Image courtesy of Thermarest
Last Updated on May 6, 2021
If you want to stay comfortable while you’re in the mountains, a backpacking cot is a must-have piece of gear. Although many backpackers opt to use a pad, switching to a light or ultralight cot for backpacking can help you get the sleep you need on the trail with too much extra weight in your pack.
We want you to get the best backpacking cot possible for your adventures, so we’ve put together 25 backpacking cot reviews – including 10 ultralight options – for you to check out. We’ve also created a comprehensive buyers guide, so you know what to look for as you shop.
Another very practical option for backpacking are backpacking tent cots, basically a cot and tent combo that has been designed from scratch to work well together. Take a look at our Best Backpacking Tent Cot Reviews for alternatives.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST BACKPACKING COT
There are dozens of lightweight backpacking cots on the market today, so it’s important that you know what to look for as you shop. Here are some key things to keep in mind when searching for the best backpacking cot.
- Comfort: Most people who buy a backpacking camping cot do so because they’re more comfortable than a sleep pad. However, comfort varies from one ultralight cot to another. Comfort in a backpacking sleeping cot comes down to the assembled size of the cot (the larger the better). It also depends on the breathability of the top fabric and the ability of that fabric to stretch and conform to your body at night
- Weight & Portability: Backpacking with a cot is inherently going to be heavier than backpacking with a sleep pad, but there are some fairly compact and lightweight cots available if you know where to look. If you want an ultralight cot for backpacking, look for a model under 3 lbs (1.4 kg). Meanwhile, lightweight backpacking cots are generally under 5lbs (2.3 kg), but anything up to about 12 lbs (5.4 kg) can be useful, depending on your preferred type of backpacking.
- Durability: The durability of a tent cot is determined by the quality of its materials. Most backpacking cots use aluminum frames, which offer a good mix of weight savings and strength. For an idea of the durability of a cot, take a look at its maximum weight capacity. The higher the capacity, the more robust the cot usually is.
- Ease of Set-Up: Most backpacking cots are slightly more complicated to set up than your standard single or double camping cot because they have lightweight, collapsible poles that take longer to assemble than a folding frame. But, you can look for a model with quick-connect legs and other similar time-saving assembly features.
BACKPACKING COTS COMPARATIVE CHART
| Product | Highlight | Assembled Dimension L x W x H | Packed Dimension L x W x H | Weight | Weight Capacity |
| Yahill Ultralight Folding Cot | Best for sturdiness | 71” x 23” x 4” (180 x 58 x 10 cm) | 17” x 6” x 6” (43 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4.8 lbs (2.1 kg) | 260 lbs (118.9 kg) |
| Marchway Folding Camping Cot | Best for gear storage | 75” x 28” x 7” (191 x 70 x 17 cm) | 17” x 6” x 6” (43 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4.8 lbs (2.1 kg) | 275 lbs (124.7 kg) |
| Hitorhike Camping Cot | Best value for the money | 75” x 28” x 7” (191 x 70 x 17 cm) | 15” x 7” x 7” (40 x 18 x 18 cm) | 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg) | 280 lbs (127 kg) |
| Naturehike Folding Camping Cot | Best for summer camping | 75” x 26” x 6” (191 x 66 x 15 cm) | 18” x 6” x 6” (46 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg) | 330 lbs (149.7 kg) |
| ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot | Best for quick pitch | 78” x 28” x 6” (198 x 71 x 15 cm) | 17” x 7” x 7” (43 x 18 x 18 cm) | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) | 300 lbs (136.1 kg) |
| Hi Suyi Portable Camp Cot | Best for affordability | 73” x 23” x 5” (185 x 58 x 13 cm) | 23” x 5” x 5” (58 x 13 x 13 cm) | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) | 390lbs (176.9 kg) |
| Fundango Extra Long Cot | Best for extra leg room | 79” x 27” x 7” (201 x 69 x 18 cm) | 19” x 7” x 7” (48 x 18 x 18 cm) | 5 lbs (2.3 kg) | 265 lbs (120 kg) |
| Byer of Maine TLC 7000 | Best for squeak-free construction | 75” x 25” x 8” (191 x 64 x 20 cm) | 29” x 8” x 4” (74 x 20 x 10 cm) | 5.6 lbs (2.5 kg) | 325 lbs (147.4 kg) |
| iClimb Folding Cot | Best for wet weather | 75” x 28” x 8” (191 x 71 x 20 cm) | 17” x 6” x 6” (43 x 15 x 15 cm) | 5.8 lbs (2.6 kg) | 330 lbs (149.7 kg) |
| Helinox Cot One | Best for tall campers | 83” x 30” x 7” (211 x 76 x 18 cm) | 23” x 7” x 7” (58 x 18 x 18 cm) | 6.3 lbs (2.9 kg) | 320 lbs (145.2 kg) |
| Desert Walker Camp Cot | Best strength to weight ratio | 74” x 26” x 15” (190 x 66 x 39 cm) | 20” x 6” x 6” (50 x 14 x 14 cm) | 6.6 lbs (3 kg) | 440 lbs (200 kg) |
| Helinox Cot One Insulated | Best for winter | 75” x 27” x 7” (191 x 69 x 17 cm) | 22” x 8” x 8” (56 x 20 x 20 cm) | 6.6 lbs (3 kg) | 320 lbs (145.2 kg) |
| KingCamp Folding Cot | Best for durability | 75” x 25” x 11” (191 x 64 x 28 cm) | 22” x 6” x 6” (56 x 15 x 15 cm) | 7 lbs (3.2 kg) | 440 lbs (199. 6 kg) |
| ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Cot | Best for smaller tents | 74” x 30” x 8” (188 x 76 x 20 cm) | 34” x 9” x 2” (86 x 23 x 5 cm) | 9.4 lbs (4.3 kg) | 250 lbs (113.4 kg) |
| Topkin Camp Cot | Best for luxury backpacking | 74” x 25” x 17” (188 x 64 x 43 cm) | 41” x 8” x 4” (104 x 20 x 10 cm) | 12 lbs (5.4 kg) | 300 lbs (136.1 kg) |
THE TOP 15 BEST BACKPACKING COT REVIEWS
YAHILL ULTRALIGHT FOLDING COT – BEST FOR STURDINESS
COMFORT
The Yahill Ultralight Folding Cot is made with a stretchy polyester top fabric that conforms to the shape of your body as you sleep. The cot also comes with a pillow, however, its smaller assembled size of 71x23x4 inches (180x58x10 cm) is best for smaller campers.
WIEGHT & PORTABILITY
At just 4.8 lbs (2.1 kg) and with packed dimensions of only 17x6x6 inches (43x15x15 cm), the Yahill Ultralite Folding Cot is small enough for most three to five-night backpacking trips.
DURABILITY
Yahill built this cot with a rugged anti-tear and waterproof polyester top fabric, which is designed to withstand years of use. It also has a sturdy skid-proof leg design and durable 7005 aluminum alloy poles.
EASE OF SET-UP
This backpacking cot comes with a set of collapsible legs that fold down quickly for ease of use. Plus, the foot and the main structural part of each leg are connected to speed up the set-up process.
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MARCHWAY FOLDING CAMPING COT – BEST FOR GEAR STORAGE
COMFORT
Boasting a 75-inch (191 cm) long cot, which is suitable for most campers, the Marchway Folding Camping Cot puts comfort at the forefront of its design. Additionally, the cot’s heavy-duty support rods prevent it from sagging underneath you, while the side pocket is great for storing your belongings at night.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The Marchway Folding Camping Cot’s 4.8 lbs (2.1 kg) weight and highly packable folded size of 17x6x6 inches (43x15x15 cm) make it a solid choice for the long weekend adventure into the mountains.
DURABILITY
This cot features a set of foldable poles that are made with aircraft-grade high-strength aluminum for extra durability. Moreover, the cot is made with tear-resistant nylon fabric for added performance while outside.
EASE OF SET-UP
Set-up is fairly straightforward with the Marchway Folding Camp Cot because each of its legs has shock-corded poles that fold down for storage. However, there are five legs to assemble with this tent, which can take a bit of time to set up, especially during your first few trips.
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HITORHIKE CAMPING COT – BEST VALUE FOR MONEY
COMFORT
This backpacking cot features a fairly large bed size of 75x28x7 inches (191x70x17 cm), so it’s perfectly sized for the majority of campers. At the same time, it has a stretchy, yet supportive nylon fabric to help you sleep well. Plus, it comes with a small pillowcase that converts into a gear storage stuff sack when not in use.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
For a backpacking cot as affordable as this one, the Hitorhike Camping Cot is surprisingly lightweight and portable. Its 4.9 lb (2.2 kg) weight and 15x7x7 inch (40x18x18 cm) folded size means that it’s easy to toss in your pack for a last-minute backpacking trip.
DURABILITY
The Hitorhike Camping Cot features a relatively thin upper fabric made from ripstop nylon, so we have a few durability concerns when it comes to long-term use. However, with budget-friendly cots like this one, it’s reasonable to expect some slight trade-offs between affordability and durability.
EASE OF SET-UP
Simple and functional, this cot can be pitched in just a few minutes by folding open the collapsible poles and snapping the legs into the frame, saving you time when you get to camp.
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NATUREHIKE FOLDING CAMPING COT – BEST FOR SUMMER CAMPING
COMFORT
One of the few sub-5 lb (2.3 kg) cots for backpacking on the market today that’s made with Oxford canvas, the Naturehike Folding Camping Cot provides plentiful comfort at night thanks to its great breathability in hot conditions.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The Naturehike Folding Camping cot’s 4.9 lbs (2.2 kg) packed weight puts it in the ballpark for use on moderately long backpacking trips of about three to five days. That being said, the cot’s 18-inch (46 cm) packed length is a little big for a model of this weight and assembled size.
DURABILITY
Thanks to its Oxford canvas fabric, the Naturehike Folding Camping cot is decidedly durable. It also comes with a set of 7075 aluminum alloy poles with a triangle structure design that allows it to support up to 330 lbs (149.7 kg) of weight.
EASE OF SET-UP
Setting up this cot is relatively simple, though it can take up to about five minutes to complete, due to the numerous interlocking legs.
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ALPS MOUNTAINEERING READY LITE COT – BEST FOR QUICK PITCH
COMFORT
ALPS Mountaineering’s Ready Lite Cot is a comfy place to lay your head at night, thanks to its extra-long and wide frame. Its flexible ripstop nylon fabric is comfy enough to use on its own, or you can layer a sleep pad on top for an even better sleep.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Although this cot is far from the lightest option on the market, it’s still a reasonable weight (5 lbs/2.3 kg) for extended camping trips and it comes with a very nifty carry case that packs well on the trail.
DURABILITY
One area where the ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot does impress is in terms of its durability. It has a rugged 7000 series aluminum frame, as well as a dual-layer honeycomb textured ripstop nylon fabric, which combine to offer a 300 lb (136.1 kg) weight limit.
EASE OF SET-UP
This cot is one of the easiest backpacking cots to pitch due to its shock-corded aluminum poles. It can be set up in just about a minute and you can even follow the directions that are sewn into the carrying case.
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HI SUYI PORTABLE CAMP COT – BEST FOR AFFORDABILITY
COMFORT
Crafted out of a highly breathable nylon top fabric, the Hi Suyi Portable Camp Cot is a functional option for summertime camping. It’s a bit on the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to assembled size, however, with just a 73-inch (185 cm) length and 23-inch (58 cm) width, so it’s best for smaller campers.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The Hi Suyi Portable Camp Cot is a reasonable 5 lbs (2.3 kg), but it does have a somewhat bulky size when packed. In particular, its 23-inch (58 cm) packed width isn’t ideal for people with limited gear space, but it’s still suitable for backpacking if you strap it to the exterior of your pack.
DURABILITY
This cot is made from a durable aviation aluminum alloy and a ripstop thickened nylon top fabric for extra ruggedness. It can also hold up to 390 lbs (176.9 kg), which means it has a great strength to weight ratio for an affordable camp cot.
EASE OF SET-UP
Due to its pre-assembled leg braces and foldable side poles, the Hi Suyi Portable Camp Cot is quick and easy to assemble for experienced and new campers alike.
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FUNDANGO EXTRA LONG COT – BEST FOR EXTRA LEG ROOM
COMFORT
Featuring a 79x27x7 (201x69x18 cm) sleeping space, the Fundango Extra Long Cot is a comfy place to spend the night for taller campers. In addition to boasting a large sleeping area, this cot also comes with a 2 in 1 stuff sack system that can be used as a pillow or as gear storage.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The Fundango Extra Long Cot is a solid 5 lbs (2.3 kg), which means it’s a good weight for three to five-day backpacking trips. It also packs down into a reasonably small size 19”x7”x7”/48x18x18cm) inside its zippered stuff sack for added convenience.
DURABILITY
This cot is made with high-strength 7075 aluminum alloy poles, which are fairly lightweight, but offer a somewhat low 265 lbs (120 kg) maximum weight threshold. Meanwhile, the top of the Fandango Extra Long Cot is made with 300D ripstop cloth for longevity.
EASE OF SET-UP
In terms of ease of set-up, the Fandango Extra Long Cot is fairly straightforward. It has a set of five shock-corded legs that simply need to be folded open and snapped onto the frame of the cot when you arrive in camp.
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BYER OF MAINE TLC 7000 – BEST FOR SQUEAK-FREE CONSTRUCTION
COMFORT
Byer of Maine crafted the TLC 7000 for maximum comfort. They use a unique fabric-lined frame construction that eliminates squeaking at night, as well as specially-crafted straps that can be used to tie down a pad or mattress.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The TLC 7000 has a decent 5.6 lbs (2.5 kg) weight, which makes it okay for short and mid-length trips up to about four or five nights long. However, it is about 29-inches (74 cm) long when folded, which can make it difficult to attach to your backpack.
DURABILITY
This cot is built with a set of rugged 7000 series aluminum legs that provide it with a great 325 lb (147.4 kg) maximum weight. Moreover, the cot has high-strength ripstop nylon fabric for lasting durability.
EASE OF SET-UP
Since this cot has a set of foldable aluminum legs, it’s fairly easy to pop open and set up in just a few minutes. When it’s time to pack up camp, the cot folds up quickly and stows away with relative ease in its included stuff sack.
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iCLIMB FOLDING COT – BEST FOR WET WEATHER
COMFORT
The iClimb Folding Cot offers plenty of sleeping space, as a result of its 75x28x8-inch (191x71x20 cm) size. However, the fabric of this cot isn’t quite stretchy and form-fitting enough to make it comfortable for use without a pad.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Although the iClimb Folding Cot is on the cusp of being considered a bit heavy for backpacking, thanks to its 5.8 lb (2.6 kg) weight, it does pack down to a nice small size of 17x6x6 inches (43x15x15 cm) in its nifty included stuff sack.
DURABILITY
One area where the iClimb Folding cot really impresses is in turns of its durability and weather resistance. It’s made with a water-resistant 300D Cationic ripstop Oxford canvas topper, as well as anti-rust aluminum alloy poles for use in wet environments
EASE OF SET-UP
This cot has a high-tech leg lock system which allows you to quickly snap the cot legs in place for a seamless setup process when you arrive in camp.
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HELINOX COT ONE – BEST FOR TALL CAMPERS
COMFORT
When comfort is key, the Helinox Cot One is a sure bet. This cot has an extra-long 83-inch (211 cm) length and a 30-inch (76 cm) width, which makes it perfect for taller campers. It also has a cushy top fabric that provides just enough tension to support your body weight without sagging.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
With a packed weight of 6.3 lbs (2.9 kg), the Helinox Cot One certainly isn’t the lightest or most packable models in our review. But, for a cot that’s as large as this one, a bit of extra weight and bulk is to be expected.
DURABILITY
Helinox is synonymous with quality in the outdoor world, and the Cot One is no exception. It has a set of high-end aluminum alloy poles and a 600D woven ripstop fabric top that can support up to 320 lbs (145.2 kg) of weight for extra durability.
EASE OF SET-UP
This cot uses Helinox’s proprietary shock-corded pole system, which allows for a lightning-fast setup when you arrive at camp. It also has just three legs to set up, which helps you save time in the backcountry.
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DESERT WALKER CAMP COT – BEST STRENGTH TO WEIGHT RATIO
COMFORT
Crafted with an Oxford canvas top fabric, the Desert Walker Camp Cot is a comfy, highly breathable option for summer camping. It offers plenty of sleeping space for most campers on its 74x26x15-inch (190x66x39-cm) frame.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Although it’s slightly on the heavy side for a backpacking cot at 6.6 lbs (3 kg), the Desert Walker Camp Cot does pack down to a good 20x6x6-inch (50x14x14-cm) size, which makes it suitable for two to three-night backpacking adventures.
DURABILITY
The Desert Walker Camp cot truly blows the competition away in terms of its strength to weight ratio. While it’s not the lightest on the market, the cot’s aviation aluminum frame does provide it with a 440 lb (200 kg) maximum weight tolerance.
EASE OF SET-UP
With this cot, setup is somewhat tricky because there are quite a few different parts to assemble. One way that this cot stands out from the crowd is in its extendable legs, which allow you to bring the cot height from 6 inches (16cm) to 15 inches (39cm) in just a few seconds.
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HELINOX COT ONE INSULATED – BEST FOR WINTER
COMFORT
Comfort is king with the Helinox Cot One Insulated, thanks to the cot’s built-in 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) thick insulated sleeping pad. This pad has an R-value of 5 to help keep you warm on chilly nights and it provides ample comfort for a better sleeping experience.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Due to its integrated insulation, this cot is slightly heavier than some of the alternatives. But, considering that it has a fairly large assembled size and built-in padding, 6.6 lbs (3 kg) isn’t too heavy for a short backpacking trip.
DURABILITY
Helinox built this cot with their 600D woven ripstop polyester fabric and proprietary aluminum alloy frames. These components provide excellent durability and can support an impressive 320 lbs (145.2 kg) maximum weight.
EASE OF SET-UP
This cot has just three shock-corded aluminum legs, which snap together in a few minutes. As a result, the Helinox Cot one Insulated is a quick and easy option for backpacking comfort.
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KINGCAMP FOLDING COT – BEST FOR DURABILITY
COMFORT
The KingCamp Folding Cot has a stretchy, yet durable breathable Oxford fabric top that conforms to your body for a better night’s sleep. It also comes with elastic straps should you want to tie down a sleeping pad for extra comfort.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Tipping the scales at 7 lbs (3.2 kg), the KingCamp Folding Cot is a little on the heavy side for backpacking. But, it’s still packable enough in its included stuff sack for a one or two night overnight in the mountains.
DURABILITY
This cot doesn’t disappoint when it comes to durability. It’s made with an extra thick 420D anti-tear Oxford fabric and a set of strong aviation-grade aluminum poles that can support up to 440 lbs (199. 6 kg) of weight.
EASE OF SET-UP
Each of the 4 legs on this cot has a unique open/close knob that allows for a quick set up process when you arrive in camp for added convenience.
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ALPS MOUNTAINEERING LIGHTWEIGHT COT – BEST FOR SMALLER TENTS
COMFORT
ALPS Mountaineering’s Lightweight Cot has a standard 74x30x8-inch (188x76x20 cm) sleeping area, which is enough space for most campers, but its low height means it’s a good choice for use in smaller tents. Its 600D polyester fabric is fairly stiff, so it’s best coupled with a sleeping pad.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Despite its name, this cot is pretty heavy from a backpacking perspective, at 9.4 lbs (4.3 kg). This means this cot is best used for one or two-night trips.
DURABILITY
The Lightweight Cot has a set of sturdy aluminum legs and an extra thick 600D top fabric, which makes it durable enough for regular use. But, it has a relatively low weight limit of 250 lbs (113.4 kg).
EASE OF SET-UP
Setting up this cot takes a little practice because its legs need to be attached to the frame in a specific way. With some practice, though, many campers can set up this cot in just a few minutes.
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TOPKIN CAMP COT – BEST FOR LUXURY BACKPACKING
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COMFORT
The affordable Topkin Camp Cot is an excellent comfort-focused sleep system in the mountains. It offers the tallest platform height of any cot in our review at 17 inches (43cm) off the ground. Plus, it comes with a set of pockets for gear storage while you’re backpacking.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
This cot weighs in at 12 lbs (5.4 kg), so it’s not exactly the lightest option available, nor is it the most packable. But, it is budget-friendly, so it’s ideal for occasional backpackers that generally prefer car camping.
DURABILITY
With a maximum weight tolerance of 300 lbs (136.1 kg) and a set of reinforced X-shaped leg aluminum legs, the Topkin Camp Cot is a durable model for backcountry use.
EASE OF SET-UP
Unlike many other backpacking cots that require assembly, the Topkin Camp Cot just needs to be folded open. Therefore, it’s one of the easiest cots to set up in our review.
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ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING COTS COMPARATIVE CHART
| Product | Highlight | Assembled Dimension L x W x H | Packed Dimension L x W x H | Weight | Weight Capacity |
| Therm-a-Rest Ultralite Cot | Best super ultralight option | 72” x 24” x 5” (183 x 61 x 11 cm) | 16” x 4” x 4” (43 x 13 x 13 cm) | 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg) | 325 lbs (147.4 kg) |
| Helinox Lite Cot | Best for ultralight comfort | 73” x 24” x 5” (185 x 61 x 13 cm) | 21” x 5” x 5” (53 x 13 x 13 cm) | 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg) | 265 lbs (120 kg) |
| Desert Walker Ultra Backpacking Cot | Best for strength to weight ratio | 73” x 24” x 6” (185 x 60 x 15 cm) | 20” x 5” x 5” (50 x 12 x 12 cm) | 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg) | 440 lbs (200 kg) |
| YaeKoo Lite Cot | Best for affordable weight savings | 71” x 23” x 4” (180 x 58 x 10 cm) | 15” x 5” x 5” (40 x 12 x 12 cm) | 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) | 209 lbs (95 kg) |
| Therm-a-Rest Mesh Cot | Best for breathability | 72” x 24” x 5” (183 x 61 x 11 cm) | 18” x 6” x 6” (46 x 15 x 15 cm) | 3.5 lbs (1.6kg) | 325 lbs (148 kg) |
| Campmoon Backpacking Cot | Best for durability | 75” x 28” x 7” (191 x 71 x 17 cm) | 15” x 6” x 6” (38 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4lbs (1.8 kg) | 300 lbs (136.1 kg) |
| Sovigour Folding Camping Cot | Best for gear storage | 75” x 28” x 7” (191 x 71 x 18 cm) | 15” x 6” x 6” (38 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4.2 lbs (1.9kg) | 242 lbs (110 kg) |
| SMLFIT Folding Cot | Best for stability | 75” x 28” x 6” (191 x 71 x 15 cm) | 16” x 6” x 6” (41 x 15 x 15 cm) | 4.3 lbs (2 kg) | 330 lbs (149.7 kg) |
| ATEPA Folding Camp Cot | Best for use with a sleeping pad | 75” x 25” x 5” (191 x 64 x 12 cm) | 14” x 5” x 5” (36 x 13 x 13 cm) | 4.4 lbs (2 kg) | 265 lbs (120 kg) |
| FE Active Folding Camping Cot | Best for wet environments | 75” x 28” x 7” (191 x 70 x 17 cm) | 15” x 6” x 6” (38 x 11 x 11 cm) | 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg) | 240 lbs (110 kg) |
THE TOP 10 BEST ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING COT REVIEWS
THERM-A-REST ULTRALITE COT – BEST SUPER ULTRALIGHT OPTION
COMFORT
Despite being exceptionally lightweight, the Therm-a-Rest Ultralite Cot has built-in ThermaCapture technology to help you stay warm and cozy at night. However, it is a bit small, with just a 27-inch (183 cm) length.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
The lightest cot in our review, the Therm-a-Rest Ultralite Cot weighs in at a minuscule 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), making it a must for thru-hikes and other adventures where weight savings are key.
DURABILITY
This cot features a set of anodized aluminum poles for ruggedness throughout years of regular use. It even has a polyester laminate top fabric that can support up to 325 lbs (147.4 kg).
EASE OF SET-UP
Setting up the Therm-a-Rest Ultralite Cot is simple and straightforward, thanks to the cot’s integrated nylon feet and snap-on pole system.
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HELINOX LITE COT – BEST FOR ULTRALIGHT COMFORT
COMFORT
Offering a great mix of comfort and weight savings, the Helinox Lite Cot has a taught 600D woven ripstop polyester top fabric to support your back without sagging during the night. It’s also slightly longer than some similarly light cots, at 73-inches (185cm) long.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Tipping the scales at just 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg), it’s hard to argue that this cot isn’t ultralight. But, it is a bit bulkier when packed than some of its equally light competitors, at 21x5x5 inches (53x13x13 cm) in size.
DURABILITY
Helinox engineered the Lite Cot with a set of their proprietary aluminum alloy legs and a burly 600D woven polyester. However, it has a relatively low weight limit of 265 lbs (120 kg), so it’s best for smaller campers.
EASE OF SET-UP
Due to its shock-corded aluminum poles, the Helinox Lite Cot snaps together in just a couple of minutes. It also has quick-clip legs that make it easier to attach the legs and the frame together to speed up the pitching process.
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DESERT WALKER ULTRA BACKPACKING COT – BEST FOR STRENGTH TO WEIGHT RATIO
COMFORT
The Desert Walker Ultra Backpacking Cot is made with a high-denier Oxford cotton fabric that contours to your body at night. It’s also perfectly tensioned to provide good back support and to prevent sagging.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
This cot is among the lightest on the market, with a packed weight of just 2.8 lbs (1.3 kg). However, it’s worth noting that it’s slightly bulkier when packed (20”x5”x5”/50x12x12cm) than some of its heavier counterparts.
DURABILITY
With by far the highest maximum weight threshold of any of our ultralight cots, the Desert Walker Ultra offers premium durability in the mountains and can support up to 440 lbs (200 kg) of weight.
EASE OF SET-UP
Desert Walker built this cot with their 7001 special aviation aluminum alloy poles, which have integrated easy-attach connection pins for faster set-up when you arrive at camp.
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YAEKOO LITE COT – BEST FOR AFFORDABLE WEIGHT SAVINGS
COMFORT
YaeKoo designed their Lite Cot with a highly breathable ripstop nylon fabric, which provides plenty of comfort during the hot summer months. However, the cot is quite small, at only 71x23x4 inches (180x58x10 cm), so it’s best for smaller campers.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
When it comes to portability without a high price tag, the affordable YaeKoo Lite Cot is a solid choice. This cot weighs 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg) and has one of the smallest dimensions when packed in our review, of just 15x5x5 inches (40x12x12 cm).
DURABILITY
YaeKoo’s Lite Cot uses reinforced plastic feet and aluminum alloy poles for its main support structure. While this system allows for plentiful weight savings, however, it does mean that the cot has a limited weight capacity of just 209 lbs (95 kg).
EASE OF SET-UP
The Lite Cot features a relatively quick set-up system, thanks to its snap-on feet and pole structure. This pitching process can take as little as five minutes, but it can take a few tries to get used to the many different parts that come with this cot.
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THERM-A-REST MESH COT – BEST FOR BREATHABILITY
COMFORT
Crafted with muggy summer evenings in mind, the Therm-a-Rest Mesh Cot has a highly breathable mesh fabric top to help encourage airflow and keep you comfortable when it’s hot.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
At 3.5 lbs (1.6kg), the Therm-a-Rest Mesh Cot can still be considered a lightweight backpacking cot, though it’s more appropriate for week-long backpacking trips than it is for a major thru-hike. That being said, it’s highly portable, thanks to its 18x6x6-inch (46x15x15 cm) size once packed.
DURABILITY
Although the mesh fabric topper on this cot is a bit of a durability concern, the anodized aluminum poles and rugged nylon feet allow it to achieve a respectable 325 lbs (148 kg) weight limit.
EASE OF SET-UP
Featuring Therm-a-Rest’s proprietary snap-together design, the Mesh Cot is built to be pitched in just a few minutes for maximum simplicity on the trail.
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CAMPMOON BACKPACKING COT – BEST FOR DURABILITY
COMFORT
One of the best comfort-focused features of the Campoon Backpacking Cot is its spacious layout. This cot is 75 inches (191cm) long and 28 inches (71cm) wide, which makes it perfect for folks that toss and turn in the night.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
With a packed weight of 4 lbs (1.8 kg), the Campmoon Backpacking Cot is considered decently lightweight in the tent world. Where it really shines is in terms of portability as it’s just 15x6x6 inches (38x15x15 cm) when packed, which is easy enough to toss in your backpack.
DURABILITY
Campmoon engineered this cot with extra-rugged 7075 alloy aluminum poles with cross cords for extra stability. Its extra-durable Oxford canvas fabric also provides plenty of strength and the ability to support up to 300 lbs (136.1 kg) of weight.
EASE OF SET-UP
The Campmoon Backpacking Cot has a somewhat complex set-up system due to the many moving parts that you need to assemble, particularly with the legs, which can be tricky to snap into place.
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SOVIGOUR FOLDING COT – BEST FOR GEAR STORAGE
COMFORT
The Sovigour Folding Cot is a spacious option for tall campers, thanks to its 75-inch (191cm) length and 28-inch (71cm) width. It also has a convenient side pocket for gear storage for added convenience and comfort at night.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Reasonably lightweight and ultra-portable, the Sovigour Folding Cot has an impressively tiny packed size of 15x6x6 inches (38x15x15 cm), so it’s a nice choice for folks who are tight on space.
DURABILITY
Sovigour designed this cot with a set of four aluminum alloy legs for support, however, it has a relatively low maximum weight capacity of 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg), so it’s best for lighter campers.
EASE OF SET-UP
The feet and support bars on this cot are quick and easy to put together, thanks to the cot’s snap-on leg system, which helps to keep set-up time to a minimum.
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SMLFIT FOLDING COT – BEST FOR STABILITY
COMFORT
To increase your comfort at night, the SMLFIT Folding Cot features a set of supporting ribs that provide a well-tensioned, yet ergonomic sleeping area for maximum back support while you sleep.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
This cot is highly packable, despite being one of the longer and wider options available. It weighs only 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg) and packs down smaller than some of its lighter counterparts.
DURABILITY
The SMLFIT Folding Cot is built using 300D ripstop cationic cloth and 7075 alloy aluminum for extra durability. It also has sturdy, anti-skid feet to provide you with a stable sleeping area on uneven ground.
EASE OF SET-UP
With the SMLFIT Folding Cot, you can get your camp set up quickly, as the legs and frame snap together in just a few minutes. However, it can take a while to initially figure out how to properly assemble the cot’s leg joints.
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ATEPA FOLDING CAMP COT – BEST FOR USE WITH A SLEEPING PAD
COMFORT
A sleek and stylish backpacking cot, the ATEPA Folding Camp Cot is made with 420D Oxford polyester, which is highly breathable, and it has a set of integrated straps for tying down the pad. The cot also has a fairly long length (75 inches/191 cm), though it’s a bit narrow at just 25-inches (64cm) wide.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
Although it’s the second heaviest cot in our ultralight review, the ATEPA Folding Camp Cot is still suitable for backpacking trips, if you’re okay with a bit of extra weight. It’s also among the most packable models (14”x5”x5”/36x13x13cm), so it’s easy to fit into overstuffed backpacks.
DURABILITY
While it’s on the heavier end of the ultralight spectrum, the ATEPA Folding Camp Cot leaves a bit to be desired in terms of durability. It has a 265 lbs (120 kg) weight maximum, which is less than you’d expect for a cot of this size.
EASE OF SET-UP
This cot has a unique clip-on system, which makes it easy to attach the cot’s legs to the frame during set-up. It also has a convenient zippered stuff sack, which makes packing up much easier.
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FE ACTIVE FOLDING CAMPING COT – BEST FOR WET ENVIRONMENTS
COMFORT
One of the largest backpacking cots on our list, the FE Active Folding Camping Cot provides plenty of space for you to stretch out at night. It has a 75x28x7-inch (191x70x17 cm) assembled size, which is taller, wider, and longer than most other models for ample comfort while you sleep.
WEIGHT & PORTABILITY
At 4.6 lbs (2.1 kg), this cot is the heaviest in our ultralight line-up, but it’s still more than functional for longer backpacking adventures. Even though it’s a bit heavier than the competition, the FE Active Folding Camping Cot has a minuscule size once packed (15”x6”x6”/38x11x11cm).
DURABILITY
Although this cot doesn’t have the most impressive weight maximum capacity (240 lbs/110 kg), it does have a water-resistant 420D Oxford polyester fabric and a rust-resistant aluminum alloy frame, which makes it perfect for use in wet environments.
EASE OF SET-UP
When it comes to set up, the FE Active Folding Camping Cot is simple and straightforward. Its five shock-corded aluminum pole legs fold open and snap on the frame for a seamless pitching process.
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BACKPACKING COTS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
Whether you’re just starting your backpacking career or you’re looking to make the switch from a sleeping mat to a backpacking cot, you might have quite a few questions about whether or not cots are right for you. Here’s some need-to-know information to keep in mind before you head outside.
SHOULD I CHOOSE A SLEEPING PAD OR A BACKPACKING COT?
In the backpacking world, sleeping pads are more common than ultralight cots. However, both cots and pads have their advantages and disadvantages, so the key is to know when you should choose one over the other.
If you’re deciding between a backpacking cot and a pad, you’ll need to determine what your priorities are before you can commit to one of these pieces of gear. Even the lightest of backpacking cots is going to weigh a bit more than most sleeping mat, but they’re almost always more comfortable.
Therefore, what’s most important for you as a backpacker is to decide if you’re willing to carry a bit more weight in exchange for added comfort, or if you’d prefer the weight savings on the trail.
For folks who prioritize comfort, the answer is clear: a backpacking cot is the way to go. Otherwise, a pad might be what you need.
CAN I USE A BACKPACKING COT IN THE WINTER?
Sleeping well while camping in the winter months is all about knowing how to stay warm and comfortable when the temperatures drop. Backpacking cots are certainly a good choice when it comes to comfort, but are they enough to keep you warm while camping in the winter?
It depends.
In general, backpacking cots are not ideal for warmth while winter camping because they don’t offer much in the way of insulation from the cold air below the cot. Although some cots do come with built-in insulation, most others don’t.
Does this mean that you can’t use a backpacking cot while winter camping? Not at all. It does mean, however, that you might want to consider bringing a pad or some other insulating layer to put on top of your cot to help protect you from the cold.
That being said, staying warm during the winter months is about more than just choosing an ultralight cot or a sleeping bag. You’ll also need to layer properly to protect yourself from the cold.
Check out this video for some top tips on layering properly if you want to use your backpacking cot this winter:
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