Nothing spoils a serene moment by the campfire faster than a cheap, flimsy camp chair that bends like a pretzel the moment you sit down. You know the type—they entice you from the superstore bargain bin, advertising “comfort” and “durability” alongside a too-good-to-be-true price tag. We understand the temptation of low-price camping gear, but when it comes to outdoor chairs, it’s worth your time (and money) to be a little choosey.
In addition to being one of most abused pieces of camping equipment you might have, a camp chair is like a golden ticket to outdoor relaxation. Good ones support your weight, great ones provide comfort, and the best camping chairs do both, consistently and for many trips. So, ditch the discount aisle junk and learn how to choose an outdoor chair that will keep you the most comfortable you’ve ever been at the campground.
Choosing the Best Camping Chair
Before you click “add to cart” on the first chair that looks decent, take a minute to consider what really matters for your outdoor comfort. This section breaks down the key factors that separate the best camping chairs from the ones destined for the donation pile.
Comfort
When it comes to comfort, your camping chair should feel more like your favorite armchair at home rather than a child’s plastic toy. There are (3) main elements that go into camp chair comfort: seat width, back support, and construction material.
The seat of your camping chair should provide you with enough space to lean back, stretch out, and maybe even cross your legs without a struggle. The backrest should embrace you just right, providing the right mix of support and relief for your lower back and shoulders. And, while cushioning might be too much to ask, the material stretched over the frame should at least be enjoyable to sit on. Some camp chairs, like Lippert’s Scout, actually incorporate padding into the strong, water-repellent polyester fabric, making the back, seat, and armrests feel much more comfortable.
Portability
How easy it is to actually move your camp chair around is another key factor to consider when shopping. After all, what good is a super comfortable outdoor chair if you can’t actually carry it into the great outdoors?
A camping chair that folds into a compact bundle is your best ally when you’re juggling other gear and don’t want to feel like a pack mule. Extra points if it includes a carry bag or strap so you can easily sling it over your shoulder.
Durability
While it often gets pushed aside for the sake of comfort or price, durability is not something you should skimp on when it comes to camp chairs. Inexpensive seating often sports frames that bend easily and fabric that tears or frays after just a few uses—rendering them complete wastes of money.
To prevent ending up on somebody’s Instagram blooper reel, look for camping chairs with robust, rust-resistant frames, ideally constructed from steel or aluminum. These are more likely to stand up to the elements, as well as the sustained weight of a fully grown human being. Look for product descriptions that note a 350-500-pound weight capacity, as these indicate a sturdier and higher-quality build. As for fabric, look for tough materials that can stand up to bad weather, party spills, and the curious claws of a pet (or uninvited woodland creature). Think: reinforced polyester, water-resistant nylon, or rugged mesh.
Extra Features
Now that we’ve addressed the foundational elements of what makes a quality camping chair, it’s time to explore the novelty features. This is the fun stuff—the features that make you call your friend over and exclaim “I didn’t even know a chair could DO this!”
Nowadays, most good camp chairs come standardly equipped with the requisite cup holders and armrests. Sitting back, relaxing, and having your drink right at your fingertips without the risk of it tipping over into the dirt is a basic human right, after all. But it can get even better now that some chairs come with built-in coolers, allowing you to keep a whole six-pack chilled and at-the-ready.
For those who like to have a lot of stuff on hand, there are chairs with integrated side tables and zip-top pouches. And if you’re all about lounging, there are reclining options, portable footrests, rocking chairs, even a loveseat option. Whatever your camping style—minimalist, glamper, or full-blown gearhead—there’s a chair out there that’s ready to rise to the occasion.
Types of Camping Chairs
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to camp chairs—your perfect match depends on how you like to relax outdoors. But before you pick a winner, it helps to know the main types out there and what each one brings to the table (or the fire pit).
- The Classic:This is the simple fold-and-go chair that can be found at every campground, tailgate, and little league baseball game. It’s lightweight, packs up quickly for storage and transport, and won’t break the bank.
- The Lounger:A step up the comfort scale, this type of camping chair includes a reclining or rocking option for peak campground napping and stargazing.
- The Big & Tall:Built for larger bodies and maximum comfort, this type of chair has a more robust construction, impressive weight capacity, and wider frame that’s ideal for folks who want a true armchair experience from their outdoor chair.
- The Tailgater:This type of chair is built for the big game with built-in end tables, armrest coolers, and enough cupholders to rival a minivan.
- The Sharer:Designed for those campers who love to cuddle up with their loved one or pet, this type of chair is actually a portable couch—one that features a double- or triple-wide configuration.
Standout Options
These aren’t your average camp chairs. From built-in heaters to oversized comfort, these picks are raising the bar for fireside lounging—and might just earn you a few jealous stares around the campground.
AirBedz Heated Camping Chair:
This chair packs serious heat—literally—with dual heating zones across the seat and back, plus three adjustable settings that warm up fast and top out at 131°F. It’s perfect for cold-weather or off-season camping, and it doesn’t skimp on comfort or quality either. The wide armrests, 400-pound weight capacity, and weather-resistant build make it a solid pick even without the heating element. Just be aware that it does require a USB Power Pack to keep things toasty.
Faulkner Director Chair:
With a folding side table, built-in cupholders, and a segmented side pouch that can hold your cellphone, snacks, remote, and second beer, this chair is for maximalist campers who love minimalist styling. The frame is constructed of sleek, lightweight-but-tough aluminum tubing that can support up to 300 pounds, and the soft-padded polyester design provides extended comfort that’s built to last.
Lippert Components Zero-Gravity Camping Chair:
If your idea of camping involves maximum chill mode, this chair delivers. Its zero-gravity design lets you recline into a near-weightless position, easing pressure on your neck, back, and legs like a pro. The breathable mesh fabric keeps things cool, even on warmer days, and it’s tough enough to support up to 350 pounds. With multiple recline settings and an adjustable, anti-slip headrest, it’s built for next-level relaxation wherever you set up camp.
Grab a Seat With Parts Via
Ready to upgrade your camping game? Don’t settle for a flimsy chair that leaves you with a sore back and bad memories. Here at Parts Via, you’ll find the best camping chairs, built for comfort, durability, style, and fun. Browse trusted brands like Lippert, Faulkner, Coleman, Dometic, and more—and don’t forget to check out our FREE ship-to-store option while you’re at it. Simply select a network dealer near you, send your purchases to their store at no additional cost, and pick up when it’s convenient for you. Sit back, relax, and shop smart for your next outdoor adventure!