Picking the Right Small Chairs & Backrests
There's no one perfect chair - the right pick depends on whether you'll carry it, how long you'll sit, and how big the boot is. Most camping families end up with a couple of different chair styles for different uses.
Folding Camping Chairs
The standard 'director's' style camping chair - bowl seat, padded armrests, folds flat to under 100cm. Comfortable for hours, fits in any car boot.
Reclining & Loungers
Multi-position recline for proper relaxation. Heavier and bulkier than folding chairs but worth it on a fortnight holiday.
Lightweight & Backpacking
Compact aluminium-frame chairs that pack down to drink-bottle size. Less padded, but a different category of weight (sub-1kg).
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight limit do camping chairs have?
Most folding camping chairs are rated 110-150kg. Heavy-duty models go up to 200kg+ - check the product spec if you need a higher weight rating.
Can I leave camping chairs in the rain?
The frames are rust-resistant for short exposure. For long-term storage always pack chairs dry to avoid mould on fabric and corrosion on the joints.
Are reclining chairs comfortable to sleep in?
For an afternoon doze - yes. For a full night's sleep you'll want a proper bed/airbed/SIM. Lounger chairs do work as additional sleeping space at a pinch.
How small do backpacking chairs pack?
Most pack to around 35cm long and weigh under 1kg. Some go sub-500g but with reduced comfort. Always check the packed size before buying for backpacking.
