Outdoor Blog

Camping Cots and Air Mattresses: What’s Best for You?

Published

5 years ago

November 15, 2019

A tent with an air mattress in it and a green hammock in the woods.

Camping trips are always a whole lot of fun during the day time when campers are out on the trails backpacking, playing guitar at their base camp or any of the other fun things campers can do out in the backcountry. Then when night falls, the camping trip can be ruined by campers who don’t prepare with the right camping gear for a good night’s sleep. For one or two nights sleeping directly on the tent floor with nothing but a sleeping bag is tolerable and perhaps even enjoyable as a marked change from the comfy bed at home. After more than a few nights campers might start to experience back problems or a loss of sleep that could sabotage their ability to enjoy the outdoor activities that define camping trips or their ability to profit from the sleeping benefits camping can provide.

Camping cots and air mattresses can remedy this problem readily, but there are some factors to consider before you can decide whether a camping cot or an air mattress is the best choice for you. There are some problems that can arise from prolonged sleeping directly on a hard surface such as a tent floor, especially for side sleepers. Camping gear such as a sleeping pad or foam pad can help prevent such pain, but the surest way to make sure you can stand a long trial of campsite sleeping is to pack an air mattress or camping cot with the rest of your camping gear.

An air mattress has some qualities that might affect campers’ willingness to bring one along on a camping trip. Even with an air pump or a self-inflating air mattress, it will take some amount of time to inflate it and deflate it at the end of the trip. If it inflates with a pump, having a source for electricity at the campsite will be necessary. Ensuring an inflatable mattress has the correct amount of air inside is essential to making sure you don’t sink into it, which could allow your spine to curve and cause soreness in your joints in the morning.

Camping cots are better-suited for low-tech campers who still want to be comfy during the night. They still take some time to assemble, of course, but they won’t put you out of breath. Foam pads can be paired with camping cots a little more comfortably than with air mattresses, as could additional camping gear for lying comfort such as memory foam or an inflatable pad. A tent cot will have aluminum frames or some sort of similar structure that needs to be assembled. However, in terms of heat loss, camping cots put some distance between campers and the tent floor, which should preserve some warmth for them.

There are many pros and cons to both camping cots and air mattresses, but once you have an idea about each piece of camping gear, you’ll be able to tell which one suits your needs better. Read through our guide comparing camping cots and air mattresses so you can decide on the piece of camping gear that will get you the good night’s sleep you need to be energized all day long on your next camping trip.

Note: Looking for the best air mattress on the market? Browse the best air mattresses for camping here.

A camping cot or an air mattress is generally preferred over hammocks by campers in cold temperatures.

What about just sleeping on the tent floor?

There are some practical reasons and some health reasons why sleeping with nothing between you and the ground but a sleeping bag and the tent floor will likely be unpleasant if attempted over an extended period of time. Sure, campers often have the construct of a hard-scrabble rugged outdoorsman in their mind and sleeping on the ground might play into that perception. Trust that your camping trip will be much more enjoyable when that stereotype fades and you can concentrate on doing what you want to be happy with your fellow campers. Sleeping on a camping cot or an air mattress doesn’t take that much additional effort and it will greatly improve your sleep.

The human spine suffers various effects from sleeping habits over our lifetime. While to some extent it is unavoidable, there are things you can do to avoid chronic back pain and stay fit enough for hiking, biking, and backpacking. For one thing, sleeping directly on the tent floor can lead to a compressed joint over time. If this continues, then the muscles and ligaments and nerve functions can be affected. Soft tissues around the joint can compress as well, potentially causing bruising and pinched nerves. Side-sleepers are even more at risk, as their spine will not be in a straight position and their hips can bruise from sleeping too long on one side.

On a practical note, heat retention is much more difficult when you sleep directly on the ground. Heat loss will plague you and there’s no way you’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep. It might seem that sleeping up off the floor on a camping cot would expose the underside to cold air, but in fact, it’s the ground that will lead to the most heat loss. Foam pads and a high-quality sleeping bag can lessen the effects, but the best way to prevent heat loss while you sleep at a campsite is to get up off the tent floor with a camping cot or an air mattress.

A person in the woods with a red backpack.

A sleeping mat or foam mattress doesn’t need time to inflate and deflate but may add extra unwanted pounds to a rucksack.

Camping cot advantages

If pitching a tent doesn’t intimidate you, then assembling a camping cot will be a cinch. The aluminum frames of most camping cots are fairly lightweight and the body fabric is rugged enough. The best tent cot will get you up off the tent floor completely, preventing heat loss to the cold ground. Another advantage of being up off the tent floor is that space underneath you can be used to store camping gear or other supplies. Many major tent cot manufacturers such as Therm-A-Rest include gear storage pouches on their camping cots as well. Since the aluminum frames are mostly extremely easy to collapse, a tent cot can generally be folded up or stored on its side so campers can use the space in their tent for other activities, which should be nice for those out in the backcountry in the wintertime.

Camping cots are often better for the spine than other methods of campsite sleeping. Since the body is generally firmer and there is more ergonomic design in a camping cot than other camping gear designed for sleeping, camping cots often give a good night’s sleep and plenty of replenished energy for the next day’s outdoor activity. As many elder campers know, it is literally easier to rise and shine with a camping cot, as getting up from lying down directly on the tent floor can be difficult. Some common models of camping cots, such as the Teton Sports 120 Outfitter XXL, come with a carry case and are specifically designed to fit foam sleeping pads designed by their manufacturers. Teton Sports has several sleeping pads and foam mattresses that can sit atop a camping cot.

One pro tip lots of campers don’t think of is the ability to combine many pieces of outdoor gear for maximum benefit. For example, rather than packing a large tent and placing a camping cot inside, campers can stack a solo-camper tent on top of a camping cot and place an air mattress or sleeping pad inside for maximum comfort and some distance between the ground and the entire tent. This gets rid of the need for a tarp or tent footprint and avoids sticks, rocks, and insects on the ground. The tent floor will be saved from abrasions and last longer this way. Heat loss will be minimized; with the right sleeping bag that will retain body heat, solo campers can be snug and comfy in a setup like this using a camping cot.

Another obvious advantage of camping cots is their durability. The aluminum frames can take some damage from general wear and tear or from transportation. The canvas bottom of the sleeping cot is usually waterproof and designed to last a long time. Plus, there’s no risk of punctures, deflation, or a malfunction in the self-inflating mechanisms that other campsite sleeping equipment might face. As long as the canvas is protected to prevent any large holes from forming, camping cots are usually able to last for years and won’t face any issues if stored properly.

Air mattress advantages

At this point, it might seem like camping cots are superior to air mattresses in every way, especially since campers can simply add an air mattress to a camping cot and get the best of both worlds. Withhold a final judgment for now, because there are plenty of situations where an air mattress alone is more beneficial than a camping cot. For alternatives to classic tent camping trips, for example, air mattresses are fantastic options. Campers who enjoy car-camping in a truck bed or the back of a van probably don’t need to bother setting up anything more than an air mattress. Plus, the availability of electricity in the car usually means self-inflating mattresses are super-easy to set up. Car campers can also bring extra blankets along to keep in body heat and prevent heat loss.

Campers who are out in the backcountry in a large group and are testing the capacity limit of their tent would probably do well to stick to air mattresses as well since they generally take up much less space. Ultralight backpackers generally prefer to only bring a sleeping pad or an air mattress because they are so much more lightweight and portable than camping cots. It’s also possible to combine a foam mattress and an air mattress if you’re creative with them. A sleeping bag with plenty of insulation will keep body heat in and cold out in average environments, although campers going to subzero temperatures and facing snow will probably want as much warmth as they can get.

It might look a little bizarre if you lug an entire camping cot in and out of a tent to use as a sitting place at the campsite or around the campfire, but an air mattress is easily maneuvered and placed on existing rocks or logs to make a comfy seat. Some campers also invest in a closed-cell foam mattress pad to couple with their inflatable mattress for a really comfy campsite rest. The closed-cell foam and also be used as a seat, for heat deflection in warmer climates, as a cooler liner, or as a yoga mat for those yogi and yogini campers.

Beige Toyota SUV covered in dirt next to a tent.

Extra camping gear like inflatable air mattresses and heavy camp beds can be brought along if you’re going car camping.

Who makes the best camping cots?

If your camping trip calls for extra storage space or you enjoy the added protection from heat loss gained from sleeping on a camping cot, many of the most well-known outdoor gear manufacturers also offer solid camping cots with lots of neat design features. It should be no surprise that Coleman is in the market, alongside Therm-A-Rest and Teton Sports Outfitters, who we’ve already mentioned once. Cabelas camping cots are very lightweight and durable generally speaking. REI Co-op has a fairly wide variety of camping cots with what is arguably top-of-the-line ergonomic design for a good night’s sleep. ALPS has a mountaineering camp cot available, and at least Coleman, Therm-A-Rest, REI Co-op, ALPS, and Big Agnes have closed-cell foam mattresses available as well. It’s a wide market, but the usual suspects make the best camping cots.

Who makes the best air mattresses?

Coleman is unsurprisingly once again a mainstay in the camping air mattress market, as it so often is with so many outdoor gear categories. They make every iteration from air mattresses with electric pumps to hand pumps and self-inflating mattresses. That’s not to say Coleman has the market cornered, though. Therm-A-Rest, REI Co-op, Cabela’s, and ALPS have their own competing models, while Teton Sports has an inflatable sleeping pad available. Many have queen size models available for couples or campers who just like to have the extra space to spread out at night. There are also some ultralight versions that deflate and pack down to a super-small size for maximum portability.

Final Verdict:

It’s difficult to say absolutely and without reserve that either a camping cot or a camping mattress will suit every single camper in any camping situation. Everything depends on the personal preference of the camper and the specific camping trip they’re undertaking. Mountaineering adventures aren’t usually as enjoyable with tons of gear along, so in that case, an ultralight air mattress or even just closed-cell foam pad would do just fine. Solo camping trips into the backcountry that are planned to last longer than a few days are probably much better spent with a camping cot along, especially in colder weather where heat loss through the ground can be a huge problem. Car camping can go either way, with some gearheads preferring to take a sleeping cot, air mattress, and sleeping pad along to combine them, since there isn’t much carrying required. Then again, some car campers prefer to just take an air mattress and some extra blankets.

In terms of comfort, the surest way to ensure a good night’s sleep at a campsite is to try and have a camping cot along that’s tricked out with a nice air mattress and perhaps even a foam pad. A well-designed sleeping bag is a must-have in any case and all of these things combined will make for a very happy camper. Overall, the most important thing to remember is that when you’re out camping destroying your spine trying to be a hardened outdoorsman and sleeping on the tent floor with nothing but a sleeping bag is not going to impress anyone and is more likely to hinder your ability to participate in far more beneficial pursuits like hiking, climbing, and swimming. Individual taste and body types are likely to benefit from camping cots and air mattresses in different ways. Age is likely to be a factor, not only because of general bone and joint decay but also because getting up from the tent floor isn’t always feasible for elder campers.

Even though it is hard to make a blanket statement that will apply to all campers, it’s not so hard to decide for yourself whether you prefer a camping cot or an air mattress. Now that you’ve read through this guide, you should have some idea about all of the various considerations you need to make for yourself. Either option should greatly improve your rest and energy levels on your next camping trip, so make sure to pack your camping cot or air mattress on your next camping trip so you can have a good night’s sleep in the great outdoors.

Bonus tip: Check out these tips for how to stay warm at the campsite in the winter!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter