After researching more than 30 of the best camping cots on the market, we bought the 10 most promising models for side-by-side testing. Our goal is helping you find the perfect model for you to use the next time you need a portable bed. We extensively tested each model, rating and comparing how easy each is to assemble and transport. We also scored them for comfortability and durability. Keep reading to find out which cot is the comfiest, which is the quickest to put together, and which is the best bargain.
There are many ways to up the coziness factor when camping. Grab a top camping mattress for your favorite tent, and rest your head on a plush camping pillow. Bring even more comforts of home to the outdoors with one of the best camping showers on the market, and check out our sleeping bag review to determine the right model for your specific needs.
Editor’s Note: We updated our camping cot review on May 11, 2023, to ensure product availability.
Best Overall Camping Cot
Coleman Pack-Away Cot
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Rated Weight Limit: 300 lbs | Weight: 23 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 74/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 8.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 6.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 7.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 8.0/10
If you’re searching for an outstanding all-around cot, it’s difficult to surpass the Coleman Pack-Away Cot. This model is a breeze to assemble and dismantle, taking only a few minutes with its mostly unified body structure. It provides ample support for both back and side sleepers and doesn’t have any bars across your head or feet to collide with during the night. It folds up into a relatively compact shape, isn’t overly heavy, and appears to be constructed very robustly, although it certainly isn’t designed for backpacking.
Our primary concern with this cot is that it doesn’t secure in the unfolded position. This was never an issue once it was set up; however, the legs tended to give way if we found ourselves dragging it around the campsite. This meant it always required a little extra caution to ensure the legs were in the correct position before sitting down as well. It could also be somewhat finicky on uneven terrain. Nonetheless, it’s one of our all-time preferred sleeping solutions when camping, and we would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a top-tier cot.
Read more: Coleman Pack-Away Cot reviewBest Bang For The Buck
KingCamp Folding Deluxe
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Rated Weight Limit: 265 lbs | Weight: 15.9 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 67/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 9.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 5.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 6.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 5.0/10
If you’re in the market for a new cot on a budget and aren’t planning to use it for backpacking, then the KingCamp Folding Deluxe is a fantastic choice. When it comes to folding or unfolding, this product is easily our favorite, usually taking only a minute or two to fully assemble the bed. This lightweight cot essentially has the same structure as a chair in a bag, with a similar folding mechanism. It features an integrated headrest, which is excellent for a snooze on the beach or as a great addition to a car camping setup.
While we did feel that the KingCamp Folding Deluxe cot is quite comfortable, it is slightly narrow and doesn’t offer the same level of consistent support provided by other cots we have tested. The folding mechanism and overall construction don’t appear to be as sturdy as some of the other cots, and based on our experience with folding chairs in a bag, we wouldn’t be surprised if this isn’t the most durable product available.
Read more: KingCamp Folding Deluxe reviewA Versatile Value Option
Coleman Converta Folding Cot
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Rated Weight Limit: 225 lbs | Weight: 15.5 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 67/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 8.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 4.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 7.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 7.0/10
If you are purchasing on a budget, then we highly suggest you take a look at the Coleman Converta Folding Cot. This relatively inexpensive cot not only functions as a sleeping surface but also has the ability to transform into a lounge chair. It is reasonably easy to transport and swift to assemble, with an overall construction that seems moderately durable in our experience. We found it to be very comfortable both as a cot and a chair and appreciate the various reclining levels you have to choose from when using the chair mode with the adjustable brace.
Regrettably, this cot does not collapse to the smallest size and is slightly heavier, so you will most likely be limited to car camping or similar activities when utilizing this product — it certainly isn’t the most backpacking-friendly option available. We also discovered that it can be a little unpredictable to fully engage the back adjustment mechanism at times, requiring a bit of additional pressure to securely position it. All in all, we believe these are minor imperfections and we highly recommend this product to anyone in search of a new cot without breaking the bank.
Read more: Coleman Converta Folding Cot reviewMost Comfortable Camping Cot
Coleman ComfortSmart
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Rated Weight Limit: 275 lbs | Weight: 21.5 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 65/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 7.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 3.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 9.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 7.0/10
If your priority when camping is to have the most pleasant experience possible, check out the Coleman ComfortSmart. Even without the included mattress, this behemoth of a cot is incredibly cozy. With the mattress, it’s by far the most comfortable we tested. You have plenty of space to toss and turn, and this model touts uniform support across its entire surface — no pressure or sagging points.
The compromise for all this comfort is that the Coleman ComfortSmart is more of a hassle to transport. We wouldn’t want to carry this cot very far from our vehicles, and the amount of space it occupies can be cumbersome while car camping. While the Coleman ComfortSmart may be a hassle to move, it’s anything but to sleep in, and provided someone else got it there for us, we would gladly use it for any camping expedition.
Read more: Coleman Converta Folding Cot reviewTeton Sports Outfitter XXL
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Rated Weight Limit: 275 lbs | Weight: 21.5 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 65/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 5.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 3.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 9.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 7.0/10
If you want to go big when it comes to your outdoor sleeping solution, then the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL is the cot for you. It’s rated to hold up to 600 pounds thanks to its burly construction and isn’t too much of a hassle to put together. This cot has tons of room and is super comfortable to sleep, but all this does come at a price. The Teton Sports Outfitter XXL is one of the heaviest and hardest-to-carry cots that we have tested so far. It’s a good option if you really need that high of a weight limit or want the space, but it might be overkill for many people.
Read more: Teton Sports Outfitter XXL ReviewKingCamp Portable Folding 4-Position Camping Cot
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Rated Weight Limit: 275 lbs | Weight: 21.5 lbs
OVERALL SCORE 66/100
- Ease of Setup (35%) – 8.0/10
- Portability (25%) – 4.0/10
- Comfort (25%) – 7.0/10
- Durability (15%) – 7.0/10
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN & SIZE – Set size 74.8″ x 23.2″ x 13.3″. This chair uses ergonomic design to reduce muscle tension and stress. Lays completely flat and has a perfect balance between firmness and softness.ERGONOMIC DESIGN & SIZE – Set size 74.8″ x 23.2″ x 13.3″. This chair uses ergonomic design to reduce muscle tension and stress. Lays completely flat and has a perfect balance between firmness and softness.
- PORTABLE SIZE – Folded size 30″ x 5. 9″ x 23″ , only 14 pounds, very easy to carry. Perfect for relaxing at home, by the pool, at the beach or as a comfortable place to sleep while camping.
- 4 RECLINING POSITIONS – Triangle locking system allows you to lock the chair in different positions, you can sit up, recline or lay down.
- COMFORT WITH A PILLOW – Padded pillow is adjustable and completely removable allowing it to serve as a headrest, lumbar support or for other support purposes.
- FRIENDLY REMINDER: Please do not expose the product to the sun for a long time, or repeatedly wet the fabric to the sun, which will accelerate the aging of the oxford fabric. When not in use, please store the product in a dry and cool place.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our camping specialists collaborated to create a thorough evaluation plan, which we employed for every camping cot in this assessment. We assessed each model equally in various environments, including coastlines, mountains, and deserts. We even assembled them at home and indulged in a few episodes of our preferred series. Ultimately, our aim was to uncover the distinctive subtleties of each cot, so that we could confidently present a comprehensive analysis of each product.
We established each camping cot in a variety of climates and regions and then subjected them to a rigorous evaluation plan to determine their individual strengths. Every model was assembled and disassembled repeatedly to ascertain its user-friendliness and craftsmanship. We also hit the road, spending time at the lake and in the mountains. Along the way, we spent multiple nights testing these cots in diverse conditions. Closer to home, we even allowed our houseguests to use them over the holidays. We folded and unfolded each product numerous times and packed them in different vehicles and storage containers to assess their portability. We measured their weight, dimensions, analyzed their materials and components, and also evaluated the overall construction and design of each product. In the end, we were able to gain a notion of the durability of each cot, as well as take note of any damage or signs of wear and tear that occurred during testing. Through our rigorous evaluation process, we acquired extensive knowledge about each product in the areas that we consider the most important.
Our camping cost testing is divided across five performance metrics:
- Ease of Setup (35% of overall score weighting)
- Portability (25% weighting)
- Comfort (25% weighting)
- Durability (15% weighting)
Our review of camping cots is presented by Marissa Fox and Jason Wanlass. Due to a back injury and subsequent surgery from professional snowboarding, Marissa has struggled to find a sleeping pad that suited her needs. However, camping cots appeared to do the trick, and she now possesses a considerable level of expertise, bringing her extensive knowledge of cots to this review. She also recruited a team of outdoor enthusiasts, passionate car campers, and other cot enthusiasts to gather a more diverse range of opinions regarding the comfort level of each cot for individuals with different body types.
Analysis and Test Results
In order to help determine the appropriate model for each user, we executed more than a dozen distinct assessments for every cot, dividing them into four weighted evaluation criteria: comfort, portability, ease of setup, and durability. Each criterion was given a weight relative to its significance in the overall performance of each cot.
Value
If you are searching for an affordable camping cot, then it’s difficult to make a mistake with the Kingcamp Folding Deluxe or the Coleman Converta cot. The Kingcamp is truly one of our favorite cots of all time, and it doesn’t hurt that it is available at a very reasonable price. The Coleman Converta is also highly comfortable and simple to set up, and its versatility provides even more value for your money, as you not only get a cot but also a lounge chair for the same price.
However, if you can afford it, the Coleman Pack-Away Cot is not much more expensive than the Kingcamp, so it should be taken into consideration .Unfortunately, the majority of camping beds built for backpacking, such as the Helinox Lite, tend to be pricier. Individuals on a limited budget might encounter difficulties when searching for a fitting lightweight bed to bring along on wilderness adventures.
Ease of Setup
First and foremost, we assessed and compared the level of effort required to assemble and disassemble each camping cot. Scores were given based on the time it took to put together and take apart each cot, identifying any troublesome areas that could result in pinching, and the number of components that comprised each cot. Additionally, we took into account how effortless it was to fit the cot back into its carrying bag.
The Kingcamp Folding Deluxe and the ARAER Camping Cot secure the top positions in this category for being some of the fastest and simplest camping cots to set up and break down that we have come across. These cots unfold in a manner similar to a collapsible camping chair, taking no more than a minute or two to fully set up and prepare for use.
Your fingers are generally well-protected from being caught in the folding mechanism, resulting in a low risk of pinching. Furthermore, returning this cot to its packed state is a seamless process.Folding it up is nearly as simple as unfolding, with only a slight pull needed to release the locking device and minimal exertion to bring it together.
The Coleman Pack-Away Cot, the KingCamp 4-Position, and the Coleman Converta Cot all followed suit when it came to ease of setup. The Pack-Away Cot is nearly as effortless and rapid to unfold as the Kingcamp Folding Deluxe or the Alpha Camp, but the legs are a bit more unwieldy to unfold, and there is a slightly greater potential to have your fingers pinched.
The Converta Cot can be set up in just a couple of minutes.
Credit: David Wise
The primary body of the Coleman Pack-Away Cot is a single piece, with an optional bedside table and a cup holder. However, you do need to take a few moments to ensure the legs are angled correctly before getting in it, as there isn’t a defined locking mechanism with this cot. Overall, it’s quick and easy to get the Coleman Pack-Away Cot ready to go when it’s nearing bedtime.
The Pack-Away can be a little unwieldy to pack away but isn’t a massive hassle.
Credit: David Wise
The Converta Cot and the KingCamp 4-Position are both single-piece cots that unfold in one seamless motion. The only aspect of setup and breakdown that we found took a little extra time was to ensure the locking mechanism for the backrest adjustment was fully engaged if you were setting these cots up for chair mode.
Next came another Coleman cot, the Coleman ComfortSmart. This cot is very similar to the Coleman Converta and the KingCamp 4-Position, but it folds in half instead of thirds. This makes it slightly more cumbersome to set up, but its unibody design can usually be ready to lie down on in less than 2-3 minutes. You unfold the main part, then pop out the legs, and you’re good to go. This cot includes a mattress, which conveniently stows inside the legs and is easy to pull out and place on top once set up. It can be a little tricky to tuck it back in for storage, but this doesn’t significantly extend the time it takes to break down the Coleman ComfortSmart.
The included mattress makes the ComforSmart exceptionally cozy.
Credit: David Wise
The Coleman Airbed Cot isn’t too challenging to set up but is a bit more time-consuming. The main body of this cot appears like two of the Pack-Away cots combined and can be unfolded in just a minute or two.
All of the included components with the Coleman Airbed Cot. However, inserting the airbed into the top pocket, inflating it, and then adding the side tables requires more time and steps compared to other cots. We did appreciate that this cot included a battery-powered air pump that can both inflate and deflate the air mattress in approximately 4-6 minutes.
Portability
Subsequently, we assessed and ranked the ease of movement. For this selection of tests, we examined the weight of each cot, the packed dimensions of each one, and how manageable they are to transport.
The Helinox Lite is the lightest model by a significant margin, weighing under 3 pounds. It can be packed into an approximately 5-inch by 20-inch cylinder and can be easily secured to a backpack or placed on a pannier or bike rack. Its compact size also makes it exceedingly convenient to toss into a car or roof carrier, even when transporting a plethora of other equipment.
The Helinox Lite is a bit oversized for our preferences when it comes to backpacking, but you can attach it to a pack without too much difficulty.
Credit: Marissa Fox
The rest of the cots are all considerably less portable. They are cumbersome and bulky enough that we can’t envision them being used for any type of backcountry expedition, but they’re perfect for car camping or any other situation where you won’t need to transport them very far. In terms of portability, the KingCamp Folding Deluxe and the Coleman Pack-Away Cot came next with their moderate results. The KingCamp Folding Deluxe weighs approximately 15 pounds and the Coleman Pack-Away Cot is slightly heavier, at around 23 pounds.
Measured Weight for Tested Version: They fold up to be approximately 6 inches by 6 inches by 40 inches — about the size of a chair in a bag. They aren’t too unwieldy to carry for short distances as long as you aren’t carrying much else. However, you would struggle to attach these to a backpack or transport them for any considerable distance, and this is not their intended use.
It’s not too difficult to carry the Alpha Camp for short distances, but we wouldn’t want to hike with it.
Credit: David Wise
The Coleman Airbed Cot is hands down the heaviest of the group, weighing in at over 40 pounds.
The portable case even has integrated wheels, but we discovered that these do not function well on unpaved surfaces. We definitely wouldn’t want to have to move this cot any distance without a vehicle.
Comfort
Our subsequent round of tests focused on the comfort level of each cot, both for sleeping/lying down and sitting on like a bench. Specifically, we had different evaluators try out each one and provide their overall impressions, as well as take note if they hit their elbows on the sides or their heads or feet on the ends of each cot.
Claiming the top position, we discovered that the Coleman ComfortSmart is the most comfortable out of all the cots we have tested thus far. This cot comes with a cushioned mattress, but we still found it to be one of the most comfortable models even without it. It provides ample space for most individuals to prevent hitting their elbows or their head and feet on the frame. This product feels exceedingly comfortable to lie on, offering substantial support throughout your entire body. Similarly, the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 is also one of the more comfortable cots on our list, due to its flexible, bungee-cord support system, as well as its quilted top and padded headrest.
This cot is sufficiently long for all except the tallest individuals.
Credit: Marissa Fox
The Coleman Airbed Cot is also worth noting in this context. We discovered it to be notably comfortable even without the air bed in place, with the air bed elevating this cot to an undeniably luxurious sleeping option when camping. However, it still remains an air bed, and that sensation and kind of support may not suit everyone.
This is an exceptionally cozy solution for camping.
Credit: Marissa Fox
The Teton Sports Outfitter XXL came next. This cot is enormous — it’s even broad enough that you could nearly accommodate two people on it (if they don’t mind being very close). The mattress provides more than enough support for a restful night’s sleep, and you could easily utilize this product as a bench as well.
The XXL offers ample sleeping area.
Credit: Marissa Fox
The Converta and KingCamp 4-Position have support at the head and foot of the cot and offer an exceptional level of support. We found these cots to be highly comfortable, both for sleeping and sitting.
Though the KingCamp Folding Deluxe lacks side rails. It does possess some pressure points that can be quite agonizing if you strike your elbow or knee on them. The incorporated headrest is pleasant, and there is enough support to be reasonably comfortable, but we could envision supplementing some additional cushioning if we were intending to utilize this for an extended excursion.
The integrated headrest makes this cot rather comfortable.
Credit: Marissa Fox
Durability
While we only examined a sole unit of each model over a few months and can’t vouch beyond that, we did observe some notable disparities in how these distinct cots withstood our testing process. We founded evaluations on our overall impressions of the design and construction, as well as any harm or wear and tear sustained during usage.
All things considered, we believe the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL and REI Co-op Kingdom Cot 3 are two of the most resilient of the cots we have examined to date. Both employ flawless components and materials and are constructed to endure. The Teton Sports Outfitter XXL boasts an astounding maximum weight of 600-pounds, while the REI Co-op Kingdom Cot can accommodate a respectable 300-pounds. The Teton’s bed is 600D canvas, and the folding mechanism and frame have a heavy-duty metal construction that displayed no indications of damage after all our testing.
Next, the Coleman ComfortSmart possesses a resilient frame and is evaluated at 275 pounds. It didn’t sustain any damage in our tests. Nevertheless, we could perceive the included mattress or the springs being slightly more vulnerable to damage compared to the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL.
The Coleman Pack-Away Cot followed suit with its solid structure and weight capacity rated up to 300 pounds. The Pack-Away Cot remained intact without any damage throughout our test. Both the Coleman Converta and KingCamp 4-Position felt incredibly sturdy to us and have a weight rating of 225 and 264 pounds, respectively. Neither experienced any harm.
The KingCamp 4-Position feels exceptionally solid to us.
Credit: David Wise
The KingCamp Folding Deluxe possesses a weight rating of 265 pounds and didn’t witness anything beyond minor wear and tear in our tests, but we do have some reservations regarding its folding mechanism. It appears to be less sturdy compared to the top cots and heavily borrows from folding chairs in a bag, which haven’t proven to be the most durable in our experience.
The frame of the KingCamp doesn’t appear as sturdy as some of the other choices.
Credit: David Wise
Up next is our ultralight cot. The Helinox Lite is rated for up to 265 pounds, an impressive accomplishment considering its lightweight design. It held up well during our side-by-side testing process. However, the amount of force required when assembling or disassembling this product did raise some concerns, as it could potentially result in a pole snapping or tearing the fabric.We ended up elongating the fabric in a few areas while attempting to fasten the legs in, as well as permanently bending one of the poles.
Obtaining a satisfactory night’s rest is one of the most crucial elements in any successful expedition. We dedicated countless hours on each cot, lounging, dozing, and slumbering, with the aim of assisting you in discovering the one that suits your future outdoor endeavor the best.
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Conclusion
Hopefully, this has provided you with a beneficial analysis in your pursuit of a new camping cot, regardless of whether you are searching for a high-quality or budget-friendly model, a sturdy option for prolonged use, or an extremely lightweight edition to accompany you on your upcoming backpacking adventure and finest tent experience.
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