· top picks · 12 min read
The Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot: Our Top 20 Camping Sleep Solutions
Looking for a lightweight cot that won't drag down your pack? Our guide walks you through the Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot, comparing its key features and performance to help you decide if it's the right fit for your next adventure.
Selecting the right camping cot can transform your outdoor adventure from merely tolerable to truly comfortable. Our detailed review of the Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot examines its key features, durability, and value as a lightweight sleep solution for both casual campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Reviews
Kamp-Rite Original Tent Cot
At just 27.4 pounds, this lightweight aluminum-and-steel frame comfortably elevates you above ground level, keeping you dry and bug-free with its 600-denier poly-oxford covering and moisture-resistant EVA pad. The clever design lets you set it up in mere seconds with no tools needed, making it perfect for last-minute camping trips or extended stays in the great outdoors.
Kamp Rite Standard Kwik Cot
At just 19 pounds, this aluminum-framed cot collapses into a space-saving package that’s a snap to tuck away in its included carrying bag. The powder-coated steel frame and heavy-duty nylon fabric create a comfortable sleeping surface that’s backed by rave reviews from users who praise its generous 79-inch length and sturdy 300-pound weight capacity. The padded head section and built-in storage add the finishing touches to what one satisfied customer calls “the perfect camping cot. “
Alps Mountaineering Kamp-Rite Start Cot
When disaster strikes, this portable cot offers vital support with its sturdy steel frame and versatile elevation options. The simple yet effective design features a removable foam pad that makes cleanup a breeze, while the included IV pole attachment ensures patients receive the medical care they need on the spot. At just 25 pounds, you can carry this reliable cot anywhere it’s needed.
Timber Ridge Juniper Heavy Duty Quickset Camp Cot
The Timber Ridge camp cot gives you the flexibility to sleep in your ideal position with its adjustable backrest that goes from flat to multiple angles. Built to last with a steel frame and powder coating for weather resistance, it supports up to 300 pounds while keeping setup simple with its fold-flat design. The comfortable foam padding and ripstop fabric make it a practical addition to any outdoor adventure.
Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
This incredibly practical cot solves the common camping problem of finding a sleeping solution that’s both comfortable and spacious enough for tall people. At just the right height to prevent camping cots from feeling too baby-like, it pairs generous dimensions with military-grade durability. The clever design includes built-in storage space under the frame, making it a game-changer for anyone who camps with extra gear or pets. While it’s a bit of a beast to carry long distances, for car camping or backyard adventures, it earns its weight in serious sleep quality.
Guide Gear Quick Fold Cot
The Guide Gear Quick Fold Cot combines a comfortable sleeping surface with practical design features like a built-in organizational pocket and folding carry bag. Standing 16.5 inches tall when open, it provides essential head-to-toe support while keeping your gear dry and stowed away. Made from heavy-duty powder-coated steel and featuring a 300-pound weight capacity, this camp cot has become a reliable favorite among outdoor enthusiasts who value durability and ease of use.
Ultralight Helinox Cot
The ultralight cot pairs a surprisingly comfortable bedding surface with a minimalist design that won’t burden your backpack. Durable aluminum poles and ripstop polyester construction keep the weight under 3 pounds while providing generous 6-foot sleeping length. The modular frame system lets you adjust support levels for your exact needs, whether you prefer a traditional cot feel or something more elevated off the ground.
Alpcour Folding Camping Cot
This lightweight camping cot transforms ordinary outdoor spaces into comfortable resting spots, featuring a durable steel frame and double-layered polyester fabric that’s sturdy enough for regular use. The built-in pillow and storage pocket make it a practical choice for both casual camping trips and everyday backyard relaxation. While some side sleepers might find it too firm, the majority of users praise its support and portability, making it a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection.
Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
The Lightweight Cot from Alps Mountaineering delivers surprisingly plush comfort for its size, though some may find the assembly process a bit fiddly – a bit like trying to force a square peg through a slightly too-tight hole. Once set up, however, it handles like a champ, with sturdy steel legs that lock the canvas sides into place. The whole package packs down into a handy 9-inch cube, making it a breeze to toss into a car or canoe for weekend getaways.
ALPS Outdoorz Camp Cot
When it comes to overnight comfort in the great outdoors, the ALPS Outdoorz Camp Cot delivers with its spacious 82-inch length and generous 325-pound weight capacity. Made from durable 600D polyester with a powder-coated aluminum frame, the cot provides a higher sleep off the ground while folding compactly into a carry bag for easy transport. Users appreciate the extra space and stable design, though some note it can be challenging to set up and may wobble slightly when loaded with heavier individuals.
Fe Active Folding Camping Cot
When you’re hiking or camping with kids, this folding cot lets both adults and children sprawl out in comfort. At just 4.6 pounds when packed, it’s easy to carry, and setting it up takes no longer than five minutes – perfect for morning campsites. The California-made cot fits most air mattresses and has proven durable enough to support multiple sleepers, though one reviewer noted a support pole broke after light use, so it’s worth checking the construction before your trip.
Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
This portable camping cot, measuring 74.8 inches long, combines durability with comfort through its 600-pound weight capacity steel frame and premium Oxford fabric. The included storage bag keeps the cot compact for transport, making it perfect for camping trips or as emergency bedding. With a generous 26.4-inch width and side cup tray, it offers plenty of room for stretching out while keeping essentials within reach.
Alders Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
This durable camping cot transforms ordinary nights into comfortable sleep sessions, featuring a sturdy steel frame that supports up to 600 pounds. Thanks to its foldable design and included carrying bag, it’s surprisingly easy to tote around for both weekend getaways and daily office naps. Whether you’re roughing it in the wilderness or seeking a raised sleep surface indoors, this versatile cot delivers reliable performance that users consistently praise.
Alps Mountaineering Camp Cot XL
This robust sleep solution features a powder-coated aluminum frame and durable 600D polyester construction, keeping you off the ground at camp while distributing your weight evenly with supportive steel connectors. The “floor saver” feet prevent punctures in your tent while providing stability, though some users find the canvas too tight to set up alone. Overall, it offers a spacious, comfortable alternative to traditional camping solutions, though folding and setup can be challenging.
Mountain Summit Gear Horizon Folding Cot
This sturdy steel-framed cot provides a comfortable sleeping solution for car camping trips, featuring spacious side pockets for easy storage and a 600D polyester fabric that keeps the weight manageable at just 18 pounds. Users report sleeping on the flat, supportive surface while praising its durability and the quick setup process that’s well-explained in the included instructions.
Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
This ultralight cot packs down small enough to fit in a backpack while providing a more comfortable sleep surface than traditional pads. Made from sturdy ripstop fabric and aluminum poles, it supports up to 300 pounds and features a compact design with a built-in pouch for storing the included foam insert and metal legs. Most users praise its durability and ease of setup, though a few mention the assembly process requires significant strength.
Guide Gear XL Magnum Cot
Built like a tank at 31.3 pounds, the Guide Gear XL Magnum Cot transforms long nights under the stars into surprisingly comfortable sleep. With a hefty 600-pound capacity and an extra-wide 84-inch frame, it’s the perfect solution for bigger guests or families. The easy-to-use X-Frame design and compact storage make it a practical addition to any camping trip, while the sturdy 600-denier polyester fabric ensures it lasts through rough terrains and wild weather.
Camper’s Choice Backwoods Camp Cot
The Camper’s Choice Backwoods Camp Cot combines durability with practicality for outdoor adventures. Its 600-denier polyester construction and robust steel frame ensure it can handle heavy loads, while the foldable design makes it straightforward to transport and set up. Whether you’re camping in the mountains or hosting grandkids at home, this cot provides a sturdy sleep solution that’s backed by positive user reviews.
RHB-03A Portable Folding Camping Cot
This aluminum camp cot unfolds from a compact size for easy carrying and features Oxford fabric construction meant to last through regular camping use. At 200 pounds capacity, it’s designed to handle most campers comfortably. The lightweight yet sturdy design makes it a practical addition to any camping or backpacking trip.
Helinox Lite Cot
This durable camping cot combines a steel frame with 600D water-resistant fabric to create a comfortable sleeping solution that doubles as a storage bag. At just over 6 pounds, it’s light enough to carry while providing enough space for most sleepers. The elevated design promotes airflow and keeps the mattress off the ground, making it a practical choice for both camping and indoor use.
Buyer’s Guide
When choosing a camping cot, especially one designed for mountaineering, several factors come into play. The Alps Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot is a prime example of a specialized camping solution that balances weight, packability, and comfort. This guide examines key aspects to consider when selecting a high-quality camping cot that can handle both comfort and portability.
Weight and Packability
For mountaineering trips where every ounce counts, the cot’s weight and how it packs are crucial. The Ready Lite Cot demonstrates how manufacturers can create a surprisingly comfortable sleeping solution that still weighs under 3 pounds, making it an excellent option for backcountry travel.
Look for cots that use lightweight materials like aluminum or ultralight fabrics, and check if they feature quick-packing designs that allow for efficient space utilization in your backpack.
Comfort Features
While weight and packability are essential, the cot’s ability to provide a good night’s sleep cannot be overlooked. The Ready Lite Cot includes features like padded side walls and a comfortable mattress design that help insulate you from the ground and provide decent back support.
When selecting a cot, pay attention to details like mattress thickness, padding quality, and whether it offers adjustable height or length options to better suit your body type.
Packing Width and Space Requirements
The cot’s maximum packed width affects how it fits in your backpack and vehicle. A narrower cot can be advantageous for tight spaces, but wider cots provide more stability and comfort.
Consider the total packed length as well, as this will impact how the cot stores in your gear organization system. Some cots double as supports for tarps or gear covers, which can increase their utility in a lightweight backpacking setup.
Setup and Portability
Setup time and ease of use are important factors, especially when you’re carrying a lot of gear. The Ready Lite Cot demonstrates a straightforward, two-person setup process that can be completed quickly even in challenging alpine conditions.
Consider whether the cot requires ground pads for proper support and insulation, and evaluate the sturdiness of the frame material. The cot should be able to support your weight and resist folding under load during setup and breakdown.
FAQ
What is the Ready Lite Cot?
The Ready Lite Cot is a lightweight camping cot designed by Alps Mountaineering. It features an aluminum frame that collapses for easy packing.
The cot includes a foam mattress that provides basic sleep comfort for back and side sleeping positions. It’s suitable for backpacking and car camping trips where weight and space are concerns.
What are the dimensions of the cot?
The cot measures 27 inches long by 6.25 inches wide when set up. The total packed size is 27 inches long by 3 inches wide and 6 inches tall.
The foam mattress adds 2 inches to the overall height, making the final standing height 8 inches.
How does it compare to other lightweight cots?
Compared to similar products in its category, the Ready Lite Cot offers competitive weight at just 39 ounces for the frame and mattress combined.
In terms of comfort, it provides adequate support for backpacking conditions, though users with higher weight limits might find it too firm for long-term use.
What are the setup requirements?
The cot requires 1 minute to assemble using the included quick-release buckles. The frame unfolds into a stable sleeping platform.
No tools are needed, but users should allow extra time for learning the easy setup process before their camping trip.
How does it perform in different weather conditions?
The cot performs well in dry conditions but may retain moisture if exposed to rain, as it lacks a water-resistant coating.
For colder temperatures, the foam mattress provides basic insulation, though sleeping bags rated for 20-30°F are recommended for optimal warmth.
Are there any maintenance requirements?
The cot needs regular cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. The foam mattress should be air-dried after exposure to moisture.
For storage, the frame should be left open rather than fully compressed to maintain its springiness and prevent warping.
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