Planning a big camping trip ahead?
You can’t expect to spend countless nights on a cheap quality sleeping mat laid on the cold and hard ground. Investing in a good quality camping cot and mattress can guarantee you the best night’s sleep.
From ensuring maximum comfort to providing warmth in the cold weather or camping in the rain, there’s nothing a great cot mattress, warm hardshell jacket, and a great winter sleeping bag won’t do for you. So, if you’re looking for the best camping cots and mattresses for your upcoming trip, then stay with us till the end.
If you are planning a backpacking adventure and need a lightweight sleeping pad, then we’ve reviewed the best lightweight backpacking pads to sleep all night. Also, if you’re camping with your honey and prefer snuggling together, we have comfortable couples sleeping bag reviews too.
Table of contents
11 Best Camping Cots and Mattresses
Looking for some high-quality and long-lasting camping cots and mattresses? We’ve got you covered. Here are 11 amazing options for you to select from. We’ve added a comparison table and buying advice below.
Camping Cots:
1. Coleman Trailhead II Military Style Camping Cot
Get it on Amazon for $54.99
When it comes to choosing a good-quality camping cot, the first brand that comes to mind is Coleman. The Trailhead II from their line of military-style cots is one of the best camping cots that you can invest in.
Built with strong military-grade steel construction, this camping cot will give you both a comfortable sleeping surface and protection. The construction is top-notch and comprises thick and durable steel. So, if you’re looking to invest in something that will last you a long, this is the one.
You get six legs and four side poles with the camp cot, which ensures the perfect balance for any situation. Another impressive feature of this cot is the quality of the canvas. If your canvas is of cheap quality, your cot won’t last.
While canvas fabrics aren’t considered lightweight materials, Coleman always makes sure that they make durable ones that are tough and thick.
Also, this military-style cot is both an easy set up and breaks down quickly into a bag for your next camping trip. It also comes with attached pockets that help in keeping things organized and sorted out.
Pros:
- Strong and thick steel construction
- Weight capacity: Supports around 300 lbs. of weight
- Durable and long-lasting build
- Bears pockets for easy storage
- Fits easily into carrying bags
Cons:
- Heavy in weight
Verdict
With so many positive features, you can’t get a camping cot better than this. If you want something user-friendly for your camping adventures, this is the best one for you.
2. Coleman Twin Airbed Folding Cot
Get it on Amazon for $189.99
Another great addition to the Coleman family, this one is the perfect camping cot for sharing.
With dimensions of 74 x 40 x 23.5 inches, this camping cot is one of the best options you can find for your trip. You can accommodate guests up to 300 pounds in weight and 6 feet in height. So, with this camping cot, you don’t have to worry about space issues.
Equipped with a strong steel frame, this cot will last you for years. This twin-airbed folding cot is one of the best options you can find in Coleman, thanks to its durability and accessibility.
The mattress comprises a solid coil system that ensures maximum support and solace. You also get the benefit of an airtight system that blocks any leakage through the mattress. This is an exceptional feature of this camping cot.
Another interesting feature of this cot is the presence of a double lock valve. The double lock valve offers anti-leakage properties so that you can have a comfortable night in any condition.
Pros
- Tough and resilient steel construction
- Comfortable twin-airbed mattress
- Easily foldable and user-friendly
- Bears anti-leakage properties
- Weight capacity: Supports people up to 6 feet tall and weighs 300 pounds
Cons
- Maybe a little bulky
Verdict
If you’re planning to have 2-3 members on your trip, you can easily share this cot without any hassles. This is truly one of the best options you’ll find in your budget.
3. TETON Sports Outfitter XXL Camp Cot
Get it on Amazon for
Teton Sports is one of the leading brands when it comes to designing high-quality camping cots. You can always find amazing camp cots in their collection, and this Sports Outfitter is no exception. Especially if you’re looking for something with a high load capacity, this is the one you should invest in.
With dimensions of 85 x 41 x 19 inches, you can’t go wrong with this. Not only are the dimensions insane, but so is the weight capacity. Unlike traditional camp cots, this one can accommodate up to 600 pounds! So, you get more sleeping space and more capacity with this camp cot.
It is built with a military-grade construction, so you can have an idea about the quality. The construction of this camp cot includes a solid aluminum frame and strong steel legs. This combination makes the cot highly durable and resilient.
You can easily fold the cot and pack it in a carrying bag. Although it is large in size, it can still be installed without any tools.
Pros
- Top-notch steel and aluminum construction
- Weight capacity: Accommodates up to 600 pounds
- Provides larger space for moving around
- Installation requires no tools
Cons
- Set-up may take a long time
Verdict
Despite its high load capacity, this cot is very comfortable. After a long day of camping activities, you can’t find a better cot to rest in.
4. Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot
Get it on Amazon for $89.99
We have another option for you from Coleman, and it is their Pack-Away Camping Cot.
If you’re looking for something that will be perfect for use as a reclining or sitting space along with sleeping, this is the one for you. Its adjustable design makes it perfect for almost anything.
With strong steel construction, you can say goodbye to your worries related to longevity. The steel frame of this cot is built to last long and withstand damage. You also get a side table with this cot that can be used for handling food items and other belongings. And the best part is, this side table is removable!
It comes with dimensions of 80 x 44 x 17 inches which are quite convenient for everyone. This camping cot can accommodate people up to 300 pounds in weight and 6 feet 5 inches in height. So, you can easily share it with 2-3 people.
You can fold this cot easily and fit it into your car trunk. It is user-friendly and takes no time to set up.
Pros
- Versatile cot design
- Solid and resilient steel frame
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds of weight
- Can be used as a reclining seat
- Takes less time to install
Cons
- Bulky packed size
Verdict
Despite being heavy, this cot still works for almost everyone due to its smart features. You can count on this cot to make your camping trip more comfortable.
5. MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Tent Camping Cot Bed
Get it on Amazon for $69.99
If you’re looking for the best camping cot bed for your holidays, this one from MARCHWAY is an excellent choice.
On your climbing or mountaineering adventures, you don’t want to carry something heavy. You also want something relaxing to sleep on after a tiring day of activities. This is why MARCHWAY has designed a camping cot keeping all these things in mind. Their ultralight folding camping cot is not only comfortable but very useful.
It is extremely lightweight compared to other cots out there, so you don’t have to worry about portability. Moreover, it comprises a shock cord system that makes the installation easy and less time-consuming.
You can also count on it in terms of durability. The high-strength aluminum alloy frame is designed to withstand resistance and corrosion. Besides, the material of the bed cloth is high-quality nylon which is resistant to tear and damage.
The best part about this cot is that you can use it for both outdoor and indoor activities. Thanks to the lightweight appearance and easy set-up, you can even use this cot for relaxing in your backyard, stargazing, and so on!
Pros
- Smart and ultralight design
- Durable and strong aluminum alloy construction
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Tear-resistant and tough nylon bed cloth
- Convenient for both outdoor and indoor use
- Easy to install and disassemble
Cons
- Does not support the weight of a lot of people
Verdict
If you want something compact for your camping activities, this might be the perfect camping cot out there for you!
6. ARAER Camping Cot
Get it on Amazon for Price:
ARAER is another brand that has gained much fame for designing smart and user-friendly camping cots.
This camping cot is designed to support almost 450 pounds of weight and a height of 6 feet 7 inches, which is pretty impressive. You can use this as pool furniture as well, on days when you’re not camping.
Apart from that, it can look great as patio furniture at homes or salons. It has gained a lot of attention, thanks to its versatile design.
The material of the cot is high-quality rugged steel and alloy tubes. Rugged steel is quite popular right now because of its strength and durability. The alloy tubes also perform an impressive job of maintaining stability. You also get a bed cloth is composed of oxford fabric, which is a tough material. This oxford fabric comes in double layers to ensure maximum protection.
You can easily fold it and store it in a carrying bag without compromising any of the space inside. The cot can last for a long time if stored properly in a well-ventilated space.
Pros
- Weight capacity: 450 pounds of weight easily
- Can be used as a furniture apart from camping
- Rugged steel construction offers durability
- Oxford fabric material for maximum strength
Cons
- Fabric can wear out upon frequent exposure to water
Verdict:
If you’re looking for something versatile, this one would be a splendid choice. With so many excellent features, this camping cot is truly worth every penny.
Camping Mattress
1. POWERLIX Sleeping Pad Ultralight Inflatable Sleeping Mat
Get it on Amazon $40.99
Looking for a comfortable sleeping pad that can provide you with maximum comfort” This one from POWERLIX STORE is truly amazing.
Built with a hexagon design, this one targets your sore spots in the body and works to provide a great deal of comfort. A feature like this is perfect for those suffering from neck and back problems and who face difficulty in sleeping on hard ground.
This one from POWERLIX is a very lightweight camping pad, which makes it easy to fold and carry without any difficulties. And the fun part is, you can choose from different ranges of colors!
The pad comes with an inflation bag that allows easy and effortless set-up in no time. You can also deflate it when you’re in a hurry in the morning and roll it in your carrying bag. You also get additional repair kits with it, so when you’re out there in the wild and something goes wrong – you can fix it in a jiffy!
The material of the sleeping pad is high-grade and durable nylon which is resistant to different kinds of weather damage. Since it’s waterproof, you can use this for all kinds of outdoor use easily.
Pros
- Gets rid of sore neck and back problems
- Comes with waterproof nylon fabric
- Can be inflated and deflated effortlessly
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry
Cons
- Makes slight rustling sounds which can be annoying
Verdict
If you’re in dire need of a sleeping pad that will help you obtain a night of relaxing and calming sleep, this one can be a suitable option.
2. ZOOOBELIVES Extra Thickness Inflatable Sleeping Pad with Built-in Pump
Get it on Amazon for $33.99
A good-quality camping mattress can be hard to find. But you can say goodbye to all your worries of finding one, thanks to this extra-thickness sleeping camp mattress by ZOOBELIVES.
So, what does extra-thick mean here? It means you get an extra 4 inches of thick padding for maximum comfort. No matter which environment you’re going to sleep in rough, bumpy, or hard, this camping mattress will protect you from everything.
This can be your companion for camping, hunting, mountaineering, or even in beach holidays.
The air padding is brilliant, and so is the built-in air pump within the pad. It has a double-decker valve design, which makes it a user-friendly product.
You can inflate it and deflate it easily without any difficulty. With dimensions of around 6 x 6 x 14 inches, you can carry it anywhere by storing it in your bag. Since the pad so lightweight, it easily fits in your bag and does not feel heavy at all.
The sleeping pad is built with military-grade construction, so the quality of the fabric is impeccable. You get a high-grade polyester fabric along with PVC coating in this sleeping pad. PVC coating ensures maximum warmth in cold weather conditions.
Pros
- Comes with extra thickness for maximum comfort
- Protects the body from hard and moist ground conditions
- High-quality waterproof polyester fabric
- Easy to assemble
- Lightweight and compact design
Cons
- Can produce bothering noises
Verdict
With so many smart features, this sleeping pad is a gem for camping enthusiasts. Other than camping, you can also use this for outdoor holiday activities in your backyard, rooftop, or parks.
3. Willpo Memory Foam Camping Mattress
Get it on Amazon for
Are you looking for something that will provide constant support in your camping adventures? This one from Willpo is definitely worth investing in!
No other brand can beat the quality of this camping mattress, thanks to the superior quality foam and compact design. At the core of the mattress is Velboa material, which is popular for its soft and cozy nature.
Besides, the foam used in the mattress is quite dense, which is why you can expect it to provide you maximum comfort.
It does not matter where you’re sleeping because this foam sleeping pad will make you feel like you’re sleeping in your soft bed. Whether the ground you’re sleeping on is rocky, hard, or uneven, you can still sleep relaxedly on this mattress.
Apart from its use in camping or hunting, you can also use this when you have kids and guests over at home. This makes it a versatile mattress and worth every penny.
The mattress is lightweight and compact, can be rolled easily, and stored in your traveling bag without any hassles. The foam sleeping pads are waterproof and can be cleaned with the help of a machine. You can also dry them using a dryer, and the sleeping mat will be as good as new!
Pros
- The comfortable and damp-proof foam design
- Dense fabric material for better longevity
- Protects from the uneven ground condition
- Prevents neck and back sores
- Can be rolled and carried easily in a bag
Cons
- Protective cover is somewhat fragile
Verdict
If quality and longevity are your top priorities, you can count on this mattress to offer the best service on your camping nights. With so many smart features, you can’t get a deal better than this.
4. Loowoko Sleeping Pad Camping Mat
Get it on Amazon for ()
If you’re in need of a lightweight yet versatile camping mat, then you can give this one a go.
This one is a gorgeous design from Loowoko, which is a popular brand that designs solid sleeping pads. This camping mat is perfect for backpacking, hiking, and any other open-air activities. It has a weight of around 26.8 oz, which means you can roll it in any backpack without taking up any of your space.
The ergonomic design of this sleeping pad allows ease and relaxation after a tiring day of activities. Most hiking grounds consist of leaves, rocks, and uneven terrain, which can be very uncomfortable to sleep on. The 2.3-inch thickness of the mat makes sure you don’t have to go through such discomfort.
You get a combination of heavy-duty nylon and TPU coating in this sleeping mat. Nylon is a solid material that resists damage from water or other weather condition. Meanwhile, the TPU coating ensures maximum warmth and protects the mat from the cold ground.
Pros
- Easy to roll and store in a bag
- Thick foam protects from rough ground
- Comes with waterproof nylon fabric
- TPU coating provides maximum protection
Cons
- Deflating it can take some time
Verdict:
When you’re out in the wild, the only thing that saves you from an uncomfortable night of sleep is a solid mattress. And this is the perfect one for your needs! Its smart and sophisticated design is worth investing in for any camping enthusiast.
5. WOLF WALKER Double Sleeping Pad for Camping
Get it for
Last but not the least, we have this brilliant design from Wolf Walker. This is also a fairly common brand that designs quality camping pads at an affordable price.
If quality is important to you, you can give this one a try. This sleeping pad comprises 83 X 54 X 4 inches of dimensions which is pretty great compared to other brands out there. The extra width and thickness help to support all the sore spots of your body so that you can have a calm and relaxing sleep all night.
With strong insulation, it keeps your body warm even when you’re sleeping on moist ground. The wide space allows you to share it with a partner, so it’s super convenient!
Whether you’re going hunting, mountaineering, or even on a beachside holiday, this sleeping pad will be perfect for every use. You can also use this when you’re out for stargazing or a fun bonfire night.
You can use an electric air pump to inflate the sleeping pad, and it takes no time at all. It comprises waterproof and durable nylon material at its core, which will last you for a long time.
Pros
- Comes with strong insulation and thick memory foam
- Heavy-duty nylon material ensures maximum longevity
- Provides wide space for maximum comfort
- Can prevent pressure sores
Cons
- Foot pump is not so convenient
Verdict
This sleeping pad has tons of positive features that can ensure a great night of sleep. So, if you want something with good quality foam, extra space, and easy assembling, this is the one you should choose.
Comparison Table
[table id=45 /] [table id=46 /]What to Look for Before Buying
It’s not easy to choose a camping cot vs sleeping mattress options, especially when there are tons of options out there. So, for your convenience, we’ve come up with some of the necessary features that you cannot skip before buying a camping cot.
Let’s have a quick look at them.
Camping Sleeping surfaces
You obviously want to avoid any that are often hard, bumpy, and cold. Using sleeping bags by themselves will have you feeling every tiny rock of that hard ground. But a good camping mat can make all the difference between a sleepless night and sweet dreams under the stars.
In this article, we’ll help you choose a camping mat with the right added cushion that suits your needs, in order for you to get a great night’s sleep on your next camping trip.
When looking at sleeping surfaces, there are five main types of camping sleeping surfaces: foam pads, inflatable sleeping pads, insulated sleeping pads, camping mattresses and camping cots.
Foam Sleeping Pads
Foam sleeping pads are the most common type of camping mat. They offer a variety of benefits, including being relatively lightweight and inexpensive. Foam sleeping pads also provide good insulation from the cold ground, which is important in cooler weather. However, foam sleeping pads can be uncomfortable if they’re not thick enough, and they don’t do well if you need to sleep on your side.
Inflatable Sleeping Mats
Inflatable sleeping pads are another option for camping mats. They’re usually more comfortable than foam sleeping pads because they’re thicker and provide more cushioning. Inflatable sleeping pads are also generally lighter than foam pads. However, they can be more expensive, noisy, and they require a bit more care to keep them in good condition.
Insulated Sleeping Pads
Insulated sleeping pads are available for those who camp in cold weather. These have an extra layer of foam or fiber that helps keep body heat from being conducted into the ground. Some even have battery-operated heating elements built-in. If want a good night’s sleep and a hard ground in winter weather in your future, you may want to consider one of these.
Certainly, these offers added cushioning and more comfort, but they can be a bit heavier and not as compact as foam pads. However, the extra weight is worth it if you’re camping in cooler weather and don’t want to drag even a lite cot with you.
Camping Mattresses
If you are looking at camping air mattresses, make sure it is an air mattresses made for camping. Some air mattresses are not made to withstand the elements and will break down quickly. Look for an air mattress that is waterproof and puncture-resistant. Also, make sure the camping air mattreds comes with a pump.
You don’t want to be stuck blowing up your campsite air mattress by mouth.
Camping Cots
Camping cots are a third option for sleeping surfaces. They’re more comfortable than foam or inflatable sleeping pads, but they’re also more expensive and heavier. Most cots are a good option if you need a little extra support or if you want to sleep on your side.
When choosing a camping mattress, consider what form of camping you’ll be doing and what kind of weather you’ll be encountering. Foam sleeping pads are a good choice for car camping in warm weather, while inflatable sleeping pads are better for backpacking in cooler weather.
Camping cots are best for car camping or base camping, where weight and space aren’t as much of a concern. Also, if you are a light sleeper and wake to the noises or cold ground, select one the best camping cots you can afford.
No matter what type of camping mat you choose, make sure it’s comfortable enough to get a good night’s sleep. With a little bit of research, you can find a camping mat that will help you get the best night’s sleep possible on your next camping trip.
Frame Material
The first thing that comes to mind before buying anything is the material of the product. It’s no different in the case of a camping cot as well.
Material can play a vital role in the overall function of a camping cot, which is why you should pick the best one. Choose something with a tough and resilient material like aluminum alloy or rugged steel instead of something flimsy. Something solid like steel will last you for years and also provide protection from weather damage.
Aluminum alloy is also a great material for the framework of a camping cot. So, make sure you choose something that is both durable and long-lasting.
Fabric Material
Fabric material also plays a role in the overall quality of the camping cot or mattress. A strong fabric can fight against leakage, spilling, or water damage, while a cheap quality fabric can ruin the top of the cot.
Try choosing something with a military-grade construction. Most military end-users opt for canvas, polyester, or heavy-duty nylon for the top fabric of camping cots. These fabrics are very tough and can resist damage to the maximum extent. You also don’t have to worry about leakage with these fabrics.
So, before buying a camping cot, make sure you pick a top fabric material like this.
Sleeping Space
Another important thing you should look for before buying a camping cot is sleeping space. Usually, camping cots are meant to be shared by 2-3 people. Since it is quite heavy, people find it easier to share a single cot during camping.
So, before picking a camping cot, make sure you check the dimensions of the cot. The wider the sleeping space of the cot, the better it will be for everyone.
Moreover, a cot with a wider sleeping space can allow you to sleep a lot more comfortably than one with a narrow space.
Ease of Setup
Lastly, we have this important feature in a camping cot, which is the set-up ability. Since camping enthusiasts prefer to spend their day doing various activities, it can get bothersome to install one every night which can take up a lot of time.
It gets more difficult to break down the cot the next morning, especially when you’re running out of time.
This is why you should choose a camping cot that comes with an easy setup. Choose something that won’t take hours to set up. Also, try going for camping cots that don’t require additional tools, as it can be pretty inconvenient when you’re in unfavorable weather or setting it up late at night.
Pick something that is lightweight, compact, easy to fold, and does not take up much space if your mattress will be in your car. If you are also setting up a camp kitchen, then you’ll need extra setup time, so simplify what you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the benefit of owning a lightweight camping cot?
The best part about owning a lightweight camping cot is that you don’t have to worry about carrying it with difficulty. Usually, with bulky cots, the struggle can be real to carry it wherever you go. It also limits you from carrying too many belongings on your trip. But with a lightweight cot, you don’t have to worry about these issues.
- What kind of material is best for a camping cot?
High-strength steel or aluminum are great materials for camping cots. However, the ideal material for a camping cot would be rugged steel. This kind of steel protects the cot from damage, corrosion, and so on. Besides, if taken care of, this kind of material lasts for years.
- What kind of camping mattress causes neck and back pain?
When the mattress is too firm, it may cause neck and back pain. This is because firm mattresses put pressure on the neck and back areas during sleeping and cause discomfort. So, it is not relaxing to sleep on these mattresses at all.
- What fabric is ideal for a camping cot?
Tough fabrics like nylon, polyester, etc., are amazing for bedclothes in camping cots. These fabrics are built to combat harsh weather conditions. Besides, they are resistant to tear and can last for a long time if taken care of properly.
- Which brand is best for camping cot?
Coleman is the best brand for camping cots due to its smart features and durability. The brand always designs camping cots with the best kind of material, solid framework, heavy-duty fabric, and easy assembling facilities. This is why their camping cots are the best in the market.
Final Words
Bringing it to an end, it can be said that finding the best camping cots and mattresses can be pretty challenging. A camping cot can be your companion through all your adventures and camping activities. Also, if you’re sharing a tent with 4-6 people, then our review guide to the 15 Best Tents for 6 people. Since 6-person tents are available in different designs, colors, and styles, it becomes difficult to select which 6-person shelter will be perfect for you.
It can provide you warmth and comfort in a difficult environment, which is why you deserve the best one out there. A good night’s sleep is important in the backcountry. We hope our list and buying guide can assist you in choosing the best camping cots and mattresses for your next camping trip.
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Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API