When it comes to outdoor camping, your choice of camping chair can have a huge effect on how much you enjoy the trip. When you take away all the amenities of your everyday life, you really want to make sure that you can find comfort in the items that you still do have access to. Choosing one of the best camping chairs can be a make-or-break decision that will determine the overall quality of your camping experience.
Because there are so many different brands on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best camping chair for you. Whether you are a beginner or a hardcore camping enthusiast, this is your go-to guide. Let’s take a look at the seven best camping chairs.
The 7 Best Camping Chairs
1. Strongback Elite Camping Chair
Just as the names suggest, the Strongback Elite Camping Chair has a very sturdy construction. The chair itself weighs 12 lbs, but provides support for a weight of up to 300 pounds.
One of our favorite features of the Strongback Elite is the chair’s exclusive lumbar support. The design of the lumbar support aligns with your body’s posture, reducing tension on your neck and providing sufficient support to your back, which relaxes your muscles and eases the strain on your spine.
Strongback Elite is designed with a spacious, ergonomic seat that is built to align with your back and hips, enabling you to relax while seated. Its steel frames are powder coated providing maximum support and stability, and minimizing the chances of toppling over in rugged and uneven terrain.
The high quality fabric made of heavy duty 600D tear-resistant polyester fabric. The polyester is extremely durable, so the camping chair should last for years, regardless of weather exposure and frequent use.
For campers who love less complicated chairs, the Strongback Elite is the one for you. The chair is portable, light weight, and very easy to set up. The chair comes with a carrying case with dual shoulder straps for easy transportation and storage.
The Strongback Elite also comes with a drink holder, perfect for keeping your water, beer, or any other beverage within reach while you kick back in this awesome camping chair. Enjoy that sweet, sweet nature – but stay hydrated!
Specifications
- Weight: 11.9 lbs
- Carry bag with dual shoulder straps for backpack style hands-free carrying
- Solid padded armrests
- The additional cushy lumbar pad
- Folded Size: 11″(W) x 6″(D) x 44″(H)
- Unfolded Size: 5″(W) x 27″(D) x 36.5″(H), seat width is 23″
Pros
- Great comfort
- Easy to set up and portable
- Durable
- Solid construction
- Exclusive lumbar support technology that supports your back
Cons
- With a weight of 12 pounds, it’s not suitable for frequent movement
- Its smaller feet are not the best for soft terrains
2. Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair
In the camping world, the Coleman brand is synonymous with quality. The Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair certainly lives up the Coleman reputation. This camping chair has all the qualities and features you need, for just under $50. This portable camping chair is made of steel frames and polyester covering, making it strong, durable, and also pretty darn comfortable. With Coleman’s reliable steel frames, this camping chair supports a weight of up to 300 pounds.
The most notable feature of the Coleman Quad Chair is that it actually has a built-in cooler. The cooler itself can store up to 4 cans, keeping your drinks ice cold and within reach. That’s right, the beer is inside a cooler that is inside your camping chair – crazy, isn’t it?!
On opposite side of the chair, there’s a pouch where you can keep your magazines, books, and other small items (snacks!). You seriously might never have to get up again.
The armrests are easily adjustable, so you can customize the chair to your exact needs. The portable design allows you to fold it, making it easy to store and transport without taking up too much valuable space. It also has fully cushioned seats with softly padded covers providing additional support for your back and maximum comfort while out in the woods.
The Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair is portable, comfortable, and easy to clean. And did we mention it comes with a cooler?! We highly recommend this model, it’s one of the best camping chairs on the market right now.
Specifications
- Size: 7.8 x 27 x 27 inches
- Weight: 7.75
- Frame: powdered coat steel
- Warranty: 1 year
- Carry bag
- Mesh cup holder
- Side pocket
Pros
- It’s made of great fabric
- Good value for your money
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Solid build and design
- It’s durable
Cons
- Some have complained the chair does not fit into the storage bag
- The mesh cup holders are a bit smaller
- There have been instances of rusting
3. Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair
The Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair is one of the best camping chairs out there. One of the things that stands out with Kijaro is its patented dual lock feature which secures all the frame parts in place providing you with a quality seating experience. The chair has a durable diamond ripstop polyester that will offer your enhanced durability despite the condition.
At the back of the seat is mesh window for enhanced airflow keeping you cool especially during the hot summer heat? On the chair arms, Kijaro has two mesh cup holders that will hold your beverages in place and a mesh organizer pouch with a ziplock that will hold your books, snacks, and everything that you need.
Kijaro comes with a full-sized carrying strap that’s built-in making it convenient when moving to a new location, its Dual Lock feature makes it easier to set-up and fold making it easier to manage. The only challenge is finding the lock/unlock button that must be pressed before you can set up the chair.
The camping chair has exceptional features, but it also has its limitations too, it does not have superior neck support or advanced lumbar support making it not suitable for elderly individuals. Kijaro dual chair is built with a heavy-duty frame that supports up to 300 lbs which is a bit higher than most chairs currently on the market.
Kijaro camping chairs come with a wide variety of color providing you with a vast pool of colors to choose from.
Specifications
- Size: 26.00″L 35.50″W 37.00″H
- Frame: Steel
- Product Weight: 9.5 lb
- Weight capacity: 300lbs
Pros
- Dual-lock provides enhanced stability
- Easy to set-up
- It has a high weight capacity
- It has cup-holders and mesh pocket
Cons
- Some have complained it’s a little bit heavier
- The joint bolts wear with time
- It’s slightly big for small sized people.
4. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair
The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair is undoubtedly a step-up that will upgrade your armchair game, one of the standout features of this chair is its Spring-Action Rocking Technology that supports a consistent rocking action in uneven terrain ensuring your comfort and posture is not tampered with.
GCI is designed with a patented EAZY-FOLD Technology that enables you to fold the chair easily ensuring you are not injured during the process. It’s constructed with a solid and lightweight design with powder-coated steel frames enhancing durability and stability, its fabric is made of polyester that can withstand harsh weather condition without being damaged.
The chair has in-built pockets on the side for extra convenience and padded armrest for maximum comfort, GCI has a height of 19.7-inch making it easier to get in and out of the chair. It also as a carrying handle for easier portability and movement.
When it comes to functionality, the chair doesn’t disappoint the chair’s fabric provides a sinking sensation as the fabric molds your body’s outline.
Other exciting features of GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair includes a mesh backrest that supports and protects your spine. The chair’s fabric provides for easier cleaning and maintenance.
Specifications
- Best Use: Camping
- Unfolded Dimensions: 31 x 26 x 24 (H x W x D) inches
- Folded Dimensions: 31 x 26 x 5 inches
- Seat Height: 17 inches
- Materials: Steel, polyester
- Maximum weight capacity (lb.): 250
- Weight: 12 lbs.
Pros
- It comes with an armrest for extra convenience
- It’s foldable for easier storage and transportation
- Can be used on most terrains
- Constructed with high-quality materials
Cons
- It’s a bit expensive than most chairs for its category
- Needs occasional oiling to minimize squeaking.
5. King Kong Camping Chair
The Alps Mountaineering King Kong Chair is a perfect choice for any outdoor activity; the Alps is supported by four steel coated frames making the chair stable and durable with capabilities of supporting up to 800 lbs and prevents it from rusting.
The chair has a sturdy fabric made of 600D polyester that provides a comfortable seating experience and endures harsh weather conditions without damage while still maintaining its elegant look. At the hems, the material fabric is well stitched with an attractive diamond stitch design at the backrest, giving it a playful and sleek appearance.
It also comes with additional space storage a two back pocket and mesh which are wide and deep that blends well with the overall design enabling you to store personal items for maximum entertainment.
The Alps has adjustable armrest allowing you to set a level that you are comfortable with and also prevents the chair from sliding down. For campers who love quick operation, this chair is tailor made for you it comes with a shoulder carry bag allowing for efficient transportation and storage.
One of the most brilliant features is, unlike other camping chairs, the Alps conforms to your body shop and contour partly thanks to its fabric allowing swift changing of body position meaning you can sit for a long time without getting tired, how cool is that?
No camping chair is ever perfect, and the Alps is no exception. It can be a bit uncomfortable on the legs if you are a bit shorter.
Specifications
- Weight Capacity: 800 lbs.
- Weight: 12.5 lbs
- Size: 38″ W x 20″ D x 38″ H
- Warranty: lifetime
- Frame Material: Steel
- Fabric: 600D polyester
Pros
- It has a larger seating area for maximum comfort
- It durable
- Stable with a great design
- Comes with a carrying bag for easier movement
Cons
- Suitable for particular heights
- Some have complained it causes leg discomfort.
6. Timber Ridge Camping Chair
The Timber Ridge Camping Chair is constructed with an ergonomic padded high back design which cushions and supports your waist and back when sitting down; the chair has a detachable padded armrest that can be easily folded enabling you to pass through tight spaces especially in the woods.
It has a cup holder and a padded foam seat which ensure your arms rest free without obstructions, its frames are made of a heavy-duty steel frame that can withstand 300 lbs without toppling or sliding over.
The chair’s fabric is made from durable 600D polyester not only giving it an attractive appearance but also protecting it from harsh conditions, talk about killing two birds with one stone! The chair has a wide-design with an ample sitting space that will provide you with additional comfort when sitting for an extended period.
Ease of movement is what most people desire in a camping chair, well for timber ridge you are in luck. It has foldable frames and comes with a carrier bag making it easier to move around with it; its user-friendliness is one of the standout features.
Timber ridge can both be used outdoors and indoors, and you can spend plenty of hours sitting on it without hurting your back. The chair also features plastic armrest that significantly benefits from the locking system at the base providing you with additional stability regardless of the surface you are sitting on.
Specifications
- Maximum Loading Capacity: 300 lbs
- Material: Durable Polyester/Padded Foam
- Color options: Blue | Camouflage
- Seat Width: 22.5 Inches
- Back Height: 22 inches
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Type/Use: camping, fishing, patio/deck, concerts
Pros
- Comes with padded seats and arms
- It has an ergonomic design for superior comfort
- Easy to set-up and use
- Oversized seating for maximum comfort
Cons
- It’s a bit heavier at 13 lbs
- Comes with only two-color options.
7. Kijaro XXL Dual Lock Camping Chair
The Kijaro XXL Dual Lock Camping Chair is made of durable rip-stop polyester for added durability. The polyester material can endure extreme weather conditions without losing it color or appearance.
The Kijaro XXL Camping Chair has two mesh cup holders. One cup holder holds up a large size 32 ounce cup, while the other cup holder is standard size.
At the back of the chair is a breathable mesh which allows smooth circulation of air preventing you from sweating especially during hot afternoons, it also comes with a side organizer complete with a zip pocket, mesh pocket and mobile phone holder.
Both the cushion and head have a cushion with the right amount of fluffiness that’s neither bulky nor hard that provide you with great comfort and support when reclining. Kijaro XXL is designed with a patented dual lock technology that presents you with a premium sitting feel with no sagging that can hurt your back.
The carrying bag is made of 400D polyester that holds the chair in place while walking for minimal disturbance; the dual lock position also locks the chair firmly in place for smooth movement when carrying the strap bag.
Specifications
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Product Weight: 13 lbs
- Tubing: 17.5 mm
- Dimensions: 35.5” x 26” x 37.4”
Pros
- The locking system is durable and prevents accidents
- The chair has no sagging
- Comes with cup holders and mesh pockets for additional storage
- Firm stability regardless of the weight
Cons
- Some have complained that it’s a bit heavier
- When opening the front crossbars are so narrow
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Camping Chair
For most people, camping means hiking through a wilderness trail, drinking vistas, and enjoying the sights and smells of nature. For others, camping may mean sipping a cold beer on a summer afternoon while watching their kids play. Whatever you define a camping trip as, one thing is for sure: you need to a comfortable chair to relax in.
A camping chair should be among the first items that you pack when heading out. It should provide comfort, durability, ease of set up, and the ability to be transported. You need a high-quality camping chair that’s sturdy and fits your body right.
Let’s take a look at a few key factors that you should consider when looking to invest in a new camping chair.
Size
Most modern camping chairs come in a wide variety of sizes ranging from 3-legged minimalist stools to portable loveseats. Backpacking chairs, for instance, are typically smaller, lightweight, and portable. To determine which is the right fit for you, it’s a good idea to consider your own body size, and then ask yourself the following:
- Is the chair wide enough?
- Will the chair support my weight?
Always double-check the weight limit of different camping chairs, because getting the right size is vital. Although it can differ between brands and type, most chairs are actually rated to safely support up to 300 pounds, but it’s always safer to double check before investing.
Durability
All camping chairs are designed to withstand adverse weather conditions, but they are not all created equal. You should always opt for a chair that is made of the best quality and materials. You usually don’t have to worry when looking at chairs from the bigger camping supply companies, but be wary of cheap materials if you decide to purchase something off-brand. Look out for and avoid plastic support poles, stick with the aluminum or steel supported models.
Quality
With camping chairs, durability and quality go hand in hand. If it’s durable, the quality is likely up to par as well. In this case, we recommend that you examine the quality of comfort. Is it comfortable? Is there good lumbar and back support? Does the chair provide beverage holders? A comfortable chair with good back and lumbar support is essential.
Portability
Portability is another important factor to consider. For easy storage and transport, we recommend choosing a camping chair that folds. Additionally, if you are backpacking or hiking, you should opt for a model that includes a carrying bag.
Price
Always have a budget in mind when preparing to purchase a camping chair. It’s a good idea to compare different prices between brands and stores. With camping chairs, we usually find that it’s best to avoid both the very cheap models, as well as the very expensive models, and instead opt for a fair mid-priced model.
Different Types of Camping Chairs
There are three main types of camping chairs: minimal, luxurious, and regular.
Minimal Camping Chairs
Minimal camping chairs refer to those with the essential chair parts such as legs and a seat bottom, but may also include arm rests and a seat back. Most of these chairs are constructed with a foldable design making them easier to carry around. They are also suitable for an ordinary camping trip that doesn’t involve too many movements from location to location.
Minimal camping chairs come in two main styles: stools and folding seats.
Luxurious Camping Chairs
Luxurious camping chairs are designed to offer the user the ultimate seat of comfort and luxury. These chairs provide a lot of support to both the back and the bottom of the user, and offer a lot of stability. In addition, these type of camping chairs often have extra features such as reclining seats and foot rests. A common style of luxury camping chairs are car camping chairs, which are mainly used for outdoor activities such as festivals, picnics, and sporting events.
Regular Camping Chairs
The main features of regular camping chairs are portability and low-weight design. One common type are backpacking chairs. Backpacking chairs are ideal for those who regularly go on camping trips, since they are easier to store and move around with. The main features of regular camping chairs are cup holders, carry cases, grippy feet, shades, and footrests.
3 Tips for Choosing the Best Chair for Camping
If you are buying a camping chair for the first time, here are some useful tips to keep in mind.
1. Put Comfort First
Camping chairs are designed with key points and features; one is to provide you with maximum comfort. Always look at the materials used in construction and the features of the camping chair.
Nobody wants a backache after going camping or sitting for a long time. Comfort is individualized depending on your build and size, find what works for you and buy a chair that provides a premium seating experience.
2. Look for Extra Features
We all want to feel special especially when going out; not all camping chairs are built the same they all have a wide range of features that caters to various needs. If you want a world-class sitting experience, go for a premium chair that has stowaway compartments to keep your personal belongings, padded arm, and headrest, some even have umbrellas.
3. Consider Eco-friendliness & User-friendliness
An ideal camping chair is not only designed to be long-lasting and easy to store; it should not be too complicated when setting up. Camping should be a fun experience, and neither should you crack your skull when it comes to setting up your camping chair.
Most camping chairs are categorized into two: Inorganic and organic, always ensure that you choose a camping chair made up of eco-friendly materials.
Camping Chair FAQs
What is the weight capacity for most folding chairs?
Each folding chair has various weight depending on the material used in construction; it’s important to note that folding chairs cannot accommodate as much weight compared to other chairs. Commercial folding chairs have a sturdy structure built to last; hence they will be a lot heavier to support the extra weight.
Is steel or aluminum the best material for camping chairs?
From an engineering perspective, both steel and aluminum are the best choices; both materials are strong and durable. Aluminum and Steel are equal in strength if the manufacturer uses the correct material, and it’s appropriately designed. However, it’s worth noting that Aluminum makes for a much lighter chair compared to Steel.
How often should you clean your camping chair?
It’s good to check the manual of the camping chair that you purchase. But if your chair gets dirty with time always ensure you use the best cleaning materials that will not corrode or damage your chair.
Why do I need a camping chair?
Essentially, having a camping chair is much more comfortable than not having one. It sure beats sitting on a log. Having chairs on hand always helps when you are going camping or hosting events.
They can also be used for indoor and outdoor activities without wear and tear as they are constructed with weather-resistant materials. Furthermore, most camping chair can be easily folded for easy storage and transport.
Final Thoughts
With a bit of knowledge, finding the best camping chair for your outdoor trips can be a quick and easy process. The most important factors to consider are comfort, durability, and price. Overall, as the best camping chair, we recommend the Stongback Elite Camping Chair. It is well-built, durable, and affordable. With proper storage and a bit of routine care, it should last through years of consistent use.
Happy Camping!
Which camping chair from this article is your favorite? Is there a really great chair that we missed? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
