How to choose your camp bed?

To help you compare, here we present two different types of camp bed, each with their own distinct advantages. Below we examine these two different systems to help you choose the model that will best suit your needs. One of them is bound to be your ideal bed!

-A fold-up camp bed: You'll appreciate this easy-to-install equipment each time you set up your bivouac - all you have to do is unfold it and enjoy a comfortable night's sleep. A camp bed that can't be dismantled can be easily stored in its carry bag which means there's less chance of losing a part when camping; and you get to enjoy a well-earned rest straight away. However, it can be quite bulky and will be better suited to campers "staying" in the same spot for several days and with a means of transport to move camp if necessary.

-A self-assembly camp bed: A self-assembly camp bed with a steel tube frame is an easy-to-transport piece of kit, with or without its own travel bag. Although it takes a little longer to put up, it has been designed in such a way that anyone can assemble it. Its compact size, which means it can slide easily into your backpack, also makes it a popular choice. This means you no longer have to compromise on the quality of your bedding when trekking. The folding bed parts can also be kept in the carry sack provided at the time of purchase, which is nice and compact (or at least less bulky than a fold-up bed).

Do you have in mind an image of a military-style fold-up bed? This type of camp bed, also known as an army cot bed, is in fact a fold-up camp bed. Initially used by soldiers, but also to stretcher the wounded, it is quick to put up and folds easily for storage or transportation. It shares the same advantages and disadvantages as fold-up beds, as set out above. Army style cot beds often have a bar at each end which holds the structure in place when unfolded. However, some fold-up camp beds, like the Decathlon model, don't have bars at the end, unlike the army cot bed: a series of small latches help secure the legs. This means fewer parts and less weight (for the same equipment).

If you want to know how to choose a camp bed, you need to be clear about its intended future use. Although camp beds were primarily designed to provide a good night's sleep when camping, they have become much more accessible and can easily be used as an extra bed at home. If you're primarily looking for an easy-to-store, comfortable spare bed for guests, you can opt for a heavier, more stable model than you would use for hiking.

Although you now know how to choose a camp bed, you will need certain accessories to ensure you're optimally equipped for your camping holidays. Remember to supplement your purchase with Decathlon's best products!

-A lightweight, insulating sleeping bag: Depending on your size, the season of your planned excursion and outside temperature, there are sleeping bags to suit every need, protecting you from the cold and ensuring you get a good night's sleep under the stars. So you'll find innovative designs, and thick or thinner models that you can take with you. If you're using a double camp bed, you can choose a 2-person sleeping bag or separate models which can be zipped together.

- An inflatable camping pillow: The camping pillow is an extremely compact, easy-to-inflate accessory that will take up very little space in your rucksack. Once inflated, it will provide essential neck support, preventing discomfort when you wake up. You can then deflate it, in just a few seconds, before setting off on the next stage of your trekking journey, rested and refreshed.

- A self-inflating mattress: Unlike thicker, traditional, inflatable mattresses, the self-inflating mattress is only a few centimetres thick, thanks to its innovative, high-performance technology. Inflating the mattress requires minimal effort so you can then position it on your camp bed, protecting your joints and preventing discomfort. Here again, compact models allow you to pursue your outdoor sporting activities without compromising on comfort or the quality of your sleep. It's a great opportunity to try out new and exciting challenges and push yourself a little bit further!

Now you know everything there is to know about choosing a camp bed, whether you're going camping by a lake, trekking to the other side of the world, or entertaining guests at home when not off on an nature trip.