Read about ultra-compact camping cots in this list featuring the most portable options with packed volumes below 10 liters (610 cubic inches). Whether you prioritize backpacking or seek space-efficient options for outdoor adventures, find your perfect cot in this brief guide.
What is included in the list
All the cots presented here are with a packed volume that is below 10 liters (610 cubic inches). This is determined by the dimensions of their carry bags.
Small volume doesn’t necessarily imply small weight. So not all of them are really for backpacking. But indeed some of them here are backpack portable cots and can be used for backpacking.
All of them are so small when packed that you can easily transport them on a motorbike or a bicycle.
My list of compact camping cots
I give the cots ordered by volume from smaller to larger, so if the smallest is what you want, you will have them on the top. But the carry bag proportions and design may be important, so you have it for each of them given.
1. EVER ADVANCED Folding Camping Cot
With an aluminum alloy frame, this cot is both sturdy and easy to assemble. The honeycomb-woven design of the polyester fabric adds durability to the construction.
Its ultralight designation is fitting, with the cot weighing a mere 4.77 lb (2.16 kg), making it a viable option for various outdoor activities.
The cot’s ultra-compact packed size of 16.7 x 8.5 x 2 inches (42 x 22 x 5 cm) enhances its portability, allowing users to attach it to their backpacks or transport it on a bicycle.
Calculating the volume based on the packed size results in approximately 284 cubic inches (4.6 liters), underscoring its remarkable compactness.
While the cot’s dimensions of 73.4 x 24 inches (186 x 61 cm) provide a modest sleeping space, it is well-suited for those seeking a lightweight and space-efficient camping cot.
With a low clearance of 5.1 inches (13 cm), it can easily fit into any tent, offering versatility for campers.
2. ATEPA Ultralight Compact Camping Cot
The ATEPA Ultralight Compact Camping Cot is a remarkable solution for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an ultra-compact and lightweight sleeping option.
Weighing only 4.41 lb (2 kg), it qualifies as an ultralight camping cot, suitable for those who prioritize minimizing pack weight
The cot’s exceptional packed size of 14 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches (36 x 13 x 13 cm) makes it highly portable, allowing users to conveniently attach it to their backpacks.
The assembly involves simple steps, with shock-corded side bars and legs that ensure no parts are lost during setup. Additionally, the cot comes with a carry bag for effortless transportation.
The cot’s dimensions of 75 x 25 inches (190.5 x 63.5 cm) provide a decent sleeping space, though the width may be considered a bit narrow.
Calculating the volume based on the packed size results in approximately 364 cubic inches (6 liters), highlighting its impressive compactness.
3. OEX Ultralite Folding Cot
Despite the use of the term “folding” in its official name, the cot is technically collapsible, requiring straightforward assembly by inserting side bars into sleeves and attaching legs without the need for extra tools.
Its ultra-compact nature is a highlight, as it can be easily packed into its carry bag, measuring a mere 20.9 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches (53 x 17 x 9 cm).
Calculating the volume based on these dimensions results in approximately 490 cubic inches (8.1 liters), emphasizing its efficiency in minimizing space utilization. This compact size allows for backpack attachment or transportation on a bicycle.
Crafted with an aluminum alloy frame, the cot is exceptionally light at 5.9 lb (2.68 kg) while maintaining a capacity of 265 lb (120 kg).
The dimensions of 72.8 x 23.6 x 4.7 inches (185 x 60 x 12 cm) make it modestly sized, with no end bars at the head and feet sides, ensuring the entire length is usable.
4. Ascend Lightweight Cot
Despite its modest capacity of 250 lb (113 kg), this cot stands out with its remarkable features. The collapsible design allows for straightforward assembly by inserting side bars into sleeves and attaching 5 folding shock-corded legs, contributing to its ultra-compact nature.
The included carry bag, measuring only 15.9 x 6.1 x 5.5 inches (40.4 x 15.5 x 14 cm), adds to its portability, and calculating the volume based on these dimensions results in approximately 533 cubic inches (8.7 liters).
Crafted with an anodized-aluminum frame, the cot weighs a mere 4 lb 7 oz (2.01 kg), earning its classification as an almost ultralight backpacking cot.
The cot’s dimensions (73 x 24 x 5.5 inches or 185 x 61 x 14 cm) provide a roomy yet compact sleeping space, with the absence of end bars allowing for a true useful length.
Its low profile ensures compatibility with various tents, and the ample space underneath allows for storage of elongated and thin items.
5. Robens Settler Bed
This cot sands out as a collapsible sleeping solution tailored for those who prioritize portability and ease of transportation during outdoor adventures.
Designed with a simple assembly process requiring the placement of two side bars into sleeves and attaching five folding legs, this cot ensures quick setup without compromising its compact nature.
With folded dimensions of 17.3 x 9.8 x 3.1 inches (44 x 25 x 8 cm), users benefit from an ultra-compact size, allowing for convenient storage in the included carry bag.
Calculating the volume based on these dimensions results in approximately 526 cubic inches (8.8 liters), emphasizing its efficiency in minimizing space usage.
Constructed with a steel frame and 600D ripstop polyester bed deck, the cot maintains durability while remaining lightweight at 10.4 lb (4.71 kg).
Its modest dimensions (75.2 x 26 x 6.3 inches or 191 x 67 x 16 cm) make it suitable for individuals with a capacity of up to 264 lb (120 kg).
The cot’s low profile enables it to fit into various tents, including solo tents, while providing 16 cm of clearance underneath for gear storage.
6. Kijaro Native Repreve Recycled Polyester Adult Ultralight Cot
What sets this cot apart is its commitment to sustainability, with 100% recycled Repreve polyester fabric made from processed plastic bottles.
The environmentally-conscious production is part of Kijaro’s Native Line, showcasing their dedication to using Earth-friendly materials for a sustainable camping line.
Weighing in at 4.85 lb (2.2 kg), the cot is genuinely lightweight and backpack-portable, and its dimensions of 75.6 x 27.6 x 6 inches (192 x 70 x 15 cm) provide a comfortable yet compact sleeping space.
The packed size, a mere 16.9 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches (43 x 15 x 15 cm), contributes to its remarkable portability.
Calculating the volume based on the packed size results in approximately 588 cubic inches (9.7 liters), emphasizing its efficient use of space.
7. DOD Outdoors Bed In Bag Cot
This compact cot is an excellent option for backpackers and campers who prioritize space-saving gear.
Weighing in at just 5.7 lb (2.6 kg) and folding down to a tiny package of only 9.8 liters volume, it’s easy to carry on any adventure.
Don’t let its small size fool you – this cot is big on comfort and durability, making it the perfect companion for your next outdoor excursion. Note that the height is only 6 inches (15.5 cm) so it fits in any tent.
8. Robens Outpost Low Cot
This collapsible cot, with its very light 5.22 lb (2.37 kg) design, offers incredible portability and ease of use.
The cot’s packed size, measuring 21.6 x 5.5 x 5.1 inches (55 x 14 x 13 cm), ensures convenient transportation and storage, making it suitable for various outdoor adventures.
Despite its modest capacity of 264 lb (120 kg), the Robens Outpost Low Cot receives an exceptionally high overall rating due to its ultra-compact nature, impressive lightweight design, and the inclusion of a well-designed carry bag.
Calculating the volume based on the packed size results in approximately 610 cubic inches (10 liters), highlighting its outstanding compactness and portability. The dimensions (L x W x H) are 75.6 x 25.6 x 8.7 inches (192 x 65 x 22 cm).
Final thoughts & how to choose
You have seen them all, these are indeed ultra compact cots for camping, but note that the difference in volume from the smallest to the largest is by a factor two or so.
However, there are important differences in the shape of the carry bag. Some are tube-shaped and elongated, but some are flat and thin when packed. This is something to bare in mind, and you will know what suits you best.
Now, how to choose?
• If you are a tall person, you will have to go for the longest options in the list, there are several of them that may work for you.
• Are you a heavy person? If so, check the weight capacity of the cot. This is always given in the full texts where the cots are described here in the site.
• For carrying the cot in the backpack, you will want to keep an eye on both the weight and packed size.
• For situations where you will not carry the cot yourself, the weight will not really play a role. In this case pay attention on its dimensions, and also on the height because this will determine how much stuff you can store underneath the bed in the tent.
This list will be updated whenever I find a compact cot that deserves to be included here. For this reason bookmark this post and check occasionally.
Let me know if you have questions, there is a comment box below. Thank you for reading.