This Fragess Camping Cot review details our experience upgrading our camping sleep setup from uncomfortable ground sleeping to a luxurious, supportive system. We've experimented with various options, including foam mattresses and inflatable mattresses, but found the Fragess cot, combined with a specific inflatable foam mattress and padded topper, to be the ultimate solution for comfortable camping. This comprehensive review covers setup ease, comfort levels, and overall value, providing a detailed account of our journey to finding the perfect camping sleep solution.Our testing involved multiple nights of sleep, allowing us to assess the long-term comfort and support provided by the cot and its accompanying accessories. We discuss the individual components, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately demonstrate how their combined use creates a surprisingly comfortable and supportive sleeping experience. Whether you suffer from back pain or simply desire a better night’s sleep while camping, this review provides valuable insights into the Fragess cot system and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Pros And Cons
- Folds up easily like a folding chair
- Provides good support
- Comes with a comfortable pillow topper (though it doesn't fit back in the bag with the cot)
- Includes side pockets for storage
- Allows for easy getting in and out of the cot compared to sleeping on the ground
- One leg of the cot may hit the user's leg or crotch when standing up
- The included pillow topper does not fit back into the storage bag with the cot.
Read more: Top 5 Square Camping Tables for Your Next Adventure
Previous Camping Sleep Solutions
Our camping sleep setup has evolved quite a bit. We've tried various methods, from sleeping directly on the ground with a foam mattress, which proved uncomfortable, to a queen-size inflatable mattress. While the inflatable mattress initially provided a good night's sleep, it gradually lost air, likely due to its size.
Next, we tested an inflatable foam mattress designed for cots. This option worked well but lacked the additional support we desired. This led us to upgrade to a dedicated cot setup.
Cot Setup and Layering
The Fragess cot itself is surprisingly easy to set up, unfolding much like a folding chair. It provides a sturdy base but, when used alone, the leg support can feel somewhat intrusive.
To improve comfort and address the leg issue, we layered a Hazel Venture inflatable foam mattress on top. This mattress, reviewed in a separate video (link included), provides additional cushioning and a more even sleep surface. The cot perfectly accommodates the mattress, improving comfort.
Additional Comfort Layers and Features
The cot also includes a padded topper, adding another layer of comfort. This topper is quite plush but doesn't fit back into the storage bag with the cot. It features a gray and black design with a hood for extra warmth.
The cot also boasts side pockets for storing small items like phones or glasses. The combined layering of the cot, inflatable mattress, and topper creates a surprisingly luxurious camping sleep experience.
First Night Experience and Overall Impression
The first night's sleep on the cot was exceptionally comfortable for both reviewers. The setup provided significantly better support and comfort than previous camping solutions.
The combination of the cot, inflatable mattress, and topper created a supportive and comfortable sleeping environment, even accounting for the slightly warmer temperature experienced due to the bedding.
Second and Third Night and Final Verdict
The comfort and support of the cot continued through the remaining nights. Both reviewers reported excellent sleep, even noting that back pain was alleviated significantly by the added support.
The Fragess cot, when combined with the inflatable foam mattress and topper, provides a superior camping sleep solution. It’s easy to set up and pack away, and the added comfort is well worth the investment. We highly recommend this cot system for campers, especially those with back pain or a need for better sleep support.
Packing Up the Cot
Folding and packing away the Fragess cot is straightforward. The cot folds up compactly, similar to a folding chair. The inflatable mattress is deflated and easily stored.
The entire process is efficient and convenient, ensuring easy transport and storage for your next camping adventure.
