Coleman ComfortSmart vs REDCAMP Cot: Which Camping Cot Wins?

Sturdy folding camping cot with a sleeping bag and pillow inside a spacious tent

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A good cot is the difference between waking up rested and waking up sore. The Coleman ComfortSmart and the oversized REDCAMP cot are two of the most popular picks, but they target different campers. Here is how to choose.

Quick verdict

Buy the REDCAMP oversized cot if you are a bigger or taller camper, or just want a wider, higher-capacity bed. Buy the Coleman ComfortSmart if you want a cushioned, plush sleeping surface thanks to its coil suspension and foam mattress pad. REDCAMP wins on capacity and width; Coleman wins on built-in cushioning.

Specs at a glance

Feature Coleman ComfortSmart REDCAMP Oversized
Weight capacity ~300 lb ~500 lb
Width Standard / Big & Tall ~30 in Extra wide ~33 in
Frame Steel Steel
Surface Coil suspension + foam pad 600D Oxford fabric
Comfort feature Plush mattress pad Firm, supportive deck
Carry bag Yes Yes

Weight capacity and size

The REDCAMP is built for heavier and larger campers, with a sturdy steel frame and 600D Oxford fabric rated to around 500 lb, plus an extra-wide deck near 33 inches. The Coleman ComfortSmart supports about 300 lb and comes in a standard size and a roomier Big & Tall version. If capacity, width or your own frame are the priority, the REDCAMP has the margin.

Comfort and sleeping surface

The two cots solve comfort differently. The Coleman ComfortSmart uses a coil suspension system topped with a foam mattress pad, so it feels cushioned and a little springy, closer to a real bed. The REDCAMP uses a taut, tough fabric deck that is firm and supportive rather than padded; many big campers prefer that firmness and add their own pad. If you want softness out of the box, Coleman leads; if you want a rock-solid platform, REDCAMP delivers.

Durability

Both use steel frames, but the REDCAMP’s heavier-duty frame and thick 600D Oxford fabric are designed around its higher load rating, which usually translates to better long-term durability under heavy use. The Coleman is well made for its class but is rated for lighter loads, so staying within its capacity is important for longevity.

Packed size and portability

Neither of these is a backpacking cot; both are car-camping pieces that fold down and ship with a carry bag. The Coleman folds compactly for its comfort level, while the oversized REDCAMP is bulkier and heavier to match its larger deck and higher capacity. For drive-up camping that trade-off is easy to live with.

Which camping cot should you buy?

Choose the REDCAMP oversized cot (check the price on Amazon) if you need more width, more capacity and a firm, supportive deck. Choose the Coleman ComfortSmart (check the price on Amazon) if you want a plush, cushioned sleep with a built-in foam pad.

Which cot is better for a big or tall person?

The REDCAMP oversized cot. With a roughly 500 lb capacity and an extra-wide deck around 33 inches, it is built for larger and taller campers. The Coleman ComfortSmart Big & Tall is a solid option too, but its capacity tops out near 300 lb.

Which camping cot is more comfortable?

Out of the box, the Coleman ComfortSmart, thanks to its coil suspension and foam mattress pad that cushion pressure points. The REDCAMP is firmer and more supportive; add a sleeping pad and many campers find it equally comfortable with more underlying stability.

How much weight can these cots hold?

The REDCAMP oversized cot is rated to around 500 lb, while the Coleman ComfortSmart supports about 300 lb. Always stay within the rated capacity for safety and to extend the life of the frame.

Are these cots good for backpacking?

No. Both are car-camping cots that prioritize comfort and capacity over packed size and weight. They fold for transport and include carry bags, but they are meant for campsites you can drive to, not trail use.

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