For some people, having a good night’s sleep while camping seems to be impossible because they are sleeping on the ground (even though they are using sleeping pads and air mattresses). Luckily, camp cots are readily available to help you with this problem.
A camping cot is a lightweight, portable, and temporary bed that elevates you from the ground. With constant innovations in design and materials, you’ll find more cots being lightweight and comfortable.
In this article, you’ll find the top-performing tent cots on the market today. We have listed the best overall cot, two-person cots, kids camp cots, cots for bad backs, and cots for side sleepers to help you find the perfect cot for you.
Best overall camping cot
1. Coleman Pack-Away Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 19.9 lbs.
Weight Limit: 300 lbs.
Dimensions: 80” x 44” x 17”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: Yes
The Coleman Pack-Away Cot is a fans’ favorite, especially for Amazon enthusiasts, because it’s affordable, comfortable, reliable, and somewhat durable. It’s an all-around option if you want a packable camping cot that you can use during your car camping trips.
What we like
The Pack-Away camp cot would only take you around 5 minutes or less to assemble and disassemble. Because of its unibody construction, you would only need to unfold the cot from its carrying bag, wrap it from the foot to the head of the cot, and spread it out. Depending on your preference, you can unfold the bedside table with a cup holder, either on the left or right side of your head.
Although, it’s worth noting that you may find yourself pinching your fingers when trying to unfold this cot. However, we don’t find this to be a deal-breaker since you’ll often experience this if you’re a newbie when using a tent cot or if you’re not paying attention to what you’re doing.
The carrying bag included in this cot seems to have been given enough thought that you wouldn’t have to worry whether the cot will fit. It has so much space that you wouldn’t wrestle the cot to put it back. Also, the shoulder strap is a nice addition, just in case you would need to carry it a little more to your campsite.
Since this cot is neither lightweight nor heavy, you can still carry it around for a couple of miles. Although, we find that it’s best used for car camping trips where you won’t do any heavy lifting. But if you find yourself needing to carry it, we suggest that you reduce the amount of weight of your other gears to give you enough strength to bring this cot with you.
The Coleman Pack-Away is comfortable to lie on. It provides enough space, vertically, and has no bars on the head and foot area, so you wouldn’t need to worry about smacking your ankles or head in the middle of the night.
Durability-wise, there had been mixed reviews from its users. In a handful of reviews, users mentioned the cot ripped over a one- or two-year use. Other users mentioned that the cot lasted for years, even when used throughout their camping trips.
Just to be sure though, we strongly suggest that you pay close attention to the legs and canvass. Make sure that there are no sharp objects on top nor on the bottom of your sleeping area.
What we didn’t like
Some users mentioned that the legs of the Coleman Pack-Away cot tend to collapse when there is no weight on it or when you’re constantly dragging it around the camp. To avoid any accidents, we suggest that you constantly check the legs of the cot and ensure that they’re fully extended.
Also, if you’re the type of sleeper that tosses and turns around while sleeping, it’s worth noting that you might hit your elbow on the side frame, one way or another. You may also notice that your head may slightly drop, but you can solve this mini problem by using a camping pillow.
If you’re looking to challenge yourself on your next camping trip, why not try build your own camping cot instead of buying one? Building a tent cot is not that complicated and the materials that you need are easy to find as well. Plus, we also have a step-by-step guide on building a tent cot that you can easily follow.
Best double camping cots
2. Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 26 lbs.
Weight Limit: 600 lbs.
Dimensions: 85” x 41” x 19”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: No
The Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot can be used by two people, as long as you’re both pretty small and don’t mind being cozy. The wide space, durable frame, and comfortable canvas fabric make this cot one of the most bought products on Amazon.
What we like
Considering its massive size, we think that assembling and disassembling the Outfitter XXL is not too much of a hassle for a double camping cot, but it can be a bit awkward. First, you need to spin the legs to unfold the body of the cot. Once you do this, you need to slide the foot bar to the canvas and lock it using the keyhole slots. The swingarm pivot can make it easy for you to attach the head bar.
Disassembling it is much easier, but you need to watch out for your fingers because this cot tends to pinch them if you’re not paying attention. Also, because of its size, it’s best if you disassemble it outside your tent since this process can take up a lot of space.
When it comes to comfort, it has the right features to ensure that you’ll have a good night’s sleep. The foot and head bars prevent your head from dropping, allowing you to stay in your desired sleeping position.
In terms of durability, many users online find this cot extremely durable since it doesn’t get any scratches nor scrapes. Additionally, the pivot arm allows you to avoid damaging the plastic parts. The 600-pound weight capacity is more than enough for anyone who wants to sleep on it.
What we didn’t like
The Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot is extremely difficult to carry around. The frame is so big that you need a lot of space to assemble and disassemble the item. Also, when it’s folded and packed, it’s still so bulky that you can’t put anything on top of it. Lastly, at 26 lbs., it is too heavy to carry around, which is why we don’t recommend it when you’re backpacking.
3. Coleman Airbed Cot Queen
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 43 lbs.
Weight Limit: 600 lbs.
Dimensions: 78” x 59” x 22”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: Yes
One of the most comfortable double camping cots on the market today is the Coleman Airbed Cot Queen. Compared to other cots, this one has an attached cover for the airbed, thus increasing its given comfort. Although it’s heavy and bulky, the comfort it brings makes it all worthwhile.
What we like
Although the Coleman Airbed Cot Queen is a big item, it takes under 20 minutes to fully set up this cot. The cot frame is designed like an accordion, which means that all you have to do is stretch it out.
For the included airbed, inflate the mattress using the provided pump. You can use D batteries for the machine, and it will only take about 5 minutes to fully inflate it. Of course, you can adjust the firmness by inflating or deflating it as much as you want. Once you’re happy with the comfort, you can put the mattress inside the attached cover on the cot.
To deflate the airbed, you only need to open the double lock valve of the mattress and release the air inside. Once the initial air is out, just roll the mattress to release the remaining air and lift the middle of the cot to fold itself.
To increase the convenience that you experience with this product, Coleman has included two cup holders that you can attach to the side of your cot. It has a big enough space for you to put your mobile phone or car keys beside your cup.
The mattress has ComfortStrong coil construction, which provides ample support for anyone who wants to cozy up on this bed. Since it can accommodate up to 600 lbs. and has a durable steel frame, you can confidently sleep on it for a long time.
Additionally, the materials used for this airbed cot are waterproof, which gives it an exceptional advantage over its competitors. Plus, the included storage case already has a handle and wheels for you to easily transport it anywhere on your campsite.
What we didn’t like
The main issue with the Coleman Airbed Cot Queen is that it’s really heavy, as it weighs 43 lbs. It’s not made for backpacking trips where you need to carry all your gears, but it’s perfect for car campers who have large storage space in their trunks.
Also, in some online reviews, users mentioned the cover of the cot can get easily stained and dirty. Since the cover of the mattress is attached to the cot, it’s impossible to wash it separately. The only thing you can do is get a cleaning solution and damp cloth to clean it. We strongly suggest that you bring additional bed covers to cover the mattress again to avoid this situation.
Lastly, if you’re planning to camp during winter or in colder areas, it’s worth noting that the airbed deflates within just a couple of hours. This may be caused by the condensing of the air inside the mattress, which is why it’s perfectly unavoidable. Therefore, we suggest that you prepare a handy air pump, just in case this happens to you.
4. KingCamp Double Camping Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 35 lbs.
Weight Limit: 550 lbs.
Dimensions: 84.6” x 55.1” x 18.9”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: N/A
The KingCamp Double Camping Cot is one of the easiest double cots to assemble. It has a user-friendly design, there are no end bars to bump your head, elbows, or feet, and it’s comfortable enough for you to get a good night’s sleep, even in the middle of a camping trip.
What we like
For many hikers, the most captivating feature of the KingCamp Double Camping Cot is the possibility to assemble it with no tools. The frame’s design of this cot makes it completely collapsible, making it easy to both assemble and disassemble.
To use the cot, all you have to do is take it out of its carrying bag, spread the legs, spread the centerfold, and you’re all set! To disassemble it, just repeat the steps backward. First, fold it in half, then fold the legs, and put it back in the carrying case. It’s that easy!
Another feature that we like with its design is that you won’t see nor bump into any side, foot, nor head bars. All the metal bars and corners are covered with its 1200D fabric. Additionally, you’ll find elastic bands on the corners for you to easily fix the mattress.
The KingCamp Double cot is comfortable enough for you to use in different seasons, but we suggest that you bring a sleeping pad when camping in the winter because this cot doesn’t have an insulation system to keep you warm. Also, the feet of this cot have plastic caps for added protection for your tent.
When it comes to durability, there’s no doubt that this can easily handle two people. Although, it’s worth noting that it only has a weight limit of 550 lbs., which is minimal for double cots. Nonetheless, it can still perform a good job at making two people comfortable.
Lastly, we would like to emphasize the carrying bag included in this camping cot. The bag itself comes with wheels, straps, and handles for you to bring it anywhere. The straps are made for those who would like to carry it on their shoulders, but we do not advise anyone to do this since this cot is big and heavy, weighing as much as 35 lbs.
What we didn’t like
Because the KingCamp Double camping cot is heavy, we don’t recommend anyone to use this during their backpacking trips. Rather, it’s best used when on car camping trips, where you have ample space in your truck to store this cot.
Also, in some online reviews, users mentioned the central bar of the cot can be felt when you lie down on the cot. Thus, we suggest, even during the winter season, that you also use a sleeping pad on top of the cot for added comfort and insulation.
Best kids camping cot
5. Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 6 lbs.
Weight Limit: 75 lbs.
Dimensions: 48” x 24.5” x 9”
Carrying Bag: No
Bedside Organizer: No
Perfect for toddlers ages 2-5, the Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed has everything your child will need in order to sleep comfortably throughout your camping trip. It’s easily foldable, which makes it portable. Plus, it comes with a harness for added safety, and the included sleeping pad makes it extremely comfortable.
What we like
The Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed was created with kids in mind. First off, you won’t need to trouble yourself with the assembly because you just have to unfold the frame. Since the canvas fabric is already attached to the cot, you can wash it using a damp cloth and soap.
To provide additional comfort and insulation, there’s an included sleeping bag with a pillow. The fitted sheet can be removed, machine washed, and should be air-dried to ensure that it won’t get damaged.
For security purposes, the cot is raised seven inches above the ground. This ensures that your kid won’t get cold and that, if they roll over and fall, they won’t get hurt as much. Additionally, the included sleeping bag somewhat secures your child to the cot, making those slight turns so easy that you won’t have to get concerned about them falling.
Lastly, we would like to stress out how lightweight and portable this toddler cot is. Weighing only 6 lbs. and featuring a foldable frame, you can easily put it in your trunk and bring it with you anywhere.
What we don’t like
The Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed isn’t for 2-year-olds and below, nor for kids above 5, as this cot can only carry 75 lbs. at most. Also, some users find that it lacks safety because there are no fasteners to keep the child in place. Lastly, there had been some complaints regarding the middle bar bulking so much that some kids found it hard to sleep on it.
6. Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Deluxe Portable Travel Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 13.6 lbs.
Weight Limit: 75 lbs.
Dimensions: 50” x 26” x 16.25”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: Yes
The Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Deluxe Portable Travel Cot is one of the most secured and reliable kids camping cots on the market today thanks to its side nets and attachable canopy. Plus, the carrying bag has a shoulder strap, which makes it a lot easier to carry it around.
What we like
Even with its different parts, the Bungalow cot is fairly easy to assemble. Since the frame is foldable, all you have to do is unfold the legs and center part of the frame. There’s a button that you can press to lock the cot in place, so that you can be sure that it won’t fold up accidentally while your baby is on it.
The second asset of this cot is its attachable canopy. The cot has a net fence and pre-attached poles for added protection, so that your kid won’t fall over, wherein you can attach the canopy on it. The manufacturer says that it can block out 98% of UVB and UVA rays to better protect your kid.
When it comes to comfort, you can easily add sleeping pads and pillows to ensure that your kid will sleep soundly throughout your camping trip. Just like the previous product, the Bungalow cot has a 75-pound capacity, which can only accommodate children between 2-5 years old.
What we didn’t like
In several online reviews, people stated that it’s quite difficult to lock the legs in place. Also, compared to other kid cots, it’s somewhat heavier and lengthier, which means it can take up more space, not only in your trunk, but also in your tent.
Best camping cots for back sleepers
7. BYER OF MAINE Easy Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 21 lbs.
Weight Limit: 330 lbs.
Dimensions: 78” x 31” x 18”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: No
The BYER OF MAIN Easy Cot is one of the easiest and most comfortable camping cots, making it great for back sleepers. There are no head nor foot bars on which you can bump into while moving around. Also, the lack of a middle bar makes it easy for anyone to sleep in almost any position. The sidebars are covered by the fabric canvas, removing the possibility to touch cold bars at night.
What we like
The first thing that we’d like to mention is how easy this cot is to assemble. There are no setups required to assemble this cot. As its name suggests, all you have to do is take the cot out from its carrying case, unfold the middle part, then unfold the legs, and you’re all set!
The same goes for once you’re done using it. Just fold down the outside legs first, then fold the centerpiece, and put it back into the carrying case. The 600D polyester fabric canvas also makes this cot reliable and comfortable. Although, we suggest that you still bring a sleeping pad if you’re planning to camp in the winter, since cots are not entirely made for insulation.
What we didn’t like
The only downside that we saw from the BYER OF MAINE Easy Cot is that it’s a bit heavier than its competitors, which is why it’s best used for car camping trips. Although, if you find yourself needing to carry it around, the shoulder strap on the carry bag makes it a little easier for you to do it.
8. KingCamp Camping Cot XL Oversized Heavy Duty Folding Bed
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 14.8 lbs.
Weight Limit: 440 lbs.
Dimensions: 82” x 29.5” x 15”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: Yes
The KingCamp Camping Cot XL is great for back sleepers who want a longer and wider space to sleep. Because of its size and weight capacity, a lot of campers choose this product over others.
What we like
Just like the previous product, the KingCamp XL is easily assembled because all you have to do is to unfold the cot. The frame’s design is the one that features the most legs in a cot, but you’ll find this extremely secure and reliable. Thanks to this design, you won’t feel any hard bars on your head, feet, nor in the middle areas of the cot, allowing you to sleep well.
There’s also the integrated headrest wherein you can elevate your head. This makes it easier for you to sleep even if you don’t have a camping pillow with you. Also, we would like to stress the size and capacity of this cot.
The size doesn’t make this a long cot, but it still is long and wide for its price. If you’re a back sleeper who prefers to have excess space around you, then this could be the best cot for you. Also, the 440-pound weight capacity gives it more versatility.
Lastly, you’ll find a pocket organizer on the side to store your mobile phones, keys, or other small items near you.
What we didn’t like
The only downside that we saw with the KingCamp Camping Cot XL is its price. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a cot that can last for years, then the extra dollars are worth it.
9. MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 4.7 lbs.
Weight Limit: 300 lbs.
Dimensions: 74.8” x 27.4” x 6.5”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: Yes
The only camping cot in this review that you can bring in any of your backpacking trips is the MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding Camping Cot Bed. It’s lightweight, compact, reasonably sized, and comfortable.
What we like
The MARCHWAY Lightweight camp cot has a unique steel frame design featuring five cross rods and two support bars. Once assembled, the cross rods will act as the stability frames to ensure that the cot won’t fall apart. This means that there are no bars to create pressure points on the head, feet, nor in the middle area of the cot.
When packed, it only is 16.9” long and 5.5” wide, making it compact enough for you to carry it separately or put it inside your backpack. The 4.7-pound weight also helps you in this regard.
What we didn’t like
The only downside that we notice with the MARCHWAY Lightweight is that it’s not long enough for tall people to sleep on it.
Best camping cots for side sleepers
10. Magshion Portable Military Camping Bed Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 8 lbs.
Weight Limit: 300 lbs.
Dimensions: 72” x 24.5” x 13.5”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: No
Because of the design of its legs, the Magshion Portable Military Camping Bed Cot is one of the most affordable, most popular, and most comfortable cots on the market today. It’s versatile enough for you to bring it on any of your trips because of its weight, portability, ease of set-up, and comfort.
What we like
The most notable feature of the Magshion Portable Military Camping Bed Cot is the design of its legs. On the foot and head sides, you’ll notice U-shaped legs that can fold, and two standards (straight) legs in the middle. With this design, there are no hard bars in the middle of the cot, which makes it perfect for side sleepers.
Thanks to its design, you won’t need any tools to assemble it. Just unfold the legs, and you’re all set! Folding it and putting it back into its carrying case is also simple, but it’s worth noting that it doesn’t come with any handle and that it’s more like a dust bag.
You can definitely use this cot in any season since cots are designed to be elevated from the ground, which gets very cold at night. Although, adding a sleeping pad can be worthwhile since it would not only increase your comfort, but also the insulation.
What we didn’t like
The only downside that we noticed with the Magshion Portable Military Camping Bed Cot is that it’s somewhat short. With a length of 72”, it’s not designed for tall people or those who prefer a lot of leg space.
11. VIVO Camping Cot
Click to view on amazon.com.
Weight: 12 lbs.
Weight Limit: 250 lbs.
Dimensions: 75” x 25” x 16”
Carrying Bag: Yes
Bedside Organizer: No
If you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight, and easily assembled camping cot for side sleepers, then you should definitely take a look at the Vivo Camping Cot. The cover fabric is made with 600D water-resistant polyester, which makes it comfortable in almost any season.
What we like
The first thing we’ve noticed on the Vivo camping cot is that it is long enough for a 6’6” camper to easily sleep on it. The 250-pound weight limit also makes it more enticing, but there have been several online reviews regarding the sturdiness of the legs. We’ll get to that later on.
Most of its users are fond of the thought that they can bring a lightweight cot anywhere they go. Thanks to the included carrying bag and compact design when packed, this can be your travel buddy. You just have to make sure though to take extra good care because the fabric is already attached, which means you can’t wash it separately.
What we didn’t like
Some online reviews stated that the legs of the Vivo camping cot suddenly broke. This only means that it can’t really handle the supposed 250-pound weight limit, which is why we suggest that you try to reduce the amount that this cot has to carry.
Additionally, we find this camping cot too narrow, meaning that you might fall off if you’re a sleeper who frequently tosses and turns. Lastly, this cot is not assembled when it comes off fresh from the package, and it may take you some time to completely assemble it.
Best camping cot: Comparison table
| Foto | Camping Cot | Bedside Organizer | Carrying Bag | Dimensions | Weight Limit | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Coleman Pack-Away Cot  | Yes | Yes | 80" x 44" x 17" | 300 lbs. | 19.9 lbs. |
| 2. Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot | No | Yes | 85" x 41" x 19" | 600 lbs. | 26 lbs. |
| 3. Coleman Airbed Cot Queen | Yes | Yes | 78" x 59" x 22" | 600 lbs. | 43 lbs. |
| 4. KingCamp Double Camping Cot | Yes | Yes | 84.6" x 55.1" x 18.9" | 550 lbs. | 35 lbs. |
| 5. Regalo My Cot Deluxe Portable Toddler Bed | No | No | 48" x 24.5" x 9" | 75 lbs. | 6 lbs. |
| 6. Baby Delight Go with Me Bungalow Deluxe Portable Travel Cot | Yes | Yes | 50" x 26" x 16.25" | 75 lbs. | 13.6 lbs. |
| 7. BYER OF MAINE Easy Cot | No | Yes | 78" x 31" x 18" | 330 lbs. | 21 lbs. |
| 8. KingCamp Camping Cot XL Oversized Heavy Duty Folding Bed | Yes | Yes | 82" x 29.5" x 15" | 440 lbs. | 14.8 lbs. |
| 9. MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed | Yes | Yes | 74.8" x 27.4" x 6.5" | 300 lbs. | 4.7 lbs. |
| 10. Magshion Portable Military Camping Bed Cot | No | Yes | 72" x 24.5" x 13.5" | 300 lbs. | 8 lbs. |
| 11. VIVO Camping Cot | No | Yes | 75" x 25" x 16" | 250 lbs. | 12 lbs. |
Not sure about which kind of sleeping equipment to bring for your next camping trip? We’ve got you covered! We listed the pros and cons of each kind of sleeping equipment to help you figure out which one will suit your needs. What to choose between camping cots, sleeping pads, airbeds, and hammocks? Read our article to find out.
What is the most comfortable camping cot?
Since comfort is subjective, we’ll talk about the comfort features of the cot that we picked. We chose the Coleman ComfortSmart as the most comfortable camping cot available on the market today because of its sheer size and comfortable canvas.
The ComfortSmart cot is indeed so wide that you won’t need to worry about bumping your feet, knees, and elbows on the cold bars in the middle of the night. Also, it’s one of the lengthiest cots, so only really tall campers will have to worry about their heads.
The included mattress on the cot itself will provide you with so much comfort that you wouldn’t mind not bringing your own sleeping pad anymore.
Reasons why cots are good for camping
There are several items for you to sleep on when you’re out camping, but a cot can provide you several advantages. Here are five reasons why you should use a camping cot on your next camping trip:
1. Protects you from crawling creatures
Since camping out means sleeping in the middle of nowhere, you can never avoid critters crawling their way inside your tent and on you. However, cots are elevated from the ground, which means you can prevent these nasty little insects from disturbing your sleep.
2. Keeps you warm/cool
Because of cots’ elevated design, you can either keep yourself warm or cool depending on the season you’re camping in. During the summer, your body will automatically cool down once you lie down on a cot because you can avoid the hot surface of the ground.
But, once in the winter, you can avoid the ever-cold ground since your body won’t be touching the ground. Additionally, if you put a sleeping pad on top of your cot, you can increase the insulation for your body to keep warm.
3. Under-bed storage
Another advantage of having an elevated bed is that you can store your other camping gear below your cot. Whether it be your hiking shoes, backpacks, emergency kits, or other essential items, you can store them without the worry of losing them.
4. Easy access
Compared to sleeping beds which are low on the ground, cots are designed for you to easily get up and lie down on them. This is very beneficial for people who have problems with their backs, knees, or even for pregnant women.
5. Folds quickly
Cots are designed in many different ways, but you’ll most commonly find cots that fold up quickly for easy assembly and disassembly. This makes cots packable and easy to store, either in your trunk or in your house’s storage area.
Final thoughts
Although camp cots are designed to be packable and easy to carry to any campsite, a lot of cots are heavy and almost impossible to carry on backpacking trips. If you’re looking for a travel cot for your next adventure, make sure that the features fit the type of camper you are. Also, knowing the weight of your chosen cot can help you determine whether to bring a car with you or not.
If you’re not sure about which camping cot you should get, you can simply pick one from our suggestions. All of the cots that we have reviewed are the best of the best and the top choices in their respective categories which is why you don’t have to worry about their quality and performance. Trust us, you won’t go wrong with any of these camping cots.
