Disclosed is a backpack cot, operating from a backpack position for hiking to a cot position for sleeping. The backpack cot has a frame. The frame includes a plurality of rigid members and a plurality of hinges for unfolding the backpack cot from the backpack position to the cot position. The backpack cot has a sleeping surface. The backpack cot also has a combination storage container and flotation device, for sealing contents of the container and for serving as a life preserver. The backpack cot may also have a carriage area for holding the storage container, a pair of shoulder straps, a waist belt, and a padded back which, together comprise the sleeping surface in the cot position.