Cot Tent
Cot Tent: Off the Ground Camping Tents with Built-In Elevated Cot
A cot tent (or tent cot) is a hybrid camping shelter that combines an elevated sleeping cot with a tent structure, keeping the user raised 10-15 inches above the ground. It is the ultimate off the ground tent for campers who want to sleep above rocks, roots, damp earth, insects, and sand without the cost or complexity of a roof top tent. Cot tents provide protection from insects, moisture, and rocky terrain while offering a quick, self-contained setup for car camping or solo trips. If you have ever slept in a ground tent and spent the night feeling every rock and root through your sleeping pad, a cot tent solves that problem completely.
We carry cot tents from Kakadu, including both a 1 person cot tent (the Blockout Stretcher Tent) and a 2 person cot tent (the Kakadu Cot Tent). These are not the cheap tent cot combos you find on Amazon. These are durable, built tough camping cot tent shelters with waterproof canvas, mosquito net protection, rainfly coverage, and sturdy metal frames designed for overlanding and serious car camping. Whether you need a cot tent 1 person for solo adventures or a double cot tent for couples, you will find the best cot tent options for sale right here. Every cot tent ships free.
💡 Why camp off the ground? Elevation from the ground in cot tents prevents contact with rocks, roots, damp earth, and insects. Better air circulation helps regulate body temperature and reduces condensation inside the tent. Elevated cot tents also make it easier for individuals with back or knee issues to get in and out of bed. No more crawling on the ground to get into your shelter in the middle of the night.
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Cot Tents for Sale
Here are two kakadu cot tent models we carry: a solo blockout stretcher tent and a 2 person cot tent. Both are designed for car camping and overlanding, featuring durable construction, easy setup, and the off the ground sleeping experience that makes a camping cot tent so comfortable.
Kakadu Blockout Stretcher Tent
Price: $299.00
Capacity: 1 person | Type: Stretcher cot tent
Features: Blockout fabric, elevated cot, mosquito net, rainfly
The Kakadu Blockout Stretcher Tent is a 1 person off the ground oversize tent cot that combines a sturdy elevated cot frame with a fully enclosed tent structure. The "Blockout" in the name refers to the light-blocking fabric that keeps the interior dark for better sleep, even on bright mornings. This one person off the ground tent features a durable metal frame that lifts you above rocks, sand, and damp earth, a mosquito net that keeps bugs out while maintaining airflow, and a waterproof rainfly that keeps the tent dry in rain. The whole thing folds down into a carrying bag for easy transport. Cot tents can typically be set up in just a few minutes due to their simple fold-out design, allowing for quick assembly without complicated processes. At $299, this is the most affordable cot tent camping shelter we carry and an amazing entry point for anyone who wants to test off ground camping. You will be surprised how comfortable sleeping on an elevated cot tent feels compared to a sleeping pad on the ground.
Kakadu Cot Tent 2 Person
Price: $499.00
Capacity: 2 person | Type: Double tent cot
Features: Double-wide cot, dual entry, mosquito net, rainfly, windows
The Kakadu Cot Tent is a 2 person off the ground tent, also known as a double cot tent, off the ground tent 2 person, or 2 person tent cot. This is the cot tent 2 person that couples and gear-heavy solo campers have been waiting for. The double-wide elevated cot frame supports two adults side by side, with a fully enclosed tent structure featuring integrated mesh panels and zippered doors for easy access. The 2 person off the ground double tent cot has enough room for two adults to sleep comfortably while the space under the cot allows for organizing gear, shoes, and luggage, providing extra storage space. Windows provide great ventilation and natural light during the day. The rainfly keeps everything dry in rain and wind. This two person tent off the ground is the best tent cot for couples who want to share a camping cot with tent shelter without sleeping on the ground. A 2 man tent cot that is built tough for overlanding, car camping, fishing trips, and hunting.
| Model | Capacity | Type | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kakadu Blockout Stretcher | 1 person | Single cot tent | Blockout fabric, ultra-portable, lightweight | $299 |
| Kakadu Cot Tent 2P | 2 person | Double tent cot | Double cot, dual entry, windows, extra room | $499 |
What Is a Cot Tent?
A cot tent (or tent cot) is a hybrid camping shelter that combines an elevated sleeping cot with a tent structure, keeping the user raised 10-15 inches above the ground. Unlike a regular camping tent where you sleep on the ground with an air mattress or sleeping pad, a cot tent has a built-in metal frame that lifts the entire sleeping surface off the ground. Unlike a standalone camping cot that leaves you exposed to weather and bugs, a cot tent includes a full tent enclosure with a roof, walls, mosquito net, and a waterproof rainfly.
Think of it as a tent cot combo: you get the elevated comfort of a cot and the weather protection of a tent in one self-contained product. The camping cot with tent concept has been popular in Australia for decades (where they call them "stretcher tents") and is now gaining traction in the USA among overlanders, hunters, and car campers who want to sleep off the ground without mounting a roof top tent on their vehicle. Cot tents are primarily used for car camping, overlanding, or short outings where comfort and quick setup are priorities.
Why Sleep Off the Ground?
No more rocks and roots. Elevation from the ground in cot tents prevents contact with rocks, roots, damp earth, and insects. You do not need to find a perfectly flat, clear spot to set up camp. The cot frame creates a level sleeping surface regardless of what is underneath it. Sandy desert, muddy field, rocky hillside: it does not matter when you are elevated above it all. This is why an off the ground tent is such a popular camping option for people who camp in rugged terrain.
Better airflow and temperature regulation. Cot tents offer improved air circulation, keeping users cooler in summer and protecting from the damp ground in winter. Better air circulation helps regulate body temperature and reduces condensation inside the tent. On warm nights, the breeze flows under the cot and keeps you cool. On cold nights, you are insulated from the ground's cold by the air gap, which is warmer than direct contact with frozen or damp earth.
Easier on your body. Elevated cot tents make it easier for individuals with back or knee issues to get in and out of bed. At 10-15 inches off the ground, a cot tent puts you at a height where you can sit on the edge, swing your feet up, and lie down without crawling on the floor. Getting up in the middle of the night is also easier: just swing your legs over and stand up. If you have ever struggled with knee pain or a bad back while getting in and out of a ground tent, a cot tent is a product that will change your camping experience.
Storage space underneath. The space under cot tents allows for organizing gear, shoes, and luggage, providing extra storage space. Keep your boots, bag, and essentials under the cot where they are protected, accessible, and out of your sleeping area. This is a small feature that makes a big difference in keeping your tent dry and organized.
Cot Tent vs Ground Tent vs Roof Top Tent
There are three main ways to sleep while overlanding or car camping. Here is an honest comparison to help you find the right shelter for your style.
Cot Tent ($299-$499): Elevated 10-15 inches off the ground. Self-contained with built-in cot, tent, mosquito net, and rainfly. Sets up in just a few minutes. Best for solo or couples car camping, overlanding, hunting, and fishing. Sleeps 1-2 people. Lightweight enough to carry in the back of your car or strap to a roof rack. No vehicle modification required. The camping tent off the ground that costs less than any rooftop tent while giving you elevated sleeping comfort.
Ground Tent ($400-$900): Sits on the ground. More interior space and standing room than a cot tent. Better for larger groups (4-8 people). You can leave it set up at camp while driving off to explore. Requires a sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort. Browse our ground tent collection here.
Roof Top Tent ($1,000-$5,000+): Mounted on your vehicle's roof rack. Elevated 4-6 feet off the ground. Built-in mattress. Sets up in 30-60 seconds. Must be packed up to drive. More expensive and requires a roof rack. Browse our roof top tent collection here.
Many experienced overlanders own all three. A roof top tent for daily mobile camping, a ground tent for base camp trips, and a cot tent for guests, kids, or quick solo trips. The cot tent fills the gap between sleeping on the ground and sleeping on the roof: it gives you elevated comfort at a budget-friendly price with no vehicle modification needed.
Cot Tent Buying Guide
Size: 1 Person vs 2 Person
A cot tent 1 person (like the Kakadu Blockout at $299) is ideal for solo campers who want a portable cot tent they can carry and set up alone. A cot tent 2 person (like the Kakadu Cot Tent at $499) is a double tent cot with a wider frame for couples or solo campers who want extra room. 2 person cot tents are heavier and bulkier but provide enough room for two adults to sleep comfortably. If you plan to camp solo most of the time but occasionally share with a partner, the 2 person tent cot gives you versatility.
Weight Capacity and Frame
Cot tents can support weights typically between 300-600 lbs due to their sturdy metal frames. Check the weight capacity of any cot tent before purchasing, especially if you are a larger person or plan to share a double cot tent with a partner. The frame should be steel or aluminum for durability. The Kakadu cot tents use heavy duty metal frames that handle rough use season after season.
Weather Protection
Look for a cot tent with a waterproof rainfly, sealed seams, and a durable tent fabric that can handle rain and wind. Integrated mesh panels and zippered doors in cot tents prevent bugs from entering and help keep the user dry during rain. A good cot tent keeps you safe and dry in a storm while maintaining enough ventilation and airflow to prevent condensation. Waterproof tents are designed to keep occupants dry during rain, with materials that prevent water from seeping through. Both Kakadu cot tents we carry include a waterproof rainfly for reliable weather protection.
Setup and Portability
Cot tents can typically be set up in just a few minutes due to their simple fold-out design. Many cot tents are designed for easy setup and takedown, making them suitable for users who prioritize convenience during camping trips. The pack-up process for cot tents is designed to be efficient, allowing users to easily fold down the tent for transport. Look for a cot tent that folds into a compact carrying bag or storage bag that fits in your car, truck bed, or on your roof rack. Cot tents are generally heavier and bulkier than traditional ground tents, making them less suitable for backpacking but perfect for car camping and overlanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cot tent?
A cot tent (or tent cot) is a hybrid camping shelter that combines an elevated sleeping cot with a tent structure, keeping the user raised 10-15 inches above the ground. It includes a metal cot frame, a tent enclosure with walls and a roof, a mosquito net, and a waterproof rainfly. You get the elevated comfort of a camping cot combined with the weather protection of a tent in one self-contained product. Cot tents are primarily used for car camping, overlanding, hunting, and fishing where comfort and quick setup are priorities.
What is the best cot tent for couples?
The Kakadu Cot Tent 2 Person ($499) is the best cot tent for couples. It is a 2 person off the ground double tent cot with a wide cot frame that fits two adults side by side. Dual entry doors, windows for ventilation, a mosquito net, and a waterproof rainfly create a comfortable, protected sleeping environment for two. This is the double tent cot that gives couples elevated sleeping without the cost of a roof top tent. If you and your partner want a camping cot with tent for your next camping trip, this is the one to get.
How fast can you set up a cot tent?
Cot tents can typically be set up in just a few minutes due to their simple fold-out design. The Kakadu Blockout Stretcher Tent unfolds and locks into place in under 3 minutes. The Kakadu 2 Person Cot Tent takes about 5 minutes. The fold-out frame design means you do not need to thread poles through sleeves or figure out complicated guy lines. Open it, unfold the frame, lock the supports, attach the rainfly, and you are ready to sleep. This is significantly faster than putting together a traditional camping tent with multiple pole sections.
Are cot tents comfortable?
Yes. Most people who try a cot tent for the first time are surprised how comfortable it is compared to sleeping on the ground. The elevated cot surface eliminates pressure points from rocks and roots, provides better back support than a sleeping pad, and the air gap beneath you improves temperature regulation. You can add a sleeping bag inside for warmth, or just a sheet and blanket on warm nights. The cot surface is comfortable on its own, but adding a thin sleeping pad or air mattress on top makes it even better. Many tent cot owners say they slept better in their cot tent than in their bed at home.
Can a cot tent handle rain?
Yes. Both Kakadu cot tents we carry include a waterproof rainfly that covers the tent and protects against rain. The elevated cot frame also keeps you above any ground water that may pool during heavy rain, which is a significant advantage over ground tents where water can seep under the floor. Integrated mesh panels and zippered doors prevent bugs from entering and help keep the user dry. The cot tent will keep you dry and comfortable in typical camping rain conditions. In extreme storms, make sure the rainfly is fully secured and consider adding additional guy lines for stability in wind.
Can I use a cot tent for backpacking?
Cot tents are generally heavier and bulkier than traditional ground tents, making them less suitable for backpacking or outdoor hiking trips where every ounce matters. Cot tents are designed for car camping, overlanding, and vehicle-based adventures where you drive to your campsite. You transport the cot tent in your car, truck, or strapped to your roof rack, then set it up at camp. If you need an ultralight shelter for hiking, a traditional backpacking tent is the better choice. A cot tent is for campers who want comfort and convenience at a drive-to campsite.
What is the difference between a cot tent and a swag tent?
A cot tent elevates you off the ground on a metal frame, while a swag tent sits directly on the ground with a built-in foam mattress. Both are self-contained camping shelters, but they solve different problems. Choose a cot tent if you want to sleep elevated above ground moisture, insects, and uneven terrain. Choose a swag tent if you want the most compact, fastest-setup ground shelter with a built-in mattress. A swag is lower to the ground and more compact. A cot tent is taller and gives you better airflow and easier entry/exit. Browse our swag tent collection here.
Can cot tents be used as a lounge chair?
Many cot tents convert into a lounge chair for daytime use, a standard elevated cot for sleeping, or a fully enclosed tent. This versatility is one of the most underappreciated features of a tent cot combo. During the day, fold the tent portion down and use the cot as a lounger for reading, resting, or watching the scenery. At night, set the tent up and you have an enclosed, elevated sleeping shelter. Not all cot tents have this feature, so check the product specifications if a multi-use design matters to you.
Why Buy a Cot Tent from Off Road Tents
We carry kakadu cot tent models in both single and double configurations. Whether you need the best tent cot for solo camping, a 2 person tent cot for couples, a camping tent cot for overlanding, the best off the ground tent for hunting or fishing, a portable cot tent for road trips, a stretcher tent for Australian-style camping, a waterproof cot tent for wet conditions, a cot tent for car camping with easy setup, a single cot tent for lightweight adventures, a cot tent for adults with back or knee issues, a tent with built in cot for convenience, or a camping tent off the ground that handles any terrain, we have the right cot tent for your next night outdoors. Every camping cot tent ships free. Call us at 844-200-3979 to ask about the Kakadu cot tent, check availability, or get help choosing between the 1 person and 2 person models.
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Shop Cot Tents
Elevated cot tents from $299. Sleep off the ground. Free shipping.
