10 Best Camping Cots in 2022 (Coleman, Kamp-Rite, and More)
Nothing can beat the comfort of getting a good night's sleep during a camping trip. When you indulge in adventures and other outdoor activities, what you would want by the end of the day is a comfortable sleep. Getting a camping cot can greatly improve your camping experience, mainly for the good rest you get and the energy you feel the next day.
But choosing one involves a lot of research and analysis. That's why we made the search easy for you by picking up the 10 best ones from among the many good ones. One of our favorites is the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot that comes with a premium sleeping pad for optimal support to the camper. It's all thanks to the sturdy steel frame that offers great weight capacity!
Quick List - Top Camping Cots
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Why Should You Choose a Camping Cot?
When sleeping poorly can affect your camping activities, camping cots can be the solution. They're great sleeping systems for those who don't want to sleep on cold, hard ground while camping during the summer or fall. However, they don't provide any insulation, so you might want to bring a blanket in the colder months.
A camping cot can offer some protection from snakes and other creepy crawlies, too, unlike a sleeping bag or a camping mattress. If you usually camp with your family, you'll also like it when your kids can rest well and be ready for the next day's adventures.
What's more, a camping cot is usually spacious. There are some products that can accommodate up to two people! Some have space for storing your camping gear and essentials, too!
How to Choose a Camping Cot – Buying Guide
Your choice of a cot will primarily be affected by what kind of camping you do. Certainly, those who travel by car and stay in a cabin will have different considerations from those going on a solo hiking trip in rough terrain for two weeks. We'll help explain the materials, specs, and special features which should influence your decision.
Find a Cot With Features for Your Sleeping Style
Everyone sleeps in a different way. And it's important to choose a camping cot that suits your sleeping style in order to ensure comfort.
Side sleepers put a lot of pressure on their hips and shoulders while sleeping and, therefore, tend to experience hip and shoulder pain. If you're a side sleeper, you might want to go for a product that has a mattress topper to provide support beneath your hips and shoulders.
People with back problems need a firm sleeping surface that relieves pressure on the back and can facilitate spinal alignment. If you have back pain, consider a camping cot that has a spring suspension system, as it offers a sleeping area that's firm, even, and not sagging.
There are also camping cots with integrated headrest that gives your head and neck some cushioning. You no longer need to bring a pillow with you when you're traveling!
Choose Aluminum Frames for Less Weight, Steel Frames for Durability
The frame is one of the core components that determine the camping cot’s stability and comfort. It would be best to choose a cot with a lightweight, rust-resistant, and sturdy frame.
While most heavy-duty cots come with steel frames, aluminum is commonly used for standard camping cots. Both are strong and can render great support and stability to the cot. However, aluminum is more lightweight. But it can bend when subject to lots of weight or pressure.
On the other hand, steel can withstand heavy weights and can last long without bending. But to make sure how much weight a cot can handle, check the product's description. Many products can withstand a weight of 300 pounds, but there are also products that have a max weight of 600 pounds!
While the cot’s material must remain your priority, you also shouldn't forget to check how easy it is to fold the cot for mobility. Many products can fold up to a very compact size that fits into your car trunk or even a storage bag. But those that come with a mattress might take up more space.
Multiple Legs Ensure Even Distribution of Weight
The legs of camping cots determine their stability and support and are an equally important feature to consider during decision-making. Camping cots can have X legs, C legs, or vertical legs.
X-shaped legs offer great strength and durability to the cot to bear varying weights. They are greatly preferred by those in the armed forces and can provide the comfort of a king-sized bed. They are a favorite among serious campers who cannot do away with a good night’s sleep.
Camping cots with C or U-shaped legs are super portable, easy to fold, and are great for casual campers. They can be folded twice or thrice depending on the number of legs available.
Multiple legs enable even distribution of weight in addition to being easy to carry. Some camping cots with vertical legs feature one leg at each corner plus an additional leg on each side for optimal support, but they aren't that common.
If your cot has X or vertical legs, a lot of pressure goes to the feet and can damage your tent floor. To prevent the legs from tearing or puncturing the floor, ensure that the feet have rubber caps.
Go With a Bed Material That Suits the Weather
Polyester is commonly used in camping cots. It's lightweight, offers great support, and is easy to clean and maintain. However, there are many kinds of polyester, and they are not created equally. You should look specifically for 600D polyester, as it's a heavy-duty material that is strong, dust-resistant, and can provide some insulation as well.
Nylon is another popular material. Compared to polyester, it's more durable and feels softer. Although nylon can repel water just like polyester, it actually takes a longer time to dry. So when it comes to rain, polyester performs better.
A cot with cotton canvas fabric can be heavy and can grab all the dust and dirt from the surroundings. They retain stains and can be difficult to clean. But if you get tempted by its comfort and classic looks, you can go for it, regardless of the shortcomings.
For camping in the hot summer months, a cot with a mesh top will be the best choice. They offer better air circulation below without trapping heat between the ground and your body.
Select a Size and Weight Depending on Your Needs
A standard camping cot is 75 inches long and 25 inches wide. You can also find longer cots to accommodate taller individuals and wider cots for those who want more space.
A standard cot made of an aluminum frame can weigh anywhere between 15 and 20 pounds. And if your cot is made of heavy-duty steel, it will be heavier. The same applies to a cot with extra padding or a foam mattress on top.
There are some portable cots that weigh about four pounds only. They usually stay close to the ground and are great for backpackers who want to travel light. Those cots might not be able to tolerate a lot of weights, too. Sturdier cots are better, but you may have to sacrifice that to reduce weight for portability.
Save Time With a Cot That's Easy to Assemble
Simple camping cots are straightforward and are easy to assemble and pack. But if your camping cot comes with features such as tension springs, it can take a while before you completely unfold it and assemble it for use.
But none of these will take the time it takes to set up a tent! Most models can be set up in a breeze after a few attempts. Cots that collapse into multiple folds pack small and are easy to assemble. They are highly recommended for inexperienced campers.
Add Comfort and Usability With Features Like Side Tables, Pockets, and More
Certain features are not compulsory but are added to offer more comfort. A side table attached to the cot can be a good option and can provide a home-like luxury. You can place your water bottle or other essentials like your phone, keys, or a flashlight on it for easy access in the middle of the night.
Some cots come with side pockets or storage organizers to store your valuables. Convertible camping cots with innovative designs are ideal when camping with friends or family. They can be converted into a bunk bed or collapsed to make a bench to sit on during the day, or you can unlock the cot to separate it into two single cots.
You can also find self-contained cots that resemble an off-the-ground tent. They are made of nylon or polyester and give extra protection from insects and moisture if used inside a standard tent. Some are so flexible that you can convert them into a standard cot or a lounge chair during the day.
10 Best Camping Cots
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Coleman ComfortSmart Cot | | Best for the Flexible Spring Suspension System | |
2 | Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot | | Best Spacious Cot for Those With Back Pain | |
3 | Coleman Trailhead II Cot | | Best for the Sturdy Construction | |
4 | Coleman Camping Cot | | Best Camping Cot for People Suffering from Hip or Shoulder Pain | |
5 | Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot | | Best for the Rainfly That Protects You from Rain or Mosquitos | |
6 | Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot | | Best for the Foldable Design | |
7 | Alpcour Folding Camping Cot | | Best Camping Cot With a Headrest for Side Sleepers | |
8 | KingCamp Ultralight Compact Folding Camping Tent Cot | | Best Lightweight Camping Cot | |
9 | Disc-O-Bed Youth Kid-O-Bunk With Organizers | | Best Bunk Beds System for Kids | |
10 | Milliard Lightweight Folding Cot With Mattress | | Best for the Thick, Firm Mattress That Offers Home-Like Comfort |
Best for the Flexible Spring Suspension System
- Comes with an air mattress and spring suspension system to ensure comfort
- Pull-out side table provides space for books or cups
- Supports up to 300 pounds
- Easy to fold and pack in a car or camper
- Great for side sleepers
- Mattress slides easily from the frame
If you're looking for the comfort of sleeping in a bed after a long day of outdoor adventures, this is ideal. A spring system supports this super-comfortable cot with an adequately thick air mattress, so it offers maximum stability and comfort. It's great for side sleepers, too!
There were reviews about the mattress sliding from the cot, especially from those who frequently tossed and turned. But many raving reviews stated that the cot was as comfortable as a bed and was easy to set up. It held up well and stayed stable and strong for many who used it for ultimate rest.
Teton SportsOutfitter XXL Camping Cot
Best Spacious Cot for Those With Back Pain
- Provides a spacious and even sleeping surface that works well even for those with back pain
- The pivot arm helps to set the cot up effortlessly
- Folds down for easy storage and transport
- Supports up to 600 pounds
- Quite heavy, according to some reviews
- Aluminum frame can rust easily
This cot is incredibly spacious and has a higher weight capacity with its aluminum frame and steel S-legs. The rubber bushes supporting the legs can prevent your tent floor from tearing. The taut sleeping surface is also wide enough for you to spread out and relax after a day's adventure.
A few users found the cot was too heavy. However, happy campers said it was greatly portable. Many buyers, including those with back pain, also commented that they were able to sleep comfortably on the camping cot. The inclusion of the pivot arm was complimented by many for its role in easy setup.
Best for the Sturdy Construction
Pros:
- Has a smooth and creamy texture that spreads easily
- Fabric top doesn't sag and is helpful for people with back pain
- Foldable design simplifies the storage process
- Steel frame is sturdy and can hold up to 300 pounds
Cons:
- Make creaking noise
- Difficult to set up due to the taut fabric
This Coleman cot has a sturdy steel frame, X-shaped cross-bar legs, and can support 300 pounds. It doesn't come padded, but the high-tension fabric top can keep it sag-free for a comfortable sleep.
A few users said it made creaky sounds while turning and shifting positions, but metal cots with fabric tops naturally make these sounds. Lubricating the joints can prevent this. Many users felt that it folded up well and was pretty comfortable. They also loved the sturdy construction.
Best Camping Cot for People Suffering from Hip or Shoulder Pain
- Air mattress is comfortable to sleep on and provides great support for those with shoulder, back, or hip problems
- Slide-out side tables have enough space to keep your essentials and include holders for your cups
- Folds up compactly to fit into your car trunk
- Fits two people easily
- Makes creaking sounds
If you frequently camp with your partner, you will love this sturdy and spacious cot that comes with a superior air mattress. The leak-proof air mattress supported by a coil system contours to your body's shape and can hold two. The mattress comes with a sewn-in cover to place it firmly on the cot.
There were complaints about the bed being noisy and not staying inflated for long. But there were many raving reviews about the cot's quality and comfort. Reviewers with shoulder, back, or hip pain also confirm that the air mattress provided great cushioning for them. Some complimented it for good off-the-ground height.
Best for the Rainfly That Protects You from Rain or Mosquitos
- Includes rainfly that helps protect you from wet weather as well as mosquitos
- Durable and easy to set up
- Has a lot of interior pockets for storing essentials
- Provides plenty of room for you to sleep comfortably
- Can be folded into a lounge chair
- Not the best ventilation, according to reviews
This off-the-ground cot tent will be your favorite if you dislike carrying a ton of gear. The tent is built into the cot, so it comes as a space-saver for backpackers. The highlights are the two additional legs and its easy conversion to a long lounge chair for a star-gazing night adventure.
Some users reported waking up sweaty in the middle of their sleep due to poor ventilation. Still, many loved the included rainfly that gave great protection from the outside elements. A lot of buyers confirmed that it held up well in rain and wind.
Best for the Foldable Design
- Side table with a cup holder is useful in keeping your essentials at hand
- Provides a lot of sleeping space
- Folds up easily
- Has a sturdy construction that can support up to 300 pounds
- Reviewers say it's not the most comfortable, so you might want to put a memory foam pad on top
- Makes a lot of noise when you move around
This camping cot is distinctive for its wide sleeping area and removable side table. Despite the lightweight design, its sturdy steel frame and legs can hold individuals weighing up to 300 pounds. The assembled width is generous as well.
Some users suggested adding a mattress on top for comfort. For some, the cot made too much noise. But the majority loved this sturdy cot for its easy setup, portability, and spacious sleeping space. Many reviewers also like the convenient side table that keeps their essentials within easy reach.
Alpcour Folding Camping Cot
Best Camping Cot With a Headrest for Side Sleepers
- Polyester fabric is strong and water-resistant
- Headrest gives your neck and head support while sleeping
- Folds up effortlessly and folds down to pack inside a sleek carry bag
- Organizer pocket lets you store your phone, keys, and other essentials within easy reach
- Sleeping surface isn't spacious
- Steel frame breaks easily
The Alpcour collapsible folding cot is made of water-resistant 600D polyester fabric on top supported by a sturdy steel tube frame and legs. The gentle inclination at the headrest with a padded pillow ensures a pain-free night's sleep. There's also a pocket where you can put your essentials.
Some buyers complained that the cot was too narrow, while a few others mentioned that it wasn't really durable. But the majority found this lightweight cot easy to set up. Side sleepers also said they were able to comfortably sleep on this cot. Another plus point for buyers was the included carrying case that makes transportation easy.
KingCampUltralight Compact Folding Camping Tent Cot
Best Lightweight Camping Cot
- Only weighs 4.9 pounds and is suitable for backpackers
- Comfortable to sleep on
- Frame and legs are made of durable aluminum alloy and can withstand up to 264 pounds
- Polyester fabric is breathable and tear-resistant
- Easy to set up and fold down
- Too close to the ground
If you're a backpacker looking for an ultra-lightweight camping cot, you'll love this highly-portable cot. It stays just five inches above the ground but is sturdy with its aluminum alloy frame and strong, tear-resistant polyester top. This cot also comes with a pillow.
The cot's proximity to the ground was also a concern for a few campers. But many users found it sturdy, lightweight, and holding up well. Motorcycle campers and mountaineering enthusiasts had optimal comfort from using this cot. This cot is praised by those having neck and back problems as well.
Disc-O-BedYouth Kid-O-Bunk With Organizers
Best Bunk Beds System for Kids
- Bunk beds system accommodates two kids
- Side organizers attached to each cot to keep reading and writing materials and other belongings
- Polyester fabric is water-resistant and comfortable to sleep on
- Easy to assemble and goes into two carry bags
- Cots are heavy
- Fabric frays at the seams
If you usually camp with your children, having enough sleeping space in the tent can be a problem. This cot from Disc-O-Bed works as a bunk bed or two single cots. During the day, you can convert it into a longer and wider bench to relax on. The water-resistant polyester top conforms to the body shape and can give them a good night's sleep.
Some users complained of its heaviness, and some said that the fabric frayed at the seams. But many others found this a perfect solution for space issues during camping or sleepovers. Most found it sturdy and comfortable enough to hold their kids.
MilliardLightweight Folding Cot With Mattress
Best for the Thick, Firm Mattress That Offers Home-Like Comfort
Pros:
- Steel frame is sturdy
- Thick and firm foam mattress provides support for your back
- Easy to set up and transport
- Has a compact size that folds to only 12 inches thick for easy storage
Cons:
- Mattress smells unpleasant, according to some reviews
- Small and suitable for kids only
If you seek the comfort of sleeping on your bed while camping in the rugged outdoors, you should try this cot. It comes with a four-inch-thick foam mattress that's vacuum-packed and fluffs up once opened. Once folded up, the attached wheels make it easy to transport the cot.
Some buyers mentioned that the mattress had an off-putting smell. Some further added that the product was too small and was suitable only for kids to sleep on. But many others found the cot sturdy and the mattress thick and firm enough for a comfortable sleep. Those with back pain said they were able to sleep well as well.
How to Pick a Good Campsite
Are you a beginner at camping? Need help picking a good place to place your tent by? Then check out this video by Howcast that gives you a few pointers on what kinds of areas to set up camp by!
More Camping Gear for a Good Night's Sleep
Are you looking for other outdoor sleeping options? And do you have the right shelter for your wilderness adventure? Here are some recommendations from us!
Top 5 Camping Cots
No. 1: Coleman｜ComfortSmart Cot
No. 2: Teton Sports｜Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
No. 3: Coleman｜Trailhead II Cot
No. 4: Coleman｜Camping Cot
No. 5: Kamp-Rite｜Oversize Tent Cot
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.