These camping cots come in different sizes, from regular, oversize, double, what have you. They’re designed so you can set up camp in seconds, and take down just as easily. They’re not too big, either — small enough you could find ways even of towing them on a bicycle, but definitely packable in a car or SUV.
So how do they work. I’m going to share the experience of someone who uses one, C. Milleron:
“Just came back from using my new Tent Cot. It was very comfortable and very easy to set up. I’m 5′ 10” and I had plenty of room to stretch. Even enough room at the foot for my clothes bag and a few other items. I also used a self inflating sleeping mat which made it more comfortable. In the past I would get hip pain when sleeping on the ground even though I used my 3.5 inch REI sleep pad. It fits nicely in the tent cot and my hips had no pain. When I ordered the Tent Cot I thought the rainfly and the carry case were extra (which I added to the order.) When I received the box it contained a rainfly and a carry bag. But the carry bag was too small (looks like it might fit the “smaller” tent cot. Any way I have an “extra” rainfly. As you can see from the picture I “modified” the rainfly zippered flap. By making it a “canopy” it made getting in and out much easier. If Kamp-Rite would modify the rainfly flaps to be a bit higher, add grommets and two poles I would have rated it 5 stars. The cot fit nicely into the larger carry bag. It is a bit bulky but it fit fine in the back of my truck bed. It would also fit fine in a car trunk (unless you have a very small car). It did not rain so I can’t testify to the effectiveness of the rainfly. So far I am happy with my purchase. Durability is yet to be determined but that takes use and time.”
Specs and features:
Heavy duty 190T Nylon
No-See-Um Mesh on all windows and doors
Elevated cot base for off-the-ground comfort
Heavy duty powder-coated aluminum frame
Easy use, corrosion-resistant zippers
Unique, multi-function hinge design
Converts to a lounge chair or cot
Superior quality clips and buckles
Interior storage pouches
Quick, easy set up
Setup: 84″L x 28″W x 35″H
Bed: 84″L x 28″W
Tent: 84″L x 28″W x 24″H
Weight: 24 lbs
Capacity: 300 lbs
Folded: 35″L x 31″W x 6″H
Shipping: 35″L x 31″W x 6″H
These things aren’t too expensive, IMO. About $120 – $250 depending on the size, on Amazon: kamp-rite.
A gallery to check them out: