On the lookout for a comfortable camping chair?
Perfect, because we’re ready to help.
Having a camping chair that allows you to sit back and relax after a long day of adventuring is a must for any camp-based trip. However, finding that perfect chair isn’t easy because of all the options available for you to choose from.
There are 3 features that make a great camping chair:
- Appropriate weight capacity. Any camping chair should have a weight capacity between 300 and 500lbs.
- Comfortable. Camping chairs should offer plenty of lumbar support and ventilation so you feel comfortable as you relax.
- Durable. Your camp chair should be made of robust metals and thick fabrics so it won’t fail during a trip.
Read More : 6 Things To Know Before Buying Camping Chairs
To help you on your quest to buy the best camping chair for your needs, we’ve curated the best camping chairs on the market today. Plus, we’ve created a buyer’s guide complete with everything you need to know to get started.
Our top picks
Here’s a quick summary of our top camping chair picks. Read on to find out more about each model.
For the Budget Minded : Kelty Discovery Lowdown Chair
“Friendly prices and comfort can come hand in hand.”
Best Rocking Chair : GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker Chair
“Powder-coated steel frame is also durable enough to withstand frequent use.”
Best Lightweight : Leki Chiller Chair
“Surprisingly strong for a seat that weighs less than 3lbs.”
Highest Weight Capacity : Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair
“Can support an impressive 500lbs while still being packable enough to stow in your car.”
Best for Comfort : Snow Peak Low Chair Luxe
“The pinnacle of luxury and style in a camping chair.”
Kelty Discovery Lowdown Chair
- Chair Weight : 7.4lbs / 3.3kg
- Weight Capacity : 350lbs / 159kg
When budget is a top priority, the Kelty Discovery Lowdown Chair shows that friendly prices and comfort can come hand in hand.
This chair is made from burly 600D quilted polyester, which is puncture-resistant for long-term use. The fabric is also insulated to provide you with a bit of extra warmth on cold nights drinking around the campfire.
Moreover, this chair has a burly steel frame to cast away any durability concerns. The frame is also slightly reclined to provide a good mix of lumbar support and relaxation and it all packs away into an included stuff sack for portability.
With the Kelty Discovery Lowdown Chair, you even get two fully adjustable armrests that also sport an insulated beverage holding system so your drink can stay at precisely the right temperature at all times.
What we like
- Durable. Puncture-resistant fabric and steel frame.
- Convenient features. Insulated beverage holder built into the armrest.
- Affordable. Budget-friendly price.
What we don't like
- Minimal ventilation. Not very breathable on warm days.
GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker Chair
- Chair Weight : 12.8lbs / 5.8kg
- Weight Capacity : 250lbs / 113kg
It’s hard to beat the relaxing vibes of a rocking chair while at a beautiful campsite, and the GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker Chair proves just that.
Featuring a unique Spring Action Rocking Technology, this chair allows you to smoothly rock back and forth while taking in the stunning views around you. Its powder-coated steel frame is also durable enough to withstand frequent use at the campsite.
As far as comfort goes, this chair has a ripstop polyester seat with large mesh panels, which offer a good combination of durability and breathability. The seat itself is also wider and deeper, providing you with more wiggle room as you relax at the end of the day.
For added convenience, the GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker Chair also comes with large drink holders below the armrest, which can be used to hold your beverage or small bits of gear.
What we like
- Rocking chair design for added comfort.
- Breathable fabric for use on hot summer days.
- Spacious seat. Provides more room to relax in camp.
What we don't like
- Low weight capacity for a chair with a steel frame.
Leki Chiller Chair
- Chair Weight : 2.5lbs / 1.1kg
- Weight Capacity : 320lbs / 145kg
Perfectly crafted to help you kick back and relax while outside, the Leki Chiller Chair is an ultralight camping chair solution for frequent campers.
Boasting an aluminum frame with fiberglass reinforced plastic joints for added durability, this chair is surprisingly strong for a seat that weighs less than 3lbs (1.4kg). It can easily be set up in just a few seconds or packed away in its included carry bag which measures up at only 15” (38.1cm) long).
Under the seat, the Leki Chiller Chair also has a small covered storage area where you can stash your gear and keep it safe as you relax outside. It even has a detachable cup holder, which can be placed on the right or left-hand side of the seat for added versatility.
What we like
- Highly portable camping chair. Lightweight and packs down small.
- Gear storage. Underseat storage options and a detachable cup holder.
- Easy set-up. Can be pitched in a few seconds.
What we don't like
- No armrests. Can be uncomfortable for some campers.
Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair
- Chair Weight : 13.3lbs / 6kg
- Weight Capacity : 500lbs / 227kg
Whether you’re base camping at the campground or on the lookout for new campsites each night on a road trip, the Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair offers functionality, durability, and comfort in one package.
Thanks to its innovative Packaway Frame, this chair can support an impressive 500lbs (226.8kg) while still being packable enough to stow in your car. The feet on this chair also have GroundGrip technology to create maximum stability, even in rugged terrain.
Plus, the YETI TrailHead Camp Chair is made with their proprietary FlexGrid Fabric, which can conform quickly to the shape of your body for increased comfort and reduced pressure points. The chair also comes with a LockDown tensioner system, which allows you to adjust the tension of the fabric to create the perfect seat to lounge in for your needs.
What we like
- High weight capacity. Can support up to 500lbs.
- Adjustable. Fully adjustable seat for increased comfort.
- Sturdy. GroundGrip technology provides a stable seat.
What we don't like
- Pricey. One of the most expensive options available.
Snow Peak Low Chair Luxe
- Chair Weight : 7.5lbs / 3.4kg
- Weight Capacity : 300lbs / 136kg
The pinnacle of luxury and style in a camping chair, the Snow Peak Low Chair Luxe is classy and comfortable enough to use at camp or at home.
Thanks to its aluminum alloy frame, this chair is relatively lightweight, but still provides a stable platform for relaxing around the campfire. Designed in Japan using high-quality materials, it also has a polyester canvas seat which is durable enough for regular use in wet and windy environments.
Additionally, to help ensure that you’re cozy while sitting in camp, this chair has natural wood armrests, which are smoothly finished for next-to-skin comfort.
When it’s finally time to go home at the end of your trip, the Snow Peak Low Chair Luxe packs into a small storage bag for transport, wherever your adventures take you.
What we like
- Stylish. Natural wood armrests provide a classy look.
- Compact. Comes with a small carry bag for transport.
- Robust materials. Canvas seat and aluminum frame for ruggedness.
What we don't like
- No gear storage. Doesn’t include cupholders or stash pockets.
REI Co-op Camp X-tra Chair
- Chair Weight : 10lbs / 4.5kg
- Weight Capacity : 400lbs / 182kg
Blending affordability and convenience, the REI Co-op Camp X-tra Chair is the best budget camping chair for conscious campers that don’t want to skimp on added features.
Thanks to its heavy-duty steel tubing frame, this chair can support up to 400lbs (181.4kg) of weight. It also has a double layer of 600D ripstop polyester with closed-cell foam padding built-in for insulation.
To help provide extra comfort as you lounge, this model has an integrated X-shaped webbing system that evenly distributes weight throughout the chair. This helps to avoid uncomfortable pressure spots as you relax by the fire.
Finally, the REI Co-op Camp Xtra Chair comes with cupholders on both armrests that are large enough to hold nearly any size bottle or glass. It even has a side stash pocket so you can store items such as books, headlamps, and other essentials near your chair for easy access.
What we like
- Comfort-focused. X-shaped integrated webbing system increases overall comfort.
- Convenient features. Large gear stashing pocket and two cup holders.
- Burly construction. Built from strong materials for durability.
What we don't like
- Large size. May be too big for smaller individuals.
ENO Lounger SL Chair
- Chair Weight : 3.5lbs / 1.6kg
- Weight Capacity : 250lbs / 113kg
Designed to offer maximum comfort in a small, portable package, the ENO Lounger SL Chair is a camp furniture option for people who prioritize simplicity in their gear.
Thanks to its aluminum frame, this chair weighs just 3.5lbs (1.6kg) but has a weight capacity of 250lbs (113.4kg), which is a great strength-to-weight ratio. This aluminum frame can also be pitched in just seconds, thanks to its innovative hub-pole design.
As far as comfort goes, the ENO Lounger SL Chair has a large mesh seat that provides ample sitting area that’s low down to the ground. This mesh fabric allows for plenty of breathability on hot days and includes a stretch cargo pocket for stashing gear as you relax.
What we like
- Lightweight. One of the most portable camping chairs available.
- Breathable. Mesh seat fabric provides plenty of ventilation.
- Built-in storage. Stretch cargo pockets can quickly store gear.
What we don't like
- Low seating height. Not as comfortable for taller campers.
Nemo Stargaze Camp Chair
- Chair Weight : 6lbs / 2.7kg
- Weight Capacity : 300lbs / 136kg
Innovation at its finest, the Nemo Stargaze Camp Chair takes comfort to a whole new level.
Combining the relaxation of a rocking chair with the versatility of a stationary chair, this model allows you to comfortably sit on nearly any surface during your camping trip. It has an aircraft-grade aluminum frame that flexes and swings in response to your movements, providing a solid all-around sitting experience without any painful pressure points.
The Nemo Stargaze Camp Chair is made with a durable canvas seat that’s designed to withstand years of frequent use. While its low seating height is not the best for taller campers, this smaller size allows this chair to be much more packable inside its compact 21×6.5” (53x17cm) stuff sack.
What we like
- Versatile. Comfortable yet easy to pitch anywhere.
- Durable. Aerospace grade aluminum frame for ruggedness.
- Small packed size. Stuff sack is just 21” x 6.5” (53 x 17cm).
What we don't like
- Low seat height. Not ideal for taller campers.
Alps Mountaineering Lay-Z Lounger
- Chair Weight : 21lbs / 9.5kg
- Weight Capacity : 300lbs / 136kg
Comfort meets the outdoors with the Alps Mountaineering Lay-Z Lounger Camp Chair. Featuring all the benefits of a classic reclining armchair in an outdoor-friendly package, this is a great choice for campers that prioritize comfort.
It has a unique steel frame design that can accommodate up to 300lbs (136kg) of weight. This steel frame can be fully adjusted so you can recline in any position you want.
Meanwhile, the chair has a highly breathable TechMesh seat that provides ample ventilation on sunny days. It even has two sturdy wooden armrests and a padded headrest to help you get the relaxation you need at the end of a long day of hiking.
Once you’re ready to pack up camp, the Alps Mountaineering Lay-Z Lounger also folds up flat for easier transportation in your car.
What we like
- Adjustable recline. Provides ample comfort while camping.
- Highly breathable. TechMesh fabric allows for airflow.
- Very comfortable. Includes armrests and a padded headrest.
What we don't like
- Bulky. Folds flat but is still quite large in transport.
Helinox Savanna Chair
- Chair Weight : 4.2lbs / 1.9kg
- Weight Capacity : 320lbs / 145kg
Combining high-tech materials and a unique design, the Helinox Savanna Chair provides the comfort of a relaxing armchair with the portability you need for car camping trips.
Crafted specifically with a wider seat and a taller back than most camp chairs, this model allows for added seating space, which is ideal for larger campers. It’s made from a 600D polyester fabric with mesh panels that provide a good mix of breathability and durability.
The chair is supported by an aluminum frame that’s constructed out of super-strong DAC aluminum alloy poles. These poles fold down quickly and into a small stuff sack for portability.
Additionally, the Helinox Savanna Chair has a built-in cup holder for stashing your drinks and a stuff sack that can double as a pillow for a bit of rest and relaxation after a long day outside.
What we like
- Large size. Wider seat and tall back for extra space.
- Strong foundation. DAC poles are lightweight yet burly.
What we don't like
- No armrests. Limits comfort for some campers.
Camping Chairs Buying Guide
There are plenty of great camping chairs out there, so it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by your choices.
To help you get started, here are 7 things to know about camping chairs before you start.
Weighs above 3lbs
Unlike backpacking chairs, which generally weigh less than 3lbs (1.4kg), the majority of camping chairs are a bit heavier. This is because the primary focus of chairs for car camping is on comfort and durability, rather than portability.
Of course, within the genre of camping chairs, there’s quite a bit of variation when it comes to weight. While some, like the Leki Chiller Chair are under 3lbs (1.4kg), most, like the NEMO Stargaze Camp Chair, weigh around 6 to 10lbs (2.7 to 4.5kg).
There are certainly some heavier options, such as the ALPS MOuntaineering Lay-Z Lounger Camp Chair, but most of this added weight comes from features, like a reclining frame, that adds extra comfort.
Maximum weight capacity
Another feature that differentiates camping chairs from those made for backpacking is their higher weight capacity.
Most car camping chairs have a weight limit between 300 to 500lbs (136 to 227kg), like the impressive 500lb (226.8kg) weight capacity you get with the Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair.
With that in mind, it’s always important to know the maximum weight capacity of your chair. That way, you don’t accidentally exceed the limit and do potentially irreversible damage to your beloved camp chair.
Although some options, such as the ENO Lounger SL, are slightly below this range with a weight capacity of 250lbs (113kg), this decrease in weight capacity is the result of lightweight frame materials.
So, many of the models with lower maximum weight limits are often portable enough to be used for occasional backpacking trips, too.
Build quality
No one wants to buy a camping chair only to have it break after a few trips outside. Thus, durable materials are essential.
In a camp chair, durability is the result of the materials used and the overall design of the frame.
Models, like the Kelty Discovery Lowdown and the Snow Peak Low Chair Luxe, which have thick polyester fabrics, are ideal for long-term use.
Moreover, steel frames, such as those found on the REI Co-op Camp Xtra Chair, provide ample durability for frequent campers, though they are quite heavy. Although aluminum-framed chairs often have lower maximum weight limits, new advancements in aluminum design have made these options very durable, too, without sacrificing weight savings.
What’s more important in a chair frame is the actual construction of the leg design.
Models, like the Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair, which have multiple crossbars in the legs, are often best from a strength, structure, and durability point of view.
Comfort levels
The main purpose of a chair is to relax, so comfort is key when shopping for a camping seating system.
Reclining chairs, such as the ALPS Mountaineering Lay-Z Lounger, often provide the most by way of comfort and lumbar support but are generally the heaviest and bulkiest options. They also often come with headrests, which are another sure-fire way to increase comfort.
Other key features to look out for are adjustable tension traps, such as those found on the Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair. These allow you to get just the right amount of lumbar support in your chair without adding extra weight to your gear.
Finally, armrests, including those on the GCI Outdoor RoadTrip Rocker Chair, are a simple way to increase comfort as you lounge, particularly if you like to read around the campfire at night.
Read More : 11 Tips to Have A Campfire Safely
Storage areas
Another great feature that we often see on camp chairs is storage. Although storage might not be at the top of your list of must-haves on a chair, a drink holder or two, like those available on the Helinox Savanna Chair, make it easy to keep track of your beverage while in camp.
Other key storage features include side pockets or under seat pockets, such as what’s found on the Leki Chiller Chair. These allow you to quickly store books, headlamps, snacks, and other pieces of gear you might need while in camp without having to worry about losing them as you relax.
Manufacturer warranty
In the event that you have an issue or defect with your camp chair, it’s good to know that it’s covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.
The good news is that the majority of reputable companies offer a warranty on their products and camp chairs are no exception. While this does vary from company to company, most chairs, like the Helinox Savanna Chair and the Yeti TrailHead Camp Chair have a 5-year warranty on manufacturing issues and defects.
That being said, issues caused by regular wear and tear or by exceeding the weight limit of your chair generally aren’t covered under a warranty. In these situations, many companies will offer repair services at a reasonable price, which is a good option if you’re not looking to buy a brand new model.
Gaby Pilson
Gaby is a professional mountain guide with a master’s degree in outdoor education. She works primarily in the polar regions as an expedition guide, though she can be found hiking, climbing, skiing, sailing, or paddling in some of the world’s most amazing places when not at work.