A rough night’s sleep can take the shine off even the best camping trip. But just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you have to put up with lumpy ground and aching joints. The right camping bed – or camp cot, as our friends across the pond call it – can make a world of difference.
These days, a good camping bed isn’t just about staying off the floor. The best ones come close to the comfort of your bed at home, especially if you pair them with a self-inflating mattress. And since they’re designed to be portable and easy to set up, they’re perfect for everything from weekend getaways to longer wild camping adventures.
In this guide, I’ve picked out some of the best options available in the UK to help you find the perfect sleep setup for your next trip.
Top Reasons to Use a Camp Bed
Forget the myth that all “proper” campers rough it on the ground. A decent camp bed changes everything, and once you’ve used one, going back to a roll mat feels like a punishment. Here are some important reasons you should consider a camp bed in case you have been skimping on that.
- You’ll Sleep Warmer – Being raised off the ground means you’re not losing body heat into the cold, damp earth. Even on those chilly autumn mornings, you’ll stay toasty.
- Way Better Support – Tired legs, stiff back, sore hips… none of that’s helped by a rock digging into your ribs all night. A camp bed gives your body proper support, and your joints will thank you for it.
- Stay Dry – Rain, dew, condensation – it all finds its way in. But when you’re elevated, your sleeping bag stays clean and dry, just like it should.
- Tidy Tent– Stash your rucksack, boots, or snacks right under your bed. It’s like bonus storage space that keeps things off the floor and out of your way.
- Easier to Get Up – You know the struggle. Crawling out of a low tent at 3am to answer nature’s call? With a camp bed, you’re already halfway to standing.
Once you’ve tried one, you won’t look back. It’s comfort, convenience, and a better night’s sleep – all rolled into one.
How to Pick the Right Camp Bed for You
Choosing the best camping bed isn’t about spending the most money. It’s about matching gear to your adventure. Let’s break it down:
- Comfort: If you can’t sleep well, none of the rest matters. Look for padded tops, quilted covers, or beds you can add a foam topper to. Some cots, like the REI Kingdom Cot 3, mimic a real mattress.
- Portability: Hiking to your pitch? Go lightweight and folding. Car camping? You can afford more bulk and padding. A good lightweight option like the Helinox Lite Cot is a backpacker’s dream.
- Size: Don’t risk cold toes. Check the bed length and width. Most are fine for average-sized adults, but if you’re tall or like to move, go for XL models from brands like Outwell.
- Durability: Cheap knock-offs bend, sag, or snap. Stick with known names like Decathlon, Coleman, Vango, Helinox, Outwell, and look for sturdy frames and thick fabrics.
- Budget: You can get decent camp beds for under £50 or splash out £200+ for luxury. Price often reflects comfort, weight and build, but bargains exist, especially in Decathlon and Outwell’s ranges.
- Special Features: Side pockets for your phone, built-in pillows, even organiser panels (hello, Cabela’s) can make life easier in a cramped tent.
Best Camping Beds and Camp Cots: A Quick Comparison
Decathlon Inflatable Bed Base
Best For: Single bed comfort & modular setup
Weight: 3.9kg
Packed Size: 70 x 14 x 14 cm
Key Features: Inflatable frame with slats, can connect two bases to form a double
Cons: Needs pump, 110kg weight limit
Coleman Airbed Cot (Double)
Best For: Couples & all-in-one comfort
Weight: ~10kg
Packed Size: 28 x 26 x 102 cm
Key Features: Inflatable mattress + folding frame, includes pump & side tables
Cons: Pricey, air valve could be better
Helinox Lite Cot
Best For: Lightweight backpacking
Weight: 1.2kg
Packed Size: 53 x 13 x 13 cm
Key Features: Ultra-light, supports 120kg, great for tall users
Cons: Tricky assembly, snug carry bag
Eurohike Utah 4 Leg Bed
Best For: Budget camping & festival use
Weight: ~5kg (est.)
Packed Size: Compact with carry bag
Key Features: Water-repellent fabric, simple fold-out frame
Cons: Not ideal for long-term comfort
Hi-Gear Slumber Bed
Best For: Bulk buy/value campers
Weight: ~4kg (est.)
Packed Size: Foldable design
Key Features: Durable steel frame, hard-wearing polyester, good for indoor use too
Cons: Few cons for the price
Outwell Posadas XL
Best For: Tall campers & no-fuss setup
Weight: 9.6kg
Packed Size: 106 x 15 x 16 cm
Key Features: No assembly needed, XL size, high off ground, straps for sleep mat
Cons: Heavy – best for car camping
Best Camping Beds and Camp Cots to Invest In
You don’t need to spend every night in a sleeping bag on hard ground. I’ve tested a fair share of camp beds over the years – or had friends and family rave about their own setups – and I can confidently say these picks below are well worth your attention.
Are you car camping, heading off with the family, or planning a couples’ getaway under canvas? These beds offer the comfort and support you need for proper rest outdoors.
1. Decathlon Inflatable Camp Bed Base – Best Single Camp Bed for Camping
The Decathlon Inflatable Camp Bed Base is a clever bit of kit that’s often recommended by regular campers – and now we see why. It’s compact, comfortable, and surprisingly easy to set up once you get the hang of it.
The design uses inflatable air beams combined with eight rigid slats that slot in to form a stable base. On top of that, you’ll want to use a self-inflating mattress or foam topper. Together, the suspension and shape give it that little bit of bounce and comfort that takes the edge off even the hardest ground.
It packs down to a small 70 x 14 x 14 cm and weighs just under 4kg, making it easy to carry in the car or stash in a roof box. One standout feature is the ability to join two single bases together to create a comfy double bed, perfect for couples or kids sharing space. It’s backed by a 5-year warranty, which shows real confidence from Decathlon.
That said, it does require a separate pump, and it’s not ideal for heavier users, as the weight limit caps at around 110kg (17 stone).
2. Coleman Airbed Cot – Best Double Camp Bed for Couples
If you're camping as a couple and want something that feels a little closer to home, the Coleman Airbed Cot is a strong contender. It blends a sturdy fold-out frame with a full-size inflatable mattress, giving you the structure of a proper bed and the comfort of a soft, raised sleep surface.
The Queen-size version is roomy enough for two adults and stands 56cm off the ground, offering storage space underneath and keeping you well clear of cold ground or puddles. Setup is easy – the folding frame pops into place, and the mattress inflates in about a minute using the included battery-powered pump. No fiddling with adaptors or hunting for plug sockets.
The bed also comes with handy extras like clip-on side tables with cup holders – ideal for holding a torch, book, or early morning brew. The mattress itself comes with a soft, removable cover that keeps things in place and stops the dreaded “sleeping bag slide”.
There are a few niggles – the air valve isn’t the most secure, so you may get a little air loss during inflation, and it’s not the cheapest option out there. But considering you don’t need to buy a separate mattress, and the quality is high, it’s still great value for money.
3. Helinox Lite Cot – Light Camp Bed for Easy Travel
If you're heading off on a backpacking trip or bike tour and need a sleep setup that won’t weigh you down, the Helinox Lite Cot might be exactly what you’re after. Weighing just 1.2kg, it’s incredibly lightweight for something that supports up to 120kg – and works well even for people over 6ft tall.
The secret lies in the clever aluminium frame. Setup is fast once you get the hang of it, but I did find it takes a bit of strength to click the legs into place the first few times. Worth practising at home before heading out. If you want to go even lighter, you can ditch one of the leg sets and still sleep soundly.
I will admit – at first glance, the price seems steep. But once you’ve spent a night on it, especially after a long day hiking, you’ll understand the hype. It’s compact, durable, and surprisingly comfortable for such a low-profile bed.
4. Eurohike Utah 4 Leg Camp Bed – Best Budget Option
If you’re just getting into camping or want a spare bed without breaking the bank, the Eurohike Utah Bed is a strong budget pick. It’s surprisingly sturdy for the price and does the job for occasional trips or festival weekends.
The bed features a powder-coated steel frame with four legs and a slightly raised head end for extra comfort. The water-repellent fabric is a nice touch too – useful if the inside of your tent gets damp or you're dealing with dew in the mornings.
It’s simple to set up, reasonably light to carry, and packs into a handy storage bag. The only downside? It’s not the plushest for your back on multi-night trips, and the legs can feel a bit wobbly under heavier movement. But for the price, it’s hard to complain.
5. HI-GEAR Slumber Camp Bed – Best Value Multipack Option
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly camping bed that does the job and lasts, the Hi-Gear Slumber Camp Bed is a solid pick. It’s built on a stainless steel frame with folding legs, making it durable, stable, and easy to store. And with prices so low, you can kit out the whole family – five beds for around £100 is hard to beat.
The polyester fabric is tough and easy to wipe down, which is handy for muddy trips or unexpected spills. While it’s made for the outdoors, the Slumber cot is sturdy enough to double as a guest bed at home too.
For anyone camping on a budget or stocking up on spares, this one is a no-brainer.
6. Outwell Posadas XL Signature SLG Bed – Best for Tall Campers
The Outwell Posadas XL is a fantastic option if you're tall, like a bit of extra space, or just don’t want to faff with assembly. It folds out in seconds – no need to connect poles or stretch fabric. Just open it like a camping chair and you're done.
This bed is built with a tough steel frame that feels rock-solid and supports your weight with ease. It’s heavier than some others (about 9.6kg), but that’s the trade-off for strength and space. It also has smart elastic corner straps to hold a sleeping mat or extra padding, so you can upgrade your sleep setup even more.
I especially like the height. At 48cm off the ground, you’re lifted well away from cold, damp ground. When folded, it’s surprisingly compact, making it easy to stash in the car or garage.
Cot Beds vs. Air Mattresses: The Showdown
So, should you go for a raised camp cot or stick with a classic air mattress? Honestly, it depends on the weather, your back, and how much room you’ve got in the car.
Cot beds keep you off the ground, which is great for airflow and avoiding cold, damp grass. They’re sturdy, don’t deflate, and offer good support for sore backs. Plus, getting up in the morning is a lot easier when you’re not crawling off the floor.
The downside? They’re bulkier to pack, and in colder months, you’ll likely want a foam topper or insulated mat for extra warmth.
Air mattresses feel softer and more familiar to most people. They’re comfy – when they stay inflated. But air is a poor insulator, so they can feel freezing without something underneath. Cheap ones also have a habit of slowly deflating during the night, which can leave you sagging into the ground by sunrise. (Speaking from experience here – coastal breeze + budget airbed = regret.)
For spring and autumn camping, the best setup is usually a solid cot bed with a decent mat on top. Warm, stable, and less hassle overall.
Handy Tips for More Comfort
A few little extras can make a huge difference when it comes to getting decent sleep outdoors. Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Layer up with a foam topper or self-inflating mat. Even a basic one adds cushioning and cuts out the cold.
- Slide a thermal blanket underneath your sleeping bag. It blocks draughts from below and adds warmth where it counts.
- Test your camp bed at home first. Better to find a wonky leg or dodgy frame in your living room than on a rainy hillside.
- Check the height and stability. Some tent floors are bumpy, and a wobbly bed is a recipe for no sleep.
- Pack earplugs and an eye mask. Tents aren’t soundproof, and the dawn chorus can kick off way earlier than you’d like.
Final Thoughts
Good sleep isn’t a luxury for campers. It’s essential, especially if you plan to climb, hike, or wrangle kids all day. Find the right camp bed for your trips, your body, and your budget, and you’ll wonder why you ever settled for less.
Trust a weather-worn camper: invest in a bed that fits your style, and never underestimate the joy of waking up warm, comfy, and ready for whatever the wild British outdoors has in store.
