When it comes to outdoor adventures, few things can enhance your camping experience quite like a comfortable, reliable camping chair. Whether you’re gathering around a campfire, enjoying a meal at your campsite, or simply relaxing and taking in the scenery, a good sitting solution can make all the difference. So what makes a good chair and how do you choose one that’s just the right one for your needs?
Understanding Your Camping Style
Before diving into the specifics of camping chairs, it’s essential to consider your camping style and needs. Are you:
- A car camper who doesn’t mind a bit of extra weight and bulk?
- A backpacker who needs ultralight and compact gear?
- A glamper who prioritises comfort above all else?
- A family camper who needs durable, kid-friendly options?
- Your camping style will significantly influence the type of chair that’s best for you.
How to Pick a Camping Chair?
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Some campers prioritise minimalism and low weight, others look for chairs with extra support and comfort features. Luckily, innovative designs allow you to have both compact and comfortable camping chairs made from durable and reliable materials.
Weight and Portability
For backpackers and those with limited space, weight is crucial. Ultralight chairs can weigh as little as 1-2 pounds, while more robust options might weigh 10 pounds or more. Consider how far you’ll need to carry your chair and how much weight you’re willing to add to your pack.
Packed Size
Along with weight, consider how small the chair packs down. Some chairs fold into compact bundles, while others may be bulkier. If you’re tight on space in your vehicle or backpack, look for chairs that collapse into a small, manageable size.
Comfort and Support
After a long day of hiking or outdoor activities, you’ll want a chair that provides good support and comfort. Chairs with padded seats and backrests created to support your back are ideal for when you want to relax and reset. Adequate seat height is also important. Higher seats are easier to get in and out of, especially for older campers.
Durability and Materials
Your camping chair should be able to withstand the elements and repeated use. Consider:
- Frame material: Aluminium is lightweight and rust-resistant, while steel is heavier but more durable.
- Fabric quality: Look for strong, rip-resistant fabrics like rip-stop nylon or polyester.
- Weight capacity: Most chairs are designed to fit all sort of body types, but check the weight capacity to make sure the chair can support your weight comfortably.
Additional Features
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Depending on your needs, you might appreciate chairs with extra features such as cup holders, side pockets for storing small items, adjustable armrests, built-in coolers and reclining capabilities.
Stability
Where will you be using your chair? If you often camp on uneven ground, look for chairs with wide feet or even adjustable legs to provide better stability. For a sandy beach, you might benefit more from lower height chairs.
Types of Camping Chairs
Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore some common types of camping chairs:
- Folding Chairs: These are your standard, four-legged chairs that fold in half. They’re typically affordable and offer good stability but can be bulky.
- Lightweight Backpacking Chairs: These chairs prioritise weight savings and small packed size. They often have a minimalist design and may sit lower to the ground.
- Director’s Chairs: Inspired by movie set chairs, these usually have a side table and are great for car camping or RV use.
- Swinging Chairs: For those who want to bring the comfort of their porch to the campsite, swinging camping chairs offer a unique outdoor experience.
- Reclining Chairs: Great for the beach and picnics, the reclining chairs allow you to sit upright when you want to eat, chat, or read, recline back for a snooze, or semi-recline and just enjoy the surroundings.
How to Test and Choose Your Chair?
If possible, visit some Australia camping chairs retailers and sit in various models. Pay attention to how easy it is to set up and pack away and how stable the chair is. Check how well it fits your body type and if it will provide the desired comfort level when sitting for extended periods. If you can’t test in person, read reviews from other campers, paying special attention to comments about comfort and durability.
Caring for Your Camping Chair
Once you’ve found the perfect chair, proper care will ensure it lasts for many camping trips to come. Since these chairs are primarily used outdoors, they will inevitably be exposed to the elements. So before storing them away in a dry spot, clean them from dust, sand, or mud. If the chair gets wet, let it dry completely before storing it to prevent mould and mildew.
To Wrap Up
Spending time outdoors doesn’t have to be at the expense of your comfort. Balance your specific needs with the chair’s features and your budget, and you will find your camping companion. Once you have an idea about what’s available, you can select a chair that will enhance your outdoor experiences for years to come. Remember, the best camping chair is the one that fits your camping style and allows you to fully relax and enjoy the great outdoors.