Best Sleeping Cots and Mat 2024
Camping Sleeping Cots vs. Camping Sleeping Mats: Choosing Your Outdoor Bedding
When it comes to camping, one of the crucial decisions campers face is choosing between sleeping cots and sleeping mats. Both options offer unique advantages and cater to different preferences and camping styles. In this blog post, we'll delve into the comparison between camping sleeping cots and camping sleeping mats to help you make an informed choice for your next outdoor adventure.
Cots vs. Mats
Comfort and Support:
Cots:
- Provide elevated sleeping surfaces similar to a traditional bed.
- Offer sturdy support, ideal for campers who prefer a firmer sleeping surface.
- Some cots come with built-in padding or mattresses for added comfort.
- Suitable for campers who prefer to sleep off the ground, away from rocks, roots, and uneven terrain.
Mats:
- Offer cushioning and insulation between the camper and the ground.
- Come in various thicknesses and materials, providing options for different comfort levels.
- Lightweight and compact, making them easy to transport and pack.
- Ideal for backpackers and minimalist campers looking for a portable bedding solution.
Portability and Packability:
Cots:
- Generally bulkier and heavier compared to sleeping mats.
- May require more space in vehicles or gear storage due to their size.
- Suitable for car camping or base camps where weight and size are less of a concern.
Mats:
- Lightweight and compact, perfect for backpacking and long-distance hiking.
- Can be rolled or folded into a small size for easy storage in backpacks or gear compartments.
- Take up minimal space in tents, allowing for more room to move around.
Insulation and Temperature Regulation:
Cots:
- Offer limited insulation unless paired with additional sleeping pads or blankets.
- Elevated design may result in colder nights in cooler climates due to air circulation underneath.
Mats:
- Provide insulation from the ground, helping to retain body heat and stay warmer during colder nights.
- Some mats come with built-in thermal properties or reflective materials for enhanced warmth.
- Ideal for camping in various seasons, including spring, summer, and fall.
Durability and Longevity:
Cots:
- Typically made from sturdy materials like aluminum or steel frames with durable fabric.
- Can withstand heavy use and rugged outdoor conditions.
- Longer lifespan compared to sleeping mats, especially high-quality models.
Mats:
- Made from durable materials such as closed-cell foam, inflatable materials like TPU or PVC, or insulated fabrics.
- While durable, mats may be more prone to punctures or wear over time, especially inflatable models.
- Regular maintenance and care can extend the lifespan of sleeping mats.
Cost and Affordability:
Cots:
- Generally more expensive upfront, especially for premium models with added features like built-in padding or adjustable legs.
- Initial investment may be higher but can offer long-term value and durability.
Mats:
- Available in a wide price range, from budget-friendly basic models to high-end insulated and self-inflating mats.
- Inflatable mats and insulated models tend to be more expensive but offer superior comfort and insulation.
- Budget-conscious campers can find affordable options without compromising quality.
top 5 rated sleeping cots for camping and backpacking in 2024
Helinox Cot One Convertible:
Key Features:
Lightweight aluminum frame, convertible design, comfortable sleeping surface.
Weight:
Approximately 4.9 to 6.6 pounds (depending on size)
Ease of Packing:
Packs down very compactly, includes carrying case
Price Range: $300 to $350
Where to Buy:
Outdoor retailers like REI, Backcountry, and Cabela's, as well as online on Amazon and the Helinox website.
Pros:
Easy setup, compact when packed, suitable for backpacking and car camping.
Cons:
Higher price point, may not be as wide as some other cots.
Therm-a-Rest UltraLite Cot:
Key Features:
Ultralight design, compact packing size, durable construction.
Weight:
Around 2.5 to 3.2 pounds (depending on size)
Ease of Packing:
Packs down small, includes stuff sack
Price Range: $200 to $250
Where to Buy:
Available at outdoor gear stores such as REI and Moosejaw, as well as online on Amazon and the Therm-a-Rest website.
Pros:
Excellent portability, quick setup, integrated sleeping pad compatibility.
Cons:
Lower weight capacity compared to heavier-duty cots, minimal padding.
REI Co-op Camp Folding Cot:
Key Features:
Sturdy steel frame, comfortable fabric, easy to assemble.
Weight:
Approximately 11 to 13 pounds (depending on size)
Ease of Packing:
Foldable design, includes carry bag
Price Range: $80 to $100
Where to Buy:
Purchase from REI stores and online on the REI Co-op website.
Pros:
Affordable price, suitable for car camping and base camps, good weight capacity.
Cons:
Bulkier compared to ultralight cots, may be heavier for backpacking.
KingCamp Strong Stable Folding Camping Cot:
Key Features:
Heavy-duty steel frame, durable fabric, multiple reclining positions.
Weight:
Varies by model, typically around 15 to 20 pounds
Ease of Packing:
Foldable design, comes with storage bag
Where to Buy:
Find it at outdoor retailers like Walmart, Amazon, and camping specialty stores.
Pros:
Strong and stable construction, comfortable sleeping surface, adjustable design.
Cons:
Heavier than some ultralight models, larger packed size.
ALPS Mountaineering Camp Cot:
Key Features:
Powder-coated steel frame, ripstop fabric, easy setup.
Weight:
Approximately 13 to 16 pounds (depending on size)
Ease of Packing:
Foldable frame, includes carry bag
Price Range: $50 to $70
Where to Buy:
Available at outdoor retailers like REI, Cabela's, and Bass Pro Shops, as well as online on Amazon and the ALPS Mountaineering website.
Pros:
Affordable price, sturdy construction, suitable for various camping conditions.
Cons:
Not as lightweight as some ultralight cots, may require additional padding for comfort.
top 5 rated sleeping mats for camping and backpacking in 2024
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Sleeping Pad:
Key Features:
Reflective ThermaCapture technology, high R-value, lightweight design.
Weight:
Approximately 15 ounces (regular size)
Ease of Packing:
Very easy to pack, rolls up compactly
Price Range: $200 to $250
Where to Buy:
Outdoor retailers like REI, Backcountry, and Moosejaw, as well as online on Amazon and the Therm-a-Rest website.
Pros:
Excellent insulation, compact packing size, suitable for cold weather camping.
Cons:
Higher price point, may be less durable than heavier-duty mats.
Big Agnes Q-Core Deluxe Sleeping Pad:
Key Features:
Offset I-Beam construction, PrimaLoft Silver insulation, durable fabric.
Weight:
Around 24 ounces (regular size)
Ease of Packing:
Packs down relatively small for its size
Price Range: $150 to $200
Where to Buy:
Available at outdoor gear stores such as REI and Cabela's, as well as online on Amazon and the Big Agnes official website.
Pros:
Comfortable sleeping surface, good insulation, easy inflation/deflation.
Cons:
Slightly heavier compared to ultralight mats, larger packed size.
Sea to Summit Comfort Plus XT Insulated Sleeping Mat:
Key Features:
Dual-layer design, Exkin Platinum fabric, multi-function valve.
Weight:
Varies by size, approximately 24 to 31 ounces
Ease of Packing:
Packs down fairly compactly, includes stuff sack
Price Range: $200 to $250
Where to Buy:
Purchase from outdoor retailers like REI, CampSaver, and Eastern Mountain Sports, as well as online on Amazon and the Sea to Summit website.
Pros:
Adjustable firmness, excellent insulation, durable construction.
Cons:
Relatively high price, may take longer to inflate compared to single-layer mats.
Exped SynMat HL Sleeping Pad:
Key Features:
Lightweight design, synthetic insulation, compact packing size.
Weight:
Depending on size, ranges from 10 to 16 ounces
Ease of Packing:
Very lightweight and packs down small
Price Range: $150 to $200
Where to Buy:
Find it at outdoor gear stores like REI and Moosejaw, as well as online on Amazon and the Exped website.
Pros:
Good balance of comfort and weight, quick inflation/deflation, suitable for backpacking.
Cons:
Limited thickness compared to thicker mats, may require additional insulation in colder conditions.
REI Co-op Flash Insulated Air Sleeping Pad:
Key Features:
PrimaLoft insulation, welded baffles, compact design.
Weight:
Approximately 15 to 20 ounces (regular size)
Ease of Packing:
Packs down compactly, includes storage sack
Price Range: $100 to $150
Where to Buy:
Available at REI stores and online on the REI Co-op website.
Pros:
Lightweight and packable, comfortable sleeping surface, good insulation.
Cons:
May not be as durable as heavier-duty mats, narrower width compared to some models.
Conclusion: Ultimately, the choice between camping sleeping cots and camping sleeping mats depends on your camping style, preferences, and specific needs. Sleeping cots provide elevated comfort and support, ideal for car camping and base camps, while sleeping mats offer lightweight portability and insulation, perfect for backpacking and minimalist camping. Consider factors such as comfort, portability, insulation, durability, cost, and your camping activities to make the best decision for a restful night's sleep under the stars.