If you’re a camping enthusiast that loves to sleep in comfort, a folding camping cot with a mattress is a great accessory to invest in. They are easy to transport and set up, provide plenty of support, and can elevate the overall camping experience.
But with so many camping cots available online and in sporting goods stores, it can be difficult to whittle down the choices to one that works for your exact needs and specifications. Some come with wheels or memory foam mattresses, others are incredibly portable and sturdy.
In this guide, we will review several of the best folding camping cots with a mattress to help you decide which cot to buy for your next camping trip.
Queen Coleman Airbed Cot – Best Folding Camping Cot with Mattress
The best camping cot with a mattress is the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot. It is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport, and comes with an amazingly comfy mattress.
Specs
- 7-inch thick Queen-size mattress
- A 59”Lx22”Wx78”T durable steel frame
- When collapsed, the cot’s dimensions shrink down to 42x18x18
- The entire cot weighs 42 pounds
- It holds up to 600 pounds
- Designed for people 6 ft. tall or less
The cot’s frame is durable and can withstand being repeatedly collapsed and moved around from campsite to campsite. It also comes with two snap-on side tables that have cup holders built-in as well for storage. The frame can also be separated from the mattress for additional sleeping spaces.
The mattress itself is a simple air bed that does not lock into place on the frame. However, it is made with leak-proof materials that keep it from deflating throughout the night.
The Queen Coleman Airbed Cot comes with an electric pump that fits perfectly in the airbed mattress. It blows it up in a matter of minutes for quick setup.
The Verdict
This is a fantastic camping cot for both experienced and inexperienced campers. Furthermore, it is an excellent option for elderly campers who struggle to sleep comfortably in a tent. It sits at a comfortable height that makes getting in and out of bed incredibly easy.
This cot is a great option if you have a small tent and need to maximize the space you have inside to work with. There is plenty of under-bed space to store luggage and camping supplies.
In Summary
Although this sleeping cot and its accompanying mattress isn’t on the same level as a high-quality regular mattress you have at home, it is comfortable, durable, and easily transportable. You also get a lot of bed for an affordable price.
Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot – Best Single Camping Cot with Mattress
If you’re a single person in need of a comfortable cot to sleep on, whether camping or in the comfort of your own home, the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot is one of the best.
Specs
- 3-inch thick mattress
- Has a 40.3×31.9×6.7 inch durable steel frame
- Shrinks down to 37x25x5 inches when collapsed
- The cot weighs a total of 21.5 pounds
- It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
The cot comes in grey and black with a plaid print mattress cover. It includes a battery-operated pump that takes 4 D-batteries for quick inflation. Although thinner than an airbed, the cot’s mattress contains coil construction that provides excellent support for the entire body.
This deluxe camping cot also comes with two attachable side tables.
The Verdict
All in all, the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot is a comfortable and sturdy alternative to sleeping on the ground. They are roomy enough to comfortably accommodate individuals of varying weights and heights.
It is slightly larger than most single folding camping cots. That means that, once it is collapsed, it is slightly bulkier and more difficult to transport. The canvas covering the mattress can tear easily during transport as well. To avoid this, it is recommended that users protect the mattress cover when moving to and fro.
Since the mattress only sits on top of the frame, aggressive sleepers may find the mattress moves around throughout the night. To work around this, you could place a towel or yoga mat between the cot and the mattress for additional sticking power.
The cot is very simple to set up and folds down into thirds when packed away.
In Summary
This single deluxe cot with mattress is a perfect addition for tent campers, cabin goers, and people of all sizes. If you are looking for a great night’s sleep that will withstand the wear and tear of larger bodies or aggressive sleepers, this deluxe cot is a great compromise.
Outsunny Collapsible Camping Cot – Best Queen Size Camping Cot with Mattress
Whether you need a camping cot for two people or you simply like to stretch out while you sleep, the Outsunny Collapsible Camping Cot is the best queen-size camping cot with an air mattress.
Specs
- 8-inch thick mattress
- Has a 54x75x54 inch durable steel tube frame
- Shrinks down to 43x9x4 inches when collapsed
- The cot weighs 40 pounds
- It has a weight capacity of 350 pounds
The camping cot has a waterproof mattress that comes with 2 pillows, 2 pillowcases, and 2 built-in sleeping bags. The cot also has a foot pump and a convenient carrying bag.
The Verdict
You will sleep like royalty on this folding camping cot. It is by far the most comfortable and versatile camping cot we’ve come across. Plus, it comes with everything you need to sleep well in any kind of weather.
Despite its size, the cot collapses into a neat, easily portable package that fits nicely in the durable carry bag. It is on the heavier side, which may make it difficult to carry for long distances.
It is also built to last. Unlike other cots, which are flimsy and poorly constructed, this camping cot is made of tough and easily cleanable materials.
In Summary
This is the most expensive cot we’ve reviewed here. Is this folding camping cot worth the money?
We’d suggest “yes, yes it is”. It has an incredibly comfortable mattress and it is huge. You’ll have plenty of room for a great night’s sleep, whether sleeping alone or beside your partner.
GigaTent Folding Comfort Camping Cot with Mattress – Best Budget Camping Cot XL with Mattress
Camping in comfort and on a budget is made possible with the GigaTent Folding Camping Cot and Mattress.
Specs
- 1-inch thick mattress
- Has a 79x29x14 inch frame
- Shrinks down to 40x30x7 when collapsed
- The cot weighs 18 pounds
- It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
The Verdict
The GigaTent Folding Comfort Cot XL is a brilliant heavy duty camping cot for people who are new to camping and unwilling to spend their life savings on camping equipment.
The frame has sturdy, U-shaped legs which help distribute body weight more evenly to avoid stressing the frame or damaging the tent floor. The cell foam mattress provides sufficient comfort and has a waterproof vinyl bottom for moisture protection.
The XL frame and mattress are perfect for people of larger sizes or who are just wanting a little extra sleeping room. It sits slightly higher than other standard camping cots which makes getting in and out of it easy.
In Summary
If you are a taller person looking for a budget-friendly folding camping cot, this is the best option for you.
REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot with Mattress – Most Portable Camping Cot with Mattress
No camping cot can be folded up and transported as fast or as easily as the REDCAMP Folding Camping Cot with Mattress.
Specs
- 1-inch thick mattress
- Has a 75x28x15 inch frame
- Packs down to 41x9x7 inches
- The cot weighs 15 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 500 pounds
The REDCAMP folding camping cot features a velvet pad stuffed with cotton for extra comfort. The frame’s legs have non-slip feet and high-strength supports that can support full-grown adults of larger sizes.
In addition to this, the cot comes with a convenient side pocket made of canvas material for storage.
The Verdict
This cot, which is comparable to a twin-size mattress, gets high marks for sturdiness and overall comfort. It doesn’t make noise when you sleep or move around on it as well.
Where this cot shines is how simple it is to set up and fold back down. In addition to being light and portable, it can be broken down and packed up in about 10 seconds or less.
The only downside reported with this cot is the carry bag that comes with it. Unfortunately, the bag is made with lesser-quality materials than the actual cot and may not withstand being carried over long distances or on strenuous backpacking trips.
In Summary
This is a great camping cot that is sufficiently comfortable, quiet, and easy to set up. It makes a good cot for people who are new to camping or are looking for an option that won’t take up too much space. Because of how easy it is to fold up and store, it can be taken care of in the morning quickly to make more living space in an RV or tent.
LiteBed Folding Bed with Memory Foam Mattress – Best Rollaway Bed with a Mattress
If you don’t have a dedicated guest room, a rollaway cot like the LiteBed Folding Bed With Memory Foam Mattress may be a better option for your overnight guests.
Specs
Single
- Memory foam mattress pad
- Has a 75x32x17 inch steel frame
- The cot weighs 28 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 350 pounds
Twin
- Memory foam mattress pad
- Has a 74.5x39x17 inch steel frame
- The cot weighs 35.2 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 350 pounds
The LiteBed Rollaway Bed folds in half and fits neatly into a convenient carry bag that comes free with the purchase of the cot.
The Verdict
This is a slightly more sophisticated sleeping arrangement for your overnight guests than a blow-up mattress, and even more comfortable.
Setting up and taking care of this camping cot is easy thanks to an easy open and close flip-lock. You don’t have to spend frustrating hours figuring out how to assemble it. The mesh cot underneath the mattress is strong and flexible and is held up by powerful weight-bearing springs that can support adults up to 350 pounds.
These springs are a huge reason this cot is so comfortable. Rather than having uncomfortable bars beneath the cot’s base to sleep on, the cot is suspended from the frame. This helps compensate for the thinner memory foam mattress and makes for a great night’s sleep.
The bed also has a neat, compact design that makes storing it easy when not in use.
In Summary
We think this cot is an excellent choice for people who need a temporary folding bed in their home for guests. It is a high-quality bed that is comfortable to sleep on, and its compact design is perfect for even the smallest of spaces.
Coleman ComfortSmart Cot
For a standard sleeping cot that will elevate your camping experience, the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot provides additional comfort for an affordable price.
Specs
- 3-inch thick mattress
- Has a 69x25x15 inch aluminum frame
- Collapses down to 33.5×25.4×4.4 inches
- Weighs 14 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 275 pounds
The Coleman ComfortSmart Camping Cots came on the scene in 2015 and is designed specifically for outdoor use. It comes with a 1-year warranty.
The Verdict
Generally speaking, this is a simple camping cot that will get the job done. It doesn’t have a ton of frills or extra accessories, however, the spring-supported cot and included mattress provide the right amount of comfort.
The cot can accommodate smaller adults up to 275 pounds. It is also on the smaller side, with recommended use for people who aren’t much taller than 5 foot 7 inches. If you are a taller person, this may not be the best cot for you.
Set up with the Coleman ComfortSmart Cot is relatively easy as well. You simply unfold the cot and pull out the three U-shaped legs, flip it over, and you’re ready for sleep.
The only downside to the cot is its storage size. The cot itself folds in half rather than thirds, which means it’s not a particularly portable cot as it takes up quite a bit of space both in the car and in your tent. Similarly, because of its large design, this is not a good cot for backpacking.
In Summary
This low-cost, no-frills camping bed is a good option for campers who want a little bit of extra comfort and support. As long as you don’t mind the amount of space it takes up when not in use, this is a solid piece from a great brand.
Twin Coleman Airbed Cot
The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot is a smaller but just as comfortable alternative to the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot.
Specs
- 7-inch thick mattress
- Dimensions: 74x40x23.5 inches
- Collapses down to 38x9x11 inches
- Weighs 29 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot comes with a convenient storage bag and an electric pump that takes 4 D batteries.
Like all Coleman camping cot products, this cot also comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
The Verdict
If you don’t need the larger Queen-size airbed cot, the Twin-size is an excellent and space-saving alternative.
It features all of the same comfort technology of the larger size, including a leak-free double lock valve and their signature ComfortStrong coil system for gentle support. It stays inflated throughout the night so you won’t find yourself waking up in a crater with a backache.
The cot comes with accessories that elevate the sleeping experience, including side tables with built-in cup holders and a sewn-in mattress cover that keeps the airbed from slipping and sliding around on the cot.
It is also just the right height off of the ground. If you have an injury or are of more advanced age, you will find that this cot is easy to get in and out of.
Finally, this cot is built to last. From its sturdy steel frame to its superior airbed mattress, this is a cot that will withstand whatever camping or traveling adventures you throw at it.
In Summary
The Twin Coleman Airbed Cot is perfect for older people or people with injuries that require a comfortable and sturdy mattress. It is well-constructed and stays inflated throughout the night, resulting in more restful and comfortable sleep no matter where you find yourself staying.
Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot
Believe us when we say that you will sleep in style with the incredibly comfortable and uniquely designed Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot.
Specs
- Dimensions: 30x15x80 inches
- Weighs 30.36 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
This Slumberjack camp cot comes with a 2-year warranty.
The Verdict
Slumberjack may not be a brand as well-known as Coleman or REI, but they are experts in the field of comfortable camping. Their sleep products focus on ergonomic and oversized designs that provide maximum comfort, whether you’re hunting, camping, or in need of an extra bed for guests.
The Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot is one of our favorites. The overall design is superb. It features adjustable legs and an adjustable headrest to allow for optimal sleeping positions, even on the most uneven ground. It is also wide and made with rugged and durable polyester fabric that won’t tear or snag in the first couple of uses.
This cot also utilizes a bungee system for enhanced comfort. Despite this, we found that the cot itself is more suitable for back sleepers. Side sleepers may find that the mattress pad puts pressure on their hips.
A downside to this deluxe camp cot is how bulky it is when you fold it up. The cot folds up into thirds, however, it is heavy and the adjustable legs tend to stick out. As a result, if you are a backpacker or are short on space, you may have to get creative when transporting this cot.
In Summary
Back sleepers and campers that seek out rustic spots with the uneven ground will love the Slumberjack Bear Creek Deluxe Camping Cot.
Byer of Maine Cottage Cot Bed
The Byer of Maine Cottage Cot Bed is a standard, no-frills sleeping cot that is a great option for both adults and children.
Specs
- 3-inch thick memory foam mattress
- Dimensions: 75x31x17 inches
- Folds up to 37x32x7 inches
- Weighs: 28 pounds
- Has a weight capacity of 300 pounds
- Removable and washable mattress cover
The Verdict
Like most Byer of Maine camping products, this cot bed was designed for use indoors in a cottage setting. It is a Swedish cot bed that has a solid steel frame and locking legs that make it safe to use for any individual.
The mattress isn’t overly fancy, although it has a memory foam layer for added comfort. It also has a spring base which helps distribute weight evenly and avoids painful pressure points.
When unfolded it is roughly the size of a twin mattress and is, therefore, suitable for both children and grown adults.
Storing this cot is as easy as its setup and takedown. It folds in half and features a tethered closure, keeping it both portable and compact when not in use.
In Summary
This is a great and versatile sleeping cot for indoor use. If you are looking for something simple and affordable, this is the cot for you.
Interesting Alternative – Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot
If you’ve found yourself skimming through these reviews and aren’t sold on the idea of a steel or aluminum frame cot, consider the Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot.
Specs
- Packed size: 28×5.5×6 inches
- Weighs 4.1 pounds
The cot comes with a variety of accessories, including a detachable mesh cover, velcro patches for conversion into a wider or taller bed, a convenient carrying bag, and 3M repair patches.
The Verdict
This cot alternative is a mix between a sleeping pad and an air mattress. It is infinitely more portable and much lighter than traditional sleeping cots, making it a better option for campers that enjoy remote camping or backpacking.
It is quite comfortable, with plenty of support even on rough or uneven terrains. It is designed to work as a box spring mattress.
Despite its relatively simple design, it is on the pricier side.
In Summary
If you enjoy backpacking and need extra light and portable cot that will provide plenty of comfort and support, the Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot is an excellent alternative.
How To Choose the Best Camping Cot with Mattress
Let’s talk about what to look for when looking at folding camping cots that come with mattresses. Be warned though, that the best camping cots tend not to be sold as a bundle with a mattress and you might be better off buying both items separately.
Assembled Dimensions
Folding camping cots vary in size. Single folding camping cots can actually be a lot smaller than you expect, so it’s worth being aware of the dimensions before you buy.
You also need to think about the space the folding camping cot will need to fit into once it is assembled. Be sure to measure your tent dimensions or floor space and compare it to the cot’s assembled dimensions before making a purchase.
Portability & Storability
Folding camping cots with mattresses are generally quite heavy; usually weighing between 15lbs and 30lbs (although the Queen Coleman Airbed Cot weighs a whopping 42lbs).
The weight is important because a portable folding cot will be at the lighter end of the scale. If you plan to keep your folding camping cot in large cupboard (basically to use as a camping bed for guests) then packed size and weight will be less important.
But if you plan to travel or take it on a camping trip then you will definitely want a more lightweight cot.
Also, while many folding cots come with a storage bag, some do not.
Furthermore, it is important to know how the cot will be stored and to make sure you have adequate space for its packed dimensions.
Weight Capacity
If you want your camp cot to last, you mustn’t put more weight on it than it can handle. Be sure to look at camping beds that are of the appropriate size and have the weight capacity for your body type.
Comfort & Mattress Thickness
Ultimately, mattress thickness is a personal preference. The mattresses that come with folding camping cots vary in quality. So, if you are looking for more support or want the same good night’s sleep you’d get on your mattress at home, you’re going to want to consider folding camping cots with thicker mattresses or, ideally, a memory foam mattress. At a pinch, sleeping pads are also acceptable on camping beds.
Ease of Assembly
There is nothing more frustrating than trying to assemble a difficult camping product. Indeed, the best camping cots are always easy to assemble.
When looking at sleeping cots, consider the overall design when making your purchase, including how it unfolds, the type of legs it has and how they are set up, and how easy it is to attach the mattress or pad to the top of the cot.
