A reliable and cozy camping chair is the key to a relaxing weekend of car camping. Over the last five years, we’ve tested over 50 chairs to help you find the perfect one for your needs. From brands like Kijaro, Kelty, NEMO, Helinox, and more, we’ve spent over 500 days and nights car camping to curate this list of the top-rated camping chairs based on comfort, durability, portability, and ease of use/setup.
To stay snuggly warm on chilly nights, we’ve also tested the best camping blankets. And if you need a full setup, we have what you need with our guides to our favorite camping tables and coolers.
Quick Picks for Camping Chairs
Check out this quick list of the best camping chairs or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews:
Best Camping Chair Overall: Kijaro Dual Lock ($50)
Best Budget Camp Chair: REI Skyward ($60)
Best Double Camp Chair: Kelty Low Loveseat ($140)
Best High Weight Limit Camping Chair: ALPS Mountaineering King Kong ($80)
Comfortable & Durable Luxury Camp Chair: YETI Trailhead ($300)
Best Reclining Camp Chair: NEMO Stargaze ($250)
Best Ultralight Portable Camping Chair: Helinox Chair Zero ($150)
Comfy Lounger with Adjustable Height: ENO Lounger DL ($135)
Best Rocking Camp Chair: GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker ($77)
Affordable Chair with a Pocket Cooler: Amazon Basics Camping Chair ($25-$50)
What’s new
We’ve added the ENO Lounger DL to the list. It’s a hammock-style lounge chair with an adjustable height that’s ideal for concerts and relaxing at a campsite.
Kijaro Dual Lock
Best Camping Chair Overall
Price: $50
Weight: 9 lb. 8 oz.
Weight Limit: 300 lb.
Seat Height: 20 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Durable material
- Comfortable to sit in for a long time
- Breathable mesh back
- Quick-drying
- Multiple size cup holders
- Sturdy and tall
Cons
- Long packed size
- A bit on the heavy side
The Kijaro Dual Lock is one of our favorite value camp chairs thanks to a quality build and supportive design. This chair uses a wide flip-switch on the support frame to lock the seat into a taut position that’s firm and comfortable to sit in, making it more comfortable than cheap camp chairs that droop and bow. That same lock is used to keep the chair compressed for storage, so it doesn’t come unfolded. And, convenient shoulder straps on both the chair and the case make it easy to transport.
The Dual Lock has one of the tallest seat heights on this list. It sits 20 inches off the ground, making it comfortable for both tall and average-sized adults, although kids and shorter folks might not appreciate the height as much. The tall back and strong frame make this chair simultaneously firm but ergonomic. And, it comes in a variety of colorways from neutral to neon making it easy to match any camp aesthetic.
The Dual Lock is the only chair on this list offering two different-size cup holders. On one arm, a medium cup holder fits a 12 oz. can/bottle or a regular-width thermos, and on the other arm, a large cup holder can fit oversized bottles like a Nalgene or insulated water bottle. Two mesh storage pockets with a beefy zipper on the side are ideal for stashing a phone, chapstick, or lighter.
Our biggest con with this chair is its lengthy packed size. At over 3 feet long, it has one of the longest packed sizes of all the chairs we tested. However, if you have adequate transportation and storage space, this chair’s considerable upsides heavily outweigh this minor downside. And for only $50, this is an outstanding budget buy that will last for years. If you want a serious upgrade over “cheap” camp chairs that are less durable, we highly recommend the comfortable and affordable Kijaro Dual Lock.
REI Skyward
Best Budget Camp Chair
Price: $60
Weight: 7 lb. 3 oz.
Weight Limit: 300 lb.
Seat Height: 14 in.
Pros
- Simple, familiar design
- Less expensive
- Comfortable height for most people
- Breathable mesh
- Quick-drying
- Large cup holder
Cons
- Small containers can tip in large cup holder
- Slightly awkward side pocket
The REI Skyward is an affordable, lightweight, and familiar classic camp chair that’s built for summer lounging. It’s great for sitting around a campfire, at the beach, or just about anywhere. This model is made of a highly breathable mesh with supportive webbing straps, which means it’ll keep you cooler and more comfortable on hot days, and it dries quickly if it gets wet in the rain.
At 14”, the seat height of the Skyward lands in a Goldilocks zone: it’s ideal for tall people, kids, and everyone in between. The tried-and-tested X-frame construction of the chair makes it feel stable and reliable on most surfaces. Like many chairs with this frame design, the material tends to sag a bit in the seat and back when you’re in it. But, we found that the sagging is minimal with the Skyward and the extra bit of “give” makes the chair feel cozy and relaxing instead of narrow and claustrophobic.
Our biggest gripe with the Skyward is its pockets. We like the single oversized cup holder, which is plenty big enough to hold a wide Nalgene, two cans, or even a large mug with a handle. However, this beverage pocket is too wide to hold a single can without tipping over, so you’ll need to be careful with that soda or beer.
The Skyward also has a dangling pocket with a cinch cord on the left arm for stashing small objects and your phone. Because of the angle and small size, it’s not the most convenient or intuitive design. Neither of these things is a dealbreaker, but it does take a bit more focus to use the pockets than other chairs on this list.
The Skyward isn’t a fancy chair, but it is a solid, practical, and wallet-friendly option for summer campers on a budget. Over the years, we’ve found that this is one of the most common chairs we reach for when heading out on camping trips because of its familiarity and simplicity. For a step up in quality from basic camping chairs, the REI Skyward is a great option.
Kelty Low Loveseat
Best Double Camp Chair
Price: $140
Weight: 15 lb. 6 oz.
Weight Limit: 400 lb.
Seat Height: 13.5 in.
Pros
- Great for two
- Comfortable
- Sturdy
- Affordable for a 2-seater
- Insulated for chilly nights
- Multi-use carrying case
- Large adjustable cup holders
Cons
- Slightly larger packed size
- A bit on the heavy side
- Not breathable or quick-drying
If you’re looking for a chair you can share, the Kelty Low Loveseat will be your new favorite perch for two. This double-seater earns our Editor’s Pick because it’s our go-to for anytime you’re adventuring with a buddy, from car camping and frontcountry trips to tailgating and sunset views. This model offers a practical and cozy way to share a seat (and a blanket) with your best bud or dog.
There’s a lot to love about the Low Loveseat. With a burly steel frame, thick quilted fabric, and quality construction this chair is built to last for years. This chair is incredibly versatile, offering style and comfort for a concert at the park or a campfire in your favorite camping spot. For such a robust and wide two-seater, it is comparable, if not easier, to carry and handle than two regular folding camp chairs.
The substantial materials add up to over 15 pounds, so it’s on the heavier and bulkier side compared to the single-seat competition on our list. That said, the Low Loveseat packs down surprisingly small and has a very convenient carrying case. The smartly designed case wraps around the chair and buckles so it’s easy to pack up and cinch tight. The sturdy, thick case also serves double-time as a load hauler for firewood and gear, or as a small ground cloth to keep your feet clean and dry.
With a seat height of only 13.5”, the Low Loveseat has one of the lowest seat heights in this lineup, making it a great option for kiddos, shorter adults, and even dogs with little legs. That said, we’ve found this chair to be very comfortable for all campers, even taller adults. If you’d like a different seating configuration, there’s also a single Lowdown Chair and a 3-person Couch as well as a standard height Loveseat. All are excellent options, but our preference is the Low Loveseat, which is one of our all-time favorite camp chairs.
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong
Best High Weight Limit Camping Chair
Price: $80
Weight: 13 lb.
Weight Limit: 800 lb.
Seat Height: 19 in.
Pros
- High weight capacity
- Less expensive
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Insulated for chilly nights
- Tall and wide seat
- Adjustable armrests
- Convenient storage pockets
Cons
- A bit heavy and bulky
- Slightly long packed size
- Not breathable
The ALPS Mountaineering King Kong is the heaviest-duty chair we tested. With a staggering 800-pound weight limit – almost double the limit of most other chairs on this list – the King Kong is designed for every body shape and size.
ALPS Mountaineering doesn’t cut any corners with the King Kong. It features powder-coated steel for corrosion resistance, with reinforcements on all the joints, a burly, quilted polyester seat that’s over two feet wide, and one of the tallest seat heights on this list. In cooler temperatures, the King Kong’s quilted fabric insulates far better than a mesh chair, which means your back won’t get as cold when you’re sitting around a campfire at night.
If you’re looking for a chair with storage, the King Kong has the most of any seat on this list. Each armrest has an average-sized cup holder as well as a big polyester pocket which has more than enough room for a book or an iPad. We appreciate the huge mesh stash pocket that runs the width of the chair at the back for storing everything from a hat to chapstick.
The biggest downside of the King Kong? At 13 pounds, it’s among the heavier and bulkier options on our list. So if you don’t need the extra weight capacity, this might not be the chair for you. That said if you’re looking for the strongest, sturdiest, and most durable camping chair on our list – with the widest seat available – you just found it.
The King Kong is a great choice for anyone who prioritizes durability, affordability, and comfort. It’s hefty, and a bit bulkier than some of the other chairs on our list, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a longer-lasting camping chair, especially in this price range. Whether you’re a hunter, fisher, car camper, or hiker, this is a seriously durable chair for people of all shapes and sizes.
YETI Trailhead
Comfortable & Durable Luxury Camping Chair
Price: $300
Weight: 13 lb. 4.8 oz.
Weight Limit: 500 lb.
Seat Height: 16.75 in.
Pros
- Well-built
- Very comfortable
- Durable
- High weight limit
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Comfortable armrests
- Backpack-style carrying case
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
- Bulkier than some
- Only one cupholder
The YETI Trailhead is one of the most comfortable, durable, and highest quality camp chairs we’ve tested, blurring the line between patio furniture and camping equipment. The seat feels very supportive but also soft and springy, with a smart frame design that holds you in a relaxed upright position and cradles your curves without pressure. The material is also airy and breathable, which feels great on warm days. That also means it dries quickly after an afternoon storm or a frosty night.
This chair stands out for its burly construction. The Trailhead’s frame is rated to hold up to 500 pounds, giving it one of the highest weight capacities on this list. The wide metal crossbars and hefty, puck-sized feet offer outstanding stability and security on rough surfaces. And, in case anything happens to the chair due to manufacturer error, YETI offers an impressive 5-year warranty.
However, at over 13 pounds, the Trailhead is one of the heaviest chairs we tested. Luckily, it collapses into a long, narrow package and comes with a thick carrying case that is just as robust as the chair itself. It’s made of the same ultra durable material and features a stout zipper and two padded backpack-style straps to free up your hands, making it easy to carry.
The biggest downside of this chair is its price tag. The Trailhead is one of the most expensive chairs on our list and one of the most expensive we’ve ever tested. However, we’ve also found that it is hands down one of the most comfortable, durable, and high-quality camping chairs we’ve ever tested. It’s truly built to last and is well worth the investment for those who use it regularly. If you’re looking for a robust and comfortable camp chair and you’re willing to pay for the best of the best, look no further than the YETI Trailhead.
NEMO Stargaze
Best Reclining Camping Chair
Price: $250
Weight: 8 lb. 11 oz.
Weight Limit: 300 lb.
Seat Height: 12 in.
Pros
- Unique suspension
- High back
- Headrest with pillow
- Comfortable
- Reclines & rocks
- Breathable
- Quick-drying
- Compact
Cons
- Expensive
- Material can bunch up at back
The swing-like NEMO Stargaze Chair is unlike any camp chair you’ve ever seen. Its unique design allows you to float, rock, and even recline horizontally, raising the bar on luxury camping. The wide, curved frame creates plenty of elbow room, and padding over the webbing and buckles allows for a natural arm placement in a number of positions.
This chair is full of clever and innovative features. A wide mesh panel on the back keeps airflow moving, and its cushy, oversized headrest can be adjusted up or down along 12 inches of double-track Velcro, catering to almost any neck or head position. It also has two stretchy cupholders that double as stash pockets on the inside of the chair, right next to your legs.
The Stargaze’s aluminum frame doesn’t feel tippy or unstable, and it boasts a weight capacity of 300 pounds. That’s good since the chair can recline completely flat. Though we love the reclining feature, there’s no way to keep the Stargaze reclined – it doesn’t lock – so you’ll need to use your body weight to keep it flat. Additionally, at certain angles, the material can bunch up at the lower back. However, these are small gripes – the Stargaze is one of the most popular chairs when camping in a group.
The rocking feature is designed for relaxing, but we found it is also outstanding for people who like to rock, fidget, and swing while they sit. The Stargaze is also fast and intuitive to break down and fits well in its bag. We like that the bag itself is also made of mesh so that the material can breathe if the chair is damp when put away.
The biggest downside of the Stargaze is its hefty price tag. This is one of the most expensive chairs on our list, so it’s unlikely to be a good fit for everyone. Additionally, the Stargaze tends to be a better chair for lounging than sitting up straight. It doesn’t offer much lumbar support, so it’s not practical for eating around a camp table, for example. That said, it’s a truly unique and premium product that feels more like a portable hammock than a camp chair, and the versatility and.
All in all, the top-notch comfort, high-quality build, and exceptional portability make the Stargaze well worth the price if you put it to good use. This chair is always a favorite around our campsites and we expect it to remain one of our go-to chairs for a very long time.
Helinox Chair Zero
Best Lightweight Portable Camping Chair
Price: $150
Weight: 1 lb.
Weight Limit: 265 lb.
Seat Height: 8.5 in.
Pros
- Portable
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
- No cup holders or armrests
- Takes a minute to set up & break down
- Low to ground
If portability is a top priority for your next camping chair, the Helinox Chair Zero is a fantastic option. It’s one of the most versatile ultralight camping and backpacking chairs on the market. Weighing in at only one pound, the Chair Zero is the lightest chair on this list and has an incredible strength-to-weight ratio, rated up to 265 pounds. The Chair Zero also boasts one of the smallest packed sizes – it folds up into a stuff sack about the size of a water bottle. That’s why we also named it the Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair on our Best Backpacking Chairs Guide.
The Chair Zero is simple and fast to set up, with a quick-assembly frame that nests into the ripstop nylon of the chair. We found the chair material is impressively durable and doesn’t sag or droop, even after hundreds of uses, and the rugged poles hold up well in most camping conditions.
This chair does have smaller dimensions though. With a seat height of 8.5 inches, the Chair Zero is one of the lowest chairs on this list, making it less than ideal for those with mobility concerns and really tall campers. Additionally, this chair is an expensive investment. That said, we’ve found that it’s well worth the price tag if you’re looking for a highly portable and versatile ultralight chair that you’ll put to good use camping or backpacking.
We recommend the Chair Zero for people who want a high-quality ultralight chair that can be used in almost any situation. It takes up minimal packed space, so it’s a breeze to carry. We like to take ours on backpacking trips where comfort is a priority, but it’s so small and convenient that it works well from car camping to beach days, road trips to picnics, and vista overlooks to backyard barbecues.
Full Review: Helinox Chair Zero
ENO Lounger DL
Comfy Lounger with Adjustable Height
Price: $135
Weight: 4 lb. 10 oz.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 10 in.
Pros
- 2 Adjustable leg lengths
- Relaxing hammock feel
- Supportive tall back
- Durable material
- Large, soft headrest
- Lightweight
Cons
- Single cup holder
- Takes a minute to set up & break down
- Lower weight capacity
The ENO Lounger DL blends the comfort of a hammock with the practicality of a low camp chair. The unique triangular frame and bucket-style seat create a swinging, weightless sensation that mimics a hammock, without the hassle of setup. With two adjustable leg lengths, you can easily switch between lounging positions by folding the legs to find the sweet spot for a nap after a long day of hiking.
The Lounger DL has one deep, wide pocket that easily fits a book, phone, and sunglasses. The tall back, soft armrests, and pillowy headrest make this chair feel luxurious, and the suspended fabric conforms to your body, creating a snug and comfortable sitting experience. Plus, it has one of the lowest weights and smallest packed sizes on this list. This chair is easy to transport and store, whether you’re hanging around town or roasting marshmallows for s’mores around the campfire.
The ENO Lounger requires a few more steps to set up than most chairs on this list, including assembling the frame and hooking on the seat material, but it doesn’t take too long. With a maximum seat height of 10 inches, the Lounger DL has one of the lowest seat heights on this list. Due to its low position, getting in and out of the chair might pose a challenge for those with mobility issues, but overall it’s a great lounger for both kids and adults.
If you love the feel of a hammock, you’ll love the ENO Lounger DL. It strikes an excellent balance between the coziness of a hammock with the portability of a camp chair and could easily become your new favorite chilling spot at camp, the backyard, or the beach.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker
Best Rocking Camping Chair
Price: $77
Weight: 11 lb. 12.8 oz.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 19.7 in.
Pros
- Soothing rocking motion
- Sturdy
- Supportive back & seat
- Durable construction
- Comfortable
Cons
- Heavy & bulky
- Flimsy cup holder
- Slightly shallow seat
The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is a versatile, durable rocking chair for an excellent price. The rocking action comes from two spring-loaded shocks that create a gentle and rhythmic swaying motion. It’s perfect for those who like a bit of soothing movement while they sit, but don’t want to give up the firm support and classic look of a traditional camp chair.
Unlike some options that sag, causing your body to slump and your back to round out, the Freestyle Rocker has a taut seat and back made from polyester that provides impressive support. The mesh back allows for a bit more airflow. It also leads the pack for one of the tallest seat heights – at almost 20 inches off the ground – so it’s easy to get into and out of for most people.
Though we love this chair for kicking it at base camp, its rocking motion is comfortable enough that we were reaching for it way beyond the woods. We’ve brought it everywhere from July Fourth cookouts and tailgate parties to backyard BBQs and kids’ soccer practice.
Although we like the ease of setup – the Freestyle Rocker simply opens in a one-step motion – this chair doesn’t pack down small, making it a challenge to transport. And at nearly 12 pounds, it is also near the bottom of the pack for weight. There’s a thick handle on the side of the frame for carrying, but this chair isn’t great for long-distance travel. And, we’ve found the struts can get a bit squeaky over time.
That said, for those who aren’t as concerned with portability, the Freestyle Rocker is an excellent choice for around the campfire, on the porch, or in the yard. Additionally, the price of this chair is very reasonable, especially since it will last for years of use if treated with care.
Amazon Basics Chair
Affordable Chair with a Pocket Cooler
Price: $25-50
Weight: 8 lb. 9 oz.
Weight Limit: 225 lb.
Seat Height: 15.7 in.
Comfort: 7
Pros
- Simple, familiar design
- Affordable
- Padded seat & back
- Insulated cooler pocket
- Storage pocket
- Large storage bag
Cons
- Bulky
- Less durable
- Low weight capacity
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option on our list, the Amazon Basics Portable Folding Camping Chair is an economical choice. This chair is familiar and simple – when picturing a “classic” camp chair, this is probably what you imagine. It has a solid back, a single cup holder and a large pocket to hold a book, phone, or other small items.
The Amazon Basics chair stands out because it has an insulated cooler pocket that keeps up to 3 cans or 2 bottles conveniently close at hand. That said, this feature falls a bit short – the cooler pocket doesn’t hold ice for long, and the zipper closure tends to catch on the material. It’s nonetheless unique, and is handy for storing additional small items instead of drinks when necessary.
We like that this chair comes in three style options, including a mesh and Padded XL version that’s lightly cushioned. Though the two padded models are generally a bit more comfortable, the mesh version has a breathable back for faster drying and keeping cool on hot summer days.
This chair isn’t the most durable or comfortable, and has a lower weight capacity of 225 pounds. But, like the name implies, the Amazon Basics chair checks all the boxes for a conventional and practical seat when you need it. And with a price tag like that, you could easily outfit a family of four with camping chairs without breaking the bank.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Weight Limit | Seat Height | Comfort | Durability | Portability | Ease of Use | 0 |
Kijaro Dual Lock View at Amazon View at Kijaro 
|
$50 | 9 lb. 8 oz. | 300 lb. | 20 in. | 8 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 9 | 1 |
REI Skyward View at REI 
|
$60 | 7 lb. 3 oz. | 300 lb. | 14 in. | 7.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 2 |
Kelty Low Loveseat View at REI View at Amazon
|
$140 | 15 lb. 6 oz. | 400 lb. | 13.5 in. | 9 | 9 | 7 | 9.5 | 3 |
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong View at Amazon |
$80 | 13 lb. | 800 lb. | 19 in. | 8.5 | 10 | 8.5 | 8 | 4 |
YETI Trailhead View at REI View at Amazon
|
$300 | 13 lb. 4.8 oz. | 500 lb. | 16.75 in. | 9.5 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 5 |
NEMO Stargaze View at REI View at Amazon |
$250 | 8 lb. 11 oz. | 300 lb. | 12 in. | 9.5 | 8 | 9 | 6.5 | 6 |
Helinox Chair Zero View at REI View at Amazon |
$150 | 1 lb. | 265 lb. | 8.5 in. | 6.5 | 7 | 10 | 7.5 | 7 |
ENO Lounger DL View at REI View at Amazon |
$135 | 4 lb. 10 oz. | 250 lb. | 10 in. | 9 | 8 | 9.5 | 7 | 8 |
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker View at REI View at Amazon |
$77 | 11 lb. 12.8 oz. | 250 lb. | 19.7 in. | 7 | 8.5 | 6 | 9.5 | 9 |
Amazon Basics Chair View at Amazon
|
$25-50 | 8 lb. 9 oz. | 225 lb. | 15.7 in. | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8.5 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
Our comprehensive analysis of camping chairs takes into account four factors: comfort, durability, transportability, and ease of use and setup. Below, we outline each of the elements that go into our ultimate determination of product performance in each of those metrics.
COMFORT
Comfort covers a wide range of camping chair factors for us and it is also the most important when we select our favorites. For this metric, we consider a variety of chair dimensions such as seat width, and depth, as well as back height, all of which contribute to the comfort and support for users of different body types. The type of material is significant to us as well – especially since summer hang sessions in a camping chair can mean hot and humid weather – so we assess the breathability of seat fabric as well as the stickiness factor. We also evaluate each chair’s reclining ability, assessing the range of motion and stability for different levels of chill. We test armrests for their padding, adjustability, and ergonomic design for all-evening comfort. Lastly, we take into account stated weight limits and additional features like cup holders or storage pockets.
DURABILITY
When it comes to durability, we give thorough scrutiny to key specs such as fabric thickness to ensure resilience against tears and abrasion, seam stitching looking for reinforced stitching and quality construction that limits unraveling or failure under stress, and all of the hardware. Metal legs and screws undergo stress testing to gauge their strength and resilience to bending and corrosion, assessing long-term stability and structural integrity.
TRANSPORTABILITY
Our assessment of transportability includes the weight of the chair, as well as its packed dimensions – taking into account how much space each chair takes up in the trunk of a typical station wagon or SUV. We also had folks grown and small try to carry each one to see how easy or challenging it is for different members of the family to manage.
EASE OF USE & SETUP
We consider ease of use and setup to be the movements that happen in and around the chair. We look at how convenient it is to grab a drink from the cupholder or a pair of sunglasses from the storage pocket. For folks with mobility concerns, we also take into account how easy or challenging it is to lower down or get out of each model. For setup, we time how long it takes to set up each model.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We’ve spent over 500 nights camping to assess our lineup. Ian Krammer, Gear Analyst and lead tester, has set up and kicked back in car-camping spots all over Colorado and Utah. He’s camped in hundreds of different places from USFS land, BLM land, and paid, designated camping spots from high alpine lakes to dusty, scalding hot deserts. His vast experience in outdoor gear testing, combined with his background in product analysis, allows him to assess each chair for its metrics and top qualities. This comprehensive approach guarantees that the chairs on this list are the best of the best.
Analysis & Results
In the sections below, we share our findings for the top-performing products in each dimension of our testing – comfort, durability, portability, and ease of use/setup.
VALUE
Value is our measure of performance relative to price. We look for camping chairs that are both out-of-this-world good and are worth the loftier price tag as well as more affordable options that outperform expectations.
The Amazon Basics Camping Chair has a sturdy alloy steel frame, cushy seat, and built-in cooler pouch. It’s one of the most affordable options we’ve looked at so you can get multiple chairs without putting too much of a dent in your wallet. The Kijaro Dual Lock also stands out thanks to its breathable mesh fabric, durable construction, and very reasonable price point. We’re also big fans of the REI Skyward, with plenty of storage and a stable X-frame design that’s an excellent value for campers seeking durability and convenience.
Although it’s a slightly higher price point, the Kelty Low Loveseat is one of the best values out there as a two-seater chair that’s super durable, comfortable, and a bit closer to the ground so you can share with your favorite human or dog. This chair is a great value since it’s got two seats for less than half the price of our most premium options.
And, while it is one of the most expensive options we’ve reviewed, the YETI Trailhead offers outstanding value as one of the most well-made, durable, and comfortable chairs we’ve tried. It’ll cost more upfront, but this chair will last for many years of rough use with minimal maintenance, and could easily become your go-to at home, camp, and beyond.
COMFORT
Our top choice when it comes to comfort is the NEMO Stargaze, with its innovative reclining mechanism and smooth swinging motion. If you’re trying to get in the lounging position, this is the one. Its supportive headrest and plush padded armrests, the breathable mesh back to keep you cool, and almost horizontal reclining ability make this one of the coziest seats at camp.
The Yeti Trailhead is also a stellar option due to its ergonomic design that lends awesome lumbar support and a wide, spacious seat. The mesh conforms a bit to your body, making it feel supportive but comfy without sagging, and its ultra-wide and secure footing means your chair will stay put as you nap.
We’re also big fans of the ENO Lounger DL. This one is designed like a hammock, offering a reclining bucket seat design with a cushioned headrest and breathable nylon fabric for a cool and comfy place to rest. Plus, the adjustable legs can get you a bit further off the ground.
The Kelty Low Loveseat provides a great blend of comfort and coziness with its double-wide design, making it perfect for two people to relax together. The quilted, padded fabric offers a plush and inviting feel, and the lower height makes it ideal for kids, dogs, and kicking it close to the campfire.
Last for the top comfort performers, the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong is one of the most generously padded seats, backs, and armrests on this list. It offers a soft, supportive, and warm sitting experience on an extra-wide seat that accommodates campers of all sizes thanks to its high weight capacity. The adjustable armrests and durable, high-quality fabric make it a great choice for comfort at camp.
DURABILITY
One of the most durable chairs we looked at, the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong, is built to last. With its rugged steel frame and super burly, durable 600D polyester fabric, this chair effortlessly handles frequent use and rough outdoor conditions. The King Kong’s reinforced stress points and sturdy construction make it exceptionally durable.With the highest weight capacity of any chair we looked at, it’s capable of handling extremely heavy loads without compromising stability.
The Kijaro Dual Lock also has a strong steel frame and fabric that’s tear- and abrasion-resistant. The dual-locking system adds more stability, preventing it from moving or collapsing unexpectedly, adding an extra layer of strength, and prolonging its lifespan.
Also consider the YETI Trailhead camping chair, with one of the most rugged and strong mesh blends on the market, built to endure years of heavy use in harsh outdoor conditions. Its heavily reinforced construction and robust components like oversized feet and corrosion-resistant hardware give it incredible longevity.
The Kelty Low Loveseat also makes the list due to its strong construction, like reinforced stress points and sturdy materials that thrive in regular use outdoors year after year. An element we love the most about this chair is the very durable carrying case that makes it easy to carry not only the chair, but bulky gear, wood, and anything else you want to haul around camp.
PORTABILITY
You won’t find a more portable option than the Helinox Chair Zero because of its incredibly lightweight design and compact size when packed. Weighing in at just over one pound and folding down to the size of a water bottle, this thing is effortless to carry on backpacking trips or outdoor adventures where space and weight are at a premium.
The ENO Lounger DL also packs fairly small, but at only four pounds and ten ounces, this chair is one of the most lightweight options on our list. It collapses into a small, manageable size and the carrying case comes with an integrated carry strap for convenient transportation, making it ideal for camping, picnics, and the beach.
And, the NEMO Stargaze is also super portable. The lightweight and durable frame folds into an impressively small size and packs away easily into its mesh carrying case. The small design means it fits well in a car trunk or at home without taking up much space, and at eight pounds and 11 ounces, this model is fairly easy to carry to the riverbank or campfire.
EASE OF USE / SETUP
The Kelty Low Loveseat is one of the easiest chairs to set up and tear down with its simple, yet efficient, design. We like that there’s no bag to struggle with: simply unbuckle the three clips of the carrying case and unroll to access the chair. Since the material is already attached, it’s a one-step process to open the Loveseat and set it where you want. Even if it’s your first time, this chair is a breeze to set up.
The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is similarly easy to use. Its intuitive folding design and well-labeled parts make the Freestyle Rocker fast to set up. With only two steps – pull the arms apart to open up the seat, then push down to lock the seat into place – you’ll be gently swaying with a drink in hand in no time.
Another model with a speedy, no-brainer setup is the Kijaro Dual Lock. It slides out of the bag with ease, and the familiar X-frame design pops open quickly. By pushing down on each of the arms at the same time, the dual-locking system will engage with one solid “click” to ensure the chair is set in its position. To unlock the chair, press on the button on the side, and the chair will collapse.
How to Choose a Camping Chair
COMFORT
The whole purpose of packing a camping chair is to get you up off the ground so you can sit comfortably. But not everyone’s idea of comfort is exactly the same. For some, firm support is critical. For others, having a headrest and being able to recline is key.
DURABILITY/WEIGHT CAPACITY
If you want a chair that will last for the long haul or you need a chair with a higher weight capacity, we recommend one of the stout options below. Sturdy chairs are often a bit heavier and bulkier, so they aren’t quite as easy to carry. But this tradeoff is well worth it in the way of comfort and value.
HEIGHT
Low chairs are great for music events, movies in the park, and trips to the beach because they’re more portable and they don’t block the view of those behind you. Chairs with higher seats are easier to get in and out of (especially for those with bad knees) and are usually more comfortable for extended use.
WEIGHT & PACKED SIZE
While weight and packability aren’t as important for camping chairs as they are for backpacking chairs, it’s still good to consider these specs for storage and portability. If you’ve got the space in your car and won’t be carrying your camping chair very far, comfort is king. If you’re tight on space or need to be more mobile for festivals and trips to the beach, choose a portable chair that’s easy to shoulder without weighing you down.
Honorable Mentions
These chairs have a lot of outstanding features and one of them might be perfect for you:
Kelty Deluxe Lounge – The single-seat, taller version of the Kelty Low Loveseat, this burly and insulated padded chair reclines to 2 positions.
ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Low – Low and comfortable mesh chair for concerts and festivals that’s built to last and is ideal for kids.
NEMO Moonlight – Easy-to-setup ultralight chair with a modest reclining feature that packs small and travels easily.
Conclusion
Whether you’re lounging lakeside or roasting marshmallows under the stars, your camping chair will be there to support you. There are a lot of great choices, so finding the right one for you based on comfort, durability, portability, and ease of use is no small task – but we hope this guide helped you find the best seat for your summer adventures.
