A folding camping chair should be comfortable, take up little storage space and perform reliably wherever you use it. In practice, though, price and an appealing product photo aren’t the only things that help you choose the right one. Key considerations include weight capacity, folded size, seating position, materials and how you plan to use it.
Whether you’re looking for a folding outdoor chair, a folding garden chair, an outdoor chair or a camping chair with a backrest, it’s worth checking for a few common weaknesses before you buy.
An especially lightweight chair is handy for walks, but it may have a smaller seat and a less sturdy frame. A robust folding reclining chair, on the other hand, is often considerably heavier. Check each of the following separately:
The maximum weight capacity isn’t a measure of comfort and must not be exceeded. The chair should also be fully unfolded and placed on firm, level ground.
For an adjustable sun lounger or folding sun chair, the number of backrest positions matters. An adjustable backrest can be useful for reading, sitting or resting, but it’s no substitute for a secure locking mechanism.
Check the product description for the following:
Only adjust the backrest using the mechanism provided. Take care when folding the chair, as fingers and hands can get trapped.
Polyester, Oxford fabric, mesh and coated materials can be suitable for outdoor use. That doesn’t automatically mean a balcony chair, beach chair or garden chair should be left out in the rain and direct sunlight for long periods.
Look for specific details such as:
Even rust-protected or powder-coated frames benefit from being stored in a dry place.
A steel frame is often heavier, while aluminium or an aluminium alloy can help reduce the weight you need to carry. The metal isn’t the only thing that matters: braces, feet, joints and the way the seat is attached all affect stability.
For a lightweight portable camping chair for trekking or walking, a small packed size and low weight are especially important. According to the product details, the Mobi Garden Ultra-Light Moon Chair weighs around 765 g, measures around 11 × 11 × 36 cm when packed and is designed for a static load of approximately 140 kg. These figures make useful points of comparison, but they don’t replace checking whether the chair is comfortable for you.
For longer periods of sitting, seat width, backrest height and foot position matter more than compactness alone. A camping chair with a backrest may be a better choice for breaks, festivals or fishing than a very small stool.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed reclining position, also check for a headrest, armrests and a footrest. A seat with a cup holder or side pocket can be handy for camping, picnics and festivals, but shouldn’t be used to hang heavy items from.
A folding camping chair is often carried in a car, motorhome, rucksack or on a bike. So it’s worth comparing:
A larger folding garden chair with padding won’t necessarily fit in every boot. A compact outdoor chair, on the other hand, may offer less support when you sit in it for longer.
Why it suits this profile: This folding sun lounger has five backrest positions and is suitable for a balcony, garden, poolside or beach. At around 4 kg, it’s easy enough to carry for occasional trips.
The product details specify its positions, dimensions, weight and maximum load of 120 kg, rather than relying on vague promises of comfort.
Five adjustable backrest positions, a folding design, and water- and UV-resistant mesh, according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: This folding sun chair is designed for longer periods of reclining by the pool or on the patio. It has an adjustable backrest, a removable head cushion and a sun canopy.
The product details state that it weighs around 8.1 kg, has a static load capacity of 150 kg, and provide advice on setting it up securely and storing it in a dry place.
Breathable cover, padding, adjustable sun canopy and carry handles; dimensions of around 193 × 53 × 29 cm.
Why it suits this profile: This set of two chairs is designed for camping, fishing, barbecues, festivals and the garden. Each chair weighs 3.3 kg and supports up to 180 kg, according to the product details.
The product details clearly distinguish between the weight of each chair, the number of chairs in the set and the maximum load. Use the chair on a firm, level surface.
Aluminium frame, polyester cover, padded armrests and a folding side table; includes two chairs.
Why it suits this profile: This compact outdoor chair is designed for trekking and backpacking. Its low weight and small packed size make it easier to carry over longer distances.
The specifications show the chair’s weight, packed size and load capacity. Rubberised feet and a triangular frame are listed as specific design features.
Aluminium alloy frame, abrasion-resistant Oxford fabric, a one-handed folding design and a static load capacity of around 140 kg, according to the product details.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
To help your folding camping chair last as long as possible, check it after every use. Look for visible damage to the joints, screws, frame, cover and locking mechanisms. After rain, let the seat and metal parts dry completely before folding the chair away.
Also remember to:
Stability depends on the frame, joints, feet, seat cover and ground beneath it. A high stated weight capacity alone isn’t enough. The chair must be fully unfolded, with all the feet it’s designed to have standing on firm ground.
For longer breaks, look for a suitably wide seat, a high backrest and armrests. An adjustable backrest can also be useful. If you want to lie back, choose an adjustable sun lounger with a foot section.
Clean the cover according to the manufacturer’s instructions, let it dry completely, then store the chair somewhere dry and sheltered. Prolonged damp, frost and strong direct sunlight can damage the fabric, coating and frame.