Gander Mountain camping cots were popular models among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, particularly the Mojo Cot, Tracker Cot, and Guide Series models known for durability and comfort.
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Gander Mountain Cot Models
Gander Mountain produced several camping cot models designed for outdoor comfort and portability. Understanding the specifications helps identify replacement options.
| Model | Dimensions | Weight Capacity | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mojo Cot | 90″ L x 36″ W x 18″ H | 350 lbs | Bungee suspension system, thick foam padding, adjustable duck feet, neoprene pillow |
| Tracker Cot | 78″ L x 30″ W x 17″ H | 300 lbs | 600D polyester fabric, steel frame, rubber bushings, quick assembly |
| Guide Series XL | 82″ L x 31″ W x 19″ H | 300 lbs | Zero gravity design, lightweight aluminum, easy setup with two support bars |
| Titan XXL Cot | 94″ L x 39″ W x 21″ H | 300 lbs | Extra-wide design, storage organizer, room for storage underneath |
Gander Mountain Mojo Cot Review
The Gander Mountain Mojo Cot was one of the brand’s premium sleeping solutions, featuring a generous 90-inch length and 36-inch width that provided ample space for comfortable sleeping.
Bungee Suspension System: The Mojo Cot utilized a unique bungee cord suspension system that eliminated traditional metal support rails. This design provided excellent weight distribution and comfortable support across the entire sleeping surface.
Foam Padding: Thick foam padding extended from end to end as one solid piece, with extra cushioning at the head for pillow support. The padding attached to the frame with elastic cords, creating a comfortable sleeping surface that prevented pressure points.
Durability: Powder-coated steel frame construction and 600-denier polyester fabric provided long-lasting performance in various outdoor conditions. The cot’s 350-pound weight capacity made it suitable for most campers.
User Experience: Campers consistently praised the Mojo Cot for providing the best sleep quality during extended camping trips. The wide sleeping surface and thick padding eliminated the discomfort associated with air mattresses and ground sleeping.
Finding Replacement Parts and Alternatives
Gander Mountain stores closed in 2017, making original replacement parts difficult to find. However, many camping cot components use standard sizing across brands.
Replacement Options: Universal camping cot parts including fabric covers, support bars, leg caps, and frame components fit multiple brands. Match dimensions and weight capacity when selecting replacements.
Current Alternatives: Several manufacturers produce camping cots with similar specifications to Gander Mountain models. Coleman, REI, Helinox, and Teton Sports offer comparable quality and features.
Browse camping cot replacement parts on Amazon for universal components compatible with various brands.
Top Camping Cots on Amazon
Modern camping cots provide excellent alternatives to discontinued Gander Mountain models, with improved materials and innovative designs.
Heavy-Duty Camping Cots
Extra-wide models with weight capacities from 300 to 600 pounds accommodate larger individuals comfortably. Steel frames provide stability while folding designs ensure portability.
Features include thick mattresses, side pockets for storage, adjustable legs for uneven terrain, and quick-setup mechanisms that require no tools.
Shop Heavy-Duty CotsUltralight Camping Cots
Backpacking cots weighing under 5 pounds feature aircraft-grade aluminum frames and compact packed sizes for easy transport into backcountry campsites.
Lever-lock systems provide secure setup with taut fabric that prevents sagging. Support up to 300 pounds while maintaining minimal weight.
Shop Ultralight CotsCots with Mattresses
Combo units include built-in air mattresses or foam padding for maximum comfort. Ideal for car camping, guest rooms, and extended outdoor stays.
Padded surfaces eliminate the need for separate sleeping pads while maintaining elevated sleeping positions that keep you off cold ground.
Shop Cots with MattressesChoosing the Right Camping Cot
Selecting a camping cot requires evaluating your specific needs, camping style, and physical requirements.
Weight Capacity: Standard cots support 300 pounds, while heavy-duty models accommodate 400-600 pounds. Choose capacity exceeding your weight by 50-100 pounds for durability and comfort.
Dimensions: Width ranging from 28 to 40 inches affects sleeping comfort. Side sleepers and larger individuals benefit from wider models. Length should accommodate your height plus 6-8 inches.
Setup Complexity: Evaluate assembly requirements. Simple folding cots set up in seconds, while tension-based models require more effort but offer superior stability.
Portability: Car campers tolerate heavier cots (20-30 pounds) with more comfort features. Backpackers need ultralight options under 5 pounds despite reduced padding and width.
Height Off Ground: Low-profile cots (4-6 inches) fit inside tents easily. Mid-height models (12-18 inches) provide storage space underneath. High cots (18+ inches) offer easier entry and exit.
Camping Cot Setup and Maintenance
Proper setup and care extend camping cot lifespan and ensure reliable performance during outdoor adventures.
Initial Setup: Unfold the frame completely before inserting tension bars or locking leg mechanisms. Work systematically from one end to the other to prevent uneven stress on components.
Tension Adjustment: Lever-lock systems require firm pressure to engage properly. Push down while locking to achieve taut fabric. Fabric should feel tight with minimal give when pressed.
Cleaning: Wipe fabric surfaces with mild soap and water after each trip. Remove dirt and debris from frame joints and locking mechanisms. Air dry completely before storage to prevent mildew.
Storage: Store cots in dry locations away from direct sunlight. Avoid placing heavy objects on folded cots. Replace worn fabric or damaged frames before they fail during use.
Regular Inspection: Check fabric for tears, frame joints for cracks, and locking mechanisms for proper function. Address minor issues before they become major failures.
Camping Cot Comfort Enhancements
Additional gear improves sleeping comfort on camping cots, particularly during extended trips and varying weather conditions.
Sleeping Pads: Foam or inflatable pads add insulation and cushioning. Particularly important for cots without built-in padding and cold weather camping when air circulation beneath cots creates heat loss.
Fitted Sheets: Twin-size fitted sheets secure to most standard camping cots, preventing sleeping bags from sliding and adding comfort layer between body and cot fabric.
Pillows: Camping pillows or regular pillows enhance comfort. Some cots feature built-in pillow sections, but additional pillows improve neck support for side sleepers.
Thermal Barriers: Reflective emergency blankets placed under sleeping pads reflect body heat upward, combating heat loss through cot bottom during cold nights.
Using Camping Cots in Different Seasons
Camping cots perform differently across seasons, requiring specific considerations for optimal comfort and warmth.
Summer Camping: Elevated sleeping positions increase airflow beneath sleepers, providing natural cooling. High-profile cots maximize this effect. Mesh fabric cots enhance breathability.
Spring and Fall: Moderate temperatures require insulation beneath sleepers. Sleeping pads prevent heat loss through cot bottom. Sleeping bags rated 10-20 degrees below expected temperatures maintain warmth.
Winter Camping: Cold air circulation under cots creates significant heat loss. Use thick insulated sleeping pads (R-value 4+) and cold-weather sleeping bags. Consider ground sleeping for extreme cold.
Rainy Conditions: Position cots away from tent walls to prevent contact with condensation. Waterproof tent footprints protect cot legs from muddy ground. Elevate gear on cots to keep items dry.
Alternative Brands Similar to Gander Mountain
Several manufacturers produce camping cots with quality and features comparable to discontinued Gander Mountain models.
Coleman: Offers multiple cot models from budget-friendly Pack-Away to premium ComfortSmart with built-in mattresses. Known for reliability and wide availability.
REI Co-op: The Wonderland Comfort Cot provides plush padding and easy setup similar to Gander Mountain’s premium models. Kingdom Cot 3 offers adjustable platform and excellent comfort.
Teton Sports: Outfitter XXL models accommodate larger individuals with dimensions and weight capacities exceeding standard cots. Durable construction and reasonable pricing.
Helinox: Premium ultralight cots for backpacking. Cot One Convertible and Lite Cot provide exceptional packability with surprising comfort for their minimal weight.
KingCamp and MARCHWAY: Budget-friendly options with good reviews. Lever-lock systems and aluminum frames offer decent performance for occasional car camping.
Camping Cot Safety Considerations
Proper use prevents injuries and equipment damage during camping trips.
Weight Distribution: Sit near the center when getting on or off cots. Avoid stepping on cot edges or ends, which creates stress on frame joints.
Children’s Use: Supervise young children on camping cots. Consider lower-profile models that minimize fall distance. Ensure cots sit on flat ground away from trip hazards.
Terrain Evaluation: Set up cots on level ground when possible. Adjustable feet compensate for minor slopes but significant angles create instability and rolling risk.
Clearance Requirements: Maintain distance from tent walls to prevent damage from sharp objects. Leave space for entering and exiting without tripping over gear.
Camping Cots vs. Other Sleep Systems
Understanding differences between camping cots and alternative sleep systems helps choose the best option for specific situations.
Cots vs. Air Mattresses: Cots provide consistent support without inflation requirements or puncture risk. Air mattresses offer adjustable firmness but risk deflation overnight. Cots excel in rocky terrain where punctures threaten air mattresses.
Cots vs. Sleeping Pads: Cots keep sleepers elevated from cold, wet, or uneven ground. Sleeping pads pack smaller and weigh less, making them preferable for backpacking. Cots provide superior comfort for car camping and basecamp situations.
Cots vs. Hammocks: Hammocks require trees or anchor points. Cots work anywhere with flat ground. Hammocks pack smaller but require practice for comfortable sleeping positions. Cots accommodate any sleeping position naturally.
Combination Approach: Many campers use cots with sleeping pads for optimal comfort and insulation, particularly during cold weather camping or extended trips where sleep quality significantly impacts enjoyment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Gander Mountain cot replacement parts?
Gander Mountain stores closed in 2017, making original parts difficult to locate. However, universal camping cot replacement parts available on Amazon fit most standard cots. Match your cot’s dimensions and specifications when ordering fabric covers, support bars, leg caps, or frame components. Many parts use standardized sizing across multiple brands.
What was the weight capacity of the Gander Mountain Mojo Cot?
The Gander Mountain Mojo Cot supported up to 350 pounds. It featured a bungee suspension system with thick foam padding across a 90-inch by 36-inch sleeping surface elevated 18 inches off the ground. The extra-wide design and robust construction made it suitable for larger individuals and provided excellent comfort for extended camping trips.
How do I set up a camping cot properly?
Unfold the cot frame completely on level ground. For folding cots, press down on frame joints until they lock into place. For tension-bar cots, insert bars one at a time while pulling fabric taut. Start from one end and work systematically to the other. Ensure all locking mechanisms engage fully and fabric shows no slack. Test stability before placing weight on the cot.
What camping cot is most similar to the Gander Mountain Guide Series?
The REI Co-op Wonderland Comfort Cot and Coleman ComfortSmart Cot offer similar features to Gander Mountain Guide Series models. Both provide built-in padding, easy setup, steel frames, and weight capacities around 300 pounds. Teton Sports Outfitter XXL matches the extra-wide dimensions of Gander Mountain’s larger models while Coleman Pack-Away Cot offers portability similar to the Tracker Cot.
Do I need a sleeping pad on a camping cot?
Sleeping pads on camping cots provide insulation and additional comfort, especially during cold weather. Air circulating beneath cots draws heat away from your body. Foam or inflatable pads with R-values of 2-4 significantly improve warmth. Summer camping may not require pads, but spring, fall, and winter conditions benefit greatly from this added insulation layer.
What size camping cot should I choose?
Select camping cots at least 6-8 inches longer than your height and wide enough for comfortable sleeping position. Standard 30-32 inch widths suit most people, while side sleepers and larger individuals benefit from 35-40 inch widths. Consider your typical sleeping position, body size, and whether you’ll use additional padding when choosing dimensions.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality camping cot?
Budget camping cots start around $50-80 for basic models. Mid-range cots with better construction, comfort features, and durability cost $100-200. Premium options like Helinox ultralight cots or REI comfort cots range from $200-400. Heavy-duty extra-wide cots typically fall in the $150-250 range. Match your investment to usage frequency and specific camping needs.
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