Best Overall
Helinox Chair One
In our review of the Helinox Chair One, editor Mary is floored by the packable size and incredible strength. She notes that “despite the chair’s ultra-compact size, it can hold up to 320 pounds. The Helinox Chair One is made with strong aluminum alloy that provides the maximum strength-to-weight ratio.”
According to Mary, the Chair One also has a “variety of accessories and attachments that make it even more comfortable—like a personal shade, cup holder and rocking runners.” Overall, it’s one of the best camping chairs.
Pros:
- Packable size
- Durable materials
- Attachments available
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Pricey
- Requires some assembly
Best for Backpacking
Helinox Chair Zero
The lightest and most packable of all of Helinox’s chairs, the Helinox Chair Zero easily fits into a weekend bag for backpacking. It takes up less room than a water tumbler and is still capable of holding a fully-grown adult.
Editor Daria has the Helinox Chair Zero and loves it for its compact size and convenient setup. “Weighing in at a mere 17 ounces and measuring 13.5 inches when packed, Helinox’s Chair Zero is my go-to for backpacking and camping trips,” she notes. “Despite its small size, it holds up to 265 pounds. Setup is a breeze. I like to pair it with Helinox’s Table One.”
Pros:
- Small, packable size
- Weighs only two pounds when packed
- Five-year warranty
- Folds up quickly
Cons:
- Pricey
Best for Car Camping
Cliq Chair
We recently covered the Cliq chair in a dedicated review, and Editor Daria was impressed by its small, packable size and surprising comfort. It’s her go-to for car camping. She noted that the Cliq chair “folds up with a velcro strap and collapses like an umbrella, only slightly larger than a Yeti water bottle, measuring 13.5 inches when collapsed.”
She goes on to say that “despite sitting around the campfire for several hours and lots of leaning, I had zero issues with my Cliq chair tipping over. Cliq designs its chairs to last a lifetime with comfort top of mind. Even on a root-infested dirt surface, I can kick back and relax.”
Pros:
- Portable and compact
- Lightweight at 3.65 pounds
- Setup takes less than five seconds
- Comfortable
- Comes in multiple colors
- Easy to clean
- Holds up to 300 pounds
- Doesn’t tip over
Cons:
- Pricey
- No cup holder
Best for Tailgating
Coleman Quad Camp Chair
For a luxe feel, the Coleman Quad Camp Chair is the way to go. Not only does this cozy chair offer a cushioned seat, but it also boasts a built-in four-can cooler that’s perfect for tailgating. In a review of the chair, our Senior Editor Megan notes that “the Coleman Quad offers just about everything you could want in a camping chair.”
“Beyond the convenient—and unique—four-can cooler, it also offers a side pocket and cup holder. This means I can stow my beverages, book, speaker, pack of cards, phone and chapstick all in one place, and eliminate digging all around the campsite for misplaced strewn-about items.”
Pros:
- Reasonably priced
- Four-can insulated cooler attached
- Multiple pockets
- Adjustable arm heights
- Weight capacity of 325 pounds
- Lightweight to carry at about eight pounds
Cons:
- The cooler makes the chair bulkier than some
Best for Seniors
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker
I have this rocking camping chair from GCI Outdoor, and it’s my right-hand man this summer. I literally couldn’t go to an event without this thing. The only “downside” is that my elderly parents keep stealing my seat. The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is perfect for seniors since it’s not too low or difficult to set up. It even has a pocket for drinks or glasses.
It’s sturdy, incredibly comfortable and the rocking motion is relaxing when I’m sitting around a bonfire or hanging out with pals at the beach. It’s nice to gently rock by a fire while enjoying my camp coffee in the mornings. I get so many compliments on it whenever I take it out!
Pros:
- Relaxing rocking motion
- Sturdy steel frame
- Medium height comfortable for most people
- Includes a cup holder
- Mesh backrest for maximum breathability
Cons:
- Heavy
- No storage pouch
Best for Crowds
Chillbo Shwaggins Air Couch
Pouch couches have been going viral on camping furniture TikTok, especially since you typically inflate them by running around with them like a kite. Because they don’t require a pump, they’re extremely packable and incredibly popular for camping, tailgating and festivals.
I couldn’t help myself—I purchased a Chillbo Shwaggins based on the silly name alone, and this thing is AMAZING. It comes in a little bag, and my niece and nephew argue about who gets to run around with it. It fits up to three people, but I love laying out on it and keeping it all to myself!
Pros:
- Packable
- Fits a few people
- No pump required
- Super lightweight
- Supports up to 440 pounds
Cons:
- Can be difficult to inflate
Best for Lounging
Cascade Mountain Tech Hammock Camp Chair
Whether I’m sitting around a campfire or lounging at the beach, having a chair that lets me kick back is important. The Cascade Mountain Tech Hammock Camp Chair offers an adjustable height that makes it easy to switch from “relaxing” to “hanging out.” Plus, the hammock-style seat is ultra-comfortable and takes pressure off my legs while sitting so it’s nice to use after a hike.
Folded up, it’s pretty small and easily fits into a rooftop cargo carrier or back seat. While it does require some setup, I normally have it up and ready in under a minute. I bring this cozy chair with me when I know I’ll be sitting for long periods of time—it’s so worth snagging one!
Pros:
- Adjustable height
- Lightweight
- Incredibly comfortable
- Breathable materials
- Sand feet to prevent sinking
- Built-in pockets and cup holder
Cons:
- Requires some setup