You don’t have to endure having a numb bum during your outdoor adventure. We’ve put together this article to bring you the best camping chairs that you can bring to your next trip. We’ve considered factors like comfort, packability, functionality, and durability. Whether you’re looking for a sideline seat or a nap chair, this article will have something for you.
1. REI Co-op Camp X
When you’re going on an adventure, you’d want to bring durable and comfortable outdoor camping chairs. It should also be something that you can store easily for maximum convenience. Well, Camp X from REI Co-op is just what you need. It has x-shaped webbing that provides effective tension to the seat. The weight of the chair is also distributed evenly, thanks to the durable back panel and steel frame.
What’s more, you can stow smaller items like keys and phones or even a beverage with the chair’s cup holder and drop-down pocket. You’ll also love its breathable mesh-heavy built especially during the summer season. The best part is that the chair quickly dries up in case it rains unexpectedly.
2. Alps Mountaineering King Kong
When reliability and comfort are your top priorities for camping chairs, you should include King Kong from Alps Mountaineering. It is one of the most heavily padded and largest camping chairs available. It has a tall back, a 24.5-inch seat, and 600-denier seat fabric. What’s more, it claims to be strong enough to carry up to 800 lbs.
However, if you’re a minimalist, the Alps Mountaineering King Kong may not be the ideal option for you. It weighs over 13 lbs., making it one of the heaviest camping chairs on the market. Besides, it can take up a huge amount of space on your truck bed or in the back of your vehicle. It’s not for everyone, especially for those who want to travel light. Even so, if you want supreme comfort and you have enough cargo space, then King Kong is a great camping chair for you.
3. NEMO Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair
Looking for a rocking chair, hammock, and recliner? You can get all of those when you chose the NEMO Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair. You can swing back and forth, stay upright, or recline because the mesh body of the chair is suspended above its aluminum frame. Besides, the padded armrests and headrest are both functional and comfortable. You’ll even have a phone pocket to store small items and a cup holder for your beverage.
The downside of choosing this camping chair is its cost. You can easily spend hundreds of dollars because the chair costs the same amount as an entire tent or a sleeping bag. What’s more, it’s not as easily foldable as the first two options we mentioned in this article. It would take a bit longer for you to set this chair up. Even so, its undeniable versatility and stunning looks are worth the investment.
What to Consider When Choosing a Camping Chair
A recent survey from Acumen Research and Consulting found an increasing number of Americans discovering the benefits of spending time outside and going camping. Consequently, the market size of camping gear also went up. Valued at $15,267 million in 2021, it is projected to grow to $27,318 million by 2030. If you’re part of these figures, you should also get a reliable comfy seat where you can relax during your camping trip.
Now, what should you consider when selecting the best camping chair? Here are some factors to remember:
Price
Getting an excellent camping chair does not have to burn a hole in your pocket. Even so, spending a little more for your comfort would not hurt. It may even make your trip more memorable because you can relax after a long day. So, before you go shopping, make sure you sketch up a budget for your chair. Choose the one that will bring the best value for your money.
Weight
Chairs for camping are a bit different from the ones you bring for backpacking. For the former, packability and weight are not deal breakers. Even so, it would be reasonable to consider these features for portability and storage. If you need to be mobile for trips to the beach or hiking, you should opt for a chair that you can easily carry around. On the other hand, you can prioritize comfort if you have enough space in your vehicle and you’re not bringing your chair far from your car.
Height
If you’re camping by the sea, you should opt for a low camping chair. This way, your seat is more portable and it won’t block the view of other people behind you. Now, if you want a chair that you can easily sit on or get out of, look for camping chairs with higher seats. They are perfect for individuals with bad knees who have trouble getting up and sitting down. Plus, they are usually more comfortable for extended use.
Comfort
Camping chairs are supposed to let you relax and rest after a long day of hiking or standing up. So, if you cannot sit comfortably, then the chair is practically useless. However, you should know that each person has their own idea of comfort. Some people like adequate support while others prioritize the ability to recline and rest their heads.
Weight Capacity and Durability
Usually, camping chairs that have a higher weight capacity are bulkier and heavier. However, they are also known to be quite durable. You can expect them to last for several seasons even under different weather conditions. Now, keep in mind that because more durable chairs are bulkier, they are not quite portable. They are usually ideal for outdoor trips that won’t require you to move too often.
For instance, if you’re planning to hike before you set up camp, then a bulky camping chair is not ideal. On the other hand, if you’re staying in one place the entire trip, then it wouldn’t be an issue.
Conclusion
Before choosing the camping chair for your trip, make sure you perform your due diligence. What you select will depend on your budget and needs. Of course, the kind of outdoor trip you’re planning will also determine the best camping chair for you.