated use. Additionally, it’s worth considering features like size, weight capacity, and portability. Below is the price comparison of camping cots:
Other Camping Cot Considerations
Besides the most essential features, some brands offer add-on features. That is to say, they enhance the overall performance. For instance;
- Built-in mattress
- Built-in pillows
- Padding for comfortable sleeping
- Side or end rails for secure sleeping space
- Organizing pockets
- Zippers
- Carrying bags
Less or more, the folding camping cot or other variation take your personal preference. For instance; where you will be camping, how many hours you will be spending on the cot. In addition to your comfort, make sure to go through the crucial factors the help in enhancing your overall experience.
Make sure to look for versatility when it comes to finding the best camping cot. It will help you save money, effort, time, and most importantly space for different camping cots.
FAQs
Are Cots Good for Camping?
Camping cots are fantastic pieces of equipment to have when camping. They provide a comfortable and insulated surface to sleep on, and they are easy to set up and take down. Cots are also great for people who want a simple, dependable, and sturdy resting solution while on the go. Camping cots come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. They are also usually made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. When choosing a camping cot, be sure to consider your needs and the conditions you will be using it in. Adding a camping cot to your gear will help you get the most out of your trip and ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Do you need a mattress for a camping cot?
A mattress is not necessary for a camping cot, but it may provide more comfort. Some people find that sleeping on a camping cot without a mattress is uncomfortable, especially if the cot has metal bars running along the sides. In this case, a mattress can provide extra padding and cushioning. However, if you are looking to save weight and space while camping, a mattress is not necessary.
Some camping cots come with built-in foam or air mattress. However, make sure the fabric used is easy to clean and comfortable to sleep on, for instance, polyester or nylon are great.
Are camping cots worth it?
Camping cots can be worth it, depending on your camping needs. For example, camping cots can provide a more comfortable sleeping surface than the ground, which can be helpful if you’re camping in a rough or uneven terrain. They can also make packing and carrying your camping gear a little easier, since they typically fold up into a smaller size than traditional mattresses and sleeping bags.
However, there are some downsides to consider as well. For one, camping cots can be more expensive than other options like using an air mattress or sleeping on the ground directly. Additionally, they can sometimes be less sturdy than traditional mattresses and pose a risk of collapse if not used properly. Overall, camping cots are a significant improvement over the majority of other alternatives. For example;
- They keep you off ground
- Offer insulation against cold or hot surfaces
- Easy to assemble
- Portable
- More secure sleeping experience
Are Coleman cots good?
If you want to ensure comfort and durability, Coleman cots not only offer wider frame space, but also provide padding for sound sleep. Moreover, Coleman cots are sturdy and stable. They do not toss and turn when set properly. That is to say, Coleman ComfortSmart Cot made to our best camping cots.
Conclusion
We have provided reviews of some of the best camping cots on the market and answered some of the most common questions about these products. By considering all that we have shared in this blog post, you should be able to find the perfect camping cot for your needs. High quality cot definitely comes with higher price tags. That is to say, paying keen attention toward essentials features is crucial to make the best value purchase. For instance, considering the best features and your personal preference is the best way to narrow down to the right cot that offers you the best portability and performance.