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Any camping trip can become a potentially miserable experience without an appropriate camping chair. Sure, camping today is more a ritualistic reminder of the primitive roots we all share, but while it may be a “primitive” experience, we no longer have to utilize the primitive tools and equipment our ancestors did. If you’re looking for a useful camping accessory for your next outdoor adventure, consider a camping chair to bring comfort to your campsite.
Those who have been in the military are intimately familiar with camping, especially the infantry since that’s half of the job description. In my unit, several of us had purchased little three-post camping stools to take into the field. One day, I got the bright idea to use my stool as an improvised seven-ton seat, and within a matter of minutes, the stool’s legs gave out and we all had a good laugh at my expense. Like you, I had no clue back then what to look for in the best camping chairs and I’ve learned my lessons the hard way.
There is a major difference between cheap, generic-brand chairs and the best camping chairs that cost a little more, which is what we’ll explore here. Listen up, because these chairs could save your hiney during your next excursion into the great outdoors.
Best Overall
Kijaro Dual Lock Portable Camping Chair
Best Value
Coleman Cooler Camping Chair
Best Camping Stool
TravelChair Portable Tripod Chair
Best Two-Person Camping Chair
OmniCore Designs MoonPhase
Ultralight Premium Camping Chair
Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight
Best Camping Chair for Big Guys
Coastrail Padded High Back Chair
Best Reclining Camping Chair
Ever Advanced Oversized Zero Gravity Chair
Best Rocking Camping Chair
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker
Why you should trust us
Camping was a family tradition growing up, and we went through our fair share of chairs. Since then, I’ve purchased many, as well as sat in many more in search of the best option. Being a larger man, I have broken a few chairs, even ones rated for my weight. It pays to have friends, and throughout my adventures, I’ve built relationships with many hikers and campers who have shared their experiences with me. I’ve combined my own experiences with those I’ve learned about to evaluate where to rest your rump.
Types of camping chairs
There are many styles of camping chairs available on the market — too many to jot down here, so instead we’ll focus on the weight range. This is a huge determining factor in what the chair can do for you. Generally speaking, the more features a chair has, the heavier it will be. On the inverse side, the fewer features a chair has, the lighter it could be. The weight also determines the ease of transportability and versatility.
Ultralight
This is the category that any chair under three pounds belongs in. Construction is simple and uses alloy metals instead of traditional steel tubing. Fabrics will be thinner and lighter than other chairs. Typically, the design allows for the chair to be strapped to or carried inside of a hiking pack.
Light to Medium
Here’s where you’ll find the generic camping chair, as well as some fancier versions with varying features. These chairs weigh more than three pounds, but not more than 10 pounds. They’ll still be easy enough to carry around, but not for any extended period of time (over five minutes). Constructions will remain simple but can include steel frames. The fabrics will be thicker and vary in texture.
Heavy
Anything over 10 pounds is heavy for a foldable camping chair. You might be capable of lugging it around, but why would you want to? Construction is of heavy metal framing and fabrics will feature thick materials. It is the size that generally makes these chairs so heavy. This category is really best suited for your backyard patio than camping.
Benefits of camping chairs
Rest
The most prominent benefit of a camping chair is the ability to sit and rest. Setting up and working a campsite is hard work, especially if you’re crazy enough to hike into it. Sitting allows our body to rest the legs and core without having to lay down on the ground.
Connect with others
Believe it or not, sitting down allows us to connect with others. Talking to someone who is sitting while you’re standing isn’t the best body language to use. Getting on the same level with someone allows you to better connect with them.
Storytelling
No, seriously: If you go camping and no stories are told, did you really go camping? Storytelling and campfires go together like PB and chocolate (don’t be jelly). Setting up camping chairs allows you to share your stories from a relaxed position.
Camping chairs pricing
Inexpensive
Like any other product, you get what you pay for. Cheap chairs can be found almost anywhere and are only good for a few outings or a whole season if you’re lucky. The options, styles, and features offered by cheap chairs are pretty limited, making these chairs not very versatile.
Moderate
These are your average camping chairs that feature more padding, increased seam work, and creature comforts like cup holders. The durability of these chairs will offer you a few seasons of usage, especially if you take care of them. With more options comes more versatility.
Premium
Believe it or not, there are camping chairs that cost more than your auto payment. In this category, you’ll find butt heaters, rockers, and more. The materials used are going to be of higher quality and offer greater durability and longevity. Premium-priced chairs are an investment in your adventures.
How we chose our top picks
Each product was selected based on performance criteria and the brand’s respective history of reliability. We looked for chairs that could be used by the average traditional camper, as well as chairs with special features more suited for non-traditional camping. We avoided products with extravagant pricing or unrealistic claims. Not all of these reviews come from hands-on testing and rely upon industry knowledge and experience instead.
FAQs on camping chairs
You’ve got questions, Task & Purpose has answers.
Q: Is a camping chair the same as a beach chair?
A: No, beach chairs are typically lower to the ground and feature bars or wide pads to prevent the chair from sinking into the sand. You could use your camping chair on the beach if you want, though.
Q: Can camping chairs get wet?
A: Yes, depending on the type of material. However, it could impact the durability and longevity of your camping chair, not to mention make your butt soggy.
Q: Do weight limits on camping chairs matter?
A: Absolutely! At least for big guys like me.
Q: Do I need a camping chair?
A: Not necessarily. If you can sit on a rock, a stump, or the ground for hours at a time without aches, pains, or losing circulation, then go right ahead.
Q: How much do camping chairs cost?
A: Camping chairs are typically priced around $30-60. Deal surfers can probably find chairs under $30, but premium chairs can cost $100 or more.
Q: How do I wash my camping chair?
A: Start by shaking off any loose dirt. Then use some soap, water, and a coarse bristled brush to target any tough stains. Set it out to air dry before stowing it away.