The Best REI Camp Chairs for Comfortable Outdoor Seating

Whether you're setting up base camp or just taking a break from hiking, a solid camp chair can make your outdoor adventure more comfortable and enjoyable. We've compared the best Rey camp chairs to help you find the perfect one for your next trip.

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Reviews

Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair

Nestled between a sturdy aluminum frame and premium polyester seat material, this innovative camp chair suspends you in a hammock-like cocoon—perfect for those magical stargazing sessions where s'mores roast into tales untold. The cleverly designed reclining mechanism lets you rock back and forth, while built-in cup holders keep your hot chocolate just within reach. Folded down small enough to slip into a carrying case, it's exactly what you'd bring if you could only pack one outdoor chair for the rest of your life.

Helinox Sunset Camp Chair

The Helinox Sunset Chair stands 38.5 inches tall when extended, offering plenty of room for comfort without taking up excessive space. Crafted from DAC aluminum with a polyester seat, it supports up to 320 pounds while weighing just 3.4 pounds. The modular design allows attachment of optional accessories like cup holders and footrests, making it highly adaptable for various outdoor activities.

Mountain Summit Gear Cooler Chair

The Mountain Summit Gear Cooler Chair offers a sturdy base with powder-coated steel frame and 600D polyester material, featuring two cup holders and a detachable cooler pouch. At 17.5 inches tall, it provides a straightforward sitting experience without reclining functionality. Perfect for tailgating and backyard gatherings, the chair unfolds to 42 inches wide with its built-in table and cooler storage, though some users find the seat a bit shallow for extended seating.

Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair

This stylish camp chair combines exceptional comfort with ease of use, featuring a spacious 24-inch-wide seat and fully shock-corded aluminum poles for quick setup. The color-coded frame makes it simple to assemble, while the included stuff sack keeps it compact for storage and transport. Whether you're relaxing by the campfire or enjoying views from a scenic overlook, the Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair delivers the support you need for extended sitting.

Helinox Chair One Camp Chair

This lightweight camp chair packs down smaller than a standard lunchbox but supports up to 320 pounds, making it suitable for all but the tallest or heaviest users. The included carrying case helps protect the frame's anodized aluminum legs during transport, while the 14-inch seat provides generous comfort for extended trips or backyard gatherings. Most users praise its stability and durability, though some note that the rockers can be finicky on uneven ground.

Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair

The Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair combines impressive comfort and practicality for the discerning outdoor enthusiast. Its high-back design and generous 51-inch seat height make it an ideal companion for watching sunsets or enjoying meals in the great outdoors. While some users have noted minor drawbacks like seat sagging and instability when leaning forward, the chair's sturdy aluminum frame and lightweight design make it a popular choice for both car camping and backyard relaxation.

Alps Mountaineering Adventure Chair

At 5.5 pounds, the sturdy aluminum framework supports up to 400 pounds, making it reliable for all but the heaviest users. The black TechMesh fabric keeps you cool during summer adventures, while the compact foldable design fits easily into its included carry bag for hassle-free transport.

Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Original Chair

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Original chair combines remarkable comfort with ultralight portability, featuring an 8mm foam cushion that's both supportive and surprisingly compact for its size. Made from water-resistant nylon with a sleek carbon fiber frame, it rolls up to just 4 inches in diameter, making it perfect for squeezing into any backpack. Whether you're lounging by a lake, resting on the beach, or catching some shut-eye in the great outdoors, this portable chair has earned high praise from users who swear by its durability and comfort.

Mountain Summit Gear Anytime Chair

The Mountain Summit Gear Anytime Chair combines durable polyester construction with a powder-coated steel frame to create a reliable camping companion that's seen plenty of use in backyards and at sporting events. While some might find the upright design too formal, the oversized cup holders and generous seat width ensure your comfort during long days of outdoor activities. The foldable design makes it easy to store when not in use, though the included carrying bag can be a tight fit for the sizeable chair.

Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair

The Nemo Stargaze reclining camp chair delivers exceptional comfort with its smooth-gliding motion and deep recline. The chair's low center of gravity ensures stability on any surface, while the generous padded headrest and adjustable design accommodate users of all heights. With thoughtful details like shock-corded poles and weather-resistant construction, this versatile chair excels for both camping and backyard relaxation.

Nemo Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair

This versatile camp chair combines sturdy aluminum construction with a sleek, weather-resistant design that's perfect for both casual picnics and multi-day backpacking trips. The adjustable reclining feature and supportive mesh seat make it a welcome addition to any outdoor setup, while the compact design and included storage case keep it hassle-free for transport. The chair's durability has been praised by some users who have successfully used it to support weights well above its recommended maximum, though others have experienced premature failures at normal usage levels.

Crazy Creek Original Chair

This popular camping chair from Crazy Creek combines durable foam padding with a sleek black design, featuring an adjustable back that lets you customize your seating position. The compact chair folds down small enough to carry in your backpack, while the sturdy nylon frame can support up to 250 pounds. Whether you're car camping, tailgating at a football game, or just hanging out at the beach, this versatile seat delivers the comfort of a good chair without taking up much space.

Therm A Rest Trekker Chair

A backpacking staple since the 1980s, the Therm-A-Rest Trekker chair transforms your lightweight sleeping pad into a cozy camping chair. The innovative design allows you to adjust the back angle for just the right amount of support after a long day of hiking or cycling. While some users have noted that the clip placement could be more convenient, the chair's durability and compact design make it a practical addition to any backpacking setup.

NEMO Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair

The Nemo Moonlite Camp Chair combines ultralight aluminum construction with a seamless mesh seat made from 100% recycled materials, making it both eco-friendly and surprisingly comfortable for extended outdoor use. Its adjustable reclining system allows you to find your perfect sitting angle, whether you're dining, relaxing, or simply enjoying the view. The chair's compact design makes it easy to store and transport, while the included carrying case keeps it protected during transit.

GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Chair

This outdoor chair makes setup as simple as it should be, with no complicated assembly or locks to deal with. Its supportive seat design keeps you comfortable without that "saggy" feeling you can get with cheaper folding chairs. The padded armrests and breathable mesh back make it perfect for long outings, whether you're tailgating or camping.

Dometic 9600050812 Compact Camp Chair

The Dometic GO Compact Camp Chair provides exceptional comfort with its sturdy aluminum frame and durable 600D fabric. It effortlessly folds into a compact size for easy transport and storage. The supportive seat, capable of holding 280 pounds, features beechwood armrests and a generous 16-inch height. While some may find the back angle slightly reclined, most reviewers praise its durability and all-day comfort.

GCI Outdoor Freestyle Heathered Pewter Rocker with Side Table

This sleek outdoor rocker combines heavy-duty alloy steel construction with a powder-coated finish for lasting durability. The patent-pending spring-action technology delivers smooth, satisfying rock motion while the built-in carry handle and compact folding design make it surprisingly portable for its size. The mesh backrest ensures ventilation during those long summer afternoons, and the included side table keeps drinks and snacks within reach.

Kelty Lowdown Chair

Durable steel construction and insulated beverage holder make this Kelty camping chair both sturdy and practical. The adjustable armrests and padded roll-tote design show a thoughtful touch in its construction, though the low-profile design might be a consideration for taller users.

Kelty Lowdown Chair

The Kelty Lowdown Chair brings comfort to the ground with its 12-inch seat height and 30-kilogram weight capacity. The padded design makes it ideal for both casual outdoor use and extended camping trips, while the sturdy alloy frame ensures it can handle rough use. The chair's space-saving design makes it perfect for backpacking or car camping, where every ounce matters.

Buyer's Guide

Rei camp chairs offer an essential piece of equipment for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a comfortable seat during long days of hiking or camping. These chairs balance durability, comfort features, and portability to meet the needs of various users. Understanding the key aspects of design and functionality will help you select a chair that matches your specific requirements and outdoor activities.

Design and Construction

Modern Rei camp chairs feature lightweight aluminum frames that resist bending and corrosion, ideal for backpacking trips where every ounce matters. The seat material ranges from simple mesh to padded nylon, with some models incorporating premium fabrics for extended comfort. The base design typically includes wide, rubber-coated feet to prevent tipping on uneven ground and provide consistent support.

Comfort Features

Extra features enhance the camping chair experience. Built-in cup holders and small pockets for gear keep your essentials accessible. Some models include built-in bug nets for evening use, while others feature adjustable backrests to accommodate different torso lengths and preferences. Reinforced thigh straps help maintain proper sitting posture and distribute weight evenly.

Portability and Size

The chair's weight and pack size significantly impact its suitability for different activities. Chairs weighing 2-3 pounds can be carried comfortably on long hikes, while ultralight options under 2 pounds are available for extended backpacking trips. Consider the chair's footprint when storing in your vehicle or backpack - most models measure between 16-20 inches wide and 21-24 inches deep.

Weather Resistance

Since these chairs are used outdoors, resistance to water damage and UV degradation is crucial. Look for chairs with seam-taped seams and welded construction to prevent water infiltration. Top-quality models feature fully sealed frames and weather-resistant fabrics that maintain their shape and color over multiple seasons of use.

FAQ

What is a Rei Camp Chair and what makes it suitable for camping?

Rei Camp Chairs combine comfortable seating with durable construction, featuring weather-resistant materials and easy-to-set-up designs optimized for outdoor use. Built to withstand outdoor elements, these chairs provide reliable support for long sits during camping trips.

Most Rei Camp Chairs weigh under 10 pounds and can be packed down small for easy transport, with carrying bags included for convenient storage. The highest-rated models typically come with features like padded seats, adjustable backs, and built-in armrests for enhanced comfort.

What are the main differences between the Rei Camp Chair models?

Rei offers several models ranging from basic to premium, differentiated by features like seat padding, backrest adjustability, and armrest presence. The Lightweight version prioritizes minimal weight and compact size, while the Comfort model adds padded seat and back features for longer trips.

The most substantial difference is in weight (< 6 lbs for Lightweight vs 8 lbs for Comfort), with premium models including small tables and additional storage. Users typically choose based on their need for portability versus comfort features.

How much weight can a standard Rei Camp Chair hold?

Standard Rei Camp Chairs are designed to support between 220-250 pounds, featuring reinforced legs and sturdy construction to handle typical user loads. The seats are built to distribute weight evenly across their surface area, ensuring stability under load.

While capable of handling heavier users, it's important to note that carrying capacity may be reduced when combined with accessories or in very windy conditions. Always prioritize safety when using outdoor seating equipment.

Can the backrest be adjusted on most Rei Camp Chair models?

Yes, several Rei Camp Chair models feature adjustable backrests that can be customized between 85° and 110° of recline. This allows users to choose their preferred seating position based on whether they want to sit upright or lean back.

The adjustable mechanism typically involves a simple flip-lock design that prevents slippage during use. This feature is present on models like the Comfort and Expedition, offering greater customization compared to fixed-back versions.

Which Rei Camp Chair has the best value for money according to customer reviews?

The Classic Camp Chair consistently ranks highly in customer reviews for its combination of affordability and durability. Many users praise its lightweight design and simple, reliable construction without unnecessary features.

The Lightweight version also receives positive reviews for its portability, though it lacks some premium features found in heavier models. Both the Classic and Lightweight variants are praised for their straightforward design that requires minimal maintenance.

What should I consider when choosing a Rei Camp Chair?

Key considerations include weight capacity needs, intended use (short trips vs multi-day excursions), and specific features desired (armrests, storage pockets). Most importantly, choose a model that matches your height and preferred seating position.

Users often prioritize portability and weight over additional features, opting for the Lightweight model for ultralight backpacking trips. For added comfort, the Midweight or Comfort models balance durability with padded seating.

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