Camp cot comparison test: cheap vs. expensive: Helinox or Semptec – which camp cot is the best choice?

Why do you need a campervan? Quite simply: campervan beds allow you to enjoy a midday nap outdoors or a night under the stars. Especially when the packed size and weight of the beds are small, they are the perfect complement to camping chairs.

Both cots in this comparison are undoubtedly stable, small and lightweight, but the biggest difference lies in the price: While the Semptec cot (Pearl's own brand) measuring 192 x 70 x 17 cm costs 70 euros for the holiday budget, the more compact Helinox Lite Cot, measuring 187 x 58 x 13 cm, costs more than four times as much at 300 euros.

We wanted to know if the higher price was justified and what other differences there were. In terms of weight and pack size, the Helinox is clearly superior. At 1206 grams (1248 grams with bag), it weighs only about half as much as the 2350-gram Semptec camp bed.

It should be noted, however, that the Semptec's lying surface is five centimeters longer and 12 centimeters wider. It's also about four centimeters higher. Both manufacturers specify a maximum load capacity of 120 kilograms. The more compact Helinox requires four, while the larger Semptec uses a total of five plug-in support legs to achieve this.

Between two pluggable main poles, which are slightly thicker in the Helinox model, is the sleeping surface made of ripstop polyester. This surface gains its stability and tension from the four or five pluggable legs. Due to the similar construction, the assembly differences are minor. Only the wider Semptec bed requires an additional step in assembly because of the two-part center sections of the five support legs.

In return, the packed size is reduced to 42 centimeters instead of 53. Clever details on the more expensive Helinox include the printed instructions and the self-locking feet in transport mode. Semptec and Pearl solve the problem far more pragmatically, including a handful of hair ties to hold the poles together during transport.

More important than handling is ultimately sleeping comfort, and in that respect, both contenders are quite evenly matched. Ultimately, however, the cheaper and slightly larger Semptec sleeping surface comes out on top. This is also because it raises the user by another four centimeters. A noticeable characteristic of both is their tendency to sink in under pressure at specific points. Only when body weight is distributed more or less evenly across the support legs can one truly speak of sleeping comfort.

The more affordable model also scores points in terms of features. A side pocket sewn at chest height is suitable for a mobile phone and valuables. Both manufacturers also offer mattress pads that increase sleeping comfort and provide insulation. While Helinox delivers lightweight accessories at a high price (99 euros), Pearl offers a matching cot mattress pad weighing 1.9 kg and measuring six centimeters thick for 33 euros.

The Nordictrails camp bed is a comfort-oriented alternative to Helinox and Semptec – and is currently one of the bestsellers on Amazon. With a generous sleeping area (approx. 190 × 70 cm), ten sturdy legs, and a softly padded, removable mattress topper, it offers excellent sleeping comfort, especially for extended camping trips or as a guest bed. While it is considerably heavier at around 8.6 kg than the ultralight models from Helinox or Semptec, it compensates with its robust construction, high load capacity (up to 200 kg), and clever extras such as a side pocket, bedside table, and quick-folding mechanism – ideal for anyone who values ​​comfort and stability in their outdoor sleeping arrangements.