6 Best Tent Cot Reviews & Buying Guide

Having a good sleep while listening to the sound of nature in your camping time is really something to cherish.

But there were times when your great-grandparents used to struggle a lot while sleeping in the course of such outdoor activities. But now gone are the days of all those struggles.

It’s because now there are some manufacturers that have thought a lot to offer such shelter that will give you a good sleep after a fun and fatiguing adventure.

It’s the tent cot.

top tent cot

While many of the campers know what the tent cot means, there are many who are yet to know about it. Tent cot is basically a cot for camping that is portable and can be used as a bed as well as a seat.

So, you will get the privilege of two in one package.

While you will find multiple tent cots camping around you, there are many that have proved themselves the best. Hence in this write, you will get to know the 6 best of them.

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KampRite Double TentCot
Kamp-Rite Insect Protection System Black, Single
Kamp-Rite Tent Cot Original Size Tent Cot (Green)
Status
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-
-
Ratings
-
-
Tent Weight
51 lbs
5 lbs
26 Pounds
Best For
2 Person
1 Person
1 Person
Weight Capacity
500 lbs
N/A
350 lbs
Top Pick
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KampRite Double TentCot
Status
-
Ratings
-
Tent Weight
51 lbs
Best For
2 Person
Weight Capacity
500 lbs
Lightweight
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Kamp-Rite Insect Protection System Black, Single
Status
-
Ratings
Tent Weight
5 lbs
Best For
1 Person
Weight Capacity
N/A
Best For One Person
Image
Kamp-Rite Tent Cot Original Size Tent Cot (Green)
Status
-
Ratings
-
Tent Weight
26 Pounds
Best For
1 Person
Weight Capacity
350 lbs

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tent Cot Reviews

Kamp-Rite Insect Protection System

Kamp-Rite Insect Protection System tent cot

Just like the title boasts, the Kamp-Rite has an insect protection system that tends to save you from the annoying bite and sting of all the insects out there that show up while camping.

Besides, this cool feature, there is another best thing about this tent cot and that is its self-standing factor.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 84x28x40 inches.
  • After-fold dimensions: 14 x 6 x 6 inches.
  • Carrying bag included.
  • Aluminum tent poles.
  • Nylon base and rain fly.
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  • Protects you from the insects.
  • The self-standing factor helps you place it on any kind of surface.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Features a rain fly that protects you from rainfall.
  • The rust-resistant zippers do not feel cheap.
  • Foldable so they can come compact in size.
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  • The tent does not weigh light.
  • Might not stand strong during windy conditions.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

So it would be a mistake to call it an ordinary tent because I’ll say it isn’t.

And since you don’t require any stake or anything to build the tent, you can place it on any terrain you want starting from rock, concrete gravel to snowy surface.

Coming in X-shaped design, it helps the tent to stand without the help of any other objects. And it is even easy to set it up.

Moreover, the tent has a rain fly feature included that makes it a savior to protect you from a sudden rainfall. In addition, it comes with rust-resistant zippers that do not feel cheap and they are easy to use.

However, although you can fold the tent to make it compact in size, but you cannot expect it to be as lightweight as they boast about.

Moreover, it might withstand rainy situation but might fail to stand strong during heavy winds.

Kamp-Rite Compact Collapsable

Kamp-Rite Compact Collapsable tent cot

The reason of this one from the same brand to be the best tent cot is for its title: Collapsible.

What they mean is that you can take the advantage of this tent to detach it from the cot if you want to use them both separately.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 84 x 28 x 11 inches.
  • After-fold dimensions: 6 x 6 x 42 inches.
  • Straps included for carrying
  • Pockets included.
  • Cot and Tent are detachable
  • Rain fly.
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  • You can detach the cot and the tent to use them separately.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Features a rain fly that protects you from rainfall.
  • Foldable so they can come compact in size.
  • There are interior pockets for keeping your shoes.
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  • The cot legs do not have locks to firmly keep the tent clipped to the ground.
  • Extremely heavyweight.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In short, the tent comes with 3 in 1 feature where you can get two camping stuffs into one compact package. And by compact, you can guess that they will come foldable.

As for setup, they do not even eat your time to set the whole tent up as it is easy to do.

Besides, the setup, another plus point is that the tent has spreader bars that you can extend for making the tent more spacious. Made from 190T polyester fabric, the tent snug knit blocks the raindrop pass into the tent.

So you can say that the tent comes with rain fly factor. And coming with large No-See-Um mesh windows will let the air flow in and out of it so that you can have a peaceful sleep.

However, the downside is that the legs of the cot do not come with a lock so that it can hold the tent tightly with the ground. Thus, in windy conditions, chances are there that the tent might topple over you.

Moreover, you will find them quite heavy for carrying it to camp out.

Kamp-Rite Compact Extra-Large

Kamp-Rite Compact Extra-Large tent cot

This is the enlarged version of the tent coming from the brand Kamp-rite. The brand offers everything with this tent cot that you basically find in their other models.

However, as it is the Extra Large version, so you will find tent to be very spacious when it comes to sleeping inside it.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 84 x 32 x 11 inches.
  • After-fold dimensions: 9 x 8 x 42 inches.
  • Straps included for carrying
  • Pockets included.
  • Cot and Tent are detachable
  • Rain fly.
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  • Super spacious to even house a taller and bigger person to sleep inside it.
  • You can detach the cot and the tent to use them separately.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Foldable so they can come compact in size.
  • Can provide comfortable sleeping.
  • There are interior pockets for keeping your shoes.
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  • Fail to offer good air flow with rain fly.
  • The windows are not bigger.
  • Extremely heavyweight.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

However, it takes few minutes to set the tent up and is strong enough to be there for you in several camping plans. And this proves the durability of their product.

Moreover, just like the previous one, you can also detach the tent and the cot to use them separately.

In addition, just like you can detach the product, you can fold them as well to make it easy for you for your transportation.

What you can find most disappointing is that the brand although has provided rain fly with the product, but it fails to offer good air-flow system.

Moreover, the tent also lacks bigger windows so you have to deal with smaller ones for your sleep. As for the size, yes you will find them way too heavy while carrying it out.

Kamp-Rite Original

Kamp-Rite Original tent cot

This is first ever tent of the brand for which they have earned much popularity from their customers. Although the brand discontinued this particular tent but it still does not stop them to be the best tent cot. You will still get them in online sites and take your chance to own them.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 84 x 28 x 11 inches.
  • After-fold dimensions: 33x 30 inches.
  • Straps included for carrying
  • Pockets included.
  • Cot and Tent are detachable
  • Rain fly.
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  • You can use it as a chair or lounger beside cot.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Foldable so they can come compact in size.
  • There are interior pockets for keeping your shoes
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  • The cot tends to slide a bit.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

However, this Kamp Rite Original comes in 190T polyester taffeta fabric with a taut mesh that tends to repel the touch of rain from getting into the tent.

Not only the fabric is of great quality, the size and space of the tent are also found great.

However, the brand has used aluminum all over the construction to make the tent weigh light but you might still find it quite hefty when it comes to carrying it. It’s going to be still a torture.

But nothing will let you stop to get it because it wins all the match for its durability.

Like the other ones, this tent cot also has the brand’s signature features like rain fly with fresh air flow to and fro.

In addition, you will find 4 windows with No-See-Um mesh that keeps all the annoying insects at bay.

The best part is that you can not only use it as a cot but also a lounger or a chair that shows the versatile feature of the product. And the presence of interior pockets lifts the benefit side of the product.

However, some of the users have found the cot to slide a tad till the campers are positioned at the mid of the cot. Other than that, the product is definitely a good buy.

Kamp Rite Double Tent Cot

Kamp Rite Double Tent Cot

The specialty of this particular tent cot is that you can spend a great time sleeping with your best friend as it will give you the benefit of double cot to use it.

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 84 x 53 x 11 inches.
  • After-fold dimensions: 56 x 34 x 8 inches.
  • Straps included for carrying
  • Pockets included.
  • Cot can be used as chair lounger.
  • Rain fly included.
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  • Rooms for 2 to sleep out together.
  • Can be used as chair lounger.
  • Very easy to set up.
  • Can be foldable to make it compact.
  • There are interior pockets.
  • Rain fly helps to stop making the tent moisture in rainfall.
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  • Extremely heavyweight to carry here and there.
Preview Product Rating
KampRite Double TentCot KampRite Double TentCot No ratings yet

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

With its sturdy aluminum frame, the tent cot tends to offer you easy setup and you will get two windows and two doors in addition covering with all the mesh that will keep you safe from any insect sting.

Just like the other models, you can also make a use of the tent cot as a lounge chair.

To add more, it also has a rain fly for which the tent will save you from any rainfall getting into it. Hence, this tent cot provides peaceful sleep that you can only wish for in your dreams.

However, this tent has also a downside that most the bad guys can have. As for its size, you will find them extremely heavy that takes a lot of effort to carry it up for camping.

Hence, you might not prefer to take it if your camping involves a lot of movement.

Therm-a-Rest Tent Cot

Therm-a-Rest Tent Cot

With its easy setup and compact design, the Therm-a-Rest tent cot tends to stand out against all of its rivals. You will definitely get the tent very lightweight. And you will barely find any reason to stop yourself buying this tent cot.

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 19 x 8 x 6 inches.
  • Rain fly included.
  • Stakes included.
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  • Easy to set up.
  • Extremely lightweight.
  • Offers great airflow system.
  • Provides a good sleep.
  • You can fold the product to make it compact in size.
  • It is able to position easily on even surface.
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  • You cannot use the tent without the cot. Hence you have to buy it.
  • Not a good choice in windy conditions.
Preview Product Rating
Therm-a-Rest Tent Cot, Regular Therm-a-Rest Tent Cot, Regular No ratings yet

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Paid Link / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

However, this is basically an inner screen tent that you can set up through equally great airflow system without any fly for protecting you against insects.

Speaking of the fly, it basically comes with the product that works with the inner layer only.

However, you will find the mesh screen at the bottom that gives you a complete covered space that you expect the tent to give.

Although you will have to buy the cot separately but I can tell you that it is indeed worth buying. And to add more, it’s the flexibility of the product that makes it the perfect tent cot.

One of the disappointing parts of the product is that you cannot use the tent without the cot. And this is definitely not a good choice if you plan to take it in windy conditions. Thus, beware of it.

The Buying Guide Features To Chase:

Camping Cot Categories

Camping Cot comes in a wider variety of options that you can look for.

Single Tent Cot

Just like it is suggested, you can look for a single one if you find yourself a sole camper. Although it doesn’t meant that such cot will limit the feature and function for the single-person purpose.

Rather, you will find most of the cot tents to be designed for solo camper and the brand offers a lot of privilege with the product.

Double Tent Cot

Double tent cot obviously would mean to offer room for two. So the product will have enough space to house you as well as your best friend for camping.

And if you want to take your partner out, you can take since the double feature is able to handle 2 sets of the cot.

Weight Limit

It is known to everyone that outdoor activities like camping, backpacking or hiking requires a lot of travel. Dragging your stuff starting from the car to your camping spot and to add more, shifting places for hiking will need a lot effort.

So, in this case, you would certainly want to chase one down that will have minimal weight in it.

Although many of the tent cots weigh over 20 to 50 pounds, yet you will get many beneath 10 pounds that do not only weigh less but also provide good quality.

Value

The value of the tent cot does not only depend on the function and feature of the product but also the manufacturers of the tent. While some of the brands happen to offer both the tent and the cot in combination with a tolerable price range, some offer them to sell them separately that rather becomes more pricey for the budget.

However, if you have saved some bucks in your wallet, you can still get a good combination of both the tent and the cot that will include more features like a carrying strap or bag, a sleeping pad and most importantly a rain fly.

So, you have to ensure buying one that already possesses certain accessories.

Durability

Durability also comes first when it comes to buying any item. And since you will be going out for an adventure, you will need to buy one that will serve you in camping for years.

To understand the durability of the product, you need to check the materials that have been used in constructing the product since they say a lot about how long the tent cot will last.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do You Need a Sleeping Pad With a Tent Cot?

Not for all of them. Some tent cots already have sleeping-pad-like surfaces to lie on. However, most feature a sturdy but soft fabric that doesn’t work as well as the sleeping pad with regard to heat control. When it’s cold, the vast airspace underneath tent cots allow for air circulation, which can steal heat from the user. The space can also add cold (since it carries cold air) to your body. Either way, the effect of this cold will depend on the nature of the material over the airspace. If your tent already features a sleeping pad, it’s going to alleviate cold. If not, you need a sleeping pad. A sleeping pad often provides insulation that prevents heat loss from the ground. On a tent cot, it provides insulation from the air underneath. On hot weather, however, you don’t need to use it.

Are they Hard To Carry?

Yes. Tent cots are hard to carry because of their heavy weight. Even though they fold and collapse, they’re still heavy and bulky. The frame and tent are too heavy to take with you as a backpacker. However, a few rare types are easy to carry. They suit bags that make it convenient to carry them to different places, though not for long distances because of the huge weight.

Are Cots Good For The Cold Weather?

No, they aren’t. Tent cots are suitable for warm weather. The airspace underneath is often cold; thus, letting away heat from your body. However, you can alleviate this by using a sleeping pad on top of the cot’s fabric, or extending a sheet from the sleeping surface to the ground. If your tent cot already has a sleeping pad that comes with it, the better.

How Stable Are Cots?

Tent cots are generally very stable, but some factors determine the degree of stability, such as the material. Cots made of high-grade aluminum are the best. Other materials like stainless steel are also stable but bulkier. Likewise, cots with the legs spaced wide apart are stabler.

Some Words For The End

It is definitely not easy to get a best tent cot for your camping. You will have to keep both the plusses and minuses in mind before getting one for yourself.

However, as the write has highlighted the best 6, it would be easier for you to choose the one among them since they are shining out from the other.

Because, camping can be a great adventure if you have a good shelter beside you, or else bad tents can be the reason to spoil the fun.

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