Cabela's Lounger Cot Review: Setup, Features, and Comfort

This review dives into the Cabela's Lounger Cot, a premium camping cot boasting exceptional comfort and adjustability. We'll guide you through the setup process, highlighting key features and offering helpful tips for optimal use. From unpacking and deploying the legs to mastering the folding technique, we'll cover everything you need to know to maximize your experience with this versatile cot. We'll also address a common issue with the foot section springing up and present a simple, effective solution.This in-depth look explores the Lounger Cot's independent leg adjustment for uneven terrain, its comfortable padding, and its unique design allowing seamless transition between cot and lounger modes. We'll analyze the value proposition considering its price point and compare its comfort and adjustability to other cots on the market. Ultimately, this review aims to provide you with all the information necessary to decide if the Cabela's Lounger Cot is the right choice for your camping needs.

Pros And Cons

Cabela's Lounger Cot
  • Super comfortable
  • Adjustable legs for uneven surfaces
  • Headrest can be adjusted to different angles, functioning as a lounge chair or cot
  • Padded for comfort, eliminating the need for an inflatable mattress
  • Easy to use after initial setup
  • Footrest tends to spring up when getting up from the cot (resolved with bungee cords)
  • Pricey ($189)

Read more: Top 5 Camping Cots for Your Dog

Unboxing and Initial Setup

The Cabela's Lounger Cot arrives in a compact storage bag. Removing it from the bag is the first step. The cot is initially folded in a U-shape, held together by four round knobs.

Cabela's Lounger Cot in its storage bag
Cabela's Lounger Cot in its storage bag

To open the cot, simply begin unfolding the head section. After the head is open, unfold the foot section. The cot will then stand in a U-shape on the floor.

Cot unfolded, showing the round knobs
Cot unfolded, showing the round knobs

Deploying the Legs

Next, deploy the four legs by unfolding them and rotating the feet until they lay flat on the ground. They'll lock into place with an audible snap.

Unfolding one leg of the cot
Unfolding one leg of the cot

Each foot needs to be turned to ensure a stable base. Once all four legs are deployed and locked, the cot is ready for setup.

Legs deployed and locked in place
Legs deployed and locked in place

Securing the Foot Section

The foot of the cot tends to spring up, especially when getting on or off. To prevent this, I use two 23-inch bungee cords.

Bungee cords used to secure the cot foot
Bungee cords used to secure the cot foot

Wrap each bungee cord around the underside bar of the foot section, then bring it under and attach it to the corresponding bar on the underside of the cot.

Attaching bungee cords to the underside of the cot foot
Attaching bungee cords to the underside of the cot foot

These bungee cords provide enough tension to keep the foot of the cot down, preventing it from springing up.

Bungee cords attached and securing the cot foot
Bungee cords attached and securing the cot foot

Adjustability and Comfort

One great feature is the independent leg adjustment. Each leg can be extended or retracted to compensate for uneven surfaces, ensuring the cot remains level.

Adjusting the cot legs independently
Adjusting the cot legs independently

The cot is well-padded, comfortable and doesn't rock or squeak. Its design allows for easy transition between a cot and a lounger.

Adjusting the headrest of the cot to lounge position
Adjusting the headrest of the cot to lounge position

Folding and Storage

To fold, reverse the setup process. First, retract the feet by pushing the small levers. Next, close the foot section.

Retracting the cot legs
Retracting the cot legs

Then, use the red knobs to retract the legs. The head section can be folded last. The cot will then collapse into its original U-shape.

Closing the foot section of the cot
Closing the foot section of the cot

With the cot folded, you can place it back in its storage bag. Remember to keep the red knobs facing upward while folding.

Cot fully folded and ready for storage
Cot fully folded and ready for storage

Conclusion: Is it Worth the Price?

The Cabela's Lounger Cot, while pricey at $189, is exceptionally comfortable. Its adjustability and versatile design (cot or lounger) make it worthwhile.

Final shot of the folded cot
Final shot of the folded cot

The initial setup might seem confusing, but it becomes simple with practice. Using bungee cords to keep the foot section down is a very helpful addition.

Overall, the Cabela's Lounger Cot offers superior comfort and adjustability compared to other cots, and for many, the price is justified by its quality and convenience.