It doesn’t matter whether you prefer camping in a quiet backwoods forest or right in your backyard – having the best camping chairs to relax in is essential. 

A good set of camping chairs can be handy when lounging on the deck, enjoying a city concert, or waiting in line for an event. There’s no shortage of ways to use these comfortable seats, so investing in a camping chair will offer you the versatility and longevity you need is essential.

Not all camping chairs are built alike. There are all kinds of features and benefits that you’ll have to consider while you’re on your search. Consider our recommendations for the best camping chairs and our helpful buying guide as you begin your search.

Coleman Broadband Quad Camping Chair

If you’re in the market for an excellent chair for camping, this one by Coleman is the way to go. Coleman is known for its exceptional camp chairs and other materials for backpacking and camping, like tents and lanterns. This top campsite chair is no exception.

This quad chair is portable and perfect for backwoods camping, and backyard gatherings. It has an extra-wide 21.3-inch seat, so you don’t have to worry about not having ample space for your bum! You’ll have all the room you need. 

The Coleman Quad Chair features a nylon mesh fabric and is great for summertime use. No more getting hot and sweaty and find yourself sticking to the chair! You’ll feel cool and breathable at all times with the ventilated backing. 

At over 18 inches tall, this camping chair isn’t the most low-profile option you’ll find. Although it might not be the best for use at a concert or sporting event, it is high enough off the ground that it’s not a major pain to get into and out of.

The Coleman camping chair has cup holders to keep your drink within reach. Plus, it has a carrying case for maximum portability. 

Speaking of portability, let’s talk about how easy it is to transport. Although it has a heavy-duty steel frame that can support up to 250 lbs, it is compact enough to fit in most car trunks when folded up. The included sling bag means you can throw it over your shoulder and take it wherever you need to go. 

Folded up, this chair measures  5.5” x 5.9” x 35.4”. It’s also backed by a one-year limited warranty, something that’s unheard of in such an inexpensive camping chair. 

Pros

  • Mesh back helps keep you cool on hot days
  • Affordable choice
  • Weighs less than 6 lbs

Cons

  • Materials are not as durable as some other designs

ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair

Score Card

  • Comfort 8.1
  • Handling 9.0
17.1 Overall Score

Whether you prefer camping in the deep backwoods or want a beach chair for your lazy days at the ocean, this rendezvous chair by Alps Mountaineering should fit the bill regardless. 

This camping chair has a powder-coated steel frame that resists rust and corrosion. It also has patented TechMesh Fabric, so you’ll enjoy breathable comfort even on the hottest summer days.

Not only that, but this camping chair sits low to the ground. You’ll be able to lean back and stretch your legs at the angle that’s the most comfortable for you.

You can break this chair down and slip it into the carrying case. Sling the case over your shoulder and head out – transporting this chair is a total breeze.

It comes in several colors, including khaki, rust, ocean, and charcoal. It’s the ideal chair for trips to the beach, backyard gatherings, and of course, camping. It weighs less than 7 lbs and has an impressive weight capacity of 300 lbs. There’s very little that you won’t love when you invest in this awesome chair by Alps Mountaineering.

Our Overall Rating

4

Pros

  • Low-profile design is great for concerts and events
  • Sturdy and affordable
  • Has a durable design

Cons

  • It can be hard to get into and stand up from the low seat

Helinox Zero Camping Chair

If you’re in the market for a super-light camping chair, this chair by Helinox is the way to go. It’s a portable chair that can be taken to outdoor concerts or on your next camping adventure.

The Helinox chair is a lightweight, compact chair that tips the scales at 1.2 lbs. When packed for backpacking and hiking, its measurements are smaller than a water bottle. 

Are you worried you may be skimping on quality for that portability? Never fear. The frame of this chair is made out of advanced proprietary aluminum alloy. It can hold up to 265 lbs despite its lightweight build.

The included carrying bag and seat are made of durable ripstop polyester. This material is unique in its ability to withstand UV rays and harsh weather conditions. If it gets dirty, it can be tossed right into the washing machine, as it’s machine-washable, too. It comes in three colors – black, sand, and grey. 

Some assembly is required, though, as you’ll need to use the internal bungee cord and poles to get going. However, it’s backed by a five-year manufacturer’s warranty and is perfect for backwoods camping situations where low weight is necessary.

Pros

  • Unique ergonomic design
  • It has a compact, low-profile design
  • Weighs 1 lb

Cons

  • It takes a long time to set up and take down

GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker

Another one of the best camping chairs is made by GCI Outdoor. This portable camping chair comes with a carrying case and rocks, making it super comfortable for camping, lounging, or relaxing in your backyard. 

Available in cinnamon and indigo blue shades, this portable outdoor rocking chair might seem cumbersome at first glance, but that’s far from the case. It folds down easily for transportation. When folded up, it measures 25″ x 4.9″ x 34.8″. That’s because it has patented EAZY-FOLD technology and comes with a carrying handle for maximum portability.

This chair is durable, built to last, and has a robust powder-coated steel frame. Don’t worry if you accidentally leave it out in the elements. It has a mesh backrest that dries quickly, and its steel frame resists rust and corrosion. 

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, this rocking chair is comfortable and can support weights of up to 250 lbs. You’re sure to get your money’s worth from it!

Pros

  • Can rock back and forth
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Great for camping

Cons

  • It can be squeaky and heavy to move

Best Choice Products Zero Gravity Lounge Chair Recliners

We will be honest with you – these camp chairs by Best Choice Products aren’t all that easy to carry. 

However, the chairs offer some of the best features in terms of comfort and durability. Plus, when you buy, you’ll get two chairs instead of one, adding more value to your purchase. 

A sturdy, UV-resistant chair, it has a 250 lb weight capacity. Plus, it’s equipped with durable, quick-drying mesh, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking down when exposed to the elements outside.

Without a doubt, these lounge chair recliners are some of the most comfortable, ergonomically designed chairs. They glide into a zero-gravity position with elastic cords that adjust automatically to your body’s unique contours. 

These chairs are also equipped with cup holder trays. They are detachable, so you don’t have to take them on the go. However, if you do, you’ll have constant access to your gear, drink, magazine, cell phone, or other small items.

The chairs are equipped with adjustable, removable headrests, too. These add to the chair’s comfort levels and can be removed. They are foldable and portable for easy transportation, although they are heavier than many other choices.

Pros

  • Excellent leg, head, and back support 
  • It comes with a pillow
  • Breathable and dries quickly

Cons

  • Very heavy and bulky to carry any distance

Tommy Bahama 2020 Backpack Cooler Chair

Are you trying to find the best beach chair? Look no further than this backpack cooler chair by Tommy Bahama. It has a low seat and back that is comfortable and perfect for a day at the ocean.

Built with a rustproof aluminum frame, this chair blends a lightweight feel with maximum durability. The rustproof features are beneficial when you’re in the market for a chair that will be used by the ocean, where the salt spray can wreak havoc on your gear.

The Tommy Bahama camping chair comes with a storage pouch and towel bar. This storage pouch is insulated, so you can stash your snacks or beverages inside to keep them cool. The chair also has molded arms with a cup holder (which can double as a cell phone holder) and a weight capacity of 300 lbs.

Glance at the manufacturer’s picture for this chair, and you might assume it’s mostly a one-position chair, not meant to be maneuvered or reclined into other positions. That’s not the case. This chair can be laid flat or finagled into four comfortable, convenient set-ups. 

You’ll be able to enjoy the warming, relaxing rays of the sun on the beach – from any angle!

Pros

  • Perfect for the beach
  • Has backpack carrying straps
  • It comes with cooler and storage pockets

Cons

  • It can be difficult to pack up when you’re done using it

MOON LENCE Outdoor Folding Chairs

Another super light camping chair to consider is this option by Moon Lence. The heavy-duty chair sits somewhat low to the ground, so you don’t have to worry about disturbing other people at a concert or sporting event.

It comes in several colors: dark blue, red, orange, light blue, and black. With a seat made out of 600D Oxford cloth, it is lightweight without compromising its durable nature. It has a strong aluminum alloy frame that resists the elements and can hold up to 242 lbs.

Despite that impressive weight capacity, this camping chair tips the scales at  2 lbs. You won’t mind toting it through the woods or whatever else you need to go.

It has a unique, ergonomic seat design that will help you relax wherever you travel. The seat’s material is soft and breathable, so you can feel comfortable and at ease while relaxing.

It folds up easily with its foldable mesh and metal poles. To clean it up, all you have to do is wipe it with warm, soapy water. It’s the perfect versatile choice for tailgaters, campers, and concert-goers alike.

 

Pros

  • Super compact design
  • It has a low profile that’s great for concerts and sporting events
  • Lightweight at less than 2 lbs

Cons

  • It does not come with cup holders or armrests

King Kong Chair

The King Kong chair by Alps Mountaineering is one of the company’s best-selling chairs. With its many adjustable features and impressive weight capacity, it’s the heavy-duty chair you’ve got to consider for your next camping excursion. 

The King Kong chair is durable and stable with a powder-coated steel frame. However, it also has a compact foldable design. You’ll benefit from adjustable armrests that give you plenty of room to sprawl out, a side pocket, and a cup holder to stash your favorite beverage.

Plus, this chair comes with a shoulder carry bag, so you can transport it wherever you need. It has a weight capacity of 800 lbs, perfect for holding just about anyone. Although it’s a bit heavy to carry long distances, coming in at 14 lbs, you’ll appreciate its sturdy, heavy-duty nature.

Pros

  • Can hold up to 800 lbs
  • Has insulated features and storage areas
  • It comes with adjustable armrests

Cons

  • Can be a bit on the heavy side

AmazonBasics Camping Chair

$37.72 Amazon 

Another of the best backpacking chairs you can consider is this portable camping chair by AmazonBasics. It is a comfortable chair with all the features you might need -including storage pockets – for a relaxing lounging session by the campfire. 

AmazonBasics isn’t a brand name you’d expect to see on this list, but rest assured, the retail giant Amazon impressed us once again when it released this phenomenal camping chair. It’s black and blue and can be purchased with mesh or padded features. 

It’s made of 100% polyester features and offers all the cushion you need for comfort in the back and the seat. It has built-in cooler pouches to hold your favorite beverages. You can hold up to four 12-ounce cans in these pouches!

The integrated cup holder is perfect for holding open beverages, while the additional storage pocket can store your magazine or cell phone. 

It has a heavy-duty steel frame that offers strength but is also collapsible. It’s compact and foldable, meant to fit inside most car trunks. Backed by an impressive one-year limited warranty, this campaign chair is one you’ve got to put at the top of your shopping list!

Pros

  • Comfortable build
  • It has a padded back and seat
  • It comes with an insulated cooler pocket and an additional storage pocket

Cons

  • Made out of less durable, lower-quality materials

Kijaro Portable Camping Chair

Last but not least is this sturdy, heavy-duty camping chair by Kijaro. It is a great camper chair for several reasons. 

First, it is available in several colors, including Hanami Pink, Cayman Blue Iguana, Victoria Desert Orange, and Ireland Green,  to name a few. It is a dual-lock chair that gives you a premium feel without the extra expense.

It has unique “no-sag seating” that helps you sit comfortably in your chair and is made of durable diamond ripstop polyester. It is breathable and is the perfect choice for tailgating, camping, or a day at the beach.

The Kijaro chair is loaded with bonus features, too. It has an organizer with mesh, zip pockets, and two cup holders. The chair has an attached carry strap and carry bag, too. It can hold about 300 lbs, so you don’t have to worry about how well it will hold up. It locks open and shut for stability and transport, too. 

 

Pros

  • Sturdy build
  • It has a high seat for more back support
  • Made out of breathable materials that dry quickly

Cons

  • It can be a bit bulky and long when packed

Best Chair for Camping: Features to Look For

 

Potential Uses

Before you start shopping, decide how the chair will be used. Comfort will be key if you use the chair primarily for lounging in the backyard. You don’t need to worry too much about weight or portability since you won’t be carrying the chair too far. 

However, if you plan on using your camping chair for backpacking or day trips (like going to the beach, concerts, or festivals), you’ll want a portable and easy-to-carry chair. For a camping chair that will be used at events, ensure you get one with a low back so you don’t block the view of people behind you. 

More likely than not, you’ll find camping chairs advertised under different names, like beach chairs, backpacking chairs, tailgating chairs, compact camping stools, director’s chairs, rocking chairs, and reclining chairs. Consider how you plan to use your camping chair to determine if any of these are right for you.

Material

To be portable and sturdy, a camping chair must be made of a metal frame and a fabric back and seat. The materials should be strong enough to hold your weight but durable enough to withstand the elements. Ideally, you should purchase a camping chair made of aluminum and steel.

Steel is one of the most robust materials, while aluminum balances strength with a lightweight design, making it a good choice for portability. Regarding the fabric, look for a chair made of high-density canvas or polyester. Both of these will withstand the elements with ease. 

Speaking specifically about the frame, if you go with steel, choose powder-coated steel whenever possible. It will offer strength and durability – plus, powder-coated steel can resist corrosion and rust, helping add to its lifespan. 

Back Support

Whether You have back issues, investing in a camping chair with good back support is an intelligent choice. 

If you plan on hiking and backpacking all day, it goes without saying that your back will be a bit sore by the end of the day! Therefore, you will want to invest in a chair that isn’t sunken around the back. This won’t give you any support, as you’ll sink far into the chair and have to slouch.

Instead, look for a camping chair that has back support features included. Otherwise, having a pillow on hand to tuck behind your aching tailbone would be best.

Portability 

If you plan on hauling your camping chair around the county, you will want a super portable char. After all, there are so many ways you can use your camping chair, so you shouldn’t limit yourself by investing in a chair that is challenging to transport.

How do you determine whether a chair will be portable? There are several features to look for. For starters, consider whether it comes with a carrying case. You may also want to examine its packed size and weight. Its design can also influence how well it can be toted, as those that come apart are often more convenient than those that don’t.

Take a close look at the camping chair’s folding patterns. Regarding camp chairs, the question isn’t whether it folds (almost all of them do) but how it folds. Some fold flat, but others fold by pulling upward on the carrying strap. 

Look for a folded dimension that is not only thin but in a shape that isn’t too awkward or cumbersome to carry on your back. 

A carrying strap is another feature that might influence a camping chair’s portability. If you don’t want to mess around with a carrying bag, you can get a camping chair with a carry strap to sling your chair over your shoulder and portage it through the wood that way. You don’t have to worry about misplacing the bag.

Seat Height

Pay close attention to the ground-to-seat height when shopping for your new camping chair. Usually, this will be listed simply as “height.” While you might not think this feature matters much, it will be a significant factor in your decision-making process if you’re tall. 

Even if you’re not tall, seat height is essential. A low seat height is valuable if you plan to attend concerts or sporting events without blocking the people behind you. A low seat height can sometimes be less comfortable for your legs when you’re getting in and out of the chair (especially if you’re all, but you’ll be less likely to get in the way of the people behind you. 

Weight Capacity 

Most camping chairs list a maximum weight capacity you should pay attention to. Some chairs have a high degree – they can hold up to 800 pounds! Others may be unable to accommodate quite as much and can only handle 250 pounds. 

The size of the chair almost always correlates directly with weight capacity, as does overall stability. If you’re a larger person – or want more comfort in your chair without worrying about it cracking or buckling – go for a chair with a higher weight capacity. 

Comfort

Comfort is one of the most essential features to consider while shopping for a camping chair. After all, you’ve decided to spend money on a camping chair rather than sitting on the ground or a fallen log – so why would you fork out all kinds of cash for a chair that makes your butt go numb?

 

If you’re unsure how to evaluate the comfort levels of a given chair, pay attention to the lumbar support, armrests, headrest, back ventilation, and finally, the overall design of the chair. These features will help you determine whether or not a chair will be comfortable even before you ever sit in it.

Durability

If you invest in a camping chair, you might as well get one that will last you for the long haul. Look for a camping chair that will allow you to get multiple seasons out of it. Avoid chairs that are more likely to show wear and tear on their fabric – instead, opt for one made out of a high-density material that will last for a while. 

Other features to look for when it comes to the durability of your camping chair include steel frames and 600D nylon fabric. 

Ease of Use

You’ll also want to consider how easy a chair is to assemble and use. Some chairs take forever to set up or take down, reducing their portability and making them inconvenient to use. 

Stability 

How stable is your camping chair of choice? Most backpacking chairs will be lighter than other camping chairs since you must carry them through the woods, but their leg design impacts their overall stability. 

You’ll lose stability with the crossover leg design of these chairs, as they are more likely to rock backward and tip. That’s because their thin legs connect to the center of the chair rather than the sides.

Weight

You might consider weight under the same category as portability, but it’s worth mentioning twice, just in case. It is crucial to how much space your chair takes up (and how much it weighs). While a chair that packs into a more manageable shape and size is helpful, you also want to consider what it weighs when packed up.

Remember that a lightweight camping chair might not always be best, either. Sometimes, less is not more, as a lightweight chair will blow around in the wind and can easily become damaged.

Bonus Features

The word “camping chair” is a name that can apply to all sorts of different chairs. It’s just a chair that can be folded, packed into a car, and carried to a destination. 

Therefore, many chairs fall into this category, but very few are worth your time and money. Consider camping chairs with bonus features to get the most bang for your buck. Some have taller backs and extra stability and support features. Some come with storage pockets, cup holders, or recline options.

Of course, these will cost you more, but often, it’s well worth the extra expense. 

Another option is a chair that serves as a double camping chair. Although these are heavier and take up more space, they are the perfect choice for couples because you’ll only have to carry around one piece of furniture. Some come with two separate armrests and an open, double-wide seat for two, while others look more like two fused chairs with a storage compartment (or sometimes cup holders) between them. 

Double camping chairs, of course, are quite a bit heavier and can also be more expensive than buying two separate chairs. But if you want to get cozy with your honey, there’s no better way to go. 

Believe it or not, some camping chairs even come with built-in shades. These are excellent features if you plan on being outside and doing some work, like using a laptop. The shade will not only help you see but also protect you from the harmful UV rays of the sun. No awning or sunhat is needed!

What is the Best Camping Chair?

You’ll find everything you want – and then some! – in any of these top camping chairs. However, if you’re looking for a camping chair that combines value with versatility and function, you’ll want to go with the Coleman Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair.

This is our top pick for several reasons. It is offered at a super affordable price and blends a compact design with a fresh, breathable feel so you can use it in any setting. Although it’s not the most heavy-duty camping chair you’ll find, it’s sure to get the job done in most locations.

Whether you choose this pick, another one of the options on our list, or another camping chair entirely, make sure you heed the advice we have for you in our buying guide. When you select a camping chair that meets most of these requirements, you can rest assured that you will be lounging in comfort far into the foreseeable future.

But you better start shopping soon! Summer won’t last forever, and the campfire-  along with the s’ mores! – are waiting for you.