In this guide we’ll look at the best tent cots.
We’ve compared design, structure, material and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
What Is The Best Tent Cot?
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More Detailed Tent Cot Reviews
Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot Folding Outdoor Camping Sleeping Bed
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Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot Folding Outdoor Camping Sleeping Bed Review
The Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot is the best tent cot on the market. Standing 11” above the ground, this tent cot is designed for comfortable nights under the stars. It has an expanded sleeping area for additional comfort.
This Oversize tent cot is wider and longer than traditional tent cots, with a domed top to give you more head room and interior space. It’ll protect you from all the elements and offers the added comfort and convenience you won’t find in traditional camping gear.
This tent cot is rock solid, with 2 additional support legs at each end. It can be converted into a chair for daytime relaxation, and sets up in minutes.
Specifications:
- Height Off Ground: 11”
- Set Up Time: Under 20 minutes
- Rainfly Included?: Yes
- Internal Height: 47”
- Weight: 32lbs
- Weight Limit: 300lbs
Ozark Trail One-Person Cot Tent
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Ozark Trail One-Person Cot Tent Review
The Ozark Trail 1 Person Cot Tent is a comfortable 1 person tent with a weight capacity of 225lbs. This cot makes sleeping outdoors a lot more comfortable, with the 85” length great for taller campers.
This padded tent cot keeps you elevated and away from the elements. It has a mesh curtain for bug protection and air circulation, while the removable rain fly provides extra protection in bad weather.
Got a lot of gear? This tent cot has you covered. Keep your gear clean, dry and off the ground using the included gear loft. Finally, this comes with a durable carrying case for easy portability.
Specifications:
- Height Off Ground: 9”
- Set Up Time: 10 minutes
- Rainfly Included?: Yes
- Weight: 15lbs
- Weight Limit: 225lbs
Tangkula Tent Cot Folding Waterproof 2 Person
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Tangkula Tent Cot Folding Waterproof 2 Person Review
The Tangkula Tent Cot is an exceptionally durable cot, made from heavy duty 420D fabric. It comes with an included rainfly so it can withstand most weather conditions, while the large D shaped doors with zippers allow for easy exit and entry.
This tent cot sleeps 2 people and is both space saving and easy to carry. It utilizes a foldable design and comes with a carry bag included. Plus it’s very easy to assemble, even in windy conditions.
This tent cot keeps you elevated 12” off the ground for comfortable sleeping. It’s sturdy, warm and cozy, while the breathable micro mesh windows keep it well ventilated.
Specifications:
- Height Off Ground: 12”
- Set Up Time: 10 minutes
- Rainfly Included?: Yes
- Internal Height: 31”
- Weight: 33.1lbs
- Weight Limit: 500lbs
DESERT WALKER Outdoor Camping Cot Ultra Lightweight
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DESERT WALKER Outdoor Camping Cot Ultra Lightweight Review
The Desert Walker Camping Cot is a minimalist and simple solution for keeping you elevated while you sleep. This ultra light camping cot keeps you off the cold, hard ground to allow you to sleep more comfortably – just like your own bed at home!
Made from durable oxford fabric and supporting up to 440lbs, this is the best cot tent on the market for heavier campers. It weighs just 1.3kgs so is easy to take on the go, and it’s equally easy to set up.
Specifications:
- Length: 72.8”
- Width: 23.6”
- Set Up Time: Instant
- Weight: 2.8lbs
- Weight Limit: 440lbs
Coleman Pack Away Folding Camping Cot with Side Table
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Coleman Pack Away Folding Camping Cot with Side Table Review
The Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot offers an ideal place for sitting, reclining and sleeping while camping. It’s exceptionally sturdy, built to withstand up to 300lbs on its durable steel frame. Plus it’s comfortable for sleepers up to 6ft6 tall and extra wide for added comfort.
This has a foldable design that fits inside most car trunks and it comes with a carrying bag for easy transport. The removable side table is an added features that we love, with a drink holder and space for snacks and personal items.
Specifications:
- Length: 80”
- Width: 32”
- Set Up Time: Instant
- Weight: 23lbs
- Weight Limit: 300lbs
Tent Cot Buyer’s Guide
While standard sleeping mats are comfortable enough, a tent cot offers a greater level of luxury allowing you to rough it…without actually roughing it! They can also keep you cooler in warm weather, by allowing for greater airflow underneath you.
Camping cots can either be a full tent themselves, or they are designed for use inside a standard camping tent. The best cot for tent camping allows you to get close to nature, without giving up all the comforts of home.
With a variety of options on the market, there’s a lot to consider. Here’s what to look out for.
Design
The more minimalist tent cots will have a basic design, while more expensive models might have extra features like a storage area (if it’s a tent and cot combination) or cup holders. Some cots are designed to be more breathable, while others have better thermal insulation for keeping you cozy in colder temperatures.
Structure
If you’re taller or wider than average, look for tents like Ozark Trail 1 Person Cot Tent which have a wider and longer tent cot for added comfort. If you need a lot of space while you sleep, you might want to go for a queen size or a bed designed to sleep 2. Tent cots are usually constructed with an aluminum frame, but some will have extra support for heavier campers like the DESERT WALKER Outdoor Camping Cot.
Material
Most tent cots are made from polyester or nylon, and they should be waterproof. If you’re camping in warm conditions, look for a camping cot that is breathable and lightweight just like the Tangkula Tent Cot. In cold temperatures, a heavy duty and well insulated fabric should be used. If your tent cot has a cover, it should be fully waterproof.
Ease of Assembly
Foldable camping cots like the Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot are easiest to assemble, as these can simply be expanded when needed. Most will also come with a carrying bag for portability. Others will set up more like a tent, but these should still be easy enough to assemble.
Cover vs No Cover
Tent cots without a cover can be placed inside your standard tent (although ensure it’ll fit before you buy!) and are more like having a bed inside your tent. Tent cots with a cover (so those with a built in tent above them) feel a bit more rustic but lack space for storing your gear.
Strength / Weight Capacity
Check your tent cot has the capacity to carry your weight plus more. If you are at the top end of the weight capacity, you may find wear and tear happens faster. Some tents will have double supportive poles for added stability, while others will just have single poles.
FAQ
How to prevent damage to the tent floor when using a tent cot
Tent floors are very susceptible to wear and tear, so if you’re using a tent cot inside the tent you should be careful.
Some people bring a carpet to lay inside their tent and place the tent cot on that, although this will add to the weight of your gear. Another option is a foam sleeping mat which is lightweight and designed specifically for camping. Some campers attach tennis balls to the feet of the cot, or fold up a tiny piece of tarp to place underneath it.
Conclusion
A tent cot is a great way to get close to nature without giving up the luxury of a bed. They can keep you warm, comfortable and sleeping soundly night after night. For the durability, spacious interior and multifunctional design, the Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot is our winner.