Finding the right sleeping arrangement for your toddler or young child on a camping trip can make the difference between a restful adventure and a sleepless ordeal. A good kids camping cot provides a familiar, dedicated space off the ground, offering comfort for them and peace of mind for you. The best options are portable, easy to set up, and designed with a child’s safety and size in mind.
From classic folding cots to innovative bunk beds and inflatable options, the market is full of solutions for young campers. This roundup highlights eight of the top-rated kids camping cots, evaluating them on features like stability, portability, age range, and unique benefits to help you find the perfect fit for your family’s next outdoor journey.
Our Top Picks for Kids Camping Cots
- REDCAMP Extra Long Kids Cot for Sleeping 2-7 Years
- hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers
- Disc-O-Bed Youth Double Cot Kid-O-Bunk, Modular for Bunk Beds
- Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed with Sleeping Bag
- Disc-O-Bed Large Kid-O-Bunk with Organizers
- ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
- Regalo Easy Step 2-in-1 Folding Cot and Bed Rail
- Joovy Foocot Child Cot Portable Folding Bed
REDCAMP Extra Long Kids Cot for Sleeping 2-7 Years
For parents of taller toddlers or those who simply want extra room for their child to grow into, the REDCAMP Extra Long Kids Cot is an excellent choice. Its generous 53-inch length provides a spacious sleeping area suitable for children up to 4.5 feet tall, accommodating ages 2 through 7. The sturdy 600D Oxford fabric and reinforced double-layer sewing at stress points are built for durability.
Setup is remarkably simple, taking just seconds to unfold and lock into place with no tools required. The frame uses updated 16mm oval tubing and features ten legs with anti-slip feet, creating a stable platform that can support up to 220 pounds. When it’s time to pack up, it folds down compactly and fits into the included carry bag for easy transport to your next camping spot or sleepover.
hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed with Safety Bumpers
The hiccapop inflatable bed takes a different approach, focusing on safety and comfort for younger toddlers. Its defining feature is the four-sided inflatable bumper, which acts as a secure rail to prevent rolling off, making it ideal for children transitioning from a crib. This design provides peace of mind whether you’re in a tent, a hotel room, or at a grandparent’s house.
Constructed with 40% thicker material than many competitors and reinforced weld-seams, this bed is built to resist punctures and air leaks. The top features a soft, velvet-flocked sleeping surface for added comfort. It includes an electric turbo pump for quick inflation and deflation, and everything packs away into an XL travel bag. The company backs it with a lifetime guarantee, underscoring its commitment to durability.
Disc-O-Bed Youth Double Cot Kid-O-Bunk
For families with multiple children or frequent guest sleepovers, the Disc-O-Bed Kid-O-Bunk offers brilliant versatility. This modular system includes two sturdy cots that can be used separately on the ground, attached side-by-side as a bench, or stacked securely to form a space-saving bunk bed. This flexibility is perfect for maximizing floor space in a crowded tent or cabin.
Designed for youth aged 7 to 12, each cot supports up to 200 pounds. The setup is tool-free, using a patented disc system that locks the frames together firmly. Cleaning is straightforward—just wipe down with a damp cloth. Each cot comes with its own carry bag, and the set includes stack adapters and locking straps, making transport and storage organized and simple.
Regalo My Cot Portable Toddler Bed with Sleeping Bag
The Regalo My Cot is a popular all-in-one solution that combines a simple, lightweight cot with an attached sleeping bag. This design eliminates the need for separate bedding, as the soft sleeping bag is permanently secured to the cot frame. It’s an incredibly convenient option for quick setup and ensures your child’s bedding stays in place all night.
The cot is low to the ground, making it easy for toddlers to climb in and out safely. Its steel frame is durable yet folds down flat in an instant, and the entire unit fits into an included carry bag for travel. This cot is ideal for parents looking for a no-fuss, integrated sleep system for preschool-aged children during camping trips, naps, or travel.
Disc-O-Bed Large Kid-O-Bunk with Organizers
Building on the popular Kid-O-Bunk concept, this version adds valuable storage solutions perfect for extended camping or organized kids. It includes the same versatile, modular two-cot system that can be separate, a bench, or bunks, but enhances it with attached organizers. These pockets provide handy spots for a child to keep a book, flashlight, water bottle, or small toys within easy reach.
This feature helps keep the sleeping area tidy and gives children a sense of having their own personal space. Like the standard model, it is built for durability and easy cleaning, designed for kids ages 7-12. The added organization makes it a standout choice for longer trips where keeping gear sorted is important for comfort and convenience.
ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot
The ALPS Mountaineering Ready Lite Cot brings a more traditional, robust camping cot design down to a child-appropriate size. Known for quality outdoor gear, ALPS applies its expertise to create a cot that is both lightweight and strong, using a powder-coated steel frame and durable polyester sleeping surface.
This cot sets up in minutes with a simple collapsible frame design and offers a comfortable, elevated sleep surface off the tent floor. It’s an excellent choice for older children or those who need a more substantial cot that mirrors adult camping equipment in quality and function. Its design prioritizes reliable support and ventilation during warmer weather camping.
Regalo Easy Step 2-in-1 Folding Cot and Bed Rail
The Regalo Easy Step offers unique dual functionality as both a standalone cot and a bed rail for a standard bed. This 2-in-1 design provides great value and adaptability. When used as a cot, it provides a secure, framed sleeping area. The attached safety rail can also be detached and used on a regular bed at home or in a vacation rental to prevent falls.
This makes it a smart purchase for families who need a travel cot but also want a solution for transitioning a toddler to a big bed. The cot is easy to fold and includes a carry bag. Its versatile design supports use across multiple scenarios, from camping and travel to everyday use in the child’s bedroom.
Joovy Foocot Child Cot Portable Folding Bed
The Joovy Foocot stands out with its clever design that unfolds to a full-size cot and folds down to a slim, easy-to-carry package. It uses a unique “scissor” folding mechanism that is both sturdy and simple for parents to operate. The cot sits low to the ground, promoting safety for younger children, while the sturdy frame provides reliable support.
The sleeping surface is made from a durable, easy-to-clean fabric. Its compact fold is a major advantage for storage and transport, whether in a car trunk or a closet. The Joovy Foocot is a well-regarded option that balances a robust build with exceptional portability, making it a practical choice for frequent travelers and campers.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Kids Camping Cot for Toddlers
As a parent who loves getting outdoors with my little ones, I know that a good night’s sleep is the difference between a fun trip and a meltdown marathon. Finding the right kids camping cot for toddlers isn’t just about a place to crash; it’s about safety, comfort, and making sure you all wake up ready for adventure. Let me walk you through what I look for when I’m shopping for one.
First and foremost, think about size and weight limits. You need a cot rated for your child’s current size with some room to grow. Most toddler cots handle between 50 to 75 pounds, but always check the manufacturer’s specs. The cot’s dimensions are also key—it needs to fit in your tent! Measure your tent floor space first, remembering to account for your own sleeping pad or air mattress beside it.
Next up is portability. How easy is it to carry and pack? Many cots fold down into a carrying case with a shoulder strap, which is a lifesaver when you’re hauling gear and holding a little hand. Look at the packed size and weight. A lighter cot is easier for you, but sometimes a slightly heavier model feels more sturdy and durable, which is my next point.
Construction and durability matter a lot. You want a frame made of strong, powder-coated steel or aluminum that won’t rust. The fabric should be a tough, rip-resistant polyester or canvas. Pay close attention to the joints and the legs—these take the most stress. A cot with reinforced corners and wide, stable legs is less likely to wobble or tip when your toddler gets the bedtime wiggles.
Then there’s comfort and setup. Some cots are just a taut fabric sling, while others have a built-in pad or mattress. The latter is obviously comfier but often bulkier. Consider if you’ll add a separate sleeping pad on top. For setup, I aim for a design I can assemble in under two minutes, ideally without any confusing tools or pins. The last thing you want is a complicated puzzle at the end of a long travel day.
Finally, don’t forget the extra features. Side storage pockets are fantastic for holding a bedtime book, a water bottle, or a favorite stuffed animal. Some cots even have removable, machine-washable covers, which is a brilliant feature for inevitable spills. A low-to-the-ground design can give you peace of mind for restless sleepers, while a higher cot might be easier on your back when tucking them in.
Taking the time to consider these factors will help you find a camping cot that keeps your toddler cozy and secure, making your family camping trips happier for everyone.
FAQ
At what age can my toddler start using a camping cot?
Most kids are ready for a camping cot once they’ve transitioned out of a crib, typically around 18 months to 2 years old. The key factors are their ability to climb in and out safely (with supervision) and not rolling around excessively in their sleep. Always look for a cot with side rails or a very low-to-the-ground design for younger toddlers to prevent falls. It’s less about a specific age and more about your child’s mobility and sleep habits.
Are these cots comfortable enough, or do I need extra padding?
This really depends on the cot and your child. Some of the best kids camping cot for toddlers models come with a thin, integrated foam pad, which might be sufficient for a sound sleeper. However, many kids (and adults!) prefer extra cushioning. I usually add a familiar sleeping pad, a foldable foam mat, or even a thick blanket on top of the cot fabric. It mimics their bed at home and provides insulation from the cooler air underneath the cot.
How do I keep my toddler from falling off the cot at night?
Safety is the top concern. First, choose a cot with built-in, mesh, or fabric side rails. If your cot doesn’t have rails, position it snugly against a tent wall (ensure the wall is taut and safe) or place your own sleeping pad right next to it on the ground. You can also use rolled-up blankets or towels under the fitted sheet to create a soft barrier. Always do a practice setup at home first to see how your child moves in their sleep.
Can these cots be used for sleepovers at home, too?
Absolutely! That’s one of the best parts. A quality camping cot is perfect for grandparents’ house visits, impromptu guest beds, or fun indoor forts. Their portable, easy-clean nature makes them incredibly versatile. In fact, letting your toddler use it for a few naps or a night at home before the camping trip can help them get used to it, making the real trip much smoother.
What’s the main difference between a toddler camping cot and a regular kid’s air mattress?
The main differences are stability, insulation, and safety. A cot has a rigid frame that keeps your child off the cold, hard ground, providing better insulation. It also won’t deflate overnight. While air mattresses can be comfortable, they are prone to leaks and can feel bouncy and unstable for little ones. A cot offers a more bed-like, secure feeling and often packs down more reliably without the risk of punctures.