Camping Chair Reviews

The right camping chair for you really depends on your needs, your budget, and the type of trips you want to take. If you're a backpacker who needs to save weight and space, you'll want a compact, ultra-lightweight model like the Helinox Chair One. If you're buying for car camping or simply relaxing in the backyard, a larger, more feature-heavy chair with a higher weight capacity and cup holders will likely suit you perfectly.

Still not sure which Camping Chair to choose?

Make sure you read each of our detailed camping chair reviews linked above to get a clearer picture of their comfort and durability in real conditions. If you're stuck between a few favorites, feel free to reach out, as we're always happy to help you pick the right chair for your next adventure

Camping Chair FAQs 

1. How much weight can a camping chair hold? - Most standard chairs hold between 250 and 300 pounds, but always check the specific chair's limit. For more support, look for ‘big and tall’ or ‘heavy-duty’ models, which are built with stronger frames and can often hold 400 pounds or more.

2. What's the difference between a cheap and expensive chair? - You're paying for three things: materials, weight, and design. A cheap chair is fine for occasional use, but it is often heavier and uses weaker parts. An expensive chair is typically lighter, uses tougher fabric that won't sag, and has a sturdier frame built to last for years.

3. Are lightweight backpacking chairs worth it? - If you're hiking and every pound counts, then yes. They offer a comfort you can't get from sitting on the ground. For car camping, they're probably not necessary, as a larger, more feature-filled chair would be more comfortable for the same price.

4. Why are some camping chairs so low to the ground? - These ‘low-profile’ chairs are more stable, especially in the wind, because they sit closer to the earth. They're great for lounging, but can be tough to get in and out of if you have knee or mobility issues.

5. What should I look for in a chair for a bigger person? - Look for a chair specifically called ‘heavy-duty,’ ‘big and tall,’ or ‘oversized.’ Don't just check the weight limit; make sure the seat is physically wider and the back is taller. These models are built with stronger frames and tougher fabric for safety and comfort. REI has a guide on how to choose a camp chair, if interested.

6. How do I stop my chair from sinking into the grass? - This is a common issue with the easiest fix being to get larger foot attachments. These are often plastic discs that snap onto the bottom of the chair legs, spreading out the weight so they don't sink in as easily.

7. Can I repair a broken camping chair? - Often, yes. You can usually order a replacement pole from the manufacturer. For fabric tears, a sturdy patch and some heavy-duty thread can work. For small holes or broken plastic, a strong repair tape can be a quick fix to get you through a trip.

8. What extra features are actually useful? - The most handy features are a cup holder, a side pocket for your phone, and a carry bag with shoulder straps. Some higher-end chairs also offer reclining backs, adjustable headrests, or extra pillows for more comfort.

Afterword

We hope you liked our review of the best camping chairs in the US. After all our research, we think at the end of the day, there are plenty of great options that can suit your individual needs. In the process of deciding what is best for you, we suggest thinking about what you want it for (e.g. primarily relaxing in comfort, eating or an all-rounder) and how much storage space you have. If you would like us to review a product or have any feedback, we’d love to hear from you. Feel free to drop us a note.

About Our Testing Process

Here at The Equipment Guide, we write reviews for the US with the goal of providing a genuine personal assessment of the best products on the market right here at home.

All products are reviewed and ranked in a methodical and careful manner and we assess them on relevant key features. We do not accept free products from manufacturers.

Our mission is simple: To create the US’ best outdoor gear reviews.