Setup Tips for the Slumberjack Cot

The Slumberjack cot uses a traditional army design with steel reinforcements and three leg supports. The aluminum-framed cot also comes with a storage loft that will store clothing and lightweight gear like toiletries. The setup process for the cot is very simple, but it does require some muscle to connect all of the corners.

  1. Setup

    • Remove the cot from the carry bag and unfold the two halves. Also unfold the legs to place the cot in a standing position. Do not place any weight on the cot until the fabric is tightened. Locate the short bar on each end of the cot. Also locate the hook on each end of the long bars. Align the slot on the each end of the short bars with the hooks to assemble the cot. Use two people to stretch the fabric and hook the bars if the resistance is excessive.

    Leveling

    • Place the cot on level ground maximize sleeping comfort. A very mild slope causes many people to slip and roll to the side of the cot while sleeping. Use a stable surface like lumber to prop one side of the cot if it is not level. Carry a small leveling tool to ensure that the cot will remain comfortable throughout the night. It is especially important to level the cot for long-term camping.

    Protection

    • Place the cot in a shaded area and prevent contact with moisture and sun. The combination will shrink the fabric and make it difficult to assemble on the next camping trip. The cot will also require several strong people to stretch the fabric and assemble the bed. Test the cot at home if it has been exposed to sun and water. This allows you to stretch the material before the camping trip. It is especially important to stretch the material before a solo camping trip where help will not be available.

    Weight Distribution

    • Once the cot is erected, do not test it by applying excessive weight or force. The brackets on the legs will weaken with too much force on the cot. Sit or lie on the cot in a normal fashion and do not use it like a couch with more than two people. The extra weight may ruin the leg brackets and cause the cot to collapse. Once the brackets break, the cot is extremely difficult to repair.