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8 Best Lightweight Cot
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Cot
Selecting a lightweight cot is a smart move if you want comfortable sleep during camping, trekking, or even for use at home when you need a portable guest bed. The goal is to find a cot that is easy to carry, quick to set up, and sturdy enough to support you well, all while fitting your personal preferences and intended uses. It's important to understand the main features of a cot so you can pick one that truly suits your needs—whether you value packability for backpacking, comfort for car camping, or durability for long-term use. Familiarize yourself with the key factors first, and use those to narrow your options before making a choice.WeightWeight refers to how heavy the cot is when packed and ready to go. This is important because if you plan to carry the cot a lot (for example, while hiking or backpacking), a lighter cot is much easier to transport and won’t add too much strain to your load. Lightweight cots typically weigh under 5 pounds, making them easy to carry long distances, while mid-weight options can range from 5 to 10 pounds, which may be fine for car camping but are less ideal for backpacking. Heavier cots, over 10 pounds, are best if you don’t plan to carry the cot much. Think about how you’ll use your cot—if you’ll be on the move, every ounce counts, but for stationary use comfort and sturdiness might take priority over minimal weight.
Packed SizePacked size is how large the cot is when folded down for storage or transport. A small packed size is vital if you have limited space, such as when hiking with a small backpack or traveling by motorcycle. Most lightweight cots pack down to the size of a tent or smaller, which is convenient for tossing into a bag. Larger packed sizes may take up considerable trunk or storage space. If you need to carry your cot far or pack it into a tight space, opt for the smallest packed size available for your needs. If you’re driving and space isn’t an issue, you can go for cots that pack slightly larger if they offer other benefits.
Setup MechanismSetup mechanism describes how you put the cot together. Some cots use simple folding frames, while others require snapping poles or stretching fabric across a frame. Simpler mechanisms usually mean quicker, less stressful setups—ideal for beginners or those who will use the cot in the dark or after a tiring day. More complicated mechanisms may allow for greater stability but can require more effort and time. If you’re likely to be tired, in a hurry, or setting up alone, look for a cot that has easily understandable and quick setup instructions.
Sleeping Surface HeightThe height of the sleeping surface is the distance from the ground to where you’ll lay. Lower cots (less than 6 inches high) are lighter and generally more stable on uneven ground, which is great for backpacking. Mid-height cots (6–15 inches) are easier to get in and out of, while high cots (over 15 inches) can be more comfortable and keep you farther from the cold or damp ground. Choose based on your mobility and comfort preferences—if you have trouble getting up from low positions, a taller cot may be better. If you’ll be carrying your cot a long way, or need to fit it in a small tent, a lower height might be a better fit.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity tells you how much weight the cot can safely support. It’s essential because exceeding this limit could lead to discomfort or damage to the cot. Lightweight cots usually support between 200 and 300 pounds, while sturdier models go higher. Choose a cot with a weight capacity that’s comfortably higher than your body weight, and don’t forget to account for extra gear if you plan to store items on the cot at night.
Comfort (Fabric and Suspension)Comfort depends on the type of fabric used for the sleeping surface and how it’s supported by the frame. Fabrics like polyester or nylon are common, and some models feature extra tension or a bit of give, meaning you won’t feel the frame bars beneath you. Cots with extra features like a padded surface or individual springing sections provide extra comfort at the cost of a little extra weight. If you’re a sensitive sleeper or plan on spending several nights in a row, prioritize cots with higher comfort ratings. If ultralight weight is more essential, a simpler fabric may be sufficient.