Best Camping Cot

I’ve selected the TETON XXL Cot as the best camping cot.

As a cross-country tour guide, I have conducted many senior tour groups. This meant that I often had to consider the comfort factor when setting up campsites, which is why I began researching camping cots. They are also a good alternative to air mattresses, which tend to deflate even on level ground.

Of course, camping cots aren’t just for seniors. If you don’t want to rough it out on the cold, hard ground, a cot is an excellent way to stay warm and cozy. Also, in rainy weather, it is a guarantee that you won’t have to worry about waking up in a wet sleeping bag.

I chose the TETON XXL cot because it offers a number of great features. To begin with, there is plenty of space on this cot, allowing you to get as comfortable as you like. It is also great for all types of campers, making it quite versatile. The cot will keep you warm and snug, while simultaneously being stable and durable.

However, all campers have their preferences. Not to mention, you’ll have to take height and weight into account when selecting one. So, I made certain to include a list of camping cots to make sure there is something for everyone. If you want to learn which cot is just right for you, keep reading.

Top Camping Cots

Here are the best options available to you:

TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot – Best Overall

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 85.75 x 41 x 19.25 Inches
• Weight: 26lbs
• Supports: 600lbs
• Frame: Aluminum

Large Frame

If you are tired of having to huddle in generic cots every time you go camping, this is the answer to your problems. Wider than most twin beds, you will have plenty of room to sleep. In case you have kids, you will be able to fit two of them on here too! In any case, you can be certain that you and your fellow campers stay comfortable throughout your trip.

Excellent for All Campers

Are you tall or have a hefty physique? Or do you simply want to squeeze in more than one person on the cot? Either way, it doesn’t matter because this camping cot is more than capable of handling this and more. Not only is it incredibly long, but it has a weight capacity of 600lbs. This makes it more than suitable for any camper!

Great Sleeping Surface

The sleeping surface on this cot is pretty great. First of all, it is made from high-quality material that is less likely to tear. As such, you will be able to take it on numerous camping trips with you. At the same time, the material is quite comfortable which means that you don’t have to pad it as much.

Stable and Durable

Most people fear that their cot will give away during the night, causing them to plummet to the ground. However, this won’t be an issue with the TETON cot as it has a strong and sturdy build. Also, it has been designed in such a way that it is stable on all kinds of terrain.

The only downside to this feature is that this is one of the heavier cots around and can only be used for car camping.

Pros:

• Large frame
• Excellent capacity
• Comfortable
• Durable and stable

Cons:

• Heavy

Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot – Best for Comfort

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 80 x 31 x 15 Inches
• Weight: 21.5lbs
• Supports: 300lbs
• Frame: Steel

Well Padded Surface

If you want your camping trip to be as luxurious as possible, you should get your hands on this cot. The surface is incredibly well-padded ensuring that you don’t need to add another layer. Instead, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep without worrying about waking up with any aches or pains.

Good Dimensions

The dimensions of this cot are quite good as well. It does cater to slightly taller individuals and has enough width to keep the average person quite comfortable. Smaller individuals shouldn’t have any trouble sleeping on their side either.

Good Capacity and Stability

The cot is also accommodating and can hold up to 300lbs at once. The frame is more than capable of living up to this promise. It is quite sturdy and you won’t find the padding or the frame creaking or moving under you. As such, you can guarantee that it will be quite durable.

Easy to Set Up

This cot simply folds out and can then be folded in half. As such, your camping cot will be set up in moments without any issue. The only thing to bear in mind is that it does create a bulkier profile even when folded up. As such, you will need quite a bit of room in your vehicle to take it with you.

Pros:

• Very comfortable
• Good size
• Good capacity and stability
• Simple to set up

Cons:

• Very bulky when folded

BYER OF MAINE Camping Cot – Best for Extra Room

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 78 x 31 x 18 Inches
• Weight: 21lbs
• Supports: 330lbs
• Frame: Steel

Extra Wide

Camping cots tend to be rather narrow and this can make them tricky to sleep in without you falling off. This isn’t something that you need to worry about with this cot, though. It is much wider than most makes and models out there.

Long Profile

Most single-person cots are for people of medium to moderate height. If you are on the taller side, though, you may have found it difficult to be comfortable on other camping beds. Well, this won’t be an issue with this particular cot.

Its dimensions show that it is suitable for individuals up to 6’6 in height. So, if you have always struggled to get comfy in camping cots, those days are at an end with this model.

High-Quality Materials

If you are looking for a camping cot that can handle some serious wear and tear, then look no further than this one. It has been crafted using top-notch materials. The frame is made of sturdy steel, while the surface is reinforced fabric of 600 denier polyester.

Now, this durability does come at a cost. You will find that the cot is quite heavy. As a result, you will probably need a vehicle to transport it. There is a good chance you will require some help moving it around as well.

Folds Out and Down Easily

Even if you haven’t used a camping cot before, you can get this cot folded out and folded up in no time at all. Therefore, you will not have to worry about wasting time on this process.

Pros:

• Extra-wide profile
• Long
• High-quality
• Easy to set up

Cons:

• Heavy

KingCamp Portable Cot – Best for Lightweight Camping

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 74.8 x 26.3 x 18.9 Inches
• Weight: 12.5lbs
• Supports: 265lbs
• Frame: Steel

Possible to Carry

Most cots on the market tend to be both heavy and bulky. As such, it can be difficult to carry one along when you have to hike to your campsite. In most instances, if you are using a cot, you would have to drive to the spot.

This isn’t necessarily the case with this cot. To start with, it is somewhat lighter than most other versions – more than half in some cases. What’s more, it can be easily folded into an easy-to-carry shape. Therefore, lugging it around is a lot easier.

Sturdy and Durable

Despite the lower weight, this cot is still quite sturdy. This is largely to do with the ten-leg structure that ensures that it can easily support most body weights without any problem at all. However, you should be aware that if you toss and turn a lot, some creaking is to be expected.

As an added bonus, the fabric on this cot is made from ripstop material. This helps to prevent tears and can also work to prevent them from becoming larger. Therefore, it makes for a more durable cot overall.

Comfortable

Just because the material is tough doesn’t mean that it will feel rough against your skin. The cot as a whole is quite comfortable to sleep on. Yes, it does require an additional layer of padding, but this doesn’t need to be too thick.

Easy to Setup

It is incredibly simple to set up as well. You can set it up or fold it up in a matter of minutes. Even fitting the folded cot into the bag is a rather simple job. This means that you can save time in the process.

Pros:

• Easy to carry
• Sturdy and durable
• Comfortable
• Easy to setup

Cons:

• Tends to creak a bit

ARAER Camping Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 74.8 x 26.4 x 13.8 Inches
• Weight: 15.8lbs
• Supports: 450lbs
• Frame: Steel

Great Capacity

A higher capacity isn’t just suitable for heavier campers, it is also great for individuals who do a fair amount of tossing and turning at night. This is exactly what the cot can do with a capacity of up to 450lbs. Thanks to this, you don’t need to have any fear that your bed will give out anytime soon.

It should be noted that you’ll need to add some thicker padding on top, especially if you are going to spend a few nights on it.

Easy to Setup

Don’t let the complicated system of frame and legs fool you; this camping cot is incredibly easy to setup. Once you take it out of the bag it is a simple matter of stretching it out and waiting for the joints to lock into place. Thus, it should only take a few moments.

Getting the cot back into its bag is just as easy. Folding it up and sliding it into the bag means that you can go on your way without any hassle at all.

Durable and Stable Design

To begin with, this camping cot has been made from durable material which ensures that it is going to last longer, even when used on rough terrain. The intersecting legs keep it stable and sturdy to prevent the surface material from slipping. The legs also have rubber pads that prevent slippage.

Pros:

• Easy to set up
• Good capacity
• Durable and stable

Cons:

• Requires additional padding

Sportneer Camping Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 74 x 18.5 x 28 Inches
• Weight: 14.55lbs
• Supports: 450lbs
• Frame: Aluminum

Good Dimensions

The dimensions on this cot are perfect for campers with any body type and size. This includes moderately tall people as well. It is also wide enough for most people to sleep on without worrying about falling out during the night. All in all, the dimensions should be compatible with most campers.

Good Capacity

This cot has a good capacity as well. This means that anyone can fit on it. The additional capacity also means that you don’t have to be overly careful about stacking bags or other gear on this bed. It is more than capable of handling the weight.

Good Quality Materials

The cot is made from great materials, complete with a reinforced steel tube and 1200D durable material. All this means that you can use the cot time and time again without feeling that it’s going to fall apart.

The only element that could be improved on is the thickness of the material. If you want to get super comfortable, you will need to add considerably more padding to the surface.

Easy Installation and Fold Down

There isn’t any effort required to put up this cot or fold it again. Even if this is something you don’t have much experience doing, you will get the hang of the process in no time.

Pros:

• Good dimensions
• Good capacity
• Good quality
• Easy installation

Cons:

• Requires thicker padding

REDCAMP Folding Camp Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 75 x 28 x 15 Inches
• Weight: 14.7lbs
• Supports: 500lbs
• Frame: Steel

Good Dimensions

With these dimensions, most campers won’t have any trouble getting comfortable on this cot. It has some additional width and is suitable for taller individuals as well. Due to this, you will find that it fits a wide variety of campers. This makes it great for sharing among members of your group.

Sturdy

The overall structure of this cot is quite sturdy. It claims to hold up to 500lbs and does precisely that. What’s more, you can feel that the cot holds up when you settle in as well. This will certainly add to your peace of mind.

This also means that you can take it on camping trips with you often. You don’t have to be concerned that the frame will get weaker or that the fabric will wear away over time. The only thing you might have to watch out for is that it can get rather noisy, which might put some campers off.

Comfortable

Due to its sturdiness, this cot offers plenty of support, allowing you to sleep comfortably. Now, it does need some additional padding, as with most cots. However, there is no need to go overboard as it is already well-equipped in this area.

Easy Setup

The setup is seamless with this cot. It is just a matter of unfolding it and snapping the joints into place. Once you are done, all you have to do is to fold the cot back up and put it away.

Pros:

• Good dimensions
• Sturdy
• Comfortable
• Easy setup

Cons:

• Can be a bit noisy

ALPHA CAMP Camping Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 74.8 x 26.4 x 13.8 Inches
• Weight: 14lbs
• Supports: 600lbs
• Frame: Aluminum

Great Capacity and Stability

If you are on the heavier side or you simply want a heavy-duty cot, you will love what this model has to offer. It is capable of holding up to 600lbs and certainly lives up to its claims. Due to this, you can guarantee that the level of stability on this cot is equally excellent.

As long as you stay just under the weight limit, it holds up extremely well. What’s more, it won’t shake or budge at all, which certainly makes it a great investment.

Decent Dimensions

This cot offers decent dimensions for the average person. So, if you are on the smaller side, you will be able to stay quite comfortable. However, since it hasn’t been designed for people with larger builds, the dimensions don’t quite match up. So, if you do have a larger physique, you may find the space a bit cramped.

Good Quality

As mentioned, the cot is quite durable which is a sign that it is made from high-quality materials. Still, the manufacturers have included a lot of different features to help take this cot to the next level. This includes the addition of anti-rust paint, reinforcing bandage, non-slip feet, and a triangle frame.

Easy to Set up

Although the frame might look a bit complicated, there is nothing even remotely complex about setting it up. All you have to do is unfold it and lock it into place. When you’re done, just push it into a folded shape.

Pros:

• High capacity and stability
• Decent dimensions
• Good quality
• Easy to set up

Cons:

• Dimensions are not suitable for larger physiques

Alpcour Folding Camp Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 75 x 26 x 15 Inches
• Weight: 13lbs
• Supports: 300lbs
• Frame: Steel

Good Dimensions

You will find that these are good dimensions for most people, even those who are a bit taller. Due to this, the cot can be used by a lot of people. Also, when you’re ordering it, you don’t have to worry about getting the fit wrong.

Good Capacity

The capacity on the cot is also pretty impressive. You will find that it is quite sturdy and able to hold weights of up to 300lbs. The best thing is its durability. It is well-built and feels solid, ensuring that you can have an uninterrupted sleep every night.

On the Lighter Side

Now, this cot may not be considered lightweight, but it is certainly lighter than most models here. Due to this, you will find it easier to carry around with you. At the very least, you’ll be able to carry it from the vehicle to the camping site by yourself.

The only thing to be aware of is that it can be a little tricky to unfold and fold back up again. It may take you a few tries and some effort to get the hang of it. Once you do, it will just be a simple process.

Comfortable

This cot is surprisingly comfortable, despite its sturdiness. The material is thick, soft, and breathable, making it an excellent surface to lie on. Of course, for the best results, you should add some padding as this cot may not be so cozy to sleep on otherwise.

Pros:

• Good capacity
• Good dimensions
• Lighter build
• Comfortable

Cons:

• Can be tricky to set up and fold

DRMOIS Camping Cot

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 74.8 x 28 x 15.3 Inches
• Weight: 15lbs
• Supports: 450lbs
• Frame: Steel

Ergonomic Design

What’s great about this cot is that it has been designed to support all parts of your body so that you are less likely to wake up with any aches and pains in the morning. For the most part, it does this quite well and you will feel well-supported.

The only caveat is that the head portion feels a little too raised from the rest of the cot. Shorter individuals especially may find this somewhat uncomfortable.

Comfortable Dimensions

The dimensions of this cot are suitable for most people. It is relatively wide ensuring that you don’t have to worry about falling off, particularly if you toss and turn a lot. At the same time, the height is suitable for most people, even for those who are taller than the majority.

Good Capacity

At 450lbs, the capacity of this cot is quite good. You can guarantee that it will support your weight without any issue at all. It is well-made and doesn’t feel hollow or loose in any way. Thus, you can feel safe and comfortable on it at all times.

Good Quality

The material on this cot is next level. On the one hand, it is strong and durable, allowing you to use it many times without having to worry about wear and tear. At the same time, it is also breathable and resistant to water damage. Therefore, it can be used in virtually any environment at all.

Pros:

• Ergonomic design
• Comfortable dimensions
• Good capacity
• Good quality

Cons:

• The head section is a little too elevated

How to Choose the Best Camping Cot

Here are some of the tips and tricks that you can use to select the best camping cot:

Consider the Dimensions

The first thing you need to do is to look at the length and width of the cot and decide if it is right for you. This is especially important if you are taller or have a wider physique. Most cots tend to be made for people of average height. As a result, they can seem rather narrow for some individuals.

Even if you aren’t very tall, you may want to take a closer look at the width. Most cots are designed for people sleeping on their backs. However, if you prefer to sleep on your side, you will need to think about getting a wider cot.

If you are planning on fitting your cot in a tent, you need to compare sizes first. Most cots are too large for solo or even tents made for two people. Even if you do have a larger tent, always check the dimensions so that you don’t end up buying a cot that is too big for your tent’s interior.

Think About the Weight Capacity

The good news is that you can find cots for almost every weight capacity. However, make sure that you check this feature to ensure that it matches up with what you need. It is also a good idea to read reviews or do research on how well the cot holds up to these claims.

If your weight is close to the upper limits of a particular cot, it is a good idea to opt for a cot with a higher capacity. This way, you can be certain that you stay comfortable.

Examine the Padding

Most cots don’t have much padding to them. As such, you might often have to pack a sleeping pad, sleeping bags, or other padded material to line the top of the cot. If you don’t want to make this effort, look for cots that have additional padding on them to save you the trouble.

However, always make sure to test these out before you go camping. It might be that you still need to take additional gear with you on your trip to ensure that you stay comfortable.

Think About the Weight

Most cots aren’t made for hiking or camping trips. The lightest cot that you can find will probably weigh around 12lbs. Therefore, it is unlikely that you can find a featherweight one. Still, this doesn’t mean that you should disregard the weight completely.

Keep in mind, you do have to haul the cot at least a short distance away from your car. Due to this, it is important to make sure that it is light enough to move. This becomes particularly important if you are camping by yourself and don’t have any help on hand.

In a similar vein, you should also pay attention to the folded shape. If it is too large or bulky, you may find it tricky to move in a normal-sized vehicle. Therefore, you need to consider how you plan on moving the cot to your campsite to ensure that you get a proper fit.

Consider the Setup

Most cots can be folded and unfolded as needed. Nevertheless, not all cots follow the same mechanism. Therefore, you need to check whether you can set up the cot by yourself and take it down without too much hassle as well.

When you’re choosing a folding cot, you will also have to consider how durable the setup is. For one thing, you should be able to lock the joints tightly in place. This ensures that the cot won’t spring back up at a later time. The cot should also be sturdy enough that it won’t sag after a few nights of being used.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about camping cots:

Are Camping Cots Worth It?

If you want to have a comfortable night’s sleep with minimum hassle, then buying camping cots is worth it. These beds are a vast improvement on sleeping bags and even air mattresses, particularly if you are older or have back problems.

Can You Sleep on a Cot Every Night?

Most cots have been designed for short-term use. Due to this, it is a good idea to spend no more than three or so nights on a cot. After this, you might begin to develop soreness or other aches and pains. So keep this in mind before you go shopping for one.

Can You Use a Cot in a Tent?

If the cot is small enough to fit in your tent, then it absolutely can be used in a tent. However, you should make sure that the tent ceiling is high enough to accommodate both the cot and you. If you do decide to use a cot in a tent, make sure to prevent the feet of the cot from damaging the ground floor material.

Conclusion

From the list of camping cots, the TETON XXL cot is the clear winner. To begin with, it is incredibly spacious, even allowing you to house two kids on it. At the same time, it has a large capacity and is well-suited for taller campers as well. The cot is comfortable and is built to be both durable and stable.

To ensure that you find the best pick, go through all the links given on this list. You can never tell when you will come across the cot that meets all your requirements and more.

This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI