The compromises make them less than ideal for camping and everyday use, but the streamlined design is popular among minimalists and when space is at a premium. Popular models in this category include the Nemo Moonlight, REI Co-op Flexlite line, and Helinox Chair Zero. Other camp chair models on this list are made for one person, but why stop there? Kelty’s Low Loveseat is a totally viable option for camping and even can coleman pop up canopy double down as cheap outdoor furniture for your patio. Keep in mind that the seat is rather low at just 13.5 inches off the ground (many camp chairs are closer to 18 in.), but the upside is that the Low Loveseat is stable and still pretty easy to get in and out of. Thoughts of camping chairs may conjure up images of $10 specials out front a big-box retailer, but let’s reorient ourselves to a slightly higher standard.
At a very competitive 1 pound 14 ounces, the Moonlight is substantially lighter and more portable than most traditional chairs without any major sacrifices in overall comfort or quality. In fact, our testers liked the chair so much that they immediately purchased a second one and convinced friends and family to place orders, too—a clear testament to the Moonlight’s excellent all-around performance. As is the case with any outdoor gear, you want to make sure that you store the chair somewhere dark and dry when not in use. Mold is always a killer when it comes to things like camp chairs, but UV light may be the biggest cause for concern. Tempting as it may be, don’t leave your chair set up on a nice day with the intention of coming back in a few hours. It takes a couple of minutes to store but will significantly extend the lifetime.
The cooler is also easy to use, with a handy pull-on top that unzips both sides simultaneously. A small patch of velcro is all that’s left between you and your cold beverages. The cooler in the armrest sticks out at an odd angle and resists being squeezed back into a sack that’s barely large enough to hold it.
They’re also far more expensive and significantly less comfortable than typical full-size camp chairs. We recommend buying this type only if you intend to carry your chair long distances, whether you’re backpacking or trekking across Central Park. If you do need a fits-in-a-knapsack chair, we coleman pop up canopy recommend the Helinox Chair One. We found this model to be slightly more comfortable and easier to pack than other, similar chairs. The Renetto Original Canopy Chair, a cleverly designed specialty seat, is ideal for anyone who wants sun protection and doesn’t mind a heavier, bulkier chair.
In addition, they have the most features, from cup holders to storage pockets, and some even have a recline option. Because weight isn’t a major factor, you can get a well-made and comfortable camping chair at a reasonable price—starting at around $50 and reaching as much as $300 for the Yeti Trailhead. coleman pop up canopy Top choices from this category include the REI Co-op Skyward Chair, Alps Mountaineering King Kong, and GCI Outdoor Kickback Rocker. In stark contrast to Helinox’s minimalist Chair Zero above, their Sunset Chair puts a premium on comfort and support with a high back and wide, cradle-like seat.
Thankfully the Cooler Quad does a great job balancing robust construction with add-ons such as the titular 4-can cooler on the left armrest. You know you’re getting a quality chair with an integrated cooler rather than a carry cooler with a seat. Artful employment of padding along the seat makes the Cooler Quad a little more than just an oversized camp chair. Just a thin layer of foam that adds something to the polyester does the job without making it feel like you’re sitting in a pile of mashed potatoes.