The great outdoors has beckoned, and you’ve answered the call, so it is time to shake off the workaday shackles and get back to basics with a camping trip. That doesn’t necessarily mean leaving all forms of comfort behind. With a good camping chair, you can soak up all that al fresco goodness while maintaining standards of comfort and, of course, decorum.
The best camping chairs are those that provide comfort and foldability and don’t take up too much valuable space when not in use. They provide a comfortable and convenient way to relax outdoors, whether you’re parked up enjoying the scenery in the Lake District, by the coastline in Cornwall, or exploring the highlands of Scotland. With the right camping chair, you can enjoy a cup of tea, read a book (of course, using your favourite rechargeable camping lantern) or simply stop and take in the views in comfort.
Whether you’re looking for a sturdy, weather-resistant model or a lightweight, foldable design that saves space in your campervan or caravan, there is something to suit you. Alternatively, your preference might be for something like an inflatable camping chair. Features like adjustable recline positions, built-in cup holders, and extra padding can make a big difference, adding just a little bit of luxury.
The best camping chairs at a glance:
Best camping chair: Timber Ridge camping chair – Buy now from Amazon UK
Editor’s choice: Outwell Catamarca XL – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best luxury camping chair: Zempire Halo Lounger- Buy now from Winfields
The best camping chairs in detail:
Best camping chair
Pros
- Directors chair styling
- Plenty of storage
Cons
- No padding in seat
| Weight | 3.3kg |
| Max user weight | 180kg |
| Pack size | 91cm x 54cm x 21cm |
| Opened size | 87cm x 63cm x 47cm |
Editor's pick
Specs:
Pros
- High maximum user weight
- Comfortable upright posture
Cons
- A bit heavy for backpacking
| Weight | 4.1kg |
| Max user weight | 150kg |
| Pack size | 96cm x 23cm x 20cm |
| Opened size | 96cm x 90cm x 62cm |
Best lightweight camping chair
Rrp: $109.95
Rrp: $109.95
Specs:
Pros
- Compact size
- Lightweight
Cons
- Sits low to the ground
| Weight | 0.96kg |
| Max user weight | 145kg |
| Pack size | 35cm x 12cm x 10cm |
| Opened size | 66cm x 52cm x 50cm |
Best luxury camping chair
Pros
- Recliner function
- Side table
Cons
- Only suitable for camper van or caravan use
| Weight | 9.98kg |
| Max user weight | 180kg |
| Pack size | 91cm x 65cm x 17cm |
| Opened size | 109cm x 53cm x 54cm |
Best moon chair
Pros
- Easy, single-action assembly
- Deep, comfy tub design
Cons
- Still quite large when folded
| Weight | 6.92kg |
| Max user weight | 120kg |
| Pack size | 108cm x 48cm x 20cm |
| Opened size | 89cm x 60cm x 60cm |
Lightest camping chair
Pros
- Small size
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not so suitable for relaxing
| Weight | 0.34kg |
| Max user weight | 120kg |
| Pack size | 42cm x 7cm |
| Opened size | 33cm x 33cm x 32cm |
Best deck chair
Pros
- Classic design
- Upright seating position
Cons
- Bulkier than expected when folded
| Weight | 2.6kg |
| Max user weight | 113kg |
| Pack size | 75cm x 53cm x 13cm |
| Opened size | 78cm x 62cm x 53cm |
What to look for in a new camping chair:
While the camping chair is, in many ways, a basic and simple object, there are a few key points to note when looking for a new one. The first thing to look for is fabric tautness, which dictates how much fabric sags when under a load – this sag can make or break a camping chair, so looking for a robust frame that’ll hold everything in place is key.
The second thing to note is the maximum capacity. Every outdoor chair carries varying maximum loads and exceeding these may damage the chair and the sitter.
The third thing to consider is chair weight and size – this will determine the activity a chair is best suited to. For example, the Helinox Chair One is ideal for those who wish to take it hiking too because it’s small, compact, and lightweight.
However, if you’re going to only use a chair in the garden or at a campsite within walking distance of your campervan, a large luxurious chair like the Zempire Halo Lounger will be a fine choice.
How we choose
All of these camping chairs have been hand-selected by our team of experts who have spent hours investigating and researching camping chairs to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we’d never recommend a product we don’t believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer for Parkers, specialising in power tools and pressure washers. In his spare time, he enjoys DIY, travel, gardening and music.
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