Back Pain Or Pain In The Neck? Best Camp Chairs For 2023
Say hello to more relaxing camping memories with the right camp chair!
Say goodbye to uncomfortable camping experiences with the right camp chair!
Experience camping wherever you go with our diverse recommendations for camp chairs. We chose basic folding chairs, two-person chairs, even rocking chairs and more — so no matter what style you want, there’s something that’s perfect for you.
The chairs we have represented are lightweight and easy to use. They provide the much needed reset after a long day of camping activities, so, the only real question is which is the right one for you.
Take your outdoor experience to the next level by getting a head start on summer - by getting set with a new camp chair.
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Camp Chairs
Camping is a great way to get outdoors, relax and enjoy nature. But in order to make the most of your camping experience, you need the right gear. Camp chairs are one of the most important pieces of equipment to help you relax after a hard day of playing and sometimes a hard night of sleeping.
They provide a comfortable place to sit, relax, eat. But, beyond that, the camp chair facilitates watching kids mess with the fire, make their first s’more or drop their hot dog into the fire. This is all outside of the conversations you will have with friends and family that create all those great camping memories.
When choosing camp chairs, there are several factors to consider such as portability, comfort level, and durability. With so many different types of camp chairs available on the market today, it can be difficult to choose which one is best for you. Whether it is a basic chair, rocking chair, kid chair, two person chair, bungee or a director chair, we will discuss all the various types of camp chairs available and help you make an informed decision when it comes time to buy your own camp chair.
On to the recommendations!
Ron Knezek
What we like
The Amazon Basics Camp Chair is our recommendation for the best value camp chair. The Amazon brand has done a pretty decent job procuring products that serve needs within a budget. This one is no different. It is the perfect outdoor companion, equipped with a cup holder, storage pocket, and insulated cooler pouch. This is all while maintaining a light, collapsible design which facilitates quick set up and break downs – simply fold it up and store it away in the included bag with shoulder strap for easy stowing and comfortable travel. Enjoy your outdoor adventures with this heavy-duty 300 lbs capacity camping chair.
More details
- The nylon mesh fabric panels provide cooling ventilation for your comfort in warm weather.
- Convenient beverage-cooler pouch lets you keep beverages cool and close at hand.
- The built-in cup holder and side storage pocket are great for holding open beverages and personal items such as sunscreen or binoculars.
- A strong, steel frame provides reliable strength while being compact enough to fold up and fit inside most car trunks.
- Comes with a carry bag with shoulder strap so you can easily transport it wherever you go.
- 300 lbs capacity.
What we like
Get ready to relax outside with our pick for the best rocker camp chair; the GCI Outdoor Rocking Chair! Enjoy a gentle rocking motion as you sit in comfort, with a mesh backrest to keep you cool and portable design that quickly and easily folds flat for storage and transportation. This chair is crafted from a sturdy powder-coated aluminum frame that supports up to 250 pounds. It includes padded arm rests and built-in beverage holder.
The unique rocking motion comes by way of two chock absorbing springs at the base of each rear leg. This is truly an innovative and comfortable way to spend time around the campfire.
More Details
- Solid aluminum frame offers long-lasting durability and supports up to 250 pounds.
- Comfortably relax with the padded armrests.
- Easy to open, close and carry.
- Lightweight design weighs only 12 lbs. (great for a rocker!)
What we like
The Ever Advanced Director’s Chair delivers a great experience if you have never camped with this type of chair. This is obviously our choice for the best director’s chair for camping. This aluminum alloy frame is 33% lighter and 20% stronger than regular aluminum making is perfect for use in the camping site and loading in a vehicle.
It weighs in a 9.26 lbs with an 18.5" seat back so you have a full-sized chair to relax in. The side table that comes with this design of chair is truly where it shines. With an included cup holder, you will actually have a place to put your plate of food while eating. Sounds a bit strange, but when camping, its really not safe to take anything for granted.
More details
- Open Size - 24.5 (L) x 18.4 (W) x 37 (H)
- Easy Folding Size - 19.5 (L) x 8.5 (W) x 35 (H) inches
- Ultra lightweight design - 9.26 lbs compared to 15 lbs for generic brands.
- Enhanced durability and weight capacity up to 350 lbs
What we like
Our pick for the best bungee camp chair is the Timber Ridge Fraser Deluxe Folding Outdoor Bungee Chair. That is a long name. Bungee chairs provide unique levels of comfort with its with their bungee-cord suspension systems that you really have to try to understand. For even more comfort, if you have the space, check a bungee reclining lounger and take naps with the best of them!
This one has a durable powder-coated steel frame and 600D polyester fabric that can support up to 300 lbs. Slightly tilted back, the foam-filled seat and back provide the highest level of comfort for a chair in our opinion. You can also keep a beverage within reach with the integrated drink holder. Folding away easily & conveniently, this chair is perfect for camping or whatever else people do outside.
More details
- Sturdy powder-coated steel frame
- 600D polyester fabric
- Can support up to 300 lbs.
- Effortless folding mechanism guarantees easy storage
- Carry bag with strap included
- Measuring 22.44" x 36.2" x 18.11
What we like
Have a unique sitting experience with our top pick for the best two person chair; the Kelty Loveseat Camp Chair! With a steel frame, insulated beverage holders, and roll-tote carry bag, this camping-friendly cuddle couch is perfect for sharing with a friend, family member, or even your furry best friend. Enjoy the breeze while lounging 13.5 inches off the ground and 42 inches of sweat-free sitting. Sweat happens!
This adjustable chair is perfect for those looking for a cozy spot to sit outdoors. The weight capacity of 400 lbs provides seating for two properly matched campers. Plus, it folds up into a neat roll tote for easy transport.
More details
- Weight - 15.3 lbs
- Capacity - 2 people, 400 lbs
- Mesh material
- Dimensions - 23" D X 46" W X 13.5" H
- Kelty’s limited lifetime warranty
What we like
The name has beach in it. I know. But, the Kids Only Beach Baby Chair is our pick for the best kids’ camp chair none the less! The chair features a unique design that allows you to attach and remove the umbrella quickly and easily. It has a matching shoulder bag to transport the Kids Only Beach Baby Chair easily and via the kid. Recommended for small children only.
More details
- Perfectly designed for toddlers aged 2 to 5, this chair is exceptionally sturdy and comfortable.
- The built-in cup holder provides the perfect spot for their favorite sippy cup.
- Comes with a matching tote bag and shoulder strap for easy carrying.
- No assembly required, and it has a safety lock that prevents the chair from closing unexpectedly.
- 11 inch seat height ensures your child sits comfortably and safely.
Buyer's Guide and FAQs for Camp Chairs
What should I look for when buying a camping chair?
It is essential to think about a few things when selecting a camp chair. Firstly, you need to decide what you will use it for - if its for backpacking, then weight and packed size should be the main factors. Additionally, the size/height of your chair is crucial as well; if you require something roomier, bigger is better. Lastly, design preference should also be taken into account - these include classic, two-legged, three-legged, rocker and glider designs.
What is the lifespan of a camping chair?
When talking about the lightweight camping chairs that some take with them on backpacking trips, it's important to note that these tend to have a lower lifespan; usually lasting for around 10 years.
What are the holes in camping chairs for?
To stop the accumulation of rain water, three drainage holes are drilled into the seat of the chair and set at the required angle. Additionally, plastic is reinforced close to each side-hole located 3/4" from its end so that it retains its flexibility.
How strict are weight limits on camping chairs?
Standard camping chairs are usually designed to hold up to 250 lbs. Nevertheless, if you weigh more or are quite tall, this might not give you the stability and comfort needed. Even for people who do weigh no more than 250 lbs, it can still be nerve-wracking to know that they’re close to the maximum weight capacity of the chair.
Can camping chairs be left outside?
To avoid corrosion of the screws and sun damage on the fabric, I suggest not leaving it outside. We have our folding chair stowed in the garage, but if you don't have much room at home then it can be kept in a closet.
How do you keep a camping chair dry?
To keep your camping chairs safe from the rain, you should consider adding a tarp or rain cover over them and store them in your vehicle overnight. This will help to maintain their strength and prevent mildew from forming.
Final word on camp chairs
Those we our thoughts about camp chairs along with some suggestions to get you going the right direction. Regardless of the style you choose, whether basic, rocker, bungee, two person or for kids, the right choice will enhance your camping experience.
Remember, the most important part of any camping trip is not the gear, it really is the people with whom you spend time. Whether it is family or friends, out goal is to minimize the distractions of either not having the right gear, or the gear malfunctioning so you can focus on what's most important.
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~ Ron
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