Buying a camping chair: everything you need to know

Different types of camping chairs

If you’re travelling on foot or by bike, it’s worth bringing a camping chair with you. After all, sitting back and giving your legs a break after a strenuous day is incredibly relaxing. Different seating options suit different trips – from collapsible chairs to foldable camping chairs and tripods, each model has its advantages and disadvantages.

Collapsible chairs

Advantages: No assembly, ready to use immediately

Disadvantages: Comparatively heavy and bulky

Foldable camping chairs

Advantages: Small packing size, lightweight – some models weigh barely more than half a kilo

Disadvantages: Not all fit at a table, low seat height

Tripods

Advantages: No assembly, ready to use immediately, can also be used as a leg rest or side table, promote active sitting. In addition, tripods may be crooked depending on the ground below, but they never wobble.

Disadvantages: No backrest, more unstable and less restful sitting due to high seat height

Weight and size of the camping chair

Packing size and weight are important if you have to transport the camping chair yourself, especially on trekking or cycling trips.

Lightweight camping chairs are usually foldable and weigh hardly more than half a kilo. Although you usually have to do without armrests and headrests with these models (one exception is the Chair Zero Highback), you can store them in very small spaces – a good choice for trips where you carry your own equipment.

If you’re out and about in a camper van, you’re free to choose something more cosy. Models with armrests and headrests provide more comfort; some can be easily opened like a director’s chair. These camping chairs are correspondingly larger and heavier.

Various materials

The poles of most camping chairs are made of aluminium. The metal is stable, light and does not rust. Steel poles tend to be heavier and can rust, but are more robust.

The seat is almost always made of polyester or polyamide. This means that the fabrics are fast-drying and easy to care for. Dirt can simply be removed with a damp cloth. Fabrics range from very thin ones, which are particularly light, to slightly firmer ones, which are more robust but heavier.

Tips before buying

Seat height: If you plan to use the camping chair together with a camping table, make sure the seat height is appropriate. If you only need the chair for short breaks, such as on a trekking trip, a low chair will suffice. These models are usually lighter because the short legs require less material.

Sand protection: Would you also like to use your camping chair on the beach? Ground sheets are available to prevent the thin legs from sinking into the sand. You stretch these ‘cloths’ between the legs of your chair.

Additional stability: Rubber feet ensure that the camping chair does not slip on rocky ground.

Sun protection: Some models feature a sunshade that you can attach to the backrest.

Cup holder: With a cup holder, you can enjoy your time on the go even more.

Seating mats: If you’re looking for something smaller and lighter than a camping chair, a seating mat keeps you warm, dry and well-cushioned. In cold weather, the mats are also ideal to add insulation to a chair.

Hammock: Hammocks are another comfortable seating option for on the go. However, you always need two strong trees to attach the hammock to.

Pay attention to the sitting position

When buying, don’t just pay attention to the model and weight – the sitting position should also match your plans. On some camping chairs, the sitting position is very upright. These are usually larger models with which you can eat comfortably at a table.

Smaller, foldable camping chairs often have a more reclined position. These chairs are perfect for enjoying time by the campfire or preparing dinner on a gas stove. People who find it difficult to get up from low sitting positions are better advised to choose a more upright model.

Camping chair FAQ