The 6 Best Backpacking Chairs of 2023 Tested by GearLab

We also found that the space-saving hubless pole design takes slightly more time to assemble than the hubbed pole models, but only by around 10 seconds, so we’re splitting hairs here. All in all, this is the seat we’d most like to end up in at the end of a long day. The Coleman camping chair is big and durable, and of all the upright chairs that our panel of campers tested, it was the most comfortable. We tested 29 of the best camping chairs on the market to find the perfect option for everyone.

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The wide, scooped seat offers plenty of support and space for your rear, unlike some of the small tripod stools that have the unfortunate appearance of being swallowed up. The wide, 4-legged design with hubless poles enables this seat to be comfortable, stable, compact, and one of the lightest we tested. It can be a little bit heartbreaking to find a gorgeous relaxation spot — with nowhere to hang up your favorite hammock. Thanks to Eagles Nest Outfitters, you can have the comfort of hammock ozark trail camping chair lounging without needing trees, trying to transport a clunky free-standing hammock, or being beholden to the location of trees on your campsite. We love this chair for its incredible comfort, the DL Lounger features a high back topped with a cushioned headrest, a slight recline, and breathable fabric that practically begs you to take a nap in it. You can set the legs at either a 3- or 20-inch height, and there are two storage pockets and a cup holder for your lounging convenience.

Decathlon’s range of folding camping chairs offers lots of great seating options for your next outdoor adventure. Our folding chairs not only pack away neatly, but they are also super comfortable and come in a range of styles and designs. You can even choose the comfort level you require, such as armrests, headrests or reclining. If you want to add some extra luxury to your seating options, then how about our Milestone Deluxe Chairs? They have extra foam padding to give you more support, but you can still fold them and pack them away just as easily. If you want something ultra-lightweight and compact to take with you on a hike or for wild camping, our foldable camping stools are a must.

To see how comfortable it was to use the chairs for extended periods of time, we sat in each for minutes, making sure to evaluate any extra features like tables, coolers, and cup holders. We also tested any adjustable features like recliners and armrests to see if those functions worked smoothly. The right chairs can make or break a camping trip — no one wants to go into a s’mores-induced sugar coma while squirming in a flimsy foldable. And if you’re lugging all your gear on a backpacking journey, a portable seat you can properly rest on is even more crucial. Knowing which brands and models to trust is the first step to creating your own outdoor oasis. This rings true with the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat, which is a basic piece of egg-carton style foam.