Do you like spending the night in the great outdoors or in a tent and don’t want to do without a high level of sleeping comfort when camping? Then a camp bed could be the right solution for you. The camping loungers are available in different designs and features, so there is something for every type of sleeper. We have taken a closer look at the camp beds and tell you what is important when choosing one.
The most important things first
- The camp bed is a comfortable and practical place to sleep when you are out and about.
- There are different types of camp beds – from simple models to XXL beds and camp beds with an accompanying tent.
- The camp bed protects you from the cold and wet ground and is particularly comfortable.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
- The most important things first
- Everything you need to know about the camp bed
- What is a camp bed?
- The structure – what your camp bed consists of
- What types of camp beds are there?
- Camp bed vs. camping mats and air mattresses
- You should pay attention to these features when buying
- The most important facts summarized
- We compared these camp beds
- Frequently asked questions about camp beds
Don’t want to scroll? Click here for a direct comparison of camp beds.
Everything you need to know about the camp bed
For outdoor enthusiasts, there is hardly anything better than sleeping in the open air or in a spacious tent. So that you can enjoy it to the full, the sleeping pad should be as comfortable as possible. The right camping bed is essential, especially if you’re going to be out and about for a longer period of time. The camp bed is particularly popular with long-term outdoor adventurers.
What is a camp bed?
Let’s start with the basic question of what a camp bed is and what it’s all about. You may be familiar with the term from the German armed forces or the military. Soldiers used to take the bed with them “into the field”, which is how it got its current name. Basically, however, anyone can buy a camp bed to sleep as comfortably as possible. A camp bed, also known as a field cot, camping bed or camping cot, is a foldable base that can be transported to save space. You can simply fold the lounger up like a folding chair. The camp bed consists of a frame covered with a robust fabric. Incidentally, the selection of camping loungers is enormous. There are simple models that are sufficient for a short festival visit and camp beds with a mattress for longer trips and journeys.
The structure – what your camp bed consists of
The assembly is actually quite simple and the same for camp beds. As already mentioned, you can fold the lounger to save space and unfold it when required. It consists of a frame, which is made of different materials depending on the quality, and a covered lying surface. There are also certain differences here, while simple versions are covered with a polyester fabric, there are high-quality models that have an additional mattress.
Frame
Let’s start with the frame. Different materials are used depending on the price range. Aluminum is often used for cheaper models. This has the great advantage that it is particularly light and therefore easy to transport. However, there are certain compromises in terms of stability. This is somewhat lower than for camp beds with a steel or wooden frame. Both are considered to be very robust and dimensionally stable. They have a longer service life, but they are also significantly heavier. The choice of material therefore depends on your wishes and preferences. Lightweight aluminum models with a low weight are useful for hiking, while a steel construction is recommended for a longer stay at one location.
Lying surface
The lying surface of your camp bed is at least as important as the frame. After all, you’ll be spending many nights on it at best. In most cases, the cover is made of polyester or nylon. Both fabrics are robust and tear-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use. They are also water-repellent and easy to clean. If you want to increase your sleeping comfort, you can look for a camp bed with a matching mattress or mattress topper. They are available with different fillings and degrees of firmness so that you can choose the right topper for you. These are also available separately and are mainly made of cotton or polyester.
What types of camp beds are there?
As you can probably already imagine, there are very different versions and designs of camp beds. Some are suitable for short trips, others for several people and others are specially equipped for outdoor activities. Let’s take a closer look at the different camp beds.
Camp bed or camping lounger
The camping lounger consists mainly of an aluminum frame and a cover made of polyester or a similar water-repellent material. You can also opt for a steel or wooden frame, but you will have to reckon with a significantly higher weight. The camp bed can be folded into a single or double U or Z shape and stowed away quickly. Some models are supplied with a practical carrying bag. Most models are around 80 to 100 cm wide and 180 to 200 cm long.
Carp lounger
This type of camp bed is a model with a higher maximum load capacity. The carp lounger is designed for people weighing up to 200 kg. In contrast to the simple camping lounger, this version usually has six or eight legs on which the weight is evenly distributed. As the name suggests, these models were initially made for anglers, but are now also becoming increasingly popular with campers. Incidentally, most models can be used as a lounger and chair at the same time, which is a great advantage for campers and anglers. However, due to the somewhat more complex construction and the increased material consumption, carp loungers are significantly heavier and should be transported in a vehicle.
XXL camp bed
As the name suggests, this version is slightly larger. It is intended for people who are 190 cm or taller and cannot lie properly on a normal camping bed. Most models start at a width of 70 cm, but there are also much wider versions. In terms of length, XXL camp beds are really impressive. Some of these are 210 cm long and therefore also suitable for tall people. It is best to ensure that the recommended maximum weight is not exceeded. However, many XXL models can be loaded with up to 200 kg.
![HEROGEAR Feldbett klappbar mit bequemer Baumwollfüllung [integriertes Kissen & Matratze] Gästebett Campingbett Strandliege Gartenliege Reisebett Erwachsene Faltliege Klappbett | 190 x 67 cm](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51c3BQuxIZL._SL160_.jpg "The best camp beds for more sleeping comfort when camping 7")
Double field bed
Two people can sleep comfortably here. So you can make yourself comfortable with your partner, buddy or the kids. Most models are between 130 and 140 cm wide and have a length of 190 to 210 cm. The advantage is that you can sleep together and only have to stow one camp bed. This variant is therefore a real space saver for two people.
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Camp bed with mosquito net
This version is primarily a real highlight for outdoor fans who like to sleep in the great outdoors. The mosquito net protects you from insects and mosquitoes while you sleep and allows you to spend relaxing hours under the stars. You can also buy the mosquito nets separately.
Camp bed with tent
The 2-in-1 or 4-in-1 sets are particularly practical. These consist of a camp bed and a matching tent, which is stretched over the cot. The 4-in-1 version also comes with a comfortable mattress and a summer sleeping bag. You can fold up the sets to save space and transport them easily in the accompanying bag. With this practical version, you have a tent and groundsheet in one and are perfectly equipped for your next outdoor adventure.
Garden lounger
Last but not least, I would like to introduce you to the simplest option – the garden lounger. They are available with a folding or fixed frame. This lounger is designed for cozy hours in the garden. Depending on the product and quality, they are even suitable for overnight stays, but they cannot be compared with special carp or camping beds.
Camp bed vs. camping mats and air mattresses
It is particularly practical that your camp bed has feet. These ensure sufficient distance from the ground so that you are protected from the cold, damp and vermin. What’s more, a camp bed can be set up in no time and you don’t need to laboriously inflate it like an air mattress. In addition, camp beds are considered to be much more comfortable and easier on the back than beds that lie on the hard floor. On the whole, the camp bed is the more luxurious sleeping option for outdoor enthusiasts.
You should pay attention to these features when buying
Before you decide on a particular camp bed, you should think carefully about which features and special features you don’t want to do without. I would like to briefly explain which features you should take into account when making your purchase decision.
Kind
First of all, it is important that you decide on a specific type of camp bed. There is the simple camping lounger, the carp lounger, the camp bed with mosquito net or tent or an XXL model. A simple lounger is sufficient as a guest bed, but for regular and longer overnight stays you may want a more comfortable version.
Material
The choice of material should not be disregarded when selecting the right camp bed. If you want to take the camp bed with you on trips and transport it frequently, it should be as light as possible. In this case, an aluminum frame is ideal. For use at home, it can also be a heavy and robust material such as steel or wood. The surface should be as water-repellent as possible and made of an easy-to-clean fabric such as nylon or polyester.
Size
This refers to the unfolded size or dimensions of your camp bed. Some models are only 70 x 180 cm, which could be too short and narrow for slightly longer people. The dimensions should therefore be adapted to your body. A camp bed in XXL is therefore recommended for people over 180 cm.
Pack size and weight
If the camp bed is intended for camping and outdoor adventures, both a small pack size and the weight play an important role. After all, the camp bed has to be stowed and transported. If you don’t want to do without your camp bed on your hike or trekking tour, it should be ultra-light and fold up as small as possible.
Load capacity
Each camp bed has an individual maximum load capacity. Most camp beds can be loaded up to 150 kg. However, there are also some models that are designed for up to 200 kg or more.
Equipment
The more special features and extras your camp bed has, the less you will have to pay afterwards. A transport bag is particularly practical and useful so that you can take the overnight camp with you wherever you go. Some camp beds have a small additional side pocket so that you can keep your smartphone, flashlight or similar items close to you. If you want to dig a little deeper into your pocket and set up a particularly comfortable sleeping area, then look for a model with an additional mattress.
The most important facts summarized
- The camp bed is particularly popular with long-term outdoor sleepers.
- Camp beds are also called camping beds or field beds.
- They consist of a frame and a covered lying surface.
- The frame is either made of lightweight aluminum or somewhat more solid steel.
- There are different types of camp beds. These include the camping cot, the carp cot, the XXL camp bed, the double camp bed and the camp bed with mosquito net or tent.
- The advantage over a sleeping pad or air mattress is that you are protected from the cold ground and bugs.
- Camp beds are suitable for use at home as a guest bed, at festivals, as a camping accessory and much more.
We compared these camp beds
Frequently asked questions about camp beds
Who is a camp bed suitable for?
Actually, we could ask ourselves who a camp bed is not suitable for. The user group is actually quite large. First of all, the field or camping bed is a cozy place to sleep, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. In contrast to a sleeping pad or air mattress, you lie slightly elevated and do not have a hard surface. People with back pain in particular often find it difficult to find a suitable place to sleep. In this case, a high-quality camping lounger can be a more back-friendly alternative. Incidentally, the camp bed is not only suitable for outdoor adventures. You can use it perfectly as a guest bed. As it is easy to fold up, it is particularly suitable for small apartments. You can stow it away in no time at all to save space.
What does a camp bed cost?
Prices can vary greatly depending on the product and features. Simple camping loungers and camp beds start at around EUR 25 to 50. This is usually a model with a lightweight aluminum frame and a polyester cover. For a carp bed with a little more comfort, prices start at EUR 70 and go up to over EUR 200. A set consisting of a camp bed and tent costs between 150 and 250 EUR. As you can see, the price range is relatively wide and it all depends on your wishes and preferences.
Which camp bed is the best?
There is no general answer to this and it depends on your personal needs. However, a good camp bed offers an optimum compromise between sleeping comfort, stability and convenient transportation options.
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