Do you hear that? That’s the outdoors calling. For you, maybe that means doing the whole #vanlife thing and becoming an outdoorsy nomad, or maybe you’re just into outdoor hangs with friends and unlimited access to all the s’mores. Either way, an outdoor adventure doesn’t mean forsaking all comfort and totally roughing it. Which is exactly why you need an outdoor camping chair that’ll see you through rain, sleet, snow, and the aforementioned s’mores session.
According to outdoor expert Lettie Stratton, founder of the Wild Wanderer outdoor adventure site for the LGBTQIA+ community, a camp chair can be the perfect item to bring along on your adventures for some nice extra cushiness. “A camping out chair can increase your comfort, whether you want to feel comfortable plus supported while you sit around the campfire and roast a marshmallow, or you just want to stay clean and not sit in the dirt. It just makes your camping experience quite a lot more comfortable and cozy–and it’s a little reminiscent of home, ” Stratton says.
So whether you wanna try out glamping or go on a hard-core backpacking trip (sending good vibes to you if that’s the move), we’ve rounded up some of the best camping chairs out there. Happy trails to you, bbs!
Best for Stargazing
Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camp Chair
Best for the Beach or the Bonfire
ITA Leisure Chair
Best for Camping with your S. O.
Kelty Loveseat Camping Chair
Best for Camping Minimalists
Crazy Creek Original Chair
Best for Backpacking
REI Flexlite Air Chair
Best for Sunny Days
Quik Chair Camping Chair, Red
Best for Eating Alfresco
Dometic Quattro Milano Camping out Chair
Best for Aching Backs
STRONGBACK Guru Black 3. 0
Best for All Body Types
Nemo Moonlite Reclining Seat (Bluebird)
Best for Car Outdoor camping
Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair
Best for Lounging
Timber Ridge Balsam Deluxe Zero Gravity Lounger
Best for Campfire Chilling
GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Rocker Chair
How to choose the best camping chair
Consider how you’ll use it.
Different outdoor camping chairs have different perks, so Stratton says it is important to know what you plan use it for. “If you’ll utilize it on a backpacking trip, you’ll want something extra light and compact, ” she says, so you don’t add too much extra weight to your pack. But if you’re taking a car camping trip or heading to the beach, weight might not be a big concern, and you can opt for a studier chair with more features like cup holders. If you live in a rainy area or even know you’ll be camping out near the water, Stratton states it’s worth investing in a seat made from quick-drying materials, such as mesh.
Size (and height) matters!
People should consider what sitting height feels comfortable for them, Stratton says. Anyone who has mobility issues might want to opt for a higher chair that’s easier to get in and out of (look for chairs around 20 inches tall or taller), while some might like the low-to-the-ground chairs like the Crazy Creek chair. “Think through those ergonomics and find something that feels comfortable for you, ” adds Stratton.
Is your vibe minimalist or maximalist?
Choosing a camping chair really comes down to if you’re more of a minimalist or if you like all the bells and whistles. You can shop around for a chair that’s quick-drying, or you can buy a double-wide camping chair if you want to sit with a loved one. Some chairs have padding for extra comfort and are extra durable, while others are super lightweight. Basically, be like Goldilocks (BLG) and test out a few before settling on a camping seat that’s *just* right.
Nancy Walecki
Nancy Walecki is a staff writer and editor at Harvard Magazine.
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