Camping Stretcher Beds Guide: Where Comfort Meets Practicality
You may be an urban dweller, but the urge to get away from the city and camp out at one of Australia’s top camping spots must have crossed your mind at some point. Spending some time in nature is an amazing experience, whether you want to discover hidden gems with family and friends or travel solo. It is a great way to take a break from the stress of everyday life, especially in these pandemic times, and maintain good health and a clear mind.
Whether it’s your first time camping or you’ve already stopped counting, you want to make sure it will be an enjoyable adventure. To camp out safely and comfortably, you need to pack all the essential gear, and it includes a lot of equipment, especially if you are going to sleep in a tent. Always consider the climate of the area where you’ll be camping and your needs.
It’s important to feel comfortable throughout the entire journey, so don’t forget to pack a bedding solution that will help you sleep well and wake up well-rested for the day ahead. You may opt for a bed stretcher camping enthusiasts love. While it used to be one of the most underrated pieces of camping gear, today it’s one of the most appreciated items that can make your outdoor sleeping setup complete.
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What Is a Camping Stretcher?
Camping stretchers are comfortable and compact beds, ideal for campers who look after their knees and back. Being elevated off the ground is a great solution for some as it allows them to easily get in and out of their bed, or for the ones who prefer to keep a distance between them and the Australian bush crawlies and stay safe while camping.
This type of camping bedding is constructed with a rugged steel frame, high-quality canvas and a clever folding design, which makes them easily transportable and a great addition to any camping gear as they can be quickly erected and dismantled. They are available in many different sizes, from single to king and queen configurations.
Different Types of Camping Stretcher Beds
Choosing a camping stretcher bed is a personal decision and depends on many factors, including a budget, personal needs and camping style. There are different types of camping stretchers and they all offer different levels of sleeping comfort.
Wire Leg
This type of stretcher requires putting a few poles in for side support and then the wire legs are added. Though it may sound complicated, set-up time is relatively fast. It’s light to carry and takes up very little room when packed.
Cross Leg
This is a fast fold up/put down stretcher bed. It’s one of the most popular options thanks to the convenience it offers and the large variety to choose from.
Bunk Beds
If your family is large, but your tent’s space is tight, bunk bed stretchers are a great solution for getting the family together in one sleeping space.
How to Choose the Right Camping Stretcher
Before making a purchase, it’s important to check the size of your tent’s inner tent to ensure it can fit a camp bed stretcher as some inners are very shallow and won’t be able to fit your bed in the sleeping space. A good night’s sleep when camping is important and for that, you need to make sure you are comfortable in your tent.
Also, check the bag that the product comes in. The size of the bag and the total weight of the stretcher when packed away can help you determine if it meets your needs and camping style or not. The ideal solution is a combination of portability and comfort. Adjustable legs are another feature that is worth considering if you want to ensure a good night rest while camping.
Benefits of a Camping Stretcher
Even though the stretcher camping bedding may not be a crucial purchase when you first start exploring the great outdoors, it offers a lot of benefits that are worth considering, such as the following.
- Increases storage space by storing your bags, valuables and personal belongings underneath it
- If you are not camping inside a tent, but under a tarp and it’s raining, the water can run along the ground under your bed
- When sleeping off the ground, it is less likely to feel any rocks, twigs, stones and hard surfaces underneath
- Easier to get in and out of, as previously mentioned, and some age groups appreciate it a lot
- Keeps you cooler in warm weather as the air circulates beneath it
- Can be used at home for sleepovers or as an extra bed in holiday locations
Lastly, keep in mind that you will be able to sleep on a stretcher camping bed without any further padding, but for some extra comfort, you can add a mattress on top. It’s best if the camping area is as flat as possible to avoid an uneven bed and even though it’s possible to extend the support legs, ensure the weight is distributed evenly amongst them to avoid any potential damage.
