Fortunately, you can lock it into position to ensure against unexpected tipping, and the head- and footrests extend far enough in both directions to support taller users. While the heaviness of this camp chair might prevent me from using it on a long journey, the carrying case with backpack straps makes it easier to take with me while keeping my arms free and shoulders comfortable. While the price means not everyone can have this camp chair, if you can swing it, it really is better than the rest. In our experience, it’s worth spending a little more on a camping chair to get something that will last longer and require less maintenance (e.g. removal of rust). While not a necessity for function, if you like how your chair looks, you’ll be more likely to use it and treat it well. Consider the color, design, and overall appearance of the chair, as it can contribute to your camping experience and match your personal style.
They’re all designed to stand being outside and can handle some rain and sun exposure. The best chairs (and the wons we chose as winners) all have water-resistant and quick-drying materials. This was especially important for camping in wet climates in the Pacific Northwest and humid environments in the Northeast. But no matter where you camp, you can ensure the longest life of your chairs by storing them indoors and in a dry place when you’re not actively using them. Our Backpacking Pick, the Helinox Zero, is lightweight, folds down to a slim tube, and is easy to stow and set up.
Our choices had to be within a reasonable amount of weight to transport—easy to stow in the car, in the RV, in a backpack, or just to carry down to the beach. On the other hand, we were also conscious of the weight ratings of each chair. We looked for chairs rated to hold the average adult (a minimum of 250 pounds) and found that our winners were often rated far above that coleman canopy and had even been tested to weights far beyond those ratings. Consider chairs with sturdy frames and wide bases for enhanced stability, especially if you’ll be sitting on uneven or rugged terrain such as the beach or a particularly rocky campsite. Similarly, it’s worth being extra careful about stability if you anticipate coming close to the weight limit on your chair.
It’s rated for a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds, the highest of all our selections, and its steel frame is incredibly strong and durable. This chair also comes with an included backpack for carrying it from one location to another. Outdoor furniture is not one size fits all, so think carefully about your unique needs before committing to a style. Shorties (like yours truly) may be uncomfortable in seats that are too high to rest their feet on the ground while their backs are flush against the chair. A few of the lightweights we tested were cozy enough to sleep in for some campers, while others found them to be too narrow to comfortably fit their shoulders.
In regards to comfort, I noticed almost immediately the slight wider seat that gave me enough room to actually adjust my body around to find the right spot. The wooden arm rests also happen to feel significantly better than most made of fabric or plastic. Camp chairs are among the most versatile piece of outdoor equipment out there. They’re great for picnics, backyard BBQs, fishing, sporting events, and portable seating for festivals or concerts. Many people will use their camping chairs as patio furniture (or extra guest patio furniture), so it can be used almost year round. When considering camp chairs, we looked at materials and frame constructions.
Our list includes everything from portable picks for backpacking to comfy loveseats for lounging. For retail purchases returned with a receipt, please return the unused and unopened item, with the
original sales receipt, for a full refund or exchange. All returns with a gift receipt will receive a store
credit for the amount of the item at the time of purchase. You can stow this featherlight, compressible chair in a backpack or even a work bag. Select a chair with a built-in canopy, which will give you a little patch of cool at any campsite or cookout.
We hate carrying camp chairs generally, but found the handle and carrying case comfortable and generously sized enough to sling over our shoulder for a half mile walk down to the beach from the parking lot. We were downright giddy over this spacious, cleverly designed outdoor loveseat. The two-seater slips in and out of a slot in the wrap-up, tote-style carrier, which can be expanded to fit other gear for storage and double as a dog mat when the chair is in use.