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10 Best Lightweight Cots 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot, Camping Bed with Easy Setup & Takedown, Supports Adults up to 6ft 2in or 300lbs

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,112
Weight
Packed Size
Setup and Takedown

Most important from
24371 reviews

Weight
Despite its weight, the cot's sturdy frame ensures it won't bend, making it a dependable choice for car campers.
Packed Size
Easy to wipe down and fits into a compact carry bag, making it convenient for transport and storage.
Setup and Takedown
Assembly is straightforward and non-technical, though some leverage is required, translating to a frame that stays secure during use.
Comfort
The Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot offers fantastic value and comfort, perfect for finicky sleepers who need a reliable and sturdy frame.
Height from Ground
The cot's height allows for efficient gear storage underneath, saving space in the tent.

The Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot is a solid choice for campers looking for a durable and comfortable sleeping solution. It features a strong cross-bar steel frame, which provides excellent durability and supports up to 300 pounds. At 73 inches long and 35 inches wide, it comfortably supports adults up to 6 feet 2 inches tall. With a height of 17 inches from the ground, it offers a convenient distance to get in and out of bed easily.

One of its standout features is the ease of setup and takedown, making it a practical option for frequent campers. Additionally, it folds compactly to fit into most car trunks, enhancing its portability. However, at 20 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a lightweight cot, which might be a drawback for some users who prioritize ultralight gear. The cot’s packed size dimensions—7.94 x 5 x 39.5 inches—are reasonably compact but might still be bulky for backpackers.

The polyester fabric is durable but may not offer the same level of comfort as some other materials. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot’s design and features, combined with a 1-year limited warranty, make it a reliable choice for casual campers and those who prioritize sturdiness and ease of use over minimal weight.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,112
Weight
Packed Size
Setup and Takedown

Most important from
24371 reviews

Weight
Despite its weight, the cot's sturdy frame ensures it won't bend, making it a dependable choice for car campers.
Packed Size
Easy to wipe down and fits into a compact carry bag, making it convenient for transport and storage.
Setup and Takedown
Assembly is straightforward and non-technical, though some leverage is required, translating to a frame that stays secure during use.
Comfort
The Coleman Trailhead II Folding Cot offers fantastic value and comfort, perfect for finicky sleepers who need a reliable and sturdy frame.
Height from Ground
The cot's height allows for efficient gear storage underneath, saving space in the tent.
#2

Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot with Removable Side Table, Extra Wide Cot Fits Adults up to 6ft 6in or 300lbs, Carry Bag Included

Rating
9.6
Weight
Packed Size
Setup and Takedown

Most important from
4965 reviews

Weight
Despite weighing around 22 pounds, the cot folds down compactly and fits well in car trunks with a quality carrying bag included.
Packed Size
Despite weighing around 22 pounds, the cot folds down compactly and fits well in car trunks with a quality carrying bag included.
Setup and Takedown
Setup and takedown are straightforward, making this cot very convenient for quick camp routines.
Comfort
While the canvas is durable, it can feel rough without sufficient padding, so adding a thick comforter or mattress pad greatly enhances comfort.
Durability
The cot is super sturdy and supports larger adults comfortably, providing a stable and elevated sleeping surface.
Weight Capacity
The cot is super sturdy and supports larger adults comfortably, providing a stable and elevated sleeping surface.
Height from Ground
Its extra width and height make it easier to get on and off, especially compared to low-profile backpacking cots.

The Coleman Pack-Away Camping Cot is a solid choice if you need a sturdy, wide cot for camping or guests. It supports up to 300 pounds and fits adults up to 6 feet 6 inches tall, which covers most people comfortably. The extra width and included removable side table with a drink holder add convenience for relaxing or keeping essentials nearby. At 17 inches high, it sits at a comfortable height off the ground, making it easier to get on and off.

The steel frame is durable, but the cot weighs about 22 pounds (10 kilograms), so it’s not the lightest option if you’re aiming for ultralight backpacking. It folds down to a manageable size that fits in most car trunks and comes with a carrying bag for transport. Setup and takedown are straightforward, which is helpful for quick camp routines.

One downside is it doesn’t come with a warranty, and the materials blend may not be as breathable or soft as some premium fabrics. If you prioritize comfort and durability over ultra-lightweight packing, this cot is a practical choice for camping trips or extra sleeping space at home.

Rating
9.6
Weight
Packed Size
Setup and Takedown

Most important from
4965 reviews

Weight
Despite weighing around 22 pounds, the cot folds down compactly and fits well in car trunks with a quality carrying bag included.
Packed Size
Despite weighing around 22 pounds, the cot folds down compactly and fits well in car trunks with a quality carrying bag included.
Setup and Takedown
Setup and takedown are straightforward, making this cot very convenient for quick camp routines.
Comfort
While the canvas is durable, it can feel rough without sufficient padding, so adding a thick comforter or mattress pad greatly enhances comfort.
Durability
The cot is super sturdy and supports larger adults comfortably, providing a stable and elevated sleeping surface.
Weight Capacity
The cot is super sturdy and supports larger adults comfortably, providing a stable and elevated sleeping surface.
Height from Ground
Its extra width and height make it easier to get on and off, especially compared to low-profile backpacking cots.
#3

Coleman Queen-Size Airbed Cot Combination, Folding Air Mattress with Steel Frame & Side Table, Battery Pump Included

Rating
9.4
Weight
Setup and Takedown
Comfort

Most important from
17742 reviews

Weight
Despite its bulk and weight, the cot's comfort and stability make it worth the effort of transportation.
Setup and Takedown
Setting up the cot is straightforward and quick, with everything included, even a battery-operated pump.
Comfort
The cot's combination of an air mattress and a sturdy frame provides exceptional comfort, similar to a traditional bed.
Durability
The cot is durable and well-built, capable of supporting the weight it claims with ease.
Height from Ground
The raised design offers additional storage space underneath, which is a significant advantage while camping.

The Coleman Queen-Size Airbed Cot Combination is a versatile and comfortable option for those looking for a convenient sleeping solution while camping. One of its key strengths is the superior comfort provided by the advanced coil construction, ensuring a firm support similar to that of a traditional mattress. The included battery-operated pump adds to the convenience, allowing for easy inflation and deflation of the mattress. Additionally, the cot comes with a side table featuring cup holders, enhancing the practicality of this setup by keeping essentials within reach.

The durable steel frame is robust and can support up to 600 pounds, making it suitable for heavier users and those up to 6 feet tall. The 22-inch height from the ground makes getting in and out of bed easier, which is a significant benefit for older adults or those with mobility issues. However, despite its many advantages, the weight and packed size of the cot may be a drawback for some users. At nearly 19.23 kilograms (approximately 42 pounds), it is relatively heavy and bulky, which might make it less ideal for backpacking or situations where portability is a priority.

Further considering the setup and takedown process is generally straightforward, the size when packed might still be cumbersome for those with limited vehicle space. Thus, this product is best suited for car camping or short trips where transportation space and weight are less of a concern.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Setup and Takedown
Comfort

Most important from
17742 reviews

Weight
Despite its bulk and weight, the cot's comfort and stability make it worth the effort of transportation.
Setup and Takedown
Setting up the cot is straightforward and quick, with everything included, even a battery-operated pump.
Comfort
The cot's combination of an air mattress and a sturdy frame provides exceptional comfort, similar to a traditional bed.
Durability
The cot is durable and well-built, capable of supporting the weight it claims with ease.
Height from Ground
The raised design offers additional storage space underneath, which is a significant advantage while camping.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Cots

Choosing the right lightweight cot can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience, especially if you are an avid camper, hiker, or traveler. A lightweight cot provides a comfortable sleeping surface that is elevated off the ground, which can be particularly beneficial in rough or uneven terrain. When selecting a lightweight cot, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to navigate them.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor when choosing a lightweight cot, especially if you plan to carry it over long distances. The weight of the cot can range from a few pounds to over ten pounds. For backpackers and hikers, a cot that weighs less than 5 pounds is ideal as it won't add much burden to your pack. For car campers or those who don't need to carry the cot far, a slightly heavier cot might be acceptable if it offers more comfort or durability. Consider your primary use case to determine the right weight for you.
Packed SizePacked size refers to how compact the cot becomes when it is folded and stored. This is important for portability and storage, especially if you have limited space in your backpack or vehicle. A smaller packed size is generally better for backpackers and those with limited storage space. Look for cots that pack down to a size that fits comfortably in your gear. If space is not a major concern, you might prioritize other features over packed size.
Setup and TakedownThe ease of setup and takedown can greatly affect your overall experience with the cot. Some cots have a simple, quick setup process, while others might be more complex and time-consuming. If you frequently move campsites or set up in the dark, a cot with an easy and intuitive setup is preferable. Look for user reviews or product descriptions that highlight the simplicity of the setup process. If you don't mind spending a bit more time on setup, you might find a cot with additional features that require a more involved assembly.
ComfortComfort is a subjective but essential aspect of choosing a cot. It includes factors like the cot's surface material, support structure, and overall design. Some cots offer more padding or a more supportive frame, which can enhance comfort. If you have back issues or prefer a softer sleeping surface, look for cots with added padding or ergonomic designs. For those who prioritize weight and portability, a simpler design might suffice. Consider your personal comfort preferences and any specific needs you have when evaluating this spec.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the cot can withstand regular use and various environmental conditions. This is influenced by the materials used in the frame and fabric. Aluminum frames and ripstop nylon fabrics are common in lightweight cots and offer a good balance of strength and weight. If you plan to use the cot frequently or in rugged conditions, prioritize durability to ensure it lasts. For occasional use in mild conditions, you might opt for a lighter, less durable option.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the cot can support. This is important to ensure the cot can safely and comfortably hold the user. Lightweight cots typically have weight capacities ranging from 200 to 300 pounds. Choose a cot with a weight capacity that exceeds your body weight to ensure stability and longevity. If multiple people will use the cot, consider the heaviest potential user when making your selection.
Height from GroundThe height of the cot from the ground can affect both comfort and convenience. Higher cots can be easier to get in and out of, which is beneficial for those with mobility issues. Lower cots are often lighter and more compact, making them better for backpacking. Consider your mobility and how you plan to use the cot when deciding on the height. If you prefer a more bed-like experience, a higher cot might be preferable. For minimalists and those prioritizing weight, a lower cot is likely the better choice.

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