Camping chairs are a perfect portable furniture to relax and unwind during an outdoor adventure. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a camping chair that provides home-like comfort and still be reasonably lightweight and portable? The portable camping chairs that we cover in this article are just the outdoor gear you need.
In this article, we will list some of the best camping chairs available in the market. Our focus would be on the true camping chairs that work well for truck or car-camping and RVing and not on the ultralight backpacking chairs and zero gravity patio chairs, which would be topics of discussion of other articles.
We will also list some of the major factors to keep in mind before picking the best camping chair for your needs and share our top picks. Read On!
Do check out our review of the Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Chair for a review of an excellent multi-purpose zero gravity camping chair for camping and outdoors. You can also check out our article on the best camping cots for another portable camping gear for a comfortable sleep during camping or other outdoor excursions.
Best camping chairs list
Some of the best camping chairs available in the market are listed below:| Picture | Product | Specifications | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair | Open: 20" x 38" x 18"/38" Packed: 38" x 7" x 7" 12.5 lbs. | |
  | Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair | Open: 26" x 36" x 19"/37" Packed: 36" x 7" x 6" 9.5 lbs. | |
  | Coleman Camping Quad Chair with Cooler | Open: 24" x 37" x 18.1"/40.5" Packed: 38" x 6.5" x 6" 7.8 lbs. | |
  | Helinox Chair One Original Camping Chair | Open: 21.5” x 23” x 14.5"/29" Packed: 14" x 4" x 4.5" 2.1 lbs. | |
  | Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair | Open: 27" x 36" x 12.6"/44" Packed: 23.5" x 6.5" x 6.5" 7.2 lbs. | |
  | GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair | Open: 24” x 25” x 19.7"/34.8" Packed: 25" x 4.9" x 34.8" 12.1 lbs. | |
  | Timber Ridge Camping Chair | Open: 22.5" x 23" x 18.5"/38.5" Packed: 38" x 9.4" x 6" 13.0 lbs. | |
  | Kelty Low-Loveseat Camping Chair | Open: 23.5" x 44" x 13.5"/31.5" Packed: 34.5" x 12" x 7" 15.4 lbs. | |
  | SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair | Open: 24" x 37" x 10.5"/58" Packed: 37" x 7" x 7" 11.2 lbs. | |
  | Quik Shade Max Shade Canopy Chair | Open: 22.8" x 22.8" x 18.5"/51.6" Packed: 37" x 7.5" x 7" 9.0 lbs. |
** The height of the chair refers to the clearance of the sitting surface from ground+ “/” + highest point of the back from the ground.
Which are the best camping chairs?
Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair – Best camping chair
Material: Durable 600D polyester fabric seat cover with padded back, mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four cross-legs and wide plastic feet. Padded/quilted seat and back.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 20″ x 38″ x 18″/38″.
- Folded: 38″ x 7″ x 7″.
- Weight: 12.5 lbs.
- Supports one person. Maximum load up to 800 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Best-selling portable camping chair with a 600D quilted diamond-ripstop polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame with four legs and wide plastic feet caps. Made in China under the US-based company’s quality control measures.
- Features a patented steel frame with four cross-legs and wide plastic feet makes the chair extremely stable and durable with the ability to support up to 800 lbs. Provides an upright but relaxed sitting posture that works well for most activities – napping, relaxing or reading.
- Features an extra-large and super-comfy – 24″ sag-free padded sitting surface. Decent 18″ clearance from the ground. The back is also padded but a cushioned headrest is not included. Because of the padding can soak moisture if left outdoors in rain or snow.
- Comes with adjustable armrests with integrated cup holders and side pockets on each side. A meshed pocket is also included on the seat-back to store small items.
- Telescopic folding design that is easy to fold up and fold down. Comes with a standard shoulder carry bag for easy storage and transportation.
- Available in three standard color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a bunch of other portable models, including the more relaxed Alps Mountaineering Leisure Chair.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship. Competitively priced and offers excellent value-for-money.
Detail Review:
The Missouri-based Alps Mountaineering has been a popular outdoor gear brand for camping furniture for years and the Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair is their best-selling camping chair model. And there is a good reason for that as we found out while evaluating this product. It is undoubtedly the sturdiest and most reliable durable quad-chair in the market.
The best-selling Alps Mountaineering King Kong camping chair features a tough and durable 600D diamond-ripstop polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame with four cross-legs and wide plastic feet caps. The fabric surface is mold, mildew, and stain-resistant. The chair is made in China, under the US-based company’s quality control measures.
The King Kong Chair features a patented, telescopic frame design with extra support legs that make the chair extremely stable and durable, even on uneven surfaces. In fact, the frame is so sturdy that it has been tested to support up to 800 lbs. of weight.
Understandably, the chair weighs over 12 lbs. but it still packs reasonably small and is easy to fold up and fold down. It also comes with a standard shoulder carry bag for easy storage and transportation.
The Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair is not “King Kong” just in the name – it has an extra-large 24.5″ x 20″ sitting area with a decent 18″ clearance from the ground. The back is also a generous 38″ high. Both the back and seating area are padded to provide a comfortable sitting surface.
The chair, however, does not include a cushioned headrest – not really a deal-breaker because of all-around padding. Moreover, because of the padding, the chair can soak moisture if accidentally left outdoors in rain or snow.
The King Kong chair comes with adjustable armrests with integrated cup holders on each side. And to help you in keeping your essentials organized, the chair also offers a side pocket on each side. Furthermore, a mesh pocket is also included on the back of the chair to store additional items.
The Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair is available in three color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a bunch of other portable models, including the more relaxed Alps Mountaineering Leisure Chair. And like other Alps Mountaineering products, the King Kong chair is backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects – a testament to the superior quality this product offers.
- Best-selling super-comfy camping chair with a 600D quilted diamond-ripstop polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame.
- Features a best-in-class, patented steel frame design makes the chair extremely stable and durable with the ability to support up to 800 lbs.
- Offers an extra-large, 24″, sag-free padded sitting surface with 19″ ground clearance. Padded back provides maximum comfort in all seasons.
- Comes with adjustable armrests with integrated cup holders and side pockets on each side, along with a meshed pocket on the seat-back.
- Features a Telescopic folding design and comes with a standard shoulder carry bag for easy storage and transportation.
- Available in three standard color combinations and backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
- Because of the padded back and sitting surface, can soak-up water if accidentally left outdoors in the rain.
- Heavier than most other camping chairs, but you get maximum seating area.
Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair – Value Pick for the best camping chair
Material: 600 x 300D ripstop polyester seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four legs having plastic feet caps. Meshed back and padded sitting-area and headrest.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 26″ x 36″ x 19″/37″.
- Folded: 36″ x 7″ x 6″.
- Weight: 9.5 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 300 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Popular, value-for-money camping chair with a 600 x 300D quilted polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four legs and wide plastic feet caps. Made in China under the Australia-based company’s quality control measures.
- Equipped with an innovative dual-locking mechanism that locks the chair into place when folded up and when folded out through a quick-release push-button lock. Provides an upright but relaxed sitting posture that works well for most activities – napping, relaxing or reading.
- Features a comfortable, 22″ x 16″ no-sag sitting surface with large meshed back for extra air-circulation, comfort, and support. Decent 19″ clearance from the ground and can support up to 300 lbs. weight. Comes with a padded headrest and quilted sitting surface for extra cushion.
- Comes with adjustable armrests with an integrated large cup holder on one side and a smaller mesh cup holder on the other side. Also includes an organizer with a zip pocket, mesh pocket, and cell phone holder for storing essentials.
- Extremely easy to set up and fold. Comes with a built-in a carry strap on the chair frame and a standard carry bag for easy transport and storage. The carrying arrangement is one of the most convenient in the market.
- Available in 10 vibrant color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a bigger Kijaro XXL Dual Lock chair and some other standard models.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship. Competitively priced and offers better value-for-money than many other camping chairs in the same price range.
Detail Review:
If you are looking for a decent portable camping chair that is durable, comfortable and does not break the bank, then the Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair is a perfect choice. This versatile foldable chair is an excellent choice for camping, outdoor concerts, sporting events or just lounging in the backyard.
The Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair features a 600 x 300D quilted ripstop polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a high-quality powder-coated steel frame having four legs and wide plastic feet caps.
The frame has six crossbeams riveted to the legs and large plastic feet caps for a stable sitting surface even on uneven ground. And this arrangement also protects the floor from any wear and tear, in case you want to use the chair indoors or inside a tent. Like most other camping chairs, the Kijaro chair is made in China under the Australia-based company’s strict quality control measures.
One of the best aspects of the Kijaro camping chair is its comfortable, sag-free seating arrangement. The chair features a large meshed back with catenary-cut ends to provides extra air circulation and maximum comfort and support.
The chair has a padded headrest and the ripstop polyester seat cover is quilted for extra cushioning and support. The sitting surface is a decent 22″ x 16″ with a decent 19″ clearance from the ground – a size that would work best for adults who are 5’6″ to 6″10″ tall and weigh under 300 lbs. The chair weighs a comfortable 9.5 lbs. which is reasonably lightweight for a chair of this size.
Another excellent design feature of the Kijaro chair is its innovative dual-locking system. This locking mechanism locks the chair into place when folded up and when folded out through a quick-release push-button lock. When locked, the chair provides a decent upright but relaxed sitting posture that is perfect for reading, napping, lounging or just relaxing under the sun.
The Kijaro chair comes with adjustable armrests with an integrated large cup holder on one side and a smaller mesh cup holder on the other side. The large cup holder can hold 32 oz. or bigger cans or bottles. And the chair also includes an organizer with a zippered pocket, mesh pocket, and cell phone holder for storing essentials – a big plus indeed.
The Kijaro camping chair is extremely portable and easy to set up and fold down. It comes with a unique built-in carry strap that allows you to quickly collapse the chair and carry without packing it in a carry bag. A carry bag is also included for transportation. This portability feature is one of the most convenient among camping chair available in the market.
The Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair is available in a rainbow of colors (ten color combinations to be precise), so you have a lot of options to pick from. And it is backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship. Moreover, the manufacturer also offers some other portable chairs, including the bigger Kijaro XXL Dual Lock Camping Chair.
- Value-for-money camping chair with a high-quality construction – 600 x 300D polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame.
- Features a unique dual-locking mechanism that folds up and folds down the chair with a simple push-button lock. Upright yet relaxed back position works for most activities.
- Provides a comfortable, sag-free seating arrangement with a meshed back, padded headrest, and quilted seat. 22″ x 16″ sitting area with a decent 19″ ground clearance.
- Comes with adjustable armrests with integrated cup holders (small and large) on each side. An organizer with zippered pocket, mesh pocket, and cell phone holder is also included.
- Comes with a convenient carrying strap for easy portability without need to pack the chair in a bag. A carry bag is also included.
- Available in ten color combinations and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
- The fabric tends to get dirty easily. Needs to be frequently wiped with a wet cloth or cleaned thoroughly with mild soap and water.
- Not as lightweight and durable as some other premium camping chairs.
Coleman Camping Quad Chair with Cooler
Material: 600D quilted polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four cross-legs and wide plastic feet. Padded seat and back, filled with 100% polyethylene foam.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 24″ x 37″ x 18.1″/40.5″.
- Folded: 38″ x 6.5″ x 6″.
- Weight: 7.8 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 325 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Budget, quad-style camping chair with a 600D quilted polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four cross-legs and wide plastic feet. Made in China for the US-based company.
- Features an oversize, 24″ sitting surface with fully-cushioned seat and back for extra comfort and support. Decent 18″ clearance from the ground and can support up to 325 lbs. weight.
- Comes with adjustable armrests with an integrated 4-can insulated cooler pouch on one side and a mesh cup holder and side pocket on the other side.
- Easy to set up and fold. Comes with a standard carry bag for easy transport and storage, though the bag does not have a shoulder strap.
- Available in four standard color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a more breathable, Broadband mesh quad-camping chair and some other standard models.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Competitively priced and cheaper than most other camping chairs.
Helinox Chair One Original Camping Chair
Buy It on REI
Material: Durable, 600D ripstop polyester seat cover mounted on a proprietary DAC aluminum alloy frame with four legs having wide plastic feet caps. Meshed back and sides.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 21.5″ x 23″ x 14.5″/29″.
- Folded: 14″ x 4″ x 4.5″.
- Weight: 2.1 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 320 lbs.
Price: $$$.
Features:
- Lightweight and compact camping chair with a 600D ripstop polyester seat cover mounted on a proprietary DAC aluminum alloy frame with four legs, solid ABS plastic joints, and plastic feet caps. Made in Vietnam for the Korea-based company.
- Innovative design with an advanced DAC aluminum alloy frame that provides the best-in-class weight-to-capacity ratio. Can hold up to 320 lbs. of weight and weighs only 2.1 lbs.
- Features a UV-resistant, 600D ripstop polyester seat cover with a natural, slightly reclined, meshed back for a comfortable sitting posture. The removable seat cover is machine washable and air dry.
- Easy to collapse and open with a single internal bungee cord that assembles the poles. Packs extremely small – equivalent to the size of a wine bottle.
- Comes with a high-quality, ripstop polyester carrying case with closing zipper, grab handles and a daisy chain. Like the seat cover, the carry bag is machine washable.
- Available in five elegant color combinations. The manufacturer also offers the best-selling ultralight Helinox Chair Zero backpacking chair and some other models. Accessories and replacement parts are also available.
- Backed by a five-year warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship. Premium-priced but very durable and sturdy.
Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair
Buy It on REI
Material: Waterproof nylon mesh hammock-style cover mounted on an aircraft-grade aluminum suspension frame with four legs and plastic feet caps. Padded headrest.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 27″ x 36″ x 12.6″/44″.
- Folded: 23.5″ x 6.5″ x 6.5″.
- Weight: 7.2 lbs., 6.75 lbs. minimum carrying weight.
- Supports a person weighing up to 400 lbs.
Price: $$$$.
Features:
- Premium, hammock-like reclinable camping chair with a waterproof nylon mesh seat cover suspended on an aircraft-grade aluminum frame with four legs and plastic feet caps.
- Unique design provides auto-reclining and suspended air-rocking on any surface, including above rocky or sandy surfaces without hammock runners. The Luxury model features a padded headrest and even deeper reclining action.
- Features a meshed nylon sitting surface that provides maximum circulation without affecting durability. The mesh is designed to be mold and mildew-resistant and stands up to continuous sunlight exposure.
- Aircraft-grade aluminum suspension frame is sturdy and packs down quickly and compactly. Improved plastic hub joints hold the frame together even when loaded with up to 400 lbs. of weight.
- Easy to collapse and open and packs reasonably small. A padded carrying case is also included for easy storage and transportation.
- Comes with an integrated no-spill cup holder and a meshed stash pocket to store the essentials.
- Available in multiple color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a cheaper, standard recliner camping chair and some other models.
- Backed by the best-in-class lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship.
- Premium-priced and considerably costlier than most other camping chairs.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair
Buy It on REI
Material: Durable polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with U-shaped legs having spring-action rocking technology. Removable padded armrests.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 24″ x 25″ x 19.7″/34.8″.
- Folded: 25″ x 4.9″ x 34.8″.
- Weight: 12.1 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 250 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Stylish and comfortable rocking camping chair with a durable polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame. Made in China.
- Patent-pending spring-action rocking technology provides smooth rocking action and U-shaped legs, with generous 19+” clearance from the ground. Has a maximum load capacity of 250 lbs.
- Features a tough water and stain-resistant polyester sitting surface with meshed/breathable back for air circulation. Comes with removable padded armrests and a detachable beverage holder.
- Opens and closes safely and easily with the patented Eazy-Fold Technology. Transport is easy with the integrated carry handle, but a separate carry bag is not included and does not pack small.
- Available in two color combinations. The manufacturer also offers a low-clearance Firepit Rocking camping chair and some other models.
- Backed by a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and workmanship.
Timber Ridge Camping Chair
Material: Durable polyester fabric seat cover with padded foam seat and back, mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with four legs having wide plastic feet. Removable padded armrests.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 22.5″ x 23″ x 18.5″/38.5″.
- Folded: 38″ x 9.4″ x 6″.
- Weight: 13.0 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 300 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Mid-range, oversize camping chair with a decent 600D polyester fabric seat cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame. Made in China under strict quality control measures.
- Features a high 22″ ergonomic back with padding, along with 22.5″ wide padded seat cover for extra comfort. Non-meshed surface means that the chair is best suited for non-summer months.
- Equipped with four collapsible cross-legs having wide plastic feet for stability. Has a maximum load capacity of up to 300 lbs.
- Comes with detachable padded armrests and a swivel cup holder on the side.
- Easy to collapse and open and packs reasonably small. A portable carry bag is also included for easy storage and transportation.
- Available in four color combinations including the popular camo design. The manufacturer also offers an aluminum-frame portable camping chair and some other models.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Kelty Low-Loveseat Camping Chair
Buy It on REI
Material: 600D PVC-free quilter polyester seat cover mounted on a tubular powder-coated steel frame with six cross legs having plastic stabilizing feet.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 23.5″ x 44″ x 13.5″/31.5″.
- Folded: 34.5″ x 12″ x 7″.
- Weight: 15.4 lbs.
- Supports two persons weighing a total up to 500 lbs.
Price: $$$.
Features:
- Durable, super-comfy portable camping chair for two people with a quilter 600D polyester fabric seat-cover mounted on a low-clearance tubular powder-coated steel frame with six cross legs and plastic stabilizing feet. Made in China for the US-based company.
- Improved 2019 design features an adjustable, multi-position recliner with adjustable armrests and integrated insulated beverage holders. The relaxed reclining position provides a cuddly position for two persons around the campfire.
- The frame features six cross legs with plastic feet for stable support. Has a maximum load capacity of 500 lbs. and 280-300 lbs. on one seat.
- Easy to collapse and open and packs reasonably small. A padded multi-function roll tote storage bag is also included for easy storage and transportation. The tote bag can also double-up as a firewood/gear tote.
- Available in three color combinations including the popular Coyote brown color combination. The manufacturer also offers a 19″, high-clearance portable loveseat camping chair and some other models.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair
Material: 600D polyester fabric seat surface mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with quad-style cross legs and plastic feet. UPF 50+ rated fabric seat-cover and canopy. Padded seat-back.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 24″ x 37″ x 10.5″/58″.
- Folded: 37″ x 7″ x 7″.
- Weight: 11.2 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 250 lbs.
Price: $$.
Features:
- Versatile, quad-style canopy camping chair with a 600D polyester fabric seat surface mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with cross legs and plastic feet. Made in China.
- Features a breathable, ergonomic mesh sitting surface with rounded front edges for superior comfort. Also has an adjustable arm-rest with an integrated large cup holder with O-Ring for stability.
- Patented sun canopy design provides excellent UV Protection (UPF 50+). Canopy locks up or down for shade or sun, but the angle is not adjustable.
- The frame features four cross legs with wide plastic feet for stable support. Has a maximum load capacity of 250 lbs.
- Easy to set up and take-down. The canopy converts into a carry case with durable snap-lock buckle and padded shoulder strap for easy portability.
- Available in three color combinations. The manufacturer also offers additional models, including ones with bug-net and foot-rest.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Quik Shade Max Shade Canopy Chair
Material: 600 x 300D polyester canvas seat mounted on a tubular powder-coated steel frame with four cross legs and plastic stabilizing feet. Meshed chair back and polyester canopy.
Size and Weight:
- Open: 22.8″ x 22.8″ x 18.5″/51.6″.
- Folded: 37″ x 7.5″ x 7″.
- Weight: 9.0 lbs.
- Supports a person weighing up to 225 lbs.
Price: $.
Features:
- Multi-use, high-clearance canopy camping chair with a 600D polyester fabric seat surface mounted on a powder-coated steel frame with cross legs and plastic feet. Made in China.
- Features a tough 600 x 300D breathable polyester sitting surface that is water, mold, and stain-resistant. Extra padding on the head-region for additional comfort.
- Also has an adjustable arm-rests with integrated large cup holders on each side and convenient mesh storage pouch/organizer on the side.
- Patented oversize sun canopy design provides excellent shade (40% more than standard) and UV Protection (UPF 30+). Canopy locks up, down and can also be tilted easily by adjusting the tension rod.
- Comes with a durable steel frame with higher arched back and 22.5″ wide seat with four cross legs and plastic feet for stable support. Has a maximum load capacity of 225 lbs.
- Easy to set up and take-down. Comes with a separate carry bag with padded shoulder straps for easy storage and transportation.
- Available in a standard navy color combination. The manufacturer also offers a camping chair with the standard-sized canopy and other standard models.
- Backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Competitively priced and cheaper than most other canopy camping chairs.
Additional options for camping chairs
In addition to the true camping chairs that we listed, there are some other portable chairs that can also be used for outdoor adventures such as camping, backpacking, and beach-trips.
If you are looking for ultralight backpacking chairs that you can carry during a hiking or backpacking trip, then you can consider the following options:
- Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Camping Chair: Best-selling, premium backpacking chair that offers an innovative DAC aluminum frame and shock-cord design with ripstop nylon fabric cover. Has dimensions of 18.9″ x 20.5″ x 25.2″ and weighs only 17 ounces. Packs small to even fit within a backpack.
- Alite Monarch Butterfly Chair: The original ultralight backpacking chair with a breathable 210D ripstop nylon sling mounted on a three-leg aluminum frame. Has dimensions of 17″ x 21.5″ x 23″ (7″ ground clearance) and weighs only 20 ounces. Comes with a stuff sack and lifetime warranty.
- REI Co-op Flexlite Chair: High-quality camping and backpacking chair that offers a nice balance between weight and comfort. Features an aluminum four-leg frame with a ripstop nylon seat cover. Has dimensions of 20″ x 20″ x 26″ (11″ ground clearance) and weighs 28 ounces.
If you want a portable recliner, then consider getting a zero-gravity chair. Zero-gravity chairs offer total relaxation with a unique floating sitting posture that gives a feeling of weightlessness. You can look at the following popular zero-gravity chair options:
- Caravan Sports Infinity Zero Gravity Chair: The best-selling, budget zero-gravity chair with a textaline fabric cover mounted on a powder-coated steel frame and suspended by a double bungee system. Offers a smooth reclining function with a dual finger-tip locking system. Available in six color combinations.
- Timber Ridge XL Zero Gravity Chair Another popular, value-for-money, durable and versatile zero gravity chair with a polyester fabric mesh and steel tubular frame. The innovative design offers best-in-class bungee suspension system and a patented locking mechanism to lock the chair in multiple positions from upright to fully laid back. Available in five elegant color combinations.
Buying Advice – How to pick the best camping chairs?
With so many different designs and models available in the market with a wide variation in prices, picking the best camping chair for outdoor adventures such as camping, beach trips, and sports events can be a challenging proposition. After all, you would like to pick a camping chair that provides a stable and comfortable sitting surface and does not leave you stiff and sore in the wild.
Once you have decided on the broad budget that you have, you need to look at a few important factors before picking the best camping chair for glamping, RVing, boondocking or other outdoor adventures. These major considerations are summarized below:
- Building material of the chair
- Design features
- Overall size and weight of the chair
- Packing size and portability
- Additional factors and considerations
Building material of the chair
The construction materials used in the camping chair – specifically the fabric of the seat cover and the material of the frame, rivets, and legs, are an important factor as they govern the durability, stability and reliability of the chair. Why else do you think there is so much variation in the price of these camping chairs?
Specifically, the construction quality governs the following major things:
- The durability of the camping chair to last more than a few camping trips.
- The firmness of the seat and sag-free, comfortable sitting surface even after frequent usage.
- Stable and durable frame that sturdy, even during weight-shifts and twisting.
- The weight distribution of the frame to stay stable even on uneven ground and prevent wear and tear to the ground/tent floor by using sturdy plastic feet caps.
- The ability of the seat cover and frame to survive inclement weather.
All the options that we have listed feature a seat cover made of high-quality 600 deniers or more synthetic polyester fabric that is stretch-free, durable and comfortable, and noise-free too. The nylon or polyester fabric is also coated with protective layers to provide superior mold, mildew, and weather protection.
Some camping chairs even have additional quilting or padding on head-rests, arms or seats for better comfort, while some other camping chairs have meshing to provide better air circulation.
The chair frames are generally made of hollow stainless-steel or anodized aluminum tubes, with additional welding at stress points. The legs have plastic or rubberized floor protectors on the feet to provide additional stability and prevent wear and tear to the tent footprint. The frame and legs are coated with rust-resistant paint, making them more durable and weather-proof.
In terms of construction quality, our top picks – the Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair offers one of the best build quality, without being too costly.
Check the overall building material of the seat cover, frame and legs before picking the best camping chair for your next outdoor trip. If you are in doubt, pick one of our recommended products – you will find them pretty durable and sturdy.
Design features
The design features of the camping chair are also something to examine carefully before picking the best camping chair for your needs. One of the biggest complaints with portable camping chairs is that they compromise a lot on comfort to keep the size and weight down, so it is important to pick a chair which offers a nice balance between the two.
Specifically, you need to look at the following design features:
- Design of the chair frame: The design of the frame is something that governs the maximum weight the camping chair can support. That is why most camping chairs have quad-style cross legs with plastic feet or caps to provide a stable sitting surface even on uneven ground. A couple of premium camping chairs with aluminum frames – Helinox Chair One Original Camping Chair and Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair have unique frame-designs with plastic joints to distribute the weight. Similarly, the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair offers unique spring-action rockers to provide smooth rocking while sitting in the chair.
- Ground-to-seat clearance: The ground-to-seat clearance is also an important design feature to check out. A low-clearance seat might work well for concerts and sports events or around the campfire, but for tall adults, such seats can be uncomfortable for long-term use. So depending upon your primary requirements, you need to pick a chair with appropriate ground clearances. We recommend opting for camping chairs that offer more than 15″ of ground clearance.
- Design and size of the sitting area: The design of the sitting area governs the overall support and comfort provided by the chair. Depending upon the requirements you can pick a seat with appropriate seat size – we recommend 20″ or wider seating surface. You can also choose between a quilted or padded seat cover or one with mesh for additional air circulation.
- Design and height of the seat back: The design of the seat-back also governs the support and comfort provided to your neck and back while sitting. We have tried to list only chairs which have a full-sized back, either straight or reclining. Moreover, we have listed both chairs with meshed backs, which work well in summers, and chairs with quilted and padded backs, which work well in non-summer months.
- Design and size of the canopy, if any: If you want to opt for a camping chair which provides protection from the sun and rain, then you can pick one that comes with an overhead umbrella or canopy. These types of chairs also work really well for beach trips. Make sure you pick a chair which has a canopy big enough to provide full coverage while you are sitting. We have listed two canopy camping chairs – SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair and Quik Shade Max Shade Canopy Chair. If you want shade throughout the day, then you need to pick a canopy that can be tilted, like the one in Quik Shade Canopy Chairs.
- Additional design features: Additional design features to consider are the type of armrests (adjustable or padded), type and number of cup holders and availability of one or more storage pouches.
Check the major design features of the camping chair before picking the right one for your needs. You can generally get a lot of insights regarding this from the product details, reviews, and Q&A section.
Overall size and weight of the chair
The size and weight of the chair is also an important consideration to keep in mind as it governs the clearance from the ground and the maximum weight that the camping chair can support.
The size of a camping chair is expressed in terms of its length, width and height and/or clearance from the ground. Of these, the clearance and width are most important, especially if you are someone who is extra-tall or extra-healthy!
Among camping chair for one person, all the options that we listed support adults up to 6-6.5 feet tall and weighing from 225 pounds up to 500+ pounds. The cheapest option in our list – the Quik Shade Max Shade Canopy Chair has the minimum supported weight of 225 lbs. In all regards, our top pick, the Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair offers the best-in-class sitting and can support persons up to 7 feet tall and weighing 500-600 lbs.
The clearance of the camping chair from the ground is also something to check if you have specific preferences or are looking for a higher ground clearance.
If you are looking for a loveseat or camping chair for two people, you can check out the Kelty Low-Loveseat Camping Chair, which has two individual sitting places in a single unit, making it an excellent choice for adults and children alike.
While most camping chairs that we listed here are too heavy to be suitable for backpacking, the overall weight is also something to look out for. After all, you would not want to haul a heavy load even in your car and at the same time pick an option that is sturdy enough to not bungle under your load while sitting.
All the options that we listed have a manageable weight ranging from 7lbs. up to 15 lbs. camping chairs with canopies. The only exception is the Helinox Chair One Original Camping Chair which weighs only 2.1 lbs. and is suitable even for backpacking.
Check the overall size, clearance from the ground and weight of the chair before picking the best camping chair for your needs.
Packing size and portability
Closely related to the overall size and weight of the chair is its packing size and portability. It is important to pick a camping chair that packs to a size which can fit in the car’s trunk (and if not trunk at least in the backseat) and comes with a carry bag for easy storage and transportation.
The best camping chairs are ones which collapse to less half their full-size and pack small to be carried in an included carrying case. We have indicated the folded size of all the options that we have listed to give you an idea of the packing size you would need to account for.
Along with the packing size, it is important to pick a model that is easy to take down and fold without the need for any special tools or techniques. All the options that we have listed, especially our top picks are extremely easy to collapse. Off-course the two-people camping chairs and the ones with canopies would require a slightly more effort to fold down, so keep that in mind before picking the best camping chair.
Check out the overall size (both open and packed), and portability of the camping chair before pulling the plug on a specific model.
Additional factors and miscellaneous considerations
In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are some other miscellaneous considerations that can make a particular camping chair a preferable choice over other options.
One such consideration is the availability of accessories such as cup holders, storage pouches and carry bags. All the options that we listed come with a high-quality carrying bag or have one integrated with the chair for easy transportation. Only the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair does not have a fabric storage bag and instead comes with an integrated strap for carrying around.
All the options that we listed come with one or more cup or bottle holders. Moreover, some options such as the Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair and Quik Shade Max Shade Canopy Chair even come with side pockets and organizers to store the essentials. Similarly, the Coleman Camping Quad Chair even comes with an integrated 4-can cooler.
The availability of replacement parts such as stabilizing feet or caps, canopies, and seat covers is also something worth checking out.
While it does not affect the utility of the camping chair, another consideration is the color combinations in which the chair is available. Most of the options that we listed are available in multiple color combinations, giving you some vibrant options to choose from.
Finally, one of the most important additional consideration is the warranty and after-sales support offered on the camping chair by the manufacturer. The general rule of thumb is that longer the warranty period, the more reliable and durable the chair would be. Most of the options that we listed are backed by one or more year manufacturing warranties, so you can use these chairs for a long time without worrying about their durability and reliability.
The Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair, GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair, and Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair score big in this category as they are backed by excellent lifetime warranties against manufacturing defects. Just make sure that you always purchase the camping chair from an authorized reseller and get the product registered if it is required.
You can look at all these features to determine if they make a specific camping chair a better choice over others.
Accessories for camping chairs
One of the most common accessories to use with a camping chair is an organizer to store your necessary items such as wallet, mobile phone, water bottle, and other items.
If you have a camping chair that does not come with one or are looking for a replacement, then you can consider the following options:
- Periscope HandyPockets Shoreline Chair Organizer: Popular tote bag and camping chair organizer with one large zipper pocket, two covered pockets, and a bottle/cup holder. Works with most camping chairs. Comes with a padded strap with snap buckles for attaching to the chair and also act as a shoulder strap for convenient carry.
- QEES Camping Chair Handy Pocket: Another popular camping chair organizer with one zipper pocket, two small covered pockets, one mesh pocket and a glasses hanging loop strap. Comes with an adjustable strap with snap buckles to attach the organizer to the armrest.
For accessories such as side-tables and canopies, we recommend that you only purchase products from the same manufacturer as the camping chair to avoid any compatibility issues.
Final thoughts on the best camping chairs
If you are an outdoorsy person who loves to spend more than a couple of days camping in the wilderness, then you would love a chair that can provide a comfortable sitting surface to unwind and enjoy the nature. A camping chair is exactly the gear you need.
In this article, we looked at some of the best camping chairs available in the market for camping and other outdoor adventures. Our primary focus was on premium camping chairs that are durable, reasonably lightweight and portable enough to be useful for car camping or RVing. And they work well for sports events and music festivals too!
We also looked at some of the major considerations to keep in mind before picking the best camping chair and shared our top picks.
We hope that you found this article useful and it would help you in picking the best camping chair for your next outdoor trip. Do let us know your feedback by commenting below. Until next time, happy camping!
Image credits:Amazon.com
