When you plan a camping trip, it is vital that you pack everything needed to fully enjoy the day and the activity, and a camping chair is on that list. Now, a camping chair is not just your ordinary chair. The variety of camping chairs is pretty great, and in this article I will cover the best camping chairs and how to choose them.
Some camping chairs feature pockets for small items, some come with a cup holder, others feature a side table, and some even come with a footrest. On top of that, not all chairs are made of the same material when it comes to frame and fabric.
I’ll first recommend about some of the best camping chairs today, so that you’ll have an idea what to get. Then I’ll go over how to choose a camping chair, all the different variations and features of the chairs, their pros and cons, and more.
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Timber Ridge Director’s Chair | • Highly lightweight • Extremely sturdy • Breathable material |
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KingCamp Heavy Duty Camping Chair | • Steel frame • Side table • Maximal back support |
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Coleman Camping Chair | • Side table • Weather resistant • 1 year warranty |
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ALPHA CAMP Camp Chair | • Canopy • Carry bag • Supports a lot of weight |
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Quik Shade Adjustable Canopy Folding Camp Chair | • 2 cup holders • Water resistant • Adjustable canopy |
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SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair | • Canopy • Steel frame • Ergonomic design |
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GCI Outdoor 3-Position Reclining Director’s Chair | • 3 positions • Breathable material • Easy storage |
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XGEAR 2 in 1 Camping Chair with Footrest Recliner Folding Chaise Lounge Chair | • Detachable table • Footrest • Detachable pillow |
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AmazonBasics Outdoor Zero Gravity Lounge Folding Chair | • Study frame • Weather resistant • Armrests + headrest |
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KingCamp Heavy Duty Steel Camping Folding Director Chair with Cooler Bag and Side Table | • Cooler bag • Side table • Steel frame |
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Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair | • Cooler pouch • Cup holder • Adjustable arms |
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Timber Ridge Laurel Director’s Chair with Cooler Bag & Side Table | • Cooler bag • Phone pocket • Padded back |
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Nice C Ultralight Portable Folding Camping Backpacking Chair | • Suitable for backpacking • Easily cleaned • Breathable material |
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Mossy Oak Heavy Duty Folding Camping Chair | • Strong frame • Double-layered fabric • Insulated cooler |
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Kelty Low Loveseat Camping Chair | • Room for 2 people • Strong frame • Adjustable armrests |
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Tommy Bahama Mesh Trim with Cooler Backpack Chair | • Cup holder • Storage bag • Locking bracket |
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ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair | • Highly comfortable • Perfect for concerts • Durable design |
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Table of Contents
- How to Choose a Camping Chair
- Best Camping Chairs with Side Table
- Best Camping Chairs with Canopy
- Best Camping Chairs with Footrest
- Best Camping Chairs with Cooler Bag/Pouch
- Other Notable Camping Chairs to Consider
- What Are Pros and Cons of Camping Chairs?
- Final Words
How to Choose a Camping Chair
Test the Material’s Quality
Different camping chairs are made of various materials, yet not all are of high quality. The best camping chairs are made of high quality material that is durable and can last for a long time. Of all the possible materials of camping chairs, the best you can get are the chairs whose frame and legs are made of aluminum. They are lighter, won’t rust, and excel when it comes to strength-to-weight ratio.
Select an Appropriate Fabric
Camping chairs can come with different types of fabric. This is the fabric that makes the seat and the back. There are 4 types of fabric commonly available:
- Polyester: This is a popular type of fabric when it comes to camping chairs. You will find polyester on high-end chairs because it’s a favorable fabric to use. Its melting point is 250 degrees Celsius, and it features zero volumetric swelling.
- Nylon: Nylon is one of the most popular types of fabric when it comes to camping chairs. This fabric is very durable, strong and elastic. The fabric’s abrasion resistance is superior, it is tough and easy to clean. On top of that, nylon is also smooth, soft and lightweight. Its melting point is also 250 degrees Celsius.
- Vinyl PVC: This type of fabric is versatile and doesn’t cost much to produce. You will most probably find this fabric on high-end chairs. This type of fabric is durable, strong, resistant to rust, corrosion, moisture and fire. It’s also very easy to clean.
- Wool: Camping chairs that feature wool are more beautiful than other chairs. This type of fabric is also found on high-end chairs. Aside from the chairs looking great, the wool offers comfort without being affected by the temperature. This fabric is elastic, resilient, does not conduct heat, and is easy to clean. Bear in mind that if it’s exposed to sunlight or UV rays for a long period of time, there is a chance that with time it will change its color.
Ensure That the Chair is Portable
When it comes to portability, ask yourself how frequently you will carry the camping chair, as well as how far. If you’re planning on going backpacking, you would want a folding chair that is noticeably lightweight. Also, I would advise to make sure the chairs come with a carrying bag or case and straps for easy carrying.
Check the Weight
The weight of the chair should really be a factor if you plan on carrying the chair with you (like during hiking or backpacking). If you’re unpacking the chair from the car parked a few steps away from the campground, a regular or luxurious chair will suffice.
Measure the Space It Takes
This factor is important if you’re planning to use the chair in a crowded place. A chair that doesn’t take too much space allows other people and campers to enjoy the environment without invading each other’s personal space. Consider this factor when using the chair during concerts, events, weddings, and so on.
See That The Chair Fits Your Needs
In order to fully enjoy the chair and your camping trip, choose a chair that answer all your needs. Ask yourself if you need a canopy to protect you from the sun, a side table to place food and drink so you won’t need to get up, a foot rest, and so on.
Decide on Necessary Features
- Pockets for storage: A lot of camping chairs feature pockets for storage of small things and items, like keys, wallet, phone, etc. The style and arrangement of the pocket may differ from one chair to another.
- Cup holders: Camping chairs can also feature cup holders. They can be made of mesh fabric or a different material, like the one the chair is made of. On some luxurious chairs, the cup holders can even function as coolers for your drinks.
- Canopy/sunshade: If you plan to go camping on a sunny day and especially during the summer, you may want to consider getting a chair that features a canopy to protect you from the sun and serve as a sunshade. Instead of looking for a place with shade to place your chair, sit wherever you please and enjoy the canopy to protect you from direct sun rays.
- Side table: Camping chairs can feature a side table that will integrate cup holders as well. If you don’t want to get up and wish to have everything in front of you (like food, drinks, phone, book), a chair with a side table is a great option.
- Footrest: If you wish to relax your feet, some camping chairs feature a footrest. They can be part of the chair, or come as a separate attachable accessory.
- Extended pads: Some chairs feature extended pads. This is especially important if you are experiencing back pains or suffering from a bad back. These extended pads offer extra cushioning, and thus add more support and comfort to the chair’s back.
- Armrests: Camping chairs that feature armrests are more comfortable, and they offer a nice feeling for your arms. It also makes the chair look better. However, they do add some weight to the chair, so keep that in mind if the weight of the chair is a factor for you.
Select a Chair That Suits Your Activities
- Events, concerts, festivals, day trips and the beach: For these activities you would want a chair that is lightweight, easy to carry and portable. If possible, make sure the chair does not block the view if used during a concert or festival.
- Back yard camping/front-country camping: If you plan on one of these activities, your first preference here is for a chair that is comfortable. It’s best if the chair is also lightweight (unless you don’t have to carry it too far) and durable to last for a long period of time.
- Backpacking: Backpacking is an activity that involves both camping and hiking. So, the chair for this activity should be portable as well as lightweight, since you’ll be carrying it with you at all times.
Decide on the Camping Chair’s Type
- Minimal camping chairs: These chairs are usually folding, come with a built-in armrest and seat backs. Carrying them will be easy, as they come with a carrying bag. They are ideal if you don’t ask too much from your chair, if you just need to relax and enjoy the campground.
- Lightweight camping chairs: The lightweight camping chairs can come as stools or folding seats. This type of chair is ideal for those who plan on going backpacking.
- Luxurious camping chairs: If you’re hurting or suffering from back problems, go for this type of chair. It provides the best possible comfort for people who have back issues, as well as for elderly people. These chairs are balanced and ensure stability and support. These chairs may also feature a foot rest, cup holders, pockets for storage of items, a canopy, and more. Although offering everything you need for a complete relaxation, these chairs are heavier and also less portable than the former two types.
Best Camping Chairs with Side Table
I’ll start the list with some of the best camping chairs with side table, and then move on to more great camping chairs to cover all your needs.
Timber Ridge Director’s Chair
This Director’s Chair is a very comfortable chair. It’s highly lightweight, since the frame is made of aluminum, and the fabric is made of polyester. It is very sturdy, yet easy to carry, as it is foldable.
The chair features a side table with a cup holder, so you won’t have to get up and can have everything you need right next to you. It is made of breathable mesh material. The width of the seat is 21 inches, and the maximum loading weight of this chair is 300lbs.
Dimensions: 33.8” x 18” x 25”
Weight: 7.58 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
KingCamp Heavy Duty Camping Chair
Their Heavy Duty camping chair in an amazing chair. The frame is made of rugged steel, and the fabric is made of 100% polyester 600Dx300D Oxford. It sets up and folds in seconds. The chair features a side table with a cup holder, as well as pockets for storage of keys, phones and other small items.
The back rest of the chair features a double padded cotton for maximum back support and comfort. The armrest comes with cotton as well, so you won’t have to rest your arm on steel.
This is a great chair for camping, fishing, picnic, travelling and more. When you’re done, simply fold it and easily carry it using the attached handle.
Dimensions: 24.8” x 19.7” x 32.7”
Weight: 9.7 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Coleman Camping Chair
This camping chair by Coleman features a flip-up design side table that comes with a cup holder as well. The back of the chair is cushioned and there are also padded armrests for extra comfort and support for your arms.
The frame of the chair is made of aluminum, making the chair extremely durable and lightweight. The fabric is weather resistant and can withstand season elements, which means that this chair will serve you for a long time and for many camping trips.
It can support weight of up to 225lbs and the company also offers a 1 year limited warranty.
Dimensions: 31.2” x 21.1” x 8.5”
Weight: 7.12 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Best Camping Chairs with Canopy
Camping chairs with canopy provide protection from direct sun, meaning you can enjoy the chair wherever you wish and have shade with you at all times.
ALPHA CAMP Camp Chair
This camping chair features a canopy and is also a folding chair for an easy carry with its bag. The frame of the chair is strong, durable, and is made of heavy-duty steel. It’s also covered with anti-rust hammer tone powder coating to make the chair last for a long time. Extra tubes on the bottom of the chair come to support the overall weight. The chair can support weight of up to 350lbs.
The poles of the chair are also wrapped with plastic to prevent the chair from breaking, adding it extra strength, durability and even comfort.
The canopy provides shade and protects from direct sun and UV rays for 50+ UPF sun protection. If there is no need to use the canopy, simply fold it on the back of the chair.
This chair also features padded armrests and 2 cup holders for your favorite drinks, be it water, tea or coffee. One cup holder can hold a large drink of 32-ounce.
As for choices of color, there are 4 different colors to choose from: black, red, blue and cobalt blue.
Dimensions: 36.6” x 23.6” x 53.1”
Weight: 14lbs
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Quik Shade Adjustable Canopy Folding Camp Chair
This camping chair is folding, featuring a canopy and 2 cup holders made of mesh and fabric. The frame of the chair is extremely durable so the chair can support weight of up to 225lbs. The fabric of the chair is tough and is made of 600 denier polyester fabric. It is also resistant to water as well as stain.
You can adjust the sun shade as you wish. This means raising it, lowering, and even tilting it to either side and enjoy 100% protection from the sun and UV rays.
Dimensions: 21.2” x 35.8” x 68”
Weight: 9 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair
There’s no need for a bag for the canopy, because when the canopy is folded, it actually serves as the carry case of the chair. A snap-lock buckle that is durable secures it and it also features a shoulder strap, so you don’t need to carry the chair by hand, making portability a lot easier and more comfortable.
The frame of the chair is made of a power-coated steel frame, making it very strong and sturdy. The seat is oversized with the front edge rounded, providing even more comfort. The fabric of the chair is ergonomic and breathable. The chair also comes with an O-ring armrest large cup holder to place your drink while enjoying full comfort.
As for the weight, this chair can support up to 250lbs.
Dimensions: 6.7” x 6.8” x 36.5”
Weight: 11.24 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Best Camping Chairs with Footrest
Time to have a look at some of the best camping chairs that come with footrest, allowing you to feel like in home, while being in nature.
GCI Outdoor 3-Position Reclining Director’s Chair
The chair also features a side table made of plastic with a built-in cup holder for your favorite drink.
When you’re done using the chair, simply fold it flat for an easy carry using the carry handle and for easy storage. As for weight, it can support up to 250lbs.
This is a really great chair that has everything you need (maybe except for a canopy), so enjoy your drink and allow your body to rest as well as your feet.
Dimensions: 21.8” x 24” x 38.2”
Weight: 16.2 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
XGEAR 2 in 1 Camping Chair with Footrest Recliner Folding Chaise Lounge Chair
The fabric of the chair is made of 600D polyester fabric and breathable mesh. The frame is strong and sturdy, the feet of the chair are anti-slip and it can hold up to 250lbs.
Other features I liked about this chair is that it comes with a pillow you can detach, the clip is adjustable, there’s a cup holder for your beverage, comfortable artificial leather armrests, and even a storage bag for other items you wish to keep next to you.
When you’re done using the chair, simply fold it for an easy carry and storage.
Dimensions: 35.2” x 12” x 7.3”
Weight: 14.57 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
AmazonBasics Outdoor Zero Gravity Lounge Folding Chair
The frame of the chair is made of powder-coated steel, making it very strong and sturdy and able to hold up to 300 pounds. The textilene fabric is weather resistant and can withstand outdoor elements. The fabric is also breathable and does not retain heat. This high-quality fabric is connected to the frame using a double bungee support system, and is available in 4 colors: black, blue, burgundy and beige.
The armrests as well as headrest are padded for maximum support and comfort. When your camping trip is finished, simply fold the chair and easily carry it back with you.
The brand offers 1-year limited warranty for this chair.
Dimensions: 35.4” x 43.3” x 25.6”
Weight: 16.5 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Best Camping Chairs with Cooler Bag/Pouch
If it’s crucial that your drink holds its temperature, then you need a chair with a cooler bag or pouch. Here are some of the best ones today.
KingCamp Heavy Duty Steel Camping Folding Director Chair with Cooler Bag and Side Table
The side table on the right also features a cup holder and the left arm comes with a cooler bag (14.2” x 9.8” x 5.5”) to keep inside drinks and food. You can put inside both hot and cold drinks to hold their temperature.
The frame is made of heavy duty steel and can hold up to 330lbs. As for the fabric, it is a high-quality 600D oxford fabric that is resistant to water and durable.
The armrests are padded for extra support and comfort and when done, simply fold the chair.
Dimensions: 20.9” x 22.8” x 43.3”
Weight: 14.77 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair
The Coleman chair features a cooler pouch that is built into the chair’s armrest. It can keep up to 4 cans cool and cold, just the way you like it. There’s also a cup holder if you wish to enjoy your beverage right away and keep it next to you and a side pocket to keep items like a cellphone, keys, snacks and more.
The frame of the chair is made of a sturdy steel frame and the fabric is made of polyester with the seat and the back of the chair fully cushioned. The height of the arms can be adjusted, and as for the weight, the chair can hold up to 325lbs.
Dimensions: 8.1” x 37.6” x 9.1”
Weight: 8.82 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Timber Ridge Laurel Director’s Chair with Cooler Bag & Side Table
The cooler bag is insulated to keep your drinks cold, allowing you to enjoy cold drinks during summer days. If you don’t need it next to you, simply detach it from the chair. The side table is flip-down and comes with a cup holder as well. Under the seat, there’s a phone pocket if you wish to place it there and not on the side-table.
The frame of the chair is made of sturdy aluminum that can support up to 300lbs. As for the fabric, it is made of polyester that lasts for a long time and also easy to clean. The armrests and back are padded with foam for maximum comfort and convenience.
When you’re done with the chair, simply fold it and easily carry it using the carry handle that is attached.
Dimensions: 20.9” x 35” x 13.8”
Weight: 7.28 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Other Notable Camping Chairs to Consider
I would like now to recommend other great camping chairs that are worth considering. These are awesome chairs that you may like a lot, just didn’t want to place them under the previous categories.
Nice C Ultralight Portable Folding Camping Backpacking Chair
The frame of the chair is made of aluminum that can support up to 250 lbs. Also, if the frame gets dirty, you can safely and easily clean it with a wet cloth as the aluminum is resistant to corrosion as well as to rust. The fabric is 600D Oxford fabric and mesh breathable fabric. It’s made of high-quality products and it won’t rip or tear easily, you can be sure of it.
The fabric is also very easy to clean using soap and water. It is easy to deploy the chair and fold it when done using it. No worries when on wet ground as the foot of the chair is anti-slip design.
Dimensions: 23” x 22” x 25” (seat). 14” x 5” x 4” (carrying case).
Weight: 2.1 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Mossy Oak Heavy Duty Folding Camping Chair
The chair is strong and durable, as it’s built from a steel tubing frame that also features black powder coating. As for the weight, it can support up to 400 lbs. The fabric is made of 600D polyester, double layered in needed areas of the chair. The upper back pad is filled with foam for maximum comfort, convenience and support.
The chair comes with an insulated cooler that can hold up to 4 cans in it, and a large cup holder with a drain hole. If you don’t use the cooler for cans and drinks, it can serve as a case to store items you want nearby.
The seat of the chair is over-sized for 100% relaxation experience, and when you’re done, simply fold the chair into the carry bag.
Dimensions: 39” x 7” x 7”
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Kelty Low Loveseat Camping Chair
There’s room for 2 people to seat on this chair (42 inches), including the family’s dog, as the fabric is almost indestructible. The fabric and material of the chair is made of 600D heavy weight polyester that is also insulated and cushioned. The frame of the chair is made of steel that is very strong, durable, and can support up to 500 lbs.
The armrests are adjustable and each comes with a cup holder. Perfect for one person, two people or a person and his dog. When you’re done, simply fold it in seconds for an easy carry back home.
Dimensions: 37” x 13” x 9”
Weight: 15.43 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
Tommy Bahama Mesh Trim with Cooler Backpack Chair
The frame of the chair is made of aluminum and the fabric is 600D fabric that is made to last for a long time and withstand daily use. Your neck can enjoy additional support and comfort as the chair comes with a foam pillow.
A locking bracket prevents the chair from folding while in use or tilting, and this way supports and stabilizes the chair even more. The seat of the chair is 11” off the ground and it can support up to 250lbs.
When you’re done, easily fold it and carry it using the padded shoulder straps.
Dimensions: 31.5” x 4.5” x 23”
Weight: 8 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair
This great chair has a low-profile design, which means you sit very close to the ground, yet sit comfortably in a sturdy chair.
The frame is made of lightweight and durable powder-coated steel that can support up to 300 lbs. The fabric is TechMesh that provides comfort as well as breathability.
This is a perfect chair for camping, camp fire, concerts, festivals and more. When you’re done relaxing and using it, simply fold the chair into the shoulder carry bag for an easy transportation.
Dimensions: 22” x 14” x 24”
Weight: 6.8 pounds
Click here for prices and additional reviews.
What are Pros and Cons of Camping Chairs?
You don’t want to carry some regular chair for your next camping trip, because camping chairs are designed especially for that purpose. So, if you’re wondering why you need a special chair for camping, here are some pros and cons of camping chairs.
Pros of Camping Chairs
- Comfortable: When camping, you can relax and let your mind and soul wander. However, it’s important that your body will be relaxed as well, and that you will be absolutely comfortable. Camping chairs are very comfortable. They are designed so that your camping stay will be as enjoyable as possible. Even if you have back pains, camping chairs know how to deal with them by special padding and cushioning.
- Strong and supportive: The frame of the camping chairs is made of aluminum, steel or wood. This ensures maximum and the best possible support, as well as making them very strong. Aluminum and steel camping chairs can support heavy weight without compromising on comfort.
- Durable: Camping chairs are made of durable material like vinyl, polyester or another high-quality fabric that can last for a long time. Combine this with a strong and high-quality material that builds the frame, and you get a durable chair for many camping trips, for years and years to come.
- Easy setup: Camping chairs are very easy to setup and fold (if foldable) when done.
- Lightweight and portable: The best camping chairs today are both lightweight as well as portable, making them ideal for almost any type of outdoor activity. These chairs are easy to deploy and fold and because they are light, you won’t even feel their weight while carrying them to your next destination.
Cons of Camping Chairs
- Possible rust: Frames and legs of camping chairs that are made of steel may rust. On the other hand, those made of aluminum won’t rust, and that is why they are more expensive.
- Fabric durability: There are camping chairs, which come with fabric that is less durable and not always of highest-quality. That is why it is important to get a chair made only of high-quality material, including the frame, legs and the fabric.
Here is a look at some advanced camping chairs, from CrazyRussianHacker:
Final Words
So there you have it, the complete list of the best camping chairs and clear explanations how to select them.
However, if you intend to go camping, you will need to know a few more things. I have prepared a very useful guide on how to plan a camping trip.
In addition, a camping trip often requires purchasing a lot of necessary equipment. If you wish to save a buck or two, here is my list of recommendations for low cost camping gear.
Happy trails!
