Last updated on January 19th, 2023 at 10:44 pm
One of the most challenging aspects of camping is getting a comfortable sleep. This is doubly true if you have a bad back – sleeping on the hard ground can cause extra aches and pains. Even if you have a blow-up mattress or other ground-based mat, it may not be enough to prevent pain. Luckily, camping cots are an excellent option for getting your back off the ground, so you can sleep in comfort. Here we reveal the best camping cot for a bad back, so you can get back out there and sleep under the stars!
Our Favorite Camp Cots for a Bad Back Are...
As you can see, a specific type of cot is required to give you ultimate comfort, while still remaining portable and durable. After comparing on these points and selecting our favorites, we found the following deserved special mention:
The best Overall: Helinox Camping Cot
Most Comfortable Camping Cot: Coleman Comfort Smart Cot
Our Favorite Budget Option: Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot
In addition, we’ll go into more detail on our favorite choices below.
Comparison Table of Camping Cots
First, we’ve placed all of our top contenders into the table below for quick reference.
As you can see, there are plenty of options for your bad back while in the wild. However, we go into further detail on each below to help pinpoint their differences and why they landed on our short list.
1. Helinox Camping Cot
Firstly, the Helinox Camping Cot is comfortable, durable and extra-portable.
In fact, we found this cot to provide stable comfort, even with its barely-there weight.
Durable and Comfortable
Furthermore, this cot is designed with comfort and durability in mind.
For instance, the Helinox features aluminum alloy legs and a frame that supports up to 265 lbs.
Additionally, the fabric is made from tear-resistant 600 weave polyester.
So, you can enjoy your cot well into the future. If your priorites are in the wilderness, the Helinox can withstand what you throw at it.
Easy Set Up and Pack Up
Moreover, the Helinox is easy to set up thanks to several factors.
First, it features an internal bungee cord that self-assembles the poles, so you don’t have to.
Plus, it also folds up neatly to slide into its own carrying case.
As a result, the Helinox is more portable and easier to carry than almost all other cots.
Lightweight and Portable
Additionally, many campers with sensitive backs only consider how a cot will feel while they are sleeping.
However, another important consideration is carrying weight. In fact, extra weight while walking or hiking can strain your back even before you lie down.
Thankfully, the Helinox Camping Cot weighs in at just 2 lbs and 13 ounces, making it a breeze to carry with you even while backpacking.
It also folds up into a compact size, at just 5 X 21 inches.
Pros and Cons of the Helinox Camping Cot
Helinox Camping Cot PROS
- Made with durable aluminum alloy and tear-resistant 600 weave polyester
- Fold-up design for easy set up
- Weight capacity of 265 lbs
- Weighs just 2 lbs and 13 ounces
- Comes with cover and zippered carrying case
- Internal bungee cord that self-assembles poles for fast set up
Helinox Camping Cot CONS
- Cost
- A little low for bending with a bad back
Who is The Helinox Camping Cot Perfect For?
The Helinox Camping Cot is perfect for backpackers, or for those unsure where they’ll set up camp. Add in its easy set up, and you have a cot that easily becomes a necessary companion.
2. Coleman Comfort Smart Cot
Next is our most comfortable cot, the Coleman Comfort Smart. In fact, the Coleman Comfort Smart Cot is basically a bed on steel beams.
For instance, this cot features an included mattress and sturdy frame. Plus, the Comfort Smart adds support and comfort where you need it most.
Mattress for Comfort
Furthermore, with an included mattress, the Coleman Comfort Smart Cot makes staying comfortable easy.
In fact, campers simply slide the included mattress over the sturdy steel frame and enjoy extra cushioning and stable support.
Moreover, many cots do not have mattresses or pads included, which is what makes the Coleman Comfort stand out. Without cushioning, cots can be hard on a sensitive back.
Strong, Weather-Resistant Frame
Additionally, the strong steel frame that makes up the base of the Coleman Comfort Smart Cot is also durable.
Furthermore, the Comfort Smart is rust and corrosion-resistant, so you can expose it to the elements without worrying about immediate damage.
Plus, this steel frame not only provides additional back support, but also supports up to 300 lbs.
Great for Tall Individuals
Finally, the Coleman Comfort Smart Cot is also great for taller individuals over 6 feet.
And even if you’re shorter, this also equals more room to stretch out in comfort.
Furthermore, being unable to switch positions while sleeping can lead to cramps and soreness in your back and hips.
In fact, when you are able to stretch out, stiffness is less likely.
Pros and Cons of the Coleman Comfort Smart Cot
Comfort Smart Cot PROS
- Comes with mattress for cushion and comfort
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- Can sleep individuals over 6 ft due to longer length
- Easy to unfold and set up
Comfort Smart Cot CONS
- mattress may slide on the surface of the cot
Who Will Love The Comfort Smart Cot?
The Coleman Comfort Smart Cot is great for car campers who value extra cushioning and back support. However, due to its strong steel frame, it is too heavy for backpackers.
3. Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot
Next is our favorite for the budget. The Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot offers a military-style, no frills cot for your next camp.
Plus, with a strong frame for support and inexpensive price tag, it delivers comfort combined with efficiency.
Strong Cross-Bar Steel Frame
Firstly, the Trailhead II features a sturdy steel frame.
Plus, to add to its strength, this frame is a cross-bar design, providing additional mid-back support.
In fact, without adequate support, a cot’s frame can sag slightly in the middle, which can be rough on a sensitive spine.
Thankfully, the Trailhead II’s cross-bar designs help prevent this.
Folds Neatly Into Car Trunks
Additionally, the Trailhead II is best for car campers or camp groundswith its heavy weight.
In fact, the Trailhead II weighs in at 20 lbs.
However, it does fold down to fit neatly and efficiently into your car trunk.
Moreover, a heavier cot won’t push backwards with your weight when getting seated.
So, if you’re on the heavier side, heading to a driveup campsite, or have a great wagon for hauling gear, this cot is a great value.
Taut, Supportive Polyester
The polyester material the The Coleman Trailhead II is made of is also extremely taut, which can be helpful for a comfortable sleep.
Pros and Cons of the Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot
Trailhead II Camping Cot PROS
- Inexpensive
- No frills set up
- Sturdy frame
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- Max height of 6 ft 2 inches
Trailhead II Camping Cot CONS
- cross bars require a certain amount of strength to erect
- Weighs 20 lbs
Who Will Love The Coleman Trailhead II?
The Coleman Trailhead II Camping Cot would be great for the no-frills, military-style camper looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable sleep. Plus, it fits nicely into a car trunk or wagon, and also offers a sturdy frame and taut fabric for support.
4. ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite
Yet another great option for campers, the ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite takes lightweight to a new level in this sturdy cot.
Furthermore, the Ready Lite is made with durable materials combined with an efficient design to add nothing but comfort to your next adventure.
Additionally, the ALPS is durable and easy to set up due to its foldable design and strong materials.
Lightweight and Portable
Moreover, the Ready Lite weighs in at just 5 lbs, making it an ideal accessory for the backpacker or no frills camper.
In addition, the Ready Lite folds up into a compact size and fits in its own included case, making carrying a breeze.
Easy Setup
As mentioned, The ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite is foldable, which makes setting up easier and faster.
Plus, the fact that it weighs only 5 lbs also means you can easily move it around once you’ve set it up.
And as you probably know, dragging heavy steel around before you lie down isn’t the greatest precursor to a pain-free sleep!
In fact, this is one of the simplest designs to set up.
Durable Materials
Finally, the Ready Lite is also made of strong, durable materials, despite being so lightweight.
In fact, the Ready Light is constructed of 420D polyester honeycomb ripstop, helping it resist tears and abrasions.
This all lends to the strength of this cot to hold even the heaviest of campers.
Plus, the ALPS’ frame is crafted with sturdy aluminum that supports up to 300 lbs, so you don’t have to worry about tears.
Pros and Cons of the ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite
ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite PROS
- Honeycomb ripstop fabric
- Durable yet lightweight aluminum frame
- Weighs just 5 lbs
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Foam pad or thin mattress can slide into cot
ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite CONS
- We recommend a foam inflatable camp mattress for optimal comfort
Who Would This Cot be Perfect For?
The ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite is perfect for backpackers or no-frills campers who desire a lightweight and compact sleeping option. Whether you’re sleeping in the mountains or camping in the yard, it gets you off the ground to spare your back.
5. Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot
Next, for campers looking for maximum comfort, the Teton Sports Outfitter XXL Camping Cot is a winner.
Notably, the Teton Sports is bigger than a twin bed. Plus, this cot features premium support an is built to be your second bed.
Pivot Arm for Breezy Setup
First, the Outfitter XXL features a patented pivot arm with a built-in lever that makes putting the end bar into place quick and easy.
However, you do need to make sure you choose the pivot arm cot option when selecting your cot.
In fact, this pivot arm results in one of the quickest cot setups on the market.
Longer and Wider than a Twin Bed
Furthermore, if you’ve ever been on a cot that’s too small, you’ll know that it’s hard to fall asleep.
However, you don’t have to worry about space on the Outfitter XXL. In fact, the Outfitter XXL 86″ x 45.”
As previously noted, the Teton is longer and wider than a twin bed, giving you plenty of sleeping room. Plus, you’ll also be able to stretch out your legs to avoid stiffness.
Shock Absorbing for Comfort
Finally, the Outfitter XXL also has a steel S-leg design for maximum stability.
Plus, innovative rubber bushings also help absorb shock to increase support and comfort.
Furthermore, this cot also features 600D Oxford canvas bed material, which is as durable as it is comfortable.
As a result, this means the Outfitter XXL can withstand a bit of weather and wear and tear, giving it longevity.
Pros and Cons of the Teton Sports Outfitter Camping Cot
Teton Sports Outfitter Camping Cot PROS
- Easy set up with patented pivot arm tool
- Reinforced steel for stability and durability
- Longer and wider than a twin bed
- Rubber bushings absorb shock for added comfort
- 600-lb weight capacity
- Folds for easy transport
- 600D Oxford canvas bed material
Teton Sports Outfitter Camping Cot CONS
- Weighs 26 lbs
Who Would This Cot be Perfect For?
Due to the Teton Sports Outfitter Camping Cot’s weight, it works best for car camping. It’s designed to offer a quick setup and plenty of room so that you can stretch out while sleeping. If you’re a frequent camper with a sensitive back, the Teton paired with a foam pad would be an ideal companion.
6. MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed
Finally, another great option for backpackers is the MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed.
Th MARCHWAY is compact and easily fits into your pack, but doesn’t sacrifice quality.
Ultralight and Compact
Firstly, the MARCHWAY Ultralight weighs in at only 4.8 lbs, while folding up into a sack measuring just 16.9 x 5.5 inches.
This means it can easily stow away in your pack without adding much weight.
Durable Materials and Anti-Skid Feet
Additionally, while this cot is ultra-compact, it doesn’t sacrifice quality.
In fact, the MARCHWAY Ultralight is made with aircraft-grade high strength aluminum legs and ripstop Nylon fabric.
Plus, it’s also sturdy, with the capacity to support 275 lbs.
In addition, the MARCHWAY also has 10 wide, anti-skid feet that don’t damage the bottom of your tent or other surfaces.
Easy Assembly
Finally, the MARCHWAY also makes assembly and disassembly a breeze with its foldable aluminum pole structure.
Furthermore, difficult assembly can sap time and energy from your experience. Not to mention, complicated setups can also be hard on your back even before you’re able to lie down.
In fact, the MARCHWAY only takes a few minutes to fully setup!
Pros and Cons of the MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed
MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed PROS
- Ultralight and compact, weighing only 4.8 lbs
- Folded pole structure allows for a set up that only takes minutes
- Heavy duty rods for stability and support
- 275-lb weight capacity
- Anti-skid feet
- Strong aluminum legs and ripstop fabric
MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed CONS
- A little low for bending with a bad back
Who Would This Cot be Perfect For?
The MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Bed is an ideal cot for backpackers and hikers looking for a lightweight yet sturdy bed. It can fold up into a compact sack and fit in your backpack, then be assembled in just a few minutes.
Ways to Make Your Cot Better for Your Back
As you can see, camping cots come in all shapes, sizes, and supportive elements. However, just because one cot has a good review doesn’t mean it will be the best for your back, or provide enough cushion.
Here are a few extra tips to make sure you are getting the cot that’s best for you. Plus, we’ll include some additional tips to make a bare cot more comfortable.
Determine Your Ideal Support and Firmness
Firstly, it’s no secret that everyone’s back is different. Some campers experience discomfort with stiffer cots, while others experience pain with cots that don’t offer enough support.
One thing you can do before purchasing a cot is determine whether you naturally feel better sleeping on a firm or soft mattress.
This will help you determine whether you should purchase a very taut or less taut cot.
Additionally, it will also help you determine how much cushion you actually need.
Right Equipment
Furthermore, you may have noticed that some of the cots on this list don’t come with a mattress or padding.
However, if you prefer a softer mattress or your back does better with more spring, try adding a foam mattress to your cot.
In fact, foam covers and mattresses can often be purchased separately at a reasonable price and can make a big difference in your comfort level.
On the flip side, if you find you experience less pain on a very firm mattress, you may not even need a mattress.
So for a firmer bed you should also look into cots that are known for their strong support.
What Makes the Best Camping Cot for a Bad Back?
Because the right type of support is crucial for those with back pain, not just any cot will keep you comfortable. Below are the factors we consider when making our selection.
- Comfort and Support: Sleeping on a camping cot will transform your adventure if you have back pain. Camping cots are firm, but with a bit of stretch to help cradle your back perfectly. Some options even have a padded mattress topper to help you wake up without chronic pain. We preferred models with toppers and ones that had multiple positions.
- Durability: We found the best camping cots to be very durable, especially for those that may be bigger. A strong, sturdy steel frame is a must for those over 250 lbs. A great camping cot is made of tough, reinforced fabrics that can take some wear and tear.
- Portability: When you have a bad back, as you know, carrying extra weight to a campsite can be painful and cause spasms. However, choosing a lightweight and foldable option will serve you well.
- Ease of Setup: There’s nothing worse than getting to a campsite and spending hours trying to untangle a tent and then figure out how to assemble a cot. Especially if you have a bad back, extra bending over to put things together is a nightmare. We excluded many cots for this reason.
- Weight Specifications: The very last thing you need with your chronic back pain is a collapsed cot while you’re resting up for the morning hike. Follow the recommendations by the cot manufacturer.
- Usage: When you think of a cot, you may think of a school nurse, summer camp, or army barracks. And as such, a lot of options are not made for outdoor use. Choose a cot specifically for use in outdoor camping.
Regardless of the cot you choose, we do recommend testing it out first, and try a foam or inflatable mattress on top as well. And no one will poke fun if you use an inflatable pillow between or beneath you knees for even more back pain relief.
Raise Your Bed up for Less Pain
If you’re experiencing chronic back pain, we feel for you, that can be worrisome with a big camp trip coming up. However, keeping just a few things in mind will be crucial for a pain-free experience.
When you have a sensitive back, camping on the ground can be a recipe for pain, even with a mattress. However, to help ease back pain and give you a good night’s rest during your adventure, investing in a cot is ideal.
Camping cots get you up and off the hard ground, and provide support for your back where you need it. In fact, some come with a mattress, but if you need added support, you can always easily add a foam layer for an ultra-cozy sleep. Whatever cot you choose, we hope your next adventure is a comfortable one!
About the Author
Sarah Sampsell
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