As someone who loves camping but also suffers from lower back pain thanks to working at a desk all day, I know that finding a comfortable sleeping surface can be a challenge.
Sleeping on the ground in a tent can be a recipe for a painful night, leaving me feeling stiff and sore in the morning.
The first time I slept on a camping cot was just about two months ago, and I was amazed at how comfortable it was.
That’s why I started researching camping cots designed specifically for those with bad backs.
These cots are designed to provide extra support and comfort to alleviate pressure points and reduce back pain.
When looking for one, you’ll want to consider the type of material used, weight capacity, and overall design.
A good camping cot should be sturdy and durable, with a frame that can support your weight and distribute it evenly.
It should also be easy to set up and pack away, as well as lightweight enough to transport easily.
After looking at several different options, I was able to narrow down some of the top camping cots for bad backs that provide the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and convenience.
Here are my top picks:
Coleman trailhead II military camping cot
If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable camping cot that can provide you with comfortable sleep even on rough or cold ground, then the Coleman trailhead II military camping cot is the perfect choice for you.
Its sturdy and durable construction ensures that it can withstand even the toughest outdoor conditions, while its extra wide design provides ample sleeping space for people of all sizes.
Additionally, its portability and easy folding design make it a convenient choice for anyone who wants to travel light and enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
Overall, this cot is a reliable and practical choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort and quality.
It also comes with a one-year limited warranty.
What we like about it
- Strong and durable cross-bar steel frame that can support up to 300 lbs
- Extra wide design that provides more sleeping room, perfect for people up to 6 feet 2 inches tall
- Portable and easy to fold, making it convenient for storage and transportation
What we don’t like about it
- The end bars stick out several inches, which may cause discomfort if you’re not careful
- It may be a bit heavy for some people to carry around
- The last bar can be a bit of a struggle to assemble
Slendor camping cot
If you’re looking for a camping cot that provides superior comfort and support for a bad back, the Slendor camping cot is a great option.
With its gentle incline and soft, breathable cotton mattress, this cot promises no more morning back, neck or shoulder ache, giving you a better experience for sleeping and lying.
The cot is also designed with an upgraded 500D Double Layer Cationicdyed Polyester for superior strength, water resistance and easy cleaning.
Its all-in-one design and organizer pocket make it convenient for camping, backpacking, and more.
However, some users may find it difficult to put in sleeping position and put back up to fit in case, and it may not be as durable as other camping cots.
What we like about it
- All-in-one design with 3-in-1 organizer pocket for storing your cell phone, keys, water bottle, toys, earplugs and more
- Tubular iron legs with 10 legs and 25mm thickened oblate square tubes that adds to the travel cot’s best stability and carrying capacity, supporting up to 800 lbs at most
- Easy to set up and portable, with no assembly required and only several seconds to install or fold the camping bed into storage bag
What we don’t like about it
- May be difficult to put in sleeping position and put back up to fit in case for some users
- One of the corner poles may bend in a little bit after use
- May not be as durable as other camping cots
ETSG portable folding camping cot
If you’re looking for an affordable camping cot that’s easy to carry, the ETSG portable folding camping cot is worth considering.
This is a versatile and multipurpose cot that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
It’s perfect for camping, patio, pool, balcony, or as a temporary bed for guests.
This is a versatile and multipurpose cot that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
It’s perfect for camping, patio, pool, balcony, or as a temporary bed for guests.
The four-position adjustable locking system allows you to adjust it to a comfortable position according to your needs, whether you want to sit up, recline or lay flat.
The tri-fold design makes it easy to store and carry, with a packed size of 29″x26″x7″.
The removable soft pad and pillow are comfortable, but the mattress itself is thin and not very fluffy.
Although it does have some great features, it does have its drawbacks.
The low-quality materials used in its construction make it questionable in terms of durability.
The armrests are not adjustable and can get in the way, especially if you’re trying to sleep on your side.
That said, if you’re looking for an affordable and portable camping cot and don’t mind sacrificing some comfort and durability, this cot might still work well for you.
What we like about it
- 4 positions adjustable locking system for maximum comfort
- Tri-fold design for easy storage and portability
- Removable soft pad and pillow for added comfort
What we don’t like about it
- Thin and uncomfortable mattress
- Questionable durability due to low-quality materials
- Armrests are not adjustable and can get in the way
ALPHA CAMP camping cot
If you’re looking for a camping cot that can support heavy weight and provide comfort, then the ALPHA CAMP camping cot might just be your best choice.
It’s a versatile and convenient option for overnight camping trips, road trips, or even office lunch breaks.
This cot’s high-grade material and sturdy frame make it a reliable choice for people with bad backs or larger body types.
Unfortunately, its narrow design and elevated headrest may not be comfortable for everyone, so it’s important to consider your own sleeping habits before making a purchase decision.
But if you’re looking for a lightweight and portable camping cot that can support heavy weight, then you may want to seriously consider this cot.
What we like about it
- Made with high-grade material that can support up to 600 pounds, making it perfect for people with bad backs or larger body types
- Lightweight and portable, weighing in at just over 14 pounds, making it easy to carry on camping trips or road trips
- Easy to set up, with a foldable aluminum shock-cord pole structure that allows for quick assembly and disassembly
What we don’t like about it
- Quite narrow, which may not be comfortable for people with wider shoulders or those who move around a lot in their sleep
- Its elevated headrest is designed for side sleepers, which may not be comfortable for people who sleep on their back or stomach
- Its plastic feet may not be as durable as metal feet, which could be a concern for frequent use
GETOVIN camping cot
If you’re in the market for a comfortable, sturdy camping cot that’s easy to set up and take down, you definitely need to check out the GETOVIN camping cot.
The incline design ensures that you won’t wake up with any aches or pains, and the cot is lightweight and easy to carry.
The side pocket is an added bonus, allowing you to store your essentials within reach.
One major downside is that the cot may be too narrow for some individuals, and the cushioning could be improved for added comfort.
Taller people might also find that their feet hang off the end of the cot.
What we like about it
- No assembly required—easy to set up and take down
- Comfortable incline design that eliminates morning back, neck, or shoulder aches
- Lightweight and convenient to carry, with a large side pocket for storing your essentials
What we don’t like about it
- Might be too narrow for some individuals
- The cushioning could be improved for additional comfort
- Foot may hang off the end for taller individuals
ABORON folding bed cot
For a versatile and portable camping cot that’s comfortable and easy to set up, you’ll definitely want to consider looking at the ABORON folding bed cot.
Its unique frame design with adjustable four-lever position and triangular support ensures added safety and stability while in use.
The cot also doubles as a lounge chair, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
However, taller individuals may find the cot a bit short, and the sling may stretch out of shape over time with frequent use.
Additional cushioning may also be required for optimal comfort during extended use.
The cot is made with double layers of 1200D polyester fabric and steel frame, which makes it both durable and comfortable.
The thicker oxford material ensures that you won’t feel the bars of the tubes while sleeping.
The head of the cot is slightly elevated to serve as a headrest, which is a nice added touch.
The cot’s oval-square shape tube is one inch, which is perfect for those who want a sturdy and comfortable sleeping surface.
For maximum portability, it unfolds to a size of 75″ x 27″ x 11″ and folds back up to approximately 28″ x 26″ x 7″.
It weighs approximately 17 pounds, making it super easy and convenient to carry around.
What we like about it
- Easy to set up and fold away without the need for assembly
- Can be used as a lounge chair or camping cot, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- Sturdy frame design with adjustable 4-levers position and triangular support for added safety and stability
What we don’t like about it
- Not suitable for taller people as the cot measures 75″ inches” in length
- The sling may stretch out of shape over time with frequent use
- May require additional cushioning for optimal comfort during extended use
FE Active Jasper camping cot
If you’re looking for a lightweight, portable camping cot that won’t break the bank, the FE Active Jasper camping cot is a great option to consider.
Its sturdy construction and a comfortable design makes it a perfect for those with bad backs who still want to enjoy the great outdoors.
Its 420d Oxford Polyester fabric is strong and durable, and is designed to support a mattress, so you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep even when you’re roughing it.
The attached side pocket is a convenient feature that replaces the need for a camping table.
One thing to be aware of is that the aluminum side tubes can be difficult to insert into the sleeves on each side of the cot, which can be frustrating.
The cot also sits low to the ground, which may not be comfortable for some users.
You might find that the legs are a bit wobbly, so it’s probably a good idea to place the cot on a level surface to avoid any potential issues.
What we like about it
- Strong and durable 420d Oxford Polyester fabric
- Designed to support a mattress
- Attached side pocket for added storage
What we don’t like about it
- Aluminum side tubes can be difficult to insert into the sleeves on each side of the cot
- Sits low to the ground
- Legs can be a bit wobbly, potentially requiring a level surface
LILYPELLE camping cot
Another cot that’s comfortable and easy to transport is the LILYPELLE camping cot.
Its adjustable four-position locking system allows you to sit up, recline, or lay flat, so you can find the perfect position for your needs.
The full square tube frame provides strong support, and the pressure is evenly distributed by the U-shaped supporting feet, which makes it more stable.
It’s also made with breathable materials for maximum breathability and comfort, with a side pocket that’s perfect for storing your phone, books, or keys.
When folded up, the cot measures only 28.3″x 26.8″x 7.1″, making it ideal for transport and storage.
When unfolded, it measures 75.2″x26.8″x11″ and can support up to 500 pounds.
What we like about it
- Adjustable 4-position design for maximum comfort
- Durable frame provides strong support and stability
- Tri-fold storage design makes it easy to transport and store
What we don’t like about it
- Some users have reported that the cot is narrower than expected
- The pillow is not very comfortable and may need to be replaced
- The cot may not be suitable for taller or heavier individuals
ATORPOK camping cot
Yet another great option for a comfortable and durable camping cot that’s easy to transport is the ATORPOK camping cot.
It’s easy to set up and take down, and the large side pocket allows for easy access to your phone, water, and other essentials.
The durable steel frame and strong fabric make this cot a great option for those with bad backs who need extra support.
The cot is also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that it will last for many camping trips to come.
What we like about it
- Foldable and portable
- Heavy-duty steel frame and X-shaped structure ensure safety and stability
- Supports up to 450 pounds
- Soft and breathable double-layer 600D polyester material provides great support and reduces the soreness of your back
What we don’t like about it
- Might be a little low to the ground for some people’s liking
- The folding mechanism can be a little tricky to use at times
- Some users might prefer a wider cot for extra comfort
Sportneer camping cot
Our final pick for a comfortable and durable camping cot that’s easy to set up and take down is the Sportneer camping cot.
Its double-sided pockets are a great feature that allows you to keep all your personal items handy and within reach.
The slightly tilted end is also a nice touch that makes it more comfortable to sleep without a pillow.
One potential downside is that it may not be great for very tall people.
If you’re over six feet tall, you may find that your feet hang off the end of the cot.
And while the cot is very comfortable, it may not be as comfortable as a traditional bed.
The cot might also take up more space than other camping cots when packed, so keep that in mind if you’re trying to keep bulky items to a minimum.
What we like about it
- Double-sided pockets for convenient storage of personal items
- Comfortable tilted end for sleeping without a pillow
- Easy to set up and take down, no installation required
What we don’t like about it
- May not be suitable for very tall people
- May not be as comfortable as a traditional bed
- May take up more space than other camping cots when packed
How to choose the right camping cot for you
Choosing the right camping cot for a bad back can be a daunting task—especially if you’re not familiar with the features that make a good camping cot.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a camping cot for a bad back:
Weight capacity
A good camping cot should be able to support your weight comfortably.
If you have a bad back, you may need a camping cot with a higher weight capacity to provide the necessary support.
Keep in mind that cots designed to be ultralight and portable will have lighter weight limits of 200 to 250 pounds.
Sturdier cots will be able to support as much as 600+ pounds, but they’ll be much heavier and far less portable.
Size
A good camping cot should be long enough to accommodate your height and wide enough to provide enough space for you to move around comfortably.
A cot that’s too small can cause discomfort and pain—especially if you have a bad back.
Sizes vary by brand, but variations may include:
- Standard: 72″ x 25″
- Long/Wide: 80″ x 30″
- Extra long/wide: 84″ x 36″
Frame material
A good camping cot should have a sturdy frame that can support your weight without bending or breaking.
Aluminum and steel are popular materials used for camping cot frames.
Aluminum is lightweight and durable, but more expensive than steel.
Steel is heavier than aluminum, but more affordable and durable.
Are camping cots better than camping mattresses for bad backs?
This is a great question, and one that’s hard to answer because it depends on the individual.
Camping cots can provide more support and stability than camping mattresses, which can be beneficial for people with bad backs.
However, some people may find that a camping mattress is more comfortable and provides better pressure relief than a camping cot.
Many camping mattresses are also designed with a combination of foam and air inflation for better comfort and support.
Check out our guide to the best camping mattresses for bad backs to find out more.
Elise is an experienced backcountry canoe tripper and winter camper from Ontario, Canada. She loves cooking up a storm over the campfire, taking in all the backcountry views, and enjoying a piña colada or two while relaxing at camp. She’s also certified in Whitewater Rescue (WWR) I & II and Wilderness First Aid (WFA).