The Best Camping Cots

Buying Guide

The COVID-19 pandemic brought renewed attention to a great way to vacation. Instead of staying in hotels or vacation rental homes, travelers have discovered the benefits of sleeping outdoors. In 2021, 53 percent of travelers included camping as part of their travels, while camping accounted for 40% of all leisure trips.

There are many benefits to camping, one of which is the amount of money you save. This type of accommodation requires just the one-time purchase of a tent and some supplies, and you can set up camp anywhere that’s allowed. For a minimal nightly fee, you can often get a place to set up your tent that includes access to restroom facilities and showers. Some campgrounds even have grills and fire pits to make dinnertime easy.

MORE: 12 easy camping hacks that will make you a happy camper

When bedtime comes, though, it can be tough to get comfortable, especially when you’re used to sleeping on a cushy mattress in a temperature-controlled home. But sleeping outdoors can be rewarding, and you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.

For years, campers spread sleeping bags out on the floor of a tent. Sleeping bags are cozy while also providing some cushioning between your body and the ground. Today, campers may also use air mattresses and foam pads for extra comfort while sleeping  But the U.S. armed services went another route, and members of the military use cots for resting on while at base camps and other on-the-go situations.

You can put this same concept to work on your camping adventures. The right cot will keep you off the ground, giving you a reliably flat surface to sleep on. You can even buy a memory foam topper or use blankets or a sleeping bag to provide the cushioning you need to feel like you’re sleeping on a mattress. Some cots even come with a topper that serves this purpose.

But a topper can negate the one thing that’s handiest about a cot: It can be quickly folded and taken with you. Many come with carrying bags, so you can easily sling them over your shoulder. If you’re hiking, this can come in handy since it can join your pack as one of the supplies you take along with you.

• Look at the measurements of the sleeping area of any cot you’re considering. Not all cots will work for taller people.
• Although you’ll want a cot that’s sturdy, pay attention to the overall weight of the cot if you plan to carry it far. This is especially important if you’re taking them hiking. Many weigh around 15 pounds, but go as light as you can for those longer treks.
• Each cot has a maximum weight capacity. If the sleeping area is large enough, you may be able to snuggle with your child, but most cots are built to sleep one adult.
• If you’re used to a bedside table, that could be one thing you miss during your camping excursion. A cot elevates you from the floor, so setting the items on the ground next to you will require you to reach down. Some cots come with storage pouches or even a removable table. This can come in handy for keeping items like glasses or smartphones within reach.
• If you prefer to sleep with a pillow, you might need to take one with you on your camping excursion. Plan for this as you consider the space you’ll have for supplies.
• On hot nights, the material of some cots can tend to build up body heat. Look for one that’s breathable to keep you cool while you sleep.
• Cots can slide around as you move. If you’re looking for more stability, find a cot with slip-resistant rubber feet.
• Most cots fold and unfold for speedy setup, though some can take longer than others.
• Even tent camping can expose you to bad weather at times. Look for a cot that’s water-resistant to hold up even in wet conditions.