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Camping is an adventurous leisure activity. If you are new to camping and don’t want to mess with traditional tents, then a tent cot is something you need.
Tent cots are a cross between a tent and a cot. It is one of the most comfortable and convenient camping gear. It is a must-have if you want to sleep off the ground and want an easy to set up sleeping arrangement.
If we have you convinced to consider one for yourself, what might further interest you is a list of the best tent cots. In this article, we have reviewed the best options available in the market. You can go through them and choose one that you like the best.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Tent Cot
- OUR TOP PICK: Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot
- RUNNER-UP: Kamp-Rite Original Tent Cot
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Kamp-Rite Compact Extra-Large Tent Cot
Comparison Chart of the Best Tent Cots
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What Size of Tent Cot Do I Need?
The size really depends upon how you plan to use it. If you are a lonely camper or don’t like sharing your sleeping quarters with anyone else, then you should opt for a single tent cot. These can hold handle up to 300 pounds of weight and ensure privacy.
If you plan to share, then it’s better to buy a double tent cot that can comfortably house two people. It can support up to 500 pounds and offers a more spacious interior. If you have kids with you, you can also get a separate tent cot for them too. Kiddy tent cots are specially sized for kids.
Are All Tent Cots The Same?
One word answer for this is no. All tent cots are not the same. They differ from each other in a number of ways. We’ll start with the size. Tent cots usually come in two sizes, single and double. Single tent cot houses one person comfortably while a double tent cot can hold two people.
There are tent cots that are made for kids too. They also vary from each other on the basis of their weight capacity. It ranges from 300 pounds to 500 pounds or more in some cases. Some are better weather resistant than others. Some are more stable and heavy-duty.
The market is full of a large number of these products, each having its own set of advantages. You have to realize the differences between them in order to find a suitable one for yourself.
What to Look For When Buying a Tent Cot
Choosing a tent cot is a tiring task. You have to go through a number of products and shortlist potential candidates. Read their reviews and user feedback before finally choosing one that meets your criteria.
If you are confused amongst the different models, here are a number of factors that you should look for before deciding on a certain product.
Price
Everybody has a certain budget to stick to. They have a money range for every expenditure. You might also have a certain price range for a tent cot that you won’t exceed. Once you have that sorted, you can look for products that come within your range and choose one that is more suitable for you.
Weather Resistance
Since tent cots are meant to be used outdoors amongst harsh environmental forces, it is important to invest in one that is constructed from quality materials. Only then can it hold its own against every weather. Choose a tent cot that offers better weather protective features like a full rainfly and waterproof fabric to keep you safe.
Weight Capacity
Different tent cots have different weight capacities. Single tent cots can hold up to 390 pounds of weight, making them suitable for usage by a single person. Double tent cots have a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds; hence they can house two people easily. It’s important to choose a tent that can hold the weight you plan to place on it.
Outsunny Compact Portable Pop-Up Tent Camping Cot can hold up to 300 lbs.
Built
When choosing a tent cot, remember that you are going to use it as an outdoor sleeping quarter, so it has to be comfortable and reliable. We suggest that you choose a cot with an aluminum frame and nylon fabric. Aluminum is sturdy, and nylon is durable, scratch, and fire-resistant.
Weight
The overall weight of a tent cot also matters. You have to carry it around with you. So if you choose a cot that is heavy and bulky, it will start hampering you. We recommend that you choose one that weighs between 10 to 15 pounds, making it suitable to carry with you.
Ease of Set up
One more important factor while choosing a tent cot is its ease of set up and tear down. The time required to assemble varies from model to model. Our advice is to choose one that is easy and quick to set up. It should also fold down into a small size, making it suitable for holding in your arm or carrying in a backpack.
Review of the Best Tent Cots
While you now know what to look for in a tent cot, picking one can still be hard if you don’t know the top models trending in the market. Therefore, here we have reviewed some of the top picks in detail that you won’t regret investing in.
Best Overall:
Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Campers who recently purchased and used this tent cot like it a lot. They were impressed by the spacious interior. They said that the included rainfly kept them dry during a heavy downpour, but its edges did get damp. They also like it for its easy assembly. All in all, it’s a genuinely loved product.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We like that this tent is easy to set up and comes with a rainfly to keep you protected from the rain. It has a lot of room inside and offers storage space under itself to keep your gear and equipment.
Built on a sturdy aluminum frame with nylon stretching over it, this is a versatile product that serves as a lounge chair during the day and as a sleeping shelter during the night.
Who Will Use This Most
This is very suitable to take with you fishing trips, festivals or hikes. Campers who don’t like sleeping on the ground will like it. People who want roomy, well-ventilated sleeping quarters will also like using it. Those who don’t want the hassle of putting up a traditional tent will also benefit from using this product.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a tent cot that is easy to set up, well ventilated, waterproof, and study, then this is the right one for you. It also doubles up as a lounging chair so you can use it like that during the daytime and convert it into a cot to spend the night in. It is built from quality materials so if you buy this, it will last you quite long.
Runner-up:
Kamp-Rite Original Tent Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers who recently bought this tent cot generally like it. They reported that it holds up well against extreme weather conditions. It does not blow away by strong winds and stays dry in heavy rainfall. They also found the fabric to be quite warm, which is good in the cold season.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we like about this is that it is the first patented design and built according to the US Military standards. It has interior pockets for storing your belongings as well as an 11-inch space underneath.
It is very quick and easy to set up, and it folds up into its carry case for carrying around with you. It comes with a rainfly to protect against rain. The fabric is also quite airtight.
Who Will Use This Most
This product is perfect for use in cold weather, so people who plan their camping trips during winter will like using it. Campers who like to keep their equipment and gear in easy reach will also make use of its interior storage pockets. People who camp in all sorts of seasons will also find it a useful product.
Bottom Line
In all, this is a wonderful tent cot from a renowned manufacturer. It was the first design to get a patent. It is based on the compact style that is used by the army. It is a versatile product that can serve you as a lounge chair too. If you decide to buy this product, rest assured that it will serve you in all climatic conditions without failing in any way.
Best for the Money:
Kamp-Rite Compact Extra-Large Tent Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Those who recently used this tent cot report it or be an extraordinary product. They found it a bit heavy and lacking in terms of water resistance.
However, it made up for this by being a versatile product that can be speared to use individually as a sleeping cot or a single person tent. People also like it for the roomy interior sleeping space it offers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit grabbed the spot because of its versatility. It is not only a roomy and extra-large sleeping shelter, but you can unzip the upper tent portion to use it as a single person tent too. The cot alone can also double up as a standard sleeping cot.
Who Will Use This Most
Campers who want the most out of their gear are likely to use this most. People who are frequent campers will also benefit from its versatile approach. Those who want a tent cot that can house a kid along with the will also find this a useful product. Finally, individuals who like a night sky view will also like it for its overhead windows.
Bottom Line
This is one product that is bound to serve you a lot of purposes. It triples up as a single person tent and a standard sleeping cot. It is great for camping trips because its two overhead windows offer superb ventilation as well as a great view of the night time sky.
Best Double Tent Cot:
Winterial Double Outdoor Camping Tent Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who recently used this tent cot found it a satisfying product. They report that it holds up well in every season, keeping them dry during rain and cool during summer. They like it for its spacious interior and the roomy sleeping area it offers. Some people found the choice of a single color somewhat limiting.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We find this to be the best double tent cot. It features a sturdy collapsible aluminum frame with a rip-free nylon fabric stretching over it to ensure maximum protection and privacy.
It comes with a rainfly that can be installed when it rains. It is very easy to set up, and once used, it is equally easy to tear down. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds, making it suitable to be used by couples.
Who Will Use This Most
This tent can easily accommodate two persons, so couples or people who camp in pairs are likely to use this the most. It is also suitable for taking out on fishing trips, tailgating events, and different festivals. So people who enjoy such activities will also find this tent cot a useful product.
Bottom Line
We conclude by saying that this really is a useful product. If you are planning a camping trip with your friends or family, then this will surely serve you. It has a strong and durable make, so you won't have any trouble with it by your side. It can hold its own against extreme weather, so if you buy it, you will definitely like using it.
Best Camping Tent Cot:
Outsunny Compact Portable Pop-Up Tent Camping Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
People who recently used this tent cot like it for its versatile approach. Buyers say that it is a complete camping gear that includes a tent, cot, air mattress, and a foot pump to inflate the air mattress.
People found that it is not suitable to use in all weather conditions. However, it can be equipped with a rainfly that keeps them dry during rainfall.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Without a doubt, this is one of the best tent cots available in the market. It is a complete camping set that comes with an air mattress and a foot pump to inflate it. It gives the user a choice to use it according to his preference.
It comes with a carry bag to store and transport it. Suitable for sunny and rainy seasons, this is one multi-purpose product to sustain every need.
Who Will Use This Most
This product can be used for various purposes. People who want a tent can use it as a tent. Campers who want the cot alone can use it as well. People who want a tent cot complete with an air mattress will also like using this product. Buyers can use it for camping trips as well for sleeping under the stars in their patios, gardens or balconies.Bottom Line
Overall, this is an amazing product that lives up to the expectations of avid campers. It is a tent, a cot and a tent cot complete with a mattress. It guarantees ultimate comfort. It is easy to set up and tear down. It can be stored in a compact form when not in use. All in all, it’s a great product that is surely worth buying.
Best Kamp Rite Tent Cot:
Kamp-Rite CTC XL Compact Collapsible
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
People who recently used this product found it an amazingly satisfying product. Users found its interior quite roomy and very comfortable. Although quite heavy and bulky, buyers reported that the roller wheel bag made its transportation quite easy. Campers who only wanted to use the tent found the option of the duffel bag an added bonus.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is one of the best camping gear from Kamp Rite. Coming from a reputable brand, it surely does not lack in terms of quality. Built from powder-coated steel and heavy-duty waterproof fabric, it has taped seams that make it quite water-resistant. It is an excellent tent cot that offers complete protection against all elements.
Who Will Use This Most
People who want a Kamp Rite product are likely to use this most. Campers who want a comfortable and well-protected tent cot and those who find transporting heavy tents a problem will also like using it. Campers who want a sturdy and reliable tent that lasts them long will also be fit from using this Kamp Rite product.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a reliable tent cot that comes from a well-known and reputable brand, then this is the right one for you. It comes complete with a roller wheel bed to move around the entire cot and a duffel bed for the tent alone.
It can be used combined and separately as well. If you decide to buy this product, you will surely be investing in a quality one.
Best 2 Person Tent Cot:
Kamp-Rite 2 Person Double Tent Cot
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Individuals who recently bought this product like it for its quality. They report that it is a multi-function cot that converts into a lounge chair too.
They say that the doors and windows are all lined with a mesh that effectively keeps bugs and mosquitoes out but makes it quite hot inside. People find it lacking in water resistance but find it a great gear to use during sunny days.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We would term this as the best 2 person tent cot. It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds, making it perfectly suitable for accommodating two fully grown adults. It is built on a heavy-duty powder-coated aluminum frame that makes it very durable. It also has corrosion-resistant zippers that add to its reliability.
Who Will Use This Most
People going on a two-person camping trip are likely to use this the most. Couples who like spending time outdoors will also benefit from using it. Campers who want a high quality, heavy-duty gear for themselves will find many uses for it. People who want a tent cot that is easy to set up and tear down will also benefit from using it.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this is a great 2 person tent cot. It has a sturdy and reliable design that is also attractive in appearance. Coming from a great camping gear brand, this product will not fail you in any way. Although it is not completely waterproof, you will find it very useful on sunny days.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Tent Cot
As the saying goes, where there is good, there is bad. Tent cots are a debatable camping gear. Some people say that sleeping bags or camping mattresses are a better choice, while others swear that tent cots are a must buy. Surely they have their advantages, but they have some disadvantages too. We have explained both below.
Advantages
First, let’s have a look at all the plus sides
Lifts You Off the Ground
A tent cot is designed to have an aeration capacity. It provides a sleeping area that is off the ground. So you can sleep more comfortably, avoiding the lumps and rocks. You are also safe from other ground elements.
Protects You From Insects
Although open from both sides, a tent cot has a protective see-um-mesh net installed on it to keep mosquitoes at bay. By sleeping above the ground, you are also protected from bugs, critters, and snakes.
Storage Space
A tent cot is an aerated entity. So unlike an air mattress or a sleeping bag, it provides a storage space underneath itself where you can keep your gear and equipment.
Weather Resistance
Generally, a tent cot can help you through any kind of weather. It keeps you safe from the rain with its water-resistant rainfly. During summer, the space underneath provides excellent ventilation to keep you cool. In winter, you are raised above the cold ground.
Go camping all year round. (Source)
Disadvantages
Meanwhile, there are some drawbacks, which include:
A Bit Hard to Carry Around
In spite of the lighter versions, tent cots are still a bit heavy and bulky to carry around.
Need Insulation During Winter
Although a tent cot protects you from cold ground in winter by lifting you up, it still needs some sort of insulation to keep you safe from the cold that is caused by the open space underneath.
Lack of Comfort
A tent cot is quite comfortable, but it is not as comfortable as an air mattress. Even the double size is a bit lacking in terms of comfort.
How to Set up a Tent Cot
Tent cots come in a variety of designs and styles. Each manufacturer has its own unique line of tent cots. However, the assembly procedure for most of them is almost the same. They all consist of the same components.
A tent cot gear basically consists of a tent and a cot. The tent is the top part that is comprised of a cover and an optional rainfly. Meanwhile, the cot has a sleeping platform, supportive legs, and a metal frame. In this section, we will tell you how to set up a tent cot quickly and easily.
- Start by unzipping the carry bag and take your tent cot out.
- Release the buckle and unfold.
- Lay on the side and start unwinding the frame.
- Detach the legs and unfold them into a fully open position.
- Carefully unfold the frame until the sleeping platform forms.
- Now start unfolding the upper frames that have the tent cover attached to them.
- Make sure that the cover is securely connected to the frames.
- The body is ready. You can attach the rainfly if needed.
If you have any difficulties unfolding any of the frames or legs, try unfolding in the opposite direction. Your tent cot’s instruction manual will also walk you through the unique assembly of its model. If you are still unsure, feel free to refer to the video given below.
Conclusion
Tent cots present a great opportunity to spend time outdoors. They are easy to set up and offer comfort and privacy at the same time. Compared to traditional tents, they sure are hustle free. Choosing the right product for yourself can make you reel because the range is very big and versatile.
To facilitate you in your search, we have provided a concise review of some of the best currently available in the market. You can give them a look and select the one you find more suitable for your needs.
People Also Ask
When you are new to something, you are easily confused. You find yourself questioning everything. Similar is the case with tent cots. People often confuse them with camping cots. Both are quite different. To familiarize you with tent cots and to ease your confusion, we have listed some of the most asked questions about below.
How to Keep a Cot From Tearing the Tent Floor?
If you have been using camping cots long enough, you will know that their legs are quite harmful to the tent floor. There are a number of ways you can prevent the cot from tearing the tent floor. Some of these are given below.
- Take some tennis balls. Cut a slot and insert the cot legs inside them.
- Place a tarp under the tent floor and use a carpet to cover the floor inside the tent. You can use a cheap outdoor one.
- If your cot’s feet are joined by a rod, you can slip a pool noodle over it to prevent it from tearing the tent floor.
Are Tent Cots Comfortable to Sleep on?
Tent cots are certainly very comfortable to sleep on, even more so when you compare them to camping mats or sleeping bags. They are aerated so you can sleep above the ground for a very relaxing rest after a long hike or other outdoor activities. You can also put an air mattress on it to increase its comfort.
How Do I Make My Cot More Comfortable?
Tent cots are quite comfortable as is. To make it more comfortable, you can add an air mattress on top of it. Just make sure that you do not exceed its weight capacity; otherwise, your tent cot will collapse. Also, consider the collective height. It should be short enough for you to reach easily.
Can I Put an Air Mattress on a Cot?
Yes, you put an air mattress on a cot. But take due note of the height and weight capacity of your tent cot. The collective weight of yourself and the air mattress you put on it should be within the weight capacity of your cot. Also, remember that anything else you put on the cot with you will also add to its load, which should never exceed its capacity.
What is the Difference Between a Cot and a Cot Bed?
The word cot refers to a bed that has fixed sides and an end panel. A cot bed is different from a cot. Its sides and end panels can be removed to convert it into a bed. A cot is generally smaller than a cot bed. Both have their own special bedding and mattresses. Cot beds are also slightly expensive and space-consuming than a cot.