Cots
A cot solves the two things that actually wake you up on the ground. Cold, because the earth pulls heat out of a sleeping bag faster than the air ever will, and every rock you failed to notice while setting up in the dark. Get six inches of air underneath you and a 20-degree bag starts performing like it was advertised.
The Titan Cot XP
Our pick here is the Browning Camping Titan Cot XP ($249.99), a king-size cot on a Pro-Tec powder-coated aluminum frame with steel connectors and 600D polyester decking. Field & Stream named it their best king size cot.
- No rocking: angled end legs plus a telescoping center support, which is the fix for the classic X-leg cot that tips every time you shift your weight.
- Side bar support adds rigidity across the frame instead of relying on the fabric to carry the load.
- Pillow pocket: a large velcro pocket at the head end. Stuff a jacket in it and you have a headrest at whatever height you like.
- Detachable side pocket keeps a headlamp, phone, and glasses off the tent floor.
- Folds into a carry bag for storage and hauling.
Measure your tent first
King-size cots are wide, and a tent with sloped walls will fight you. This is where a straight-sidewall cabin tent earns its keep, since the cot can sit flush against the wall instead of getting crowded by the taper. Check your tent floor dimensions before you buy, and if you are running two cots, plan for a walking lane between them.
Pair it with a sleeping bag and a camp pillow, or check the straight-sidewall options in tents. More camp gear in camping.