Tired of sleeping on the ground or on an uncomfy air mattress when you take a trip out to nature? Then a camping cot might be what you need.
Using cots for camping is slowly gaining popularity since they are now more lightweight and as portable as chairs, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
But that variety can make it hard to pick the best one for you. So, if you don’t know where to start, don’t worry.
By the end of this article, you should not only have an idea of the best cots out there, but you’ll also know what features to look for in the future as you continue your hunt for the best camping cot.
Let’s dive in!
Our Top Picks – Best Camping Cot
- Best Overall Camping Cot: Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot
- Best Premium Camping Cot: REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3
- Best Camping Cot Bang for Your Buck: KingCamp Folding Deluxe
- Best Value Camping Cot: Coleman Converta Folding Cot
- Best Comfortability Camping Cot: Coleman ComfortSmart
- Best Camping Cot for Extra Room: ALPS Mountaineering Camp Cot XL
- Best Lightweight Camping Cot: FE Active Folding Camping Cot
- Best Multi-Use Camping Cot: Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot
- Best Ultralight Camping Cot: Helinox Lite Cot Ultralight
- Best Budget-friendly Camping Cot: Osage River Camping Cot
Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs | Cot Weight: 7 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 80″ x 32″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 80″ x 44″ x 17″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
From comfort to ease of set-up, this model by Coleman is a clear winner on this list.
Setting up the cot and taking it down is pretty straightforward and takes just a few minutes.
Once packed, it fits nicely into the carry bag it comes with.
So, even though it’s not the lightest model here, the Pack-Away is still high on the list in terms of portability.
One feature that makes it stand out is the side table with a drink holder, which is always handy.
When not needed, you can remove the table and use the cot as usual.
Another thing that makes this model our top pick is its weight capacity.
Thanks to a sturdy steel frame, it can hold up to 300 lbs and can withstand quite a bit of wear and tear.
Pros
- Features a convenient and removable side table with a drink holder
- Can hold up to 300 lbs
- Offers enough room for people up to 78″ tall
- Large width allows you to sleep in different positions
Cons
- Doesn’t lock when unfolded
Best for: campers searching for an affordable but ample model
KingCamp Folding Deluxe Camping Cot
Weight Capacity: 265 lbs | Cot Weight: 12.5 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 41.3” x 9.1” x 6.7” | Unfolded Dimensions: 74.8″ x 26.3″ x 18.9″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
This model by KingCamp really gives you the best bang for your buck.
It’s one of the brand’s best-sellers – and for a good reason.
When it comes to an easy set-up, it doesn’t get any simpler than this.
All you need to do is undo the Velcro strap, unfold the cot, and press down the edges to lock it into position.
The frame is pretty sturdy since it’s made of high-strength aerial aluminum alloy. It has a weight capacity of 265 lbs, the standard max weight for cots.
This model does have a slight inclination at the top to allow you to sleep without a pillow and still avoid back pain in the morning.
The side organizer is a nice touch, too. It features two pockets, allowing you to store your phone, flashlight, or other essentials.
Pros
- Can be set up within a minute
- Features a side organizer with pockets for your essentials
- Inclines to allow you to sleep without a pillow
Cons
- Taut and rigid fabric doesn’t conform much to your body
Best for: campers searching for the best value product
Check Price on KingCamp Outdoors
Coleman Converta Folding Cot
Weight Capacity: 225 lbs| Cot Weight: 0.2 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 26.5″ x 12.25″ x 14.75″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 76.3″ x 25.2″ x 12.8″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
If you’re looking for a convertible cot, then this model by Coleman might be right up your alley.
First, it comes with a very affordable price tag, but the product quality is at par with other picks on this list.
One thing we really like about this model is the fact that you can set it up in a few different ways.
You can choose between 4 back positions and 2 foot positions, which is quite handy for hanging out around the camp.
When it comes to size and capacity, it fits the standard. The frame is long enough to fit people up to 78″ tall and can hold up to 225 lbs.
Pros
- Multiple setting positions for optimal comfort
- Fold downs flat, so can fit inside your car trunk
- Great for use both inside tents and outside around the campfire
Cons
- Back adjustment mechanism requires a bit of pressure
Best for: hanging out around the campsite
REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs| Cot Weight: 20 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 33″ x 32″ x 8.5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 82″ x 31.5″ x 14″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: rust-resistant steel
By investing a bit more in a camping cot like this one by REI Co-op, you get plenty of useful features to work with.
First, let’s address the obvious: the padded top.
Made of quilted, quick-drying, and water-resistant polyester fabric, you can rest assured this cot is extremely comfortable to sleep on.
It’s great even for those cold nights when you’d typically prefer sleeping on the ground.
Another great feature is the oversized feet. This feature allows you to place the cot on uneven ground and remain stable.
This makes the cot suitable for use on every type of terrain.
The rugged powder-coated frame features aluminum/steel tubing, which gives it superb strength to hold up to 300 lbs and an extended resistance to wear and tear.
Pros
- Very warm and comfortable due to cushioned top
- Can be used on uneven ground
- Is water-resistant and quick-drying, so can withstand a little rain
Cons
- Quite heavy compared to other models
- Expensive
Best for: sleeping on colder nights
Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs | Cot Weight: 19.6 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 25.59″ x 5.51″ x 37.4″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 80″ x 31″ x 15″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: aluminum/steel
Cots don’t seem very comfortable to you? Well, you’ll surely change your mind when you see this model by Coleman.
This model features a foam mattress pad, which provides additional warmth and comfort for a good night’s sleep.
The pad is about 1-inch-thick and removable, so you can take it off any time you want.
Like most Coleman cots, this one makes set-up quick and simple. Just open the pad and extend the legs – it’s a one-minute task.
This cot is relatively spacious, so you’ll be able to toss and turn at night without a problem.
Unfortunately, that’s why it doesn’t pack down very compactly.
But that’s not too big of an issue when you’re car camping.
Pros
- Has a 1-inch-thick foam mattress pad for additional warmth and comfort
- Offers ample space for sleeping and turning at night
- Strong steel frame can hold up to 300 lbs of weight
- Comes with a one-year limited warranty
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Bulky even when folded
Best for: campers who find sleeping on regular cots uncomfortable
ALPS Mountaineering Camp Cot XL
Weight Capacity: 325 lbs | Cot Weight: 19 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 49″ x 8″ x 5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 86″ x 40″ x 22″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
Most cots on the market are designed with people of standard height in mind. But with the unfolded length of 86”, this cot is longer and more suitable for taller people.
This model deserves the “XL” name not just for its length but for its weight limit as well.
With a capacity to hold up to 325 lbs, this cot is the strongest on our list.
The frame is made of powder-coated aluminum and features steel connectors, so you can rest assured this is a heavy-duty model.
A built-in organization pocket is always a nice touch, too. It’s wide enough to fit all your essential items.
Pros
- Weight capacity of 325 lbs, more than the industry standard
- Is 86″ long, suitable for tall people
- Features a built-in organization pocket for storing essentials
Cons
- Quite expensive
Best for: taller campers
Check Price on Alps Mountaineering
FE Active Folding Camping Cot
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs | Cot Weight: 4.6 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 18.8″ x 5.9″ x 5.1″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 74.5″ x 27.5″ x 6.5″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: powder-coated aluminum
Typically, cots aren’t an essential piece of a backpacker’s gear.
In most cases, they’re simply too heavy to be carried long distances. But that’s not the case with this model by FE Active.
With a weight of just 4.6 lbs, this is one of the lightest cots on the market.
But even though it’s lightweight, it’s not weak by any means.
Made from 7075 aluminum with foldable nylon joints, this cot can hold up to 250 lbs.
What’s also great about this model is its portability.
The frame can be disassembled into separate poles, and the fabric can be rolled up.
Both are stored snugly in a stuff sack, which you can easily fit into a backpack.
The side pocket on this cot is somewhat small, but it’s still a nice touch.
Pros
- Weighs only 4.6 lbs
- Frame is made of both aluminum and nylon
- Can fully be disassembled and stores it in your backpack
- Features a small side pocket for storing necessities
- Has a pretty affordable price
Cons
- Setting it up requires a bit more work than most models on the list
Best for: backpacking and multi-day hiking
Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Cot
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs| Cot Weight: 18 lbs | Folded Dimensions: unavailable | Unfolded Dimensions: 75″ x 27.55″ x 14.5″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
Collapsible cots are a great option for anyone that’s short on storage space.
This model by Mountain Summit packs down pretty compactly into a stuff sack it comes with.
This cot does require assembly, but it is pretty quick and straightforward.
All you do is spread the frame, pass the poles through the sleeves, and click the bed into the frame holders.
The frame is cross-legged and made of steel, which makes it very sturdy and capable of holding up to 300 lbs.
The frame design makes the cot very stable on uneven surfaces, too.
For the fabric, this model uses 600D polyester.
This is the standard material for this purpose, due to its strength, durability, and water resistance.
Additionally, the fabric is really comfortable to sleep on, so you don’t really need extra padding.
Pros
- Cross-legged frame is quick and easy to set up
- Made of steel, this cot can withstand the weight of up to 300 lbs
- Can be packed down into a stuff sack and stored inside a backpack
Cons
- Relatively heavy
Best for: camping on harsh or uneven terrain
Helinox Lite Cot Ultralight
Weight Capacity: up to 265 lbs | Cot Weight: 2.8 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 5″ x 5″ x 21″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 73″ x 23.5″ x 5″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: steel
When it comes to weight, this cot by Helinox is as light as it gets. This model is designed for backpacking, only weighing 2.8 lbs.
When packed, this cot is only 5″ x 21″ and easily fits into a stuff sack.
You can attach it to your backpack or even fit it inside for easier carrying.
The frame is made of aluminum and is strong enough to withstand up to 265 lbs.
The actual set-up is not as straightforward as most models on this list, but that’s somewhat understandable, given it’s a collapsible cot.
And given it’s made for backpacking, this model is a bit narrow.
But that means there’s more room for your stuff inside the tent.
Pros
- Weighs only 2.8 lbs (suitable for ultralight backpacking)
- Can be completely disassembled and stored in a stuff sack for easy transportation
- Has 4 legs and is stable on most terrains
Cons
- Not the most comfortable cot
Best for: ultralight backpacking
Osage River Camping Cot
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs| Cot Weight: 12.45 lbs | Folded Dimensions: 5″ x 8″ x 40″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 28″ x 75″ x 18.5″ | Sleeping Capacity: 1-person | Frame Construction: proprietary aluminum alloy
Unsure whether you’d enjoy sleeping on a cot? Have a limited budget? This model by Osage River is a great option for both cases.
For fabric, this cot uses 600D PVC Coated Polyester, which helps it withstand wet weather conditions.
The whole construction is quite sturdy due to its tubular carbon steel structure.
Because of this, this camping cot has a weight limit of 300 lbs.
Plus, it is made to be extra long and wide to accommodate extra movement during sleep, though it does have a height limit (75″).
Unlike most cots, this model comes in 11 colors.
While that’s not a functional feature, it’s always nice to have the option to match the rest of your camping gear.
This camping cot also has an accessory pocket with 3 compartments, so you can keep your stuff close and organized.
Pros
- Won’t slide and sink into the ground
- Super affordable
- Comes in many different colors
- Features an accessory pocket with 3 compartments
Cons
- Not suitable for tall people
Best for: campers on a budget
Factors To Consider Before Buying A Camping Cot
Before you make your pick, it’s important to know which features are most important to you in a cot.
In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to pay attention to when purchasing one:
- Size & Weight
- Weight Capacity
- Material & Durability
- Design & Stability
- Set-Up & Assembly
- Comfort & Support
- Portability
- Care & Maintenance
- Additional Features
Size & Weight
When it comes to size, you need to consider both the assembled and packed dimensions of a camping cot.
When assembled, the cot needs to be long and wide enough to fit your body.
They come in different sizes, but most cots on the market are under 80″ long.
If you’re tall, this is definitely something to keep in mind.
The packed dimensions are also important.
Depending on the mechanism, a cot can be either folded, collapsed, or disassembled into parts.
While folding cots are the easiest to put up and take down, they’re also the bulkiest in terms of storage.
Cots that can be disassembled fall on the other end of the spectrum.
They’re a bit more difficult to set up, but they pack down compactly into a stuff sack.
When it comes to weight, most cots on the market aren’t considered light.
That’s not very surprising, given their tough construction.
However, if you plan on using one for backpacking, you should focus your search on ultralight camping cots.
Weight Capacity
The industry standard for the camping cot weight capacity is 300 lbs.
The majority of cots on the market fall into this category.
However, being able to withstand such weight means using heavy-duty materials, which aren’t light.
So, for backpacking cots, the weight capacity is usually much lower – somewhere around 220 lbs.
The best camping cot for you is going to be one that can hold your personal weight comfortably and safely.
Material & Durability
Typically, a camping cot has a rectangular material pulled taut by the frame.
The fabric is pulled so tight to provide decent support to your back and hips.
But since it’s taut, the fabric is under constant stress when the cot is in use.
That’s why it’s important that the fabric you choose is something that can withstand that tension.
The industry standard for cot material is 600D polyester because of its water-resistant properties.
But instead of paying attention to the type of material, you should look closely at the seams and stitches.
The pole sleeves are part of the material that’s under the most stress.
I recommend looking for double stitching and reinforced seams along these areas.
As for the frame, steel and aluminum are the most common choices.
While steel is sturdier and more reliable, aluminum is more lightweight and rustproof.
Both are good options, though. The best for you just depends on your needs.
Design & Stability
Another thing to consider is the design of the cot itself.
First thing first, the bars and frame structure. To make the cot stable, many models have vertical bars.
That’s good, as long as those bars don’t dig into your shoulders or hips.
The cot’s legs are another feature to pay attention to. Some models have three legs, while others have as many as 10!
Which is better? Well, that depends on what materials are used and the actual construction of the cot.
The most important design feature is the locking mechanism.
This feature prevents the cot from unfolding while it is not in use.
When it comes to stability, we not only took the material into consideration but also the type of frame and the locking mechanism.
Certain models, like the Kingdom Cot 3 by REI Co-op, have feet as part of their frame that further improves the cot’s stability.
Set-Up & Assembly
A camping cot that requires you to memorize the manual before being able to put it together is quite a killjoy.
To figure out whether any of these models fell into that category, we compared how much time each cot took to set up.
This included everything from taking the camping cot out of the carry bag (if it came with one), to attaching the fabric and locking the frame in place.
Comfort & Support
Arguably, comfort is the most important part of choosing a camping cot.
I mean, what’s the point of sleeping on a cot if you find a sleeping pad more comfortable?
The problem is that comfort is subjective.
While some people prefer sleeping on a sturdy surface, others might prefer soft and fluffy beds.
Most cots on this list don’t include the mattress, just taut fabric. Still, many of them are extremely comfortable for sleeping.
One of the most important things we paid attention to for comfort was whether there were any poles that could hit your limbs.
We did the same for any vertical poles around the middle, which could dig into your hips and neck.
Portability
With the exception of Helinox and FE Active models, all the other cots on our lists weigh above 10 lbs, packed. So, they’re not very light.
But aside from weight, the other important thing to portability is the cot’s packed size.
Most folding models are quite bulky and really only suitable only for car camping.
Even then, storage space might be an issue with some models.
Those that do come with a carry bag make our lives a bit easier, so that’s also something we took into consideration.
Care & Maintenance
In most cases, a camping cot is relatively easy to clean. The fabric is typically water-resistant, so it doesn’t get soaked easily.
And in case it gets dirty, some warm water, a bit of dish soap, and a quick wipe-down usually do the trick.
Some models make cleaning even simpler by using removable fabric. That way, you can wash it the “old-school way”.
If the tag says that the fabric is machine-washable, that saves you the trouble of washing it by hand.
Additional Features
For the most part, cots do just what they’re designed to: serve as a sleeping surface.
But some models can also work as a chaise or a chair.
That way, you can also use them outside for sitting by the table or hanging around the campfire.
FAQs
Can I Use The Camping Cot As A Hammock Replacement For Lounging During The Day?
In a way, a cot can work as a hammock, as it allows air to flow underneath you.
However, hammocks and cots are quite different in terms of comfort level, so it really comes down to personal preference.
Are There Any Specific Cots Designed For Camping In Extreme Weather Conditions, Such As Snow Or High Winds?
Most cots aren’t suitable for winter camping, due to their lack of insulation.
However, padded cots can be great in extreme weather.
Likewise, you can always turn a regular cot into a winter cot by adding a sleeping pad and a winter sleeping bag.
Can I Customize The Firmness Or Softness Of The Cot To Suit My Personal Comfort Preferences?
Most camping cots don’t allow you to adjust the firmness of the fabric.
If you want to make it more comfortable, adding a pad or a quilt can make a difference.
Can The Camping Cot Be Used As A Makeshift Bench Or Seating Option Around The Campsite?
Certain camping cot models are designed with versatility in mind.
These models allow you to adjust both the head and the feet of the cot, so you can lay down or sit in different positions when it isn’t needed for sleeping.
To Sum Things Up
For all cot lovers out there, choosing between all the models on the market can be a tough task.
In our opinion, you can’t go wrong by choosing Coleman Pack-Away Cot. This model is sturdy, wide, and durable.
But if that one isn’t for you, no worries! There are many others we liked, and all that matters is you find the best camping cot for yourself.
Happy cot-sleeping!
More Like This